Gonneke says,

> I think this magical6 weeks is highly cultural. I remeber it being advised
> in
> The Netherlands untill some ddecades ago, but most physicians, as far as I
> know (other Dutchies correct me if I' m wrong) nowadays state that
> intercourse is fine as soon as mom and dad mutually feel like it.
>
I think it stems from the thought that the placental site is not completely
healed over until 6 weeks, and that the episotomy site isn't healed either.
Which is also why women get a 6 week check up from the OB -- and also then
"permission" to have sex.  Interesting that it also corresponds with the
length of time a woman, in Biblical times and in other cultures, was to be
cared for by others.

Jan Barger, RN, MA, IBCLC -- Wheaton IL
Lactation Education Consultants
www.lactationeducationconsultants.com

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