Contributed by – Healthians Team
During pregnancy, some women glow up while some are just throwing up. The body goes through a lot and every woman has a unique experience. And sex during pregnancy has always been such a hush-hush topic that myths and confusion about it abound. Both men and women find themselves standing at a point where they have no idea of what is safe and what is unsafe. If you are also one of those who are worried about sex during pregnancy or any disadvantages of sex during pregnancy, then today we answer all your questions here.
Go for it only if you’re comfortable
Unless your doctor has advised otherwise, there’s nothing to worry about having sex during pregnancy (provided you don’t have any complications). It’s completely normal and pleasurable and you can continue it up until the water breaks or you go into labor. Your baby is safe as the strong uterus muscles, amniotic fluid and mucus plug provides cushioning. So, to all the men out there who are afraid of hurting the baby, don’t worry. You will not hurt the baby.
Don’t worry about preterm labor or miscarriage
If sex during pregnancy could cause preterm labor or miscarriage, then doctors wouldn’t have called it safe. There’s no link between sex and preterm labor or miscarriage. It only happens when the fetus doesn’t develop normally. But those who are having complicated pregnancy should talk to their doctor first.
You still need to be a little careful
During pregnancy, you will notice that your body is extremely sensitive. For some, this sensitivity could be enjoyable while for some it could be painful. Also, your cervix is sensitive too during this time. Due to that, it can get irritated easily which can cause bleeding. You may notice spotting but that should go away soon. If the pain is too much for you or if the bleeding continues then you should visit your doctor as it could be an indicator of some complications in your pregnancy.
Avoid it IF…
Say no to sex during pregnancy if you have a history or risk of premature labor, placenta previa, unexplained vaginal bleeding/discharge, cervical insufficiency, an outbreak of genital herpes, STDs or any situations that pose risk to your pregnancy. Your doctor will surely tell you about any such risks or you can always put your questions and concerns in front of them. After all, they are there to help and guide you.
It’s OK if it’s the last thing in your mind right now
Pregnancy is unique to each woman and they go through a lot of ups and downs both physically and emotionally during this time. So, it’s absolutely OK if sex is the last thing on your mind right now. Some may enjoy having sex and crave for it. But if don’t feel like it, then it’s no big issue. Another thing you should know is your libido may rise in the second trimester and then fade away as you enter the third trimester. This happens due to hormonal fluctuations in the body and is nothing to worry about. All you have got to do is talk to your partner. Open communication can help resolve your issues.
Try these positions
As long as you are comfortable, you can experiment with various positions and find what works best for you. However, as you progress in the pregnancy, avoid anything that would put extra pressure on the belly. Also, there’s a myth around pregnancy that positions influence the sex of the baby. There’s no science to explain such stories. So, only go for what you enjoy and feel comfortable doing.
When to visit the doctor
In case you experience pain, bleeding, shortness of breath or any kind of physical discomfort while or after the sex. If it seems to be out of your control you should immediately see your doctor to find out the cause.
Sex after giving birth
A new mother would need time to heal and recover mentally and physically after giving birth. There’s no specific time after which you can start having sex again. It all depends upon how much time the body takes to get back to normal. Start indulging in sex only when your body allows (and your baby sleeps).
