One minute, the sight of your partner makes you want to put him out with the weekly garbage; the next, you might want to play a couple of rounds of naked Twister. Par for the course during pregnancy.
See, as your estrogen and progesterone levels rise, they cause changes in your body that boost libido. Estrogen in particular, which serves such pregnancy-related functions as boosting blood flow to your uterus (and to your entire pelvis), also increases vaginal
lubrication and heightens sensitivity in your breasts and nipples.
It’s a righteous recipe for romance. But the same hormones can also conspire against you, especially in the beginning when nausea and fatigue can send you to bed for an entirely different reason. And toward the end, you may just feel too huge, unwieldy and, again, tired. (That’s why months four to six or so are often called the “honeymoon” trimester.)
So where does that leave you? The X factor in the sex equation is the relationship between your changing moods and your changing body: Just as every woman’s pregnancy is unique, so is every pregnant woman’s sex drive. If your spirit is willing but fears or misinformation are holding you back, this advice can help you relax.
Sex is usually safe.
If you do want to have sex, embrace the ubiquitous three-word Nike slogan. As long as your pregnancy is progressing normally, you can have sex as often as you like (some exceptions may include a history of miscarriage or preterm labor).
Be aware that it’s pretty common for some women to experience bleeding during intercourse, especially in the first trimester. This is caused by the normal swelling of capillaries in the cervix, which can burst when irritated during sex. While such spotting or bleeding is generally nothing to worry about, you should still mention it to your doctor or midwife.
What’s more, there’s typically no chance of hurting the baby during sex because the amniotic fluid and your cervix protect him. But one caution: If you have oral sex, your partner should not blow air into your vagina, as during pregnancy this can cause an air bubble to block a blood vessel.
The Best Sex Positions for Pregnant WomenSex can still be comfortable.
The old standby missionary position for intercourse may not work for you now. Instead, try these options:
Spooning: Lie side by side with him behind you. This makes for more shallow penetration.
You on top: There’s no pressure on your belly, and you can control the speed and depth of penetration.
Side of the bed: You lie on your back on the edge of the bed with your knees bent and feet on the edge. He stands facing you. It’s like classic missionary, but he won’t be resting his body weight on you.
Living room love: Kneel on a couch with your belly facing the back of it; use your arms for support. He penetrates from behind.
You will have sex again after the baby comes.
Just be aware that with the sudden drop of estrogen after delivery, your libido can plummet and the lining of your vagina thins out, making intercourse feel like you’re losing your virginity all over again. This can be particularly true if you’re breastfeeding.
Most docs recommend that you wait six weeks until after giving birth (even for oral sex). The goals are to allow your body to heal, avoid infection and deal with any psychological or emotional issues you and your partner may be feeling. When you do venture back, it’s important to make your partner aware that you may need plenty of foreplay and possibly lubrication. (Need a lubricant? Get one now at GNC Live Well.) Taking care of the baby for you whenever possible so that you can nap couldn’t hurt, either!
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