Partners should only resume sexual activity after childbirth when the woman feels physically and emotionally ready, according to a maternal and health expert at the Ridge Hospital, Racheal Hesse Matey.
She emphasized that there is no universal timeline for returning to sexual intimacy after delivery, as every woman’s recovery is different.
Speaking on maternal postnatal care in an interview on Atinka TV’s Ghana Nie, Lifestyle segment with host Ekow Budu Sam, Hesse Martey explained that the decision to resume sexual activity should be guided by the mother’s healing, comfort, and overall well-being rather than pressure from society or a fixed number of weeks.
She noted that while some women may feel ready within a few weeks after delivery, others may require more time, especially if they experienced complications such as tears, a caesarean section, or prolonged postpartum discomfort.
The expert also encouraged couples to communicate openly and patiently during the postnatal period, stressing that emotional support and mutual understanding are essential as mothers recover from childbirth.
She reminded couples to discuss family planning, as pregnancy can occur even before menstruation returns after childbirth.
She further advised new mothers to seek guidance from healthcare professionals if they experience pain, excessive bleeding, or any concerns when considering the resumption of sexual activity.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com| Vincent Kwofie