Sex is among the top most enjoyable activities
practiced by couples. Why should this be any different during the nine
months of pregnancy?
Many expecting parents have concerns about having sex during
pregnancy. Anyone considering it will undoubtedly have many questions.
Hopefully these answers can help to put you and your partner at ease.
Is it safe for the baby? In a normal, low-risk pregnancy, sex during
pregnancy will not harm the baby. The fetus is protected by the
amniotic sac (a thin-walled bag that holds the fetus and surrounding
fluid) and by the strong muscles around the uterus. There is also a
thick mucus plug that seals the cervix and helps guard against
infection.
When is it not safe? It is unsafe in high-risk pregnancies. Some cases where you should not have sex during pregnancy are:
* If you have a history or threat of miscarriage
* If you have a history or signs indicating the risk of pre-term labor
* More than one fetus (twins, triplets, etc.)
* Unexplained vaginal bleeding, discharge, or cramping
* Placenta previa (a condition where the placenta is situated so low that it covers the cervix)
* Leakage of amniotic fluid
* ncompetent cervix (a condition in which the cervix is weakened
and dilates prematurely raising the risk of miscarriage or premature
delivery)
If any of these cases apply to you, or if you are at all unsure, consult your physician before engaging in sex during pregnancy.
Can the baby feel it? Some parents may have concerns about
disturbing the unborn baby by having sex during pregnancy. Rest assured,
the cervix is protected by a thick mucus plug; the penis will not come
into contact with the fetus. The baby may thrash around a bit after
orgasm, but this is simply because of the mother's pounding heart, and
not because the baby is feeling discomfort or even knows what's
happening.
Can sex during pregnancy or orgasm cause miscarriage or premature
birth? It should not lead to miscarriage or premature birth in normal
low-risk pregnancies. The contractions felt during orgasm are completely
different from the contractions associated with labor. Some doctors
recommend, though, that all mothers discontinue sex during the final
weeks of pregnancy. There is a chemical in semen that is believed to
stimulate contractions.
Is it normal for my desire for sex during pregnancy to fluctuate? It
is perfectly normal for sex drive to increase and decrease during
pregnancy. Symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, breast tenderness, and the
increased need to urinate can make sex during pregnancy bothersome,
especially during the first trimester. Some of these symptoms subside
during the second trimester, which may result in a heightened sex drive.
Increased blood flow to the pelvic area can cause engorgement of the
genitals and heighten sensation. This same engorgement, though, can
leave some mothers with an uncomfortable feeling of fullness after sex.
The amount of vaginal discharge or moistness may increase, which can
either make sex during pregnancy more pleasurable, or cause irritation.
In the case of a sudden change in the amount of discharge, or a foul or
unusual odor, consult your physician.
Many couples find that intercourse is more fulfilling with the added
freedom from worries about contraception and a unique new feeling of
closeness.
Which positions are most favorable? You will discover that as the
mother's belly swells, finding comfortable positions for sex during
pregnancy will require more interesting maneuvers. Mom may find that
lying on her back will become less and less comfortable as the pregnancy
progresses, and the weight of the baby can restrict circulation.
* Lie sideways. Having the man on top will become more and more difficult as the baby grows.
* Use the edge of the bed. The mother can lay on her back with
her feet and rear on the edge of the bed, and the man kneeling or
standing in front.
* Lie side-by-side in the spoon position. This will allow for
only shallow penetration. Deep thrust can become uncomfortable as the
months pass.
* Have the woman on top. This allows her to control the depth of penetration and will put no added weight on her abdo
men. Oral sex during pregnancy can be an excellent alternative in
situations where intercourse is not recommended. It is safe, as long as
you are in a monogamous relationship, where both partners have been
tested and are HIV-negative.
The most important thing is that you communicate with your partner.
Experiment with different methods, enjoy yourselves and try to keep a
sense of humor.
Sex during pregnancy can still be one of your favorite activities.
