The timeline for when it’s safe to get back in the bedroom after a miscarriage can vary greatly, as does a person’s emotional and physical readiness. But experts say two weeks is usually the safest timeframe.
During this healing period, it’s recommended that women not put anything into their vaginas, including tampons, to avoid infection.
Physical Recovery
Depending on the type of miscarriage, the underlying cause and the gestational age at the time of loss, some women may be able to resume sexual activity as soon as their bleeding has stopped. However, it’s important to remember that it takes both a physical and emotional recovery to feel ready for intimacy again.
For some, the physical healing process will be complete well before their mental and emotional recovery is. But this is entirely normal, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of when it is safe to have sex after miscarriage. The best thing to do is talk to your healthcare provider, who will be able to recommend a timeframe that feels right for you.
It is also important to wait until your uterus and cervix are completely healed to avoid any infections, says Williams. This is because the cervix and uterus are often dilated during a miscarriage, and can become infected if exposed to bacteria before it’s fully healed.
Additionally, women should never insert anything into their vagina — including a penis, finger or tampon — until this point as well to prevent further infection. This includes sex toys, as many of these are inserted in the same way as tampons and can be an entry point for bacteria into the reproductive tract.
Emotional Recovery
The emotional recovery process after miscarriage can be long and painful for both partners. It can be especially difficult for women who were excited to share their pregnancy news with their partners, often for the first time. It is not uncommon for couples to experience a range of emotions around the loss of a baby, from guilt and anxiety to feelings of resentment and PTSD.
A miscarriage is a devastating and life-altering event. The emotional recovery is complex and is a different journey for every person. It is important for partners to discuss their feelings and needs after a miscarriage, as this will help them work through any issues that may arise.
Ultimately, deciding when you are emotionally ready for sex after miscarriage is an individual decision that will vary depending on your own experiences and what your body and mind require. Some people have a quick turnaround and feel ready to resume sexual activity, while others need more time before feeling this way.
It is also a good idea to wait until the bleeding associated with the miscarriage has stopped, as this will minimize the risk of infection. In addition, it is recommended to see a gynecologist for a pelvic exam to make sure your cervix has completely closed to avoid infections in the future. Having the go-ahead from your doctor can give you peace of mind and allow you to move forward in the ways that are right for you.
Mental Recovery
After a miscarriage, it’s important to give yourself and your partner time to grieve. This process can be very intense for many couples, especially if they are close. It may feel like you are being pressured to move on and that the best way to do so is through sex, but it is important to let yourself take your time and allow yourself to be upset.
Women who have had miscarriages often struggle to connect with their libido, especially after having a first trimester miscarriage (which are most common). Even if you’re physically ready for intimacy again, it’s important to talk to your partner about how you’re feeling and what you need. If you aren’t sure how to communicate with your partner about this, consider counseling to help you work through your feelings.
It’s also important to wait until any bleeding has stopped. This is the safest option for your physical health, as it will reduce your risk of infection. It’s also important to remember that even though your uterus isn’t growing, it could still be a place where you’re able to get pregnant again in the future.
For most people, it takes a while for them to feel emotionally ready to resume sexual activity. For some, it can be as soon as a few weeks after a miscarriage. But for others, it can take months or even years.
Physical Health
After a miscarriage, the body needs to recover. The body’s response to pregnancy loss is different for every person. In some cases, the physical recovery may take up to 1 or 2 months. During this time, it’s best to avoid inserting anything into the vagina including a penis, finger, or tampon. If a person puts something into the body before the miscarriage has fully healed, they risk infection in the fallopian tubes, ovaries, uterus, and cervix.
A person will usually start their period within 4 to 6 weeks after a miscarriage. During this time, it’s important to use contraception to prevent getting pregnant again. However, it’s also important to have sex to stimulate the reproductive system. This will help to increase the chances of conceiving in the future.
A person should talk to their doctor before attempting to get pregnant again after a miscarriage. The doctor will let the patient know if they are physically and emotionally ready for a new pregnancy. If the doctor gives the green light for a pregnancy, it’s still important to have sex at least four days before and on ovulation day to improve the odds of getting pregnant. It’s also recommended that couples use a condom to protect against sexually transmitted infections. A person should see a doctor if they experience increased bleeding after sex.