What’s Normal “Down There” After Vaginal Birth – And What’s Not

Giving birth is a powerful, life-changing experience—and it also changes your body in ways you may not have expected. If you’ve recently delivered a baby vaginally and are wondering what’s supposed to feel different “down there” (and what might need a doctor’s attention), you’re not alone.

At North Pointe OB/GYN in Cumming, GA, we help new mothers navigate the postpartum period with confidence and clarity. Here’s what’s normal, what’s not, and when to call your doctor after a vaginal delivery.

What’s Totally Normal After Vaginal Birth

1. Vaginal Soreness and Swelling
It’s completely normal for your perineal area—the area between your vagina and anus—to feel sore or puffy after birth, especially if you had a tear or episiotomy. Most women experience swelling that resolves within a couple of weeks.

Tip: Ice packs, sitz baths, and perineal sprays can provide relief during the early healing phase.

2. Vaginal Bleeding (Lochia)
Postpartum bleeding, or lochia, is your body’s way of shedding the uterine lining after birth. It starts off bright red and heavy and gradually fades to pink, brown, then yellow or white. Bleeding can last for up to 6 weeks, which is normal.

3. Discharge and Odor Changes
It’s normal to have increased vaginal discharge postpartum. A mild, musty odor is also common as your body clears out leftover blood and tissue. However, anything foul-smelling could indicate an infection and should be evaluated.

4. Pelvic Floor Weakness
Your pelvic floor muscles may feel loose or weak for a while, leading to a “heavy” sensation or occasional urinary leakage, especially when laughing, coughing, or sneezing. This often improves with time and pelvic floor exercises (like Kegels).

5. Decreased Vaginal Sensation During Sex
It’s common to notice some changes in sensation or tightness during intercourse after vaginal delivery. Hormonal shifts, especially low estrogen levels during breastfeeding, can also contribute to vaginal dryness or discomfort.

“Most women experience gradual improvement in pelvic tone and intimacy over the first year postpartum,” says one of our OB/GYNs at North Pointe.

What’s Not Normal and Should Be Checked Out

1. Heavy Bleeding or Large Clots
Bleeding that soaks through more than one pad per hour or includes clots larger than a golf ball may indicate postpartum hemorrhage—a medical emergency. Call your doctor immediately.

2. Foul-Smelling Discharge or Fever
A strong odor, yellow-green discharge, or fever may be signs of endometritis, an infection of the uterine lining. These symptoms require prompt treatment with antibiotics.

3. Intense Pain or Burning
While soreness is normal, severe or worsening pain in your perineum, vagina, or pelvic area (especially after the first few weeks) could signal a hematoma, infection, or nerve injury and should be evaluated.

4. Ongoing Incontinence or Bowel Control Issues
Occasional urine leakage is common, but frequent accidents or trouble controlling your bowels months after delivery may suggest pelvic floor dysfunction or nerve damage. Specialized pelvic floor therapy may be needed.

5. Painful Intercourse Beyond 3–4 Months
It can take time for intimacy to feel normal again, but if you’re still experiencing sharp, burning, or deep pelvic pain after several months, it could be related to scarring, dryness, or pelvic floor tension. We can help with solutions ranging from vaginal estrogen creams to pelvic therapy.

Postpartum Care Is Just as Important as Prenatal Care

Too often, new moms put their health on the back burner while caring for their newborn. But your body needs attention, too—especially during the critical 6–12 week postpartum window. At North Pointe OB/GYN, we encourage all patients to attend their scheduled postpartum visit and check in sooner if anything feels off.

“You know your body best. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait to ask. We’re here to help,” says our care team in Cumming.

Frequently Asked Questions About Postpartum Vaginal Changes

• How long does it take for things to feel “normal” again down there? Everyone is different, but most vaginal and pelvic floor symptoms improve within 3–6 months. Some changes may take a year or longer, especially after multiple births.
• Can I prevent long-term pelvic floor issues? Yes! Doing daily Kegels, avoiding heavy lifting, and seeking pelvic floor physical therapy early on can make a big difference.
• When is it safe to have sex again after vaginal delivery? Most providers recommend waiting 6 weeks, but it depends on how you’re healing. Always check with your OB/GYN.
• What if I had stitches or a tear? It’s common to feel sensitive or tight while healing. If discomfort continues after your postpartum visit, your provider can assess and suggest treatments.
• Do I still need an annual exam after giving birth? Yes! Routine exams, Pap smears, and well-woman visits are essential to maintaining your long-term reproductive health.

Trust Your Postpartum Journey to North Pointe OB/GYN in Cumming

Whether you’re recovering from your first delivery or caring for multiple little ones, your health matters. At North Pointe OB/GYN, we offer compassionate, expert postpartum care to help you heal, ask questions, and feel like yourself again.

We’re proud to support women in Cumming and Forsyth County through every stage of motherhood—from prenatal care to postpartum healing and beyond.

Schedule your postpartum visit today and let us help you feel confident, supported, and cared for—every step of the way.