Pregnancy's a mixed bag of glowing skin, all day nausea, ravenous appetites and anxiety. But one aspect that often gets overlooked is the impact pregnancy can have on sexual activity. For some couples, pregnancy can be a time of increased intimacy and sexual exploration. For others, it can be a time of confusion and uncertainty. So we’ve put together this guide to help expecting parents navigate intimacy and pregnancy sex.
Is Pregnancy Sex Safe?
In most cases, yes! As long as there are no complications with the pregnancy, having sex while pregnant is safe for both the mother and the baby. The chances of harming a baby in the womb are considerably lower (like, zero) than the chances of harming a sexual partner’s ego when you reassure them that the size of their ship really doesn’t matter. Your developing baby is wrapped up in the protection of luscious amniotic fluid, and the uterus is a muscly little number, invasive to none. Unless a medical practitioner has advised you to abstain, feel free to explore.
What Changes Can You Expect During Pregnancy Sex?
As your body changes during pregnancy, your sexual experiences may also change. Some women report increased desire during pregnancy, while others may experience a decrease. This can be due to a variety of factors such as increased blood flow to the pelvic area, hormonal changes, or simply feeling more comfortable and confident with their bodies.New mum-of-one, Jayne, says the effects of pregnancy on her sexual appetite and satisfaction was a pleasant surprise.
“I didn’t necessarily feel any more or less sexy during my pregnancy,” she says. “But I noticed that my sex drive definitely went up!”
In addition to changes in desire, pregnancy can also affect the way you experience physical pleasure. As your uterus expands, it may press on the nerves that control sensations in the vaginal area, and increase the blood flow to the genitals. This can cause you to feel a more intense sexual experience or make it difficult to reach orgasm. Your body may produce more natural lubrication during pregnancy, making intercourse more comfortable. However, this can also cause some discomfort due to increased sensitivity.
Which Positions are Safe During Pregnancy Sex?
As your pregnancy progresses, certain sexual positions may become more difficult or uncomfortable. To ensure both partners feel comfortable and safe during pregnancy sex, try experimenting with different positions until you find one that works best for you.
Some popular positions for pregnancy sex include:
- Spooning: Both partners lie on their sides, facing the same direction.
- Missionary: The expectant mother lies on her back with her partner on top.
- Doggy Style: The expectant mother is on all fours with her partner behind her.
It’s also common to have insecurities about the changes in your body, which can impact how you approach sex. Reflecting on her pregnancy, Jayne says that her husband’s reassurance was critical to maintaining her sexual confidence.
“I think getting used to my body growing and changing made me question and doubt my desirability, especially because it was the first time I was putting on weight in our relationship,” she says. “But my husband was very vocal in assuring me that I was just as sexy and desirable as before, and that my body was actually amazing with all it was going through. I ended up feeling more empowered and proud of my body than insecure.”
Pregnancy sex can be a wonderful experience for couples, but it’s important to keep in mind that everyone's experience is unique. If you have any concerns or questions, it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider. Remember to listen to your body and communicate with your partner to ensure that you both feel comfortable and satisfied. With a little creativity and communication, pregnancy sex can be an enjoyable and intimate experience for both partners.