Amidst the whirlwind of changes that accompany pregnancy, many women experience a surge in their libido, often resulting in mind-blowing orgasms that leave them in awe.
However, the burning question on every expecting mother’s mind remains – can I have sex while pregnant, without posing any harm to myself or my unborn child?
Let’s delve into the intricate workings of pregnancy, as we uncover the protective mechanisms that keep the developing fetus shielded from the outside world, including the intrusion of an intimate partner’s probing penis.
Can I Have Sex While Pregnant?
Inside a woman’s uterus, a fetus grows in an amniotic sac that is filled with fluid. This is located near the end of the vaginal canal, behind the cervix. A thick, gelatinous mucus plug that covers the cervical canal and forms around a month during pregnancy includes antibodies that guard the embryo against infection. Therefore, the fetus is properly protected regardless of the size of your tallywacker. Which is fortunate since studies have shown that women become even more erratic when there is a bun in the oven. According to a paper from “The Journal of Sexual Medicine,” 40% of the women surveyed reported that after becoming pregnant, their sex desire has grown. Which, once more, may be a good thing as boning down not only is safe but also has real health advantages.
According to medical professionals, having sex while pregnant can help women relax, fall asleep, and regulate their blood pressure. Additionally, some pregnant women have admitted to having more powerful orgasms. It is believed that these O-mazing climaxes occur due of the pelvic area’s increased sensitivity and blood engorgement during pregnancy.
Oxytocin, sometimes known as the hormone associated with love or cuddling, is released more frequently during orgasms. Being active can assist couples’ relations grow at a difficult period since oxytocin has been found to support relationship trust-building. Additionally, not just the act of having sex, but also the result, might be beneficial. Pre-eclampsia, a potentially deadly condition that affects 3-5% of pregnant women, has been linked to a particular protein present in semen, according to a Danish research. When the placenta doesn’t receive enough blood, the sickness begins to develop. Preeclampsia rates are reduced as a result of the seminal protein’s role in immune system regulation.
However, on the other hand, due to the slight chance of miscarriage, having sexual relations during the first six to twelve weeks of a pregnancy as well as the final eight weeks is not advised. If your doctor doesn’t specifically advise against it for “medical reasons,” intercourse is often permitted from the fourth through the seventh month of pregnancy.
The experience of being sexually active when pregnant is very possible. The likelihood is that you will be advised not to have sex if you have any vaginal bleeding, placenta previa, your waters have ruptured, or there is a chance you could go into premature labor. Your risk of infection increases if your membranes have ruptured (your waters have broken), and sex can spread infection if the membranes’ protective layer has changed.
Also, there have previously been worries that having sex while pregnant might lead to premature labor. In addition, there is little proof that sex directly impacts the Bishop score, a scale used to assess whether the cervix is prepared for vaginal birth, even though the release of endogenous oxytocin and the prostaglandin in semen do help the cervix ripen.
Obviously, each woman may experience this differently, so please see your doctor if you have any concerns about safety.
Despite these possible issues, most women believe that having sex while pregnant is safe, enjoyable, and helpful. The pair can and should make gentle advances in their affectionate stroking and fondling.
You shouldn’t stop scragging, screwing, bumping uglies, whittling the love branch, sticking the llama’s head up the lift shaft, jamming the clam, thacking the ferret, laying pipe, bending her over a barrel and showing her the fifty states, gallivanting in the Bridget’s bushes, or making love just because you’re housing a nutrient sucking parasite.
How Can My Partner And I Continue To Have A Loving Relationship?
Intimacy and love can be experienced in a variety of ways with your spouse. If you don’t want to have sex, it’s critical that you convey your feelings to them honestly. Respect each other’s sentiments and reassure one other that you are not rejecting them personally; rather, you are not currently interested in the sex they are seeking.
Come up with alternate strategies for making you both feel wanted and secure. There are various ways to sate one’s sexual urges besides intercourse. Other ways to feel close to your partner include kissing, hugging, cuddling, and massages.
Sex in Each Trimester of Pregnancy
Sexual intimacy is an essential part of a healthy relationship, but pregnancy can bring about changes that affect it.
First Trimester
Many women experience a gradual decline in their sex life during the first trimester, with factors like nausea, fatigue, fear of miscarriage or harming the unborn baby, lack of interest, discomfort, physical awkwardness, fear of infection, and fear of membrane rupture contributing to this decline. The first trimester is a time when a lot is happening in a woman’s body, and it is understandable that it can affect her sex life.
