How To Have Sex While You’re Pregnant

By ASTROGLIDE Team

Pregnant Sex Can Actually Feel Better

Sex may feel better during pregnancy because of increased blood flow to the pelvic area. This can heighten your sensations during sex and make orgasms easier to achieve. It’s all about your hormones — progesterone and particularly estrogen. Estrogen increases blood flow, makes the vagina lubricated, and makes the nipples and boobs go wild. Although don’t be fooled — that same hormone can make the first trimester the pits. Every pregnancy will be unique, and the things your body will feel will differ. When talking about your desire to “knock the boots” there is going to be a change, too. It is not uncommon for sex drives to change from trimester to trimester.

Is Pregnant Sex Safe?

The short answer is yes — sex while you’re pregnant is safe. It does not hurt the baby. As an FYI, his penis doesn’t poke the baby either! That’s the most common question that I get from my patients’ partners. Let’s review some pregnancy sex DO’s:

• You have to find a comfy position. I recommend spooning, or with the woman on top, or doggie style (with a pillow under her belly of course).
• Take your time to set the mood. Light candles, put on a jazz record — it may feel silly, but it works!
• Relax and have fun.
• This is a great time to incorporate toys like clitoral vibrators to tantalize areas that may be hard to reach in certain positions.
• Giving oral sex is perfectly safe as long as there is no risk of you getting an STD. Your baby can get infected if you contract one, so it is important to practice safe sex.
• And of course — there’s no need to worry about you getting pregnant.

Sexual Activity to Avoid When Pregnant

Sometimes your doctor will tell you to stay from penises, dildos, or vibrators while pregnant. If you are at increased risk of preterm labor, your water broke, your placenta is at the level of your cervix, you have a floppy cervix, have a herpes outbreak, or have any vaginal bleeding, your OBGYN or midwife will recommend NO SEX.

If you are on bed rest, proceed with caution, as orgasms can make your uterus contract (which can lead to complications).

Sex during pregnancy can be both pleasurable and healthy. Remember sex is still okay to have after the baby is born You just have to wait until 6 weeks postpartum or until your healthcare provider gives you the okay. You will definitely need lube, though — the vagina tends to get dry after the baby is born. This should improve over time and most often returns to normal completely after about six months (though every woman is different). As an FYI, breastfeeding also decreases vaginal lubrication. Lube up and have FUN. 

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