Pregnancy is a time of physical and emotional changes. Personal history, symptoms, and attitudes about becoming a parent can influence how a woman feels about her body and having sex during pregnancy. Pregnancy may change how a woman and her partner feel about having sex, and differences in sexual needs may arise.
The best way to deal with these differences is to talk, listen, and be open to each other's feelings and concerns. Additionally, questions about sexual behavior and its effects on the baby and pregnancy should be discussed with your health care provider during your prenatal visit.
Pregnancy changes and sexual behavior
For many women, the first trimester of pregnancy brings fatigue and nausea. If these symptoms occur, a woman may not want to have sex.
Pregnancy increases blood supply to the pelvic area. Many women enjoy intercourse during the second trimester of pregnancy, after the symptoms of the first trimester have passed and before the growing uterus makes positioning more difficult.
A woman's breasts increase in size during pregnancy and during sexual arousal. For some women, this is the first time they actually enjoy touching their breasts, while others experience these changes as uncomfortable breast tenderness.
As pregnancy progresses and a woman begins to lose weight around her waist, positioning and comfort become important during sex. As the shape of the body changes, women may become depressed. As the baby begins to move down into the pelvis, women may suffer from increased pelvic pressure. She may not like the idea of intercourse, and her partner may be concerned about harming the baby.
Also, orgasms during pregnancy can be a little scary. After orgasm, the uterus contracts in a rhythmic pattern. In pregnant women, these contractions last longer, and in the third trimester they can occasionally turn into long, hard contractions that may be uncomfortable. Sensitivity to each other's wishes is crucial. Hugs and massages can be another way to share time.
Pregnancy and safe sex
Partners need to be honest and realistic about sex during pregnancy. Open communication may help resolve frustrations. Because AIDS/HIV infection is spread through sexual activity, always practice safe sex. HIV infection can be passed to an unborn child. If you have questions about what safe sex is and want to discuss your concerns confidentially, call 1-800-FOR-AIDS and see a health care provider.
Sex and high-risk pregnancy
For most women and their partners, sex during pregnancy is okay as long as both parties agree and feel comfortable. However, certain problems can arise during pregnancy that put the fetus at risk for premature birth.
If you are experiencing vaginal bleeding, premature labor , or ruptured membranes, you should not have sexual intercourse and should avoid orgasm. Your healthcare provider can tell you if sex is harmful, but if you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to ask.
Advice on having sex during pregnancy
Some tips for satisfying and comfortable sex during pregnancy include:
position
- Lying on side, partner behind woman
- Woman on hands and knees, partner kneeling behind her
- woman sitting on partner's lap
lubricating
- Water-soluble lubricant jelly, such as Astroglide or KY Jelly. Do not use baby oil or petroleum jelly.
- lubricated condoms
alternatives
- Embrace
- full body massage