However, some women may experience an increase in their sex drive during this time. The reasons behind this are not fully understood, but it may be due to hormonal changes or feeling more connected to their partner. Every woman is different, and there is no knowing what to expect during this time.
Second Trimester
In the second trimester, many women experience changes in their sexual desire and habits. Some may find that their libido increases, while others may experience a decrease. Couples may also find that they rekindle their sex life during this stage. Women may find that their increased libido is due to accepting their pregnant body, while others may feel more secure and intimate in their relationship.
Studies have shown that during pregnancy, couples might isolate themselves to concentrate on their relationship, leading to a feeling of security and intimacy. However, one-fifth of couples experience a ‘five-month crisis,’ where women may turn inwards, causing their partners to feel isolated, leading to difficulties in their relationship.
On the positive side, some women discover orgasm for the first time during their pregnancies. Couples may use this increased sex drive to experiment sexually, for example with different positions, games, fantasies, and other mutual pleasures. However, some couples may feel uncomfortable with the idea of having sex during pregnancy and will abstain from intercourse. They might still find other ways to feel sexually satisfied in their relationship.
Third Trimester
During the third trimester, sexual activity decreases, but male interest in sex remains. Couples are less likely to use ‘on top’ positions during this time and more likely to use side-by-side or rear-entry positions. Women in their third trimester may worry about the effects of orgasms on their uterus, positional difficulties, feeling unattractive, or the sexual satisfaction of their partner. Pelvic congestion, discomfort from various sexual positions, and the baby’s engagement in the pelvis can also make sex more difficult during this time.
Will Pregnancy Affect My Sex Drive?
Sexual activity and physical intimacy may be the last things on your mind during the first trimester. Not being in the correct frame of mind for sex and feeling exhausted and nauseous are both typical. Additionally, you could discover that your breast soreness makes it difficult for you to desire any nipple or breast-related physical touch.
During pregnancy, many women report an increase in libido (sex urge). This can be brought on by your hormones and increased blood flow to the genitalia. As hormone levels rise in the second and third trimesters, this is increasingly frequent.
Sex plays a vital role in the mental health and wellness of many pregnant women and their partners. There is no reason you should stop having sex as long as your pregnancy is stable and there have been no difficulties.
Can Sex Bring On Labor?
A woman’s maternity care provider may occasionally suggest having sex to ‘bring on’ or help start her labor.
This is due to prostaglandin, which is present in semen and is thought to accelerate the start of labor. If your baby is past due, you might want to take this into consideration even if there isn’t enough data to say whether the natural induction method is helpful at this point.
When Shouldn’t I Have Sex While Pregnant?
Follow the advice of your maternity care provider regarding what is best for you. As a general rule, refrain from engaging in sexual activity if:
- You may go into labor too soon or exhibit symptoms of a potential miscarriage.
- Your cervix is weak (also known as cervical incompetence) or to maintain your cervix closed, a cervical suture had to be placed.
- You’ve had stomach pains or cramps that have been really bad.
- Your maternity care practitioner informed you that you have placenta previa.
- You experience vaginal bleeding, even if it has stopped, but the cause is unknown.
- Your period may have ended.
Consult your maternity care provider if you have been told not to have sex while you are pregnant and you feel like this is making you more stressed. Options for counseling exist and are frequently extremely helpful.
Additionally, if you don’t want to have sex, you shouldn’t. Only when both you and your partner are willing and consenting may sexual activity take place.
Related: 6 Safe Pregnancy Exercises For Normal Delivery
What Positions Are More Comfortable During Pregnancy?
You’ll probably need to find new postures that are more comfortable as your belly grows. It’s crucial to keep in mind that you shouldn’t lie flat on your back when pregnant, particularly from 28 weeks until the baby is born. Avoid sleeping or laying on your back since this can put strain on important blood arteries that carry oxygen to the baby.
Several additional positions include:
- When you’re lying on your side, cushions or pillows might provide support.
- Taking a position on all fours
- You are on top
- You are curled up on the bed’s edge.
- Leaning on the wall when standing up
- Using cushions or pillows as support while lying on your side
Will My Baby Feel It If My Partner And I Are Having Sex While Pregnant?
