QuestionI gave birth on june15,2008. I was 7 months pregnant!..I had sex a week after that and my condom broke. I have my first appointment with my doctor in a week. Can a pregnancy test be accurate?
AnswerDear Melanie,
In general, a woman shouldn't consider having full sex (intercourse) until after her post-natal check-up, especially if any stitches were required. This examination usually takes place about 6 weeks after the birth. A certain amount of healing does need to take place and, with the added consideration of a vaginal tear or episiotomy - which is less likely with a 7 month gestational delivery, you really do want to allow those tissues to heal without any irritation or trauma.
There is also an additional risk of uterine infection. The cervix is usually closed again by about 2 weeks after delivery, so the risk of uterine infection is not as great after that 2 week mark. However, the area that required stitches would still be susceptible to infection. Sex is definitely not a sterile process. One week post-partum would definitely still carry this risk.
And, yes, you can conceive a another pregnancy in the first month after giving birth. Breastfeeding somewhat decreases, but does not prevent, fertility. Any sexual encounter after delivery needs to be protected with contraception in order to avoid pregnancy. It would be highly unlikely however, for you to have ovulated within one week of delivery. Obviously, you should test to be sure, but this would be very unlikely. If the encounter took place approximately 6/22, the pregnancy hormone (hCG) could be detected at this point.
I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.
Brenda
