You and your partner might’ve had several bedroom sessions while you were trying to conceive. But now that you’re pregnant, your feelings towards sex may not be so simple. Feeling uncomfortable about having sex during pregnancy is completely normal, and it’s also understandable if you have numerous questions like – Is it safe? Is it possible to do it comfortably? And above all, is it even worth it if you’re feeling tired and would rather just fall asleep early?
Fortunately, sex during pregnancy is good for both you and your baby: It can help you sleep better, lower your blood pressure and even make you happier! In this article, you will find out some of the biggest benefits of pregnancy sex.
IS SEX SAFE DURING PREGNANCY?
The short answer: yes. However, it’s always a good idea to get the approval of your practitioner first, just to make sure you don’t have any complications. Another reason to discuss sex with your practitioner is if you have a past miscarriage or are at a higher risk for one.
CAN SEX DURING PREGNANCY HURT THE BABY?
The amniotic sac keeps your baby safe and warm, while you and your partner heat things underneath the sheets. And if you’re worried that your intimate activities might nudge the baby’s head, let us assure you, your baby is nowhere near where the main event takes place.
Your baby has completely no idea what’s going on. Even if the baby is kicking up a storm after your orgasm, that’s just a normal fetal response to uterine activity and not a reaction to your pleasure. Your baby might be enjoying the oscillating motions.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF SEX DURING PREGNANCY?
Sex during pregnancy can come with quite some perks. Following are some benefits of pregnancy sex:
1. It’s a safe, partner-bonding experience. Pregnancy is an emotional roller coaster ride, for couples. Being close to one another is a great way to stay connected to each other during this exciting time.
2. It’s great for your physical health. It can burn a lot of calories, and it lowers your blood pressure, too!
3. It can ease pain and discomfort. Orgasms signal the release of oxytocin, these hormones increase your level of endurance, and they also help to soothe those backaches and other pregnancy-related pains.
4. It improves sleep. Not only does pregnancy sex help you relax, but it releases the feel-good hormones as well.
5. It’s a mood-booster. Even if you’re super excited about your pregnancy, you can still feel anxious. The release of oxytocin that comes with an orgasm isn’t just beneficial for physical pain but it can also help in increasing your feelings of love and joy, bringing you closer to your partner.
6. It may help in inducing labour. The contractions aren’t strong enough to make you go into labour unless you’re nearing the tail-end of your pregnancy and your body is ready to begin the birthing process, but once your baby decides that it’s just about time, sex would be able to help you move ahead — though it doesn’t always work, so don’t be disappointed if nothing happens. But there are no specific reasons for not going for it.
7. It may ease your postpartum recovery. As it helps to tone your pelvic floor, your body is being prepared for both childbirth and recovery — just by having orgasms!
WILL SEX FEEL DIFFERENT DURING PREGNANCY?
It might feel different because of the surging hormones and the rapidly changing body shape. It can feel uncomfortable, exasperating or awesome. Some expectant mothers will experience an increased sensitivity due to swollen genitals that can result in more intense orgasms. But for other women, those physical changes cause them to feel less pleased than usual. Because of the swollen vagina and vulva, you might feel discomfortable during sex. If you’re experiencing any pain, contact your practitioner.
CAN PREGNANCY SEX CAUSE PREMATURE LABOUR?
Not unless you’re at high risk for premature labour or have a problem with the placenta. While an orgasm can cause your uterus to shrivel, it won’t trigger labour. However, some experts do motivate women in late-stage pregnancy to have sex as a way to kick-start labour.
WHAT ARE THE HEALTH RISKS INVOLVED IN HAVING SEX DURING PREGNANCY?
Sexually transmitted infections remain a significant health risk during pregnancy, even though the amniotic sac protects your baby from various infectious organisms. Some of the STIs that can be dangerous for babies include – chlamydia, gonorrhoea and HIV, so get yourself tested if you think you’re at risk. Do not engage in any form of oral sex where a partner blows air into a woman’s vagina as it can cause a dangerous air embolism.
WHEN IS SEX DURING PREGNANCY NOT SAFE?
According to your condition, your practitioner may place some restrictions on having sex during pregnancy. However, this could vary from a certain period or the full nine months depending upon the risk involved in the pregnancy. These limitations can involve sex without orgasm for the woman, penetration with a condom or no penetration at all.
Some of the common reasons you may be advised to restrain from having sex or continue with restrictions are:
- A history (or symptoms) of early labour or premature birth
- Diagnosis of an incapable cervix or placenta previa
- Unidentified vaginal bleeding, discharge or cramping
- Leakage of amniotic fluid
- Expecting multiple babies (twins, triplets and so on)
- Also, you shouldn’t have sex while experiencing contractions or when your water has broken.
Ensure to consult your practitioner about the safety of having sex during pregnancy. This way you and your partner can engage in pleasurable activities without stress.
IS BLEEDING AFTER SEX NORMAL DURING PREGNANCY?
It is possible to experience some spotting after sex between a more sensitive cervix, an engorged mouth of the uterus and an overall increased blood flow to the genital area. While it shouldn’t be cause for concern, it’s always a good idea to keep your doctor informed beforehand. Call your doctor immediately in case you feel any painful cramps that don’t quickly subside or any amniotic fluid leakage, during sex.