The amniotic fluid that surrounds your baby provides both protection and a cushion. Your cervix, which is the neck of your uterus, serves as a sealed barrier to the area where your baby is growing inside of you. As you move around, they will probably feel it and may get more or less active. You can experience slight cramping or an increase in contractions if you orgasm. Typically experienced in the second and third trimesters, Braxton Hicks contractions are not an indication of actual labor.
After having intercourse, women who have vulvar varicosities (vulvar varicosities) may feel pain and discomfort. A cool bath, supportive underwear, and avoiding prolonged standing will all help to relieve any pain or discomfort you might be feeling.
Speak with your maternity care provider if you are unsure or have any questions about having sex while pregnant.
Conclusion
Well, my dear friend, it seems that we have reached the end of our little adventure into the world of pregnancy and sex. While the topic may have started out as a bit of a taboo subject, I hope that we have been able to shed some light on the matter and put your mind at ease.
In conclusion, the answer to the question “Can I have sex while pregnant?” is a resounding YES! As long as you and your partner are comfortable and have the green light from your doctor, there is no reason why you can’t get your freak on during your pregnancy.
So, go ahead and enjoy this magical time in your life with a little bit of lovin’. And who knows, you might just discover a whole new level of pleasure that you never knew existed! Just remember to be safe, have fun, and cherish every moment of this beautiful journey.
Related: How Do I Stay Fit in Pregnancy?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Sexual Activity During Pregnancy Result in a Miscarriage?
Sex during pregnancy is generally safe and does not usually cause a miscarriage, which is most commonly due to fetal abnormalities.
Are Condoms Necessary During Pregnancy?
It’s important to take precautions during pregnancy if you or your partner have a sexually transmitted infection, as it can lead to severe health complications for both you and your baby. To reduce the risk, it’s recommended to abstain from all types of sexual activity if your partner has an active or recently diagnosed STI. If you’re not in a mutually monogamous relationship or choose to engage in sexual activity with a new partner during pregnancy, using a condom is crucial to protect yourself and your developing fetus.
Is it Okay to Not Want to Have Sex During Pregnancy?
If you don’t feel like having sex during pregnancy, communicate with your partner and consider alternative forms of intimacy such as cuddling, kissing, or massage.
Until When Couples Continue to Have Sex?
Sexual activity is possible until the start of labor and some couples may even try to use it to start labor, although its effectiveness is uncertain.
Why do My Orgasms are More Intense During Pregnancy?
During pregnancy, a woman’s body experiences changes that result in increased blood flow, especially below the waist. This can lead to more intense orgasms and easier attainment of orgasm. The additional weight gain of around 3 pounds of blood can play a role in this heightened pleasure experience.
Can My Partner Ejaculate Inside Me During Pregnancy?
If you’re pregnant and having monogamous sex with an STI-free partner, it’s totally safe for them to ejaculate inside you. Your baby is protected by several barriers, so there’s no need to worry about semen harming them. Plus, you can’t get pregnant again while you’re already pregnant, so unprotected sex is also safe in that regard. And if you’re giving oral sex, don’t worry – swallowing semen is also safe during pregnancy.
Does Peeing After Sex Prevent Pregnancy?
Peeing immediately after ejaculation during vaginal sex does not prevent pregnancy. This is because urine is released from a different opening (the urethra) than where ejaculate is released (the vaginal canal). They are completely separate openings, and peeing will not flush out any sperm that may have entered the vagina.
Can Having Sex During Implantation Affect Pregnancy?
Having sex during implantation is unlikely to affect the pregnancy, but it’s important to avoid it if there is bleeding or a history of complications.
Can I have Rough Sex While Pregnant?
A little rough sex is usually okay – but it’s important to proceed with caution as some women may have more gland tissue in their cervix, which can lead to spotting or bleeding after particularly hard thrusting. If you notice a little blood on the sheets after a rough session, don’t panic – just keep an eye on it. If the bleeding doesn’t become heavier and stops on its own, it’s likely that your cervix was simply a little more sensitive than usual. However, if you’re experiencing heavy bleeding or any other unusual symptoms, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider right away.
Can I have Anal Sex While Pregnant?
Generally speaking, anal sex is not considered safe during pregnancy. This is because pregnancy can cause hemorrhoids, which can make anal sex painful or uncomfortable, and anal bleeding can be a serious concern during pregnancy.
