8 weeks after the birth and bleeding after sex. Is this normal?

[Benjy]

Hi

I gave birth 8 weeks ago. Had an assisted delivery with an episiotomy, 2nd degree tear and 'internal lacerations' (written on my notes ; no idea of the extent of this or what exactly it means). DH and I had sex for the first time since the birth at the weekend. I know the stitches are healed but sex was very, very painful and I felt a tearing sensation and bled lightly afterwards. Have now had stinging after I pee, etc. so wonder if I tore slightly again? Do you think the doctor stitched me too tightly? I have been referred back to gynaecology for a suspected prolapse but my appointment hasn't come through yet. I'm wondering whether I should wait for that appointment, go back to the gp or just give it a couple of weeks and then try sex again. Not sure how much pain is normal during sex after birth and how long it takes to heal.

[timewaster]

Are you breastfeeding? If so, it can make you VERY dry and some lubricant (lots!) can help. At the same time you should still consult your GP and attend all your follow ups obv, but it is one possible explanation.

[Benjy]

I expressed for the first couple of weeks but haven't BF for the last few weeks. I also used lots of lub so it wasn't that.

[timewaster]

Oh well, you should get some proper advice then. If it's stinging when you pee maybe you should be checked for urinary tract infection aswell just to be safe.
If it helps, I also had forceps, episiotomy and internal vaginal tears and I found sex painful for quite a while afterwards, but now (one year on!!) it is a lot more comfortable.
I had been to my GP and she said to use lube as am bf. I wasn't totally convinced as I had a strange sensation that I was 'ripping down the middle' and was bleeding after sex(sorry if that's tmi ) But whatever the explanation was, over time it has improved so don't be scared that it's forever (I was).
I did lots of pelvic floor exercises (sp?) as I had a suspicion that mine are crap.... think that helped aswell.