Embracing Intimacy – Navigating Sex During the Pregnancy Journey
Expecting a baby comes with a whirlwind of changes. It’s like you’re on an emotional roller coaster, experiencing thrills of joy and anticipation, occasionally interspersed with moments of discomfort and nervousness. Among the many questions buzzing around in the minds of soon-to-be-moms, the subject of sex during pregnancy often comes up, sprinkled with a bit of curiosity and sometimes, a pinch of worry.
Here’s the reassuring part: for most pregnant women, sex is not just completely safe, but it might even turn into a more pleasurable journey. Why?
Well, increased blood circulation and heightened sensitivity in your pelvic region are to thank. But remember, as your body transforms, it’s likely that your sexual experiences and preferences might go through a bit of a metamorphosis as well.
Here’s our guide to help you navigate and enjoy sex during pregnancy.
Communication is Key
During pregnancy, your body undergoes significant changes, and this transformation often brings a myriad of emotions and physical comfort shifts. To maintain a healthy sexual relationship amidst these changes, having a clear and open dialogue with your partner is crucial.
Communication during this phase is not just about managing these changes; it’s about deepening your bond and understanding each other better.
Discussing Changes & Addressing Concerns
- Begin by sharing the physical and emotional changes you’re experiencing. This includes your growing belly, sensitive breasts, hormonal fluctuations, mood shifts, and changing libido. This helps create a mutual understanding and promotes intimacy.
- Address any concerns or discomforts you may have about sex during pregnancy. These might include fears about the baby’s safety, physical discomfort, or insecurities about your changing body. Being candid about these concerns allows your partner to empathise and provide support.
Encouraging Your Partner
- Lastly, make sure your partner feels comfortable expressing their feelings too. They might have their own anxieties or uncertainties. Facilitate a safe space for them to voice their thoughts, fostering a deeper emotional connection that complements your physical intimacy.
Experiment with Positions
As you progress through pregnancy, the transformations in your body may require some adjustments to your sexual routine. One of the significant aspects to consider is sexual positioning. As your belly grows, you’ll likely find that some positions become less comfortable or even unfeasible. The key here is to approach this change with an open mind and a willingness to experiment.
Let’s explore some comfortable positions that accommodate a growing belly and prioritise your comfort:
- Spooning – In the spooning position, both partners lie on their side, with the partner penetrating from behind. This position reduces pressure on the belly and can be quite intimate due to the closeness of your bodies. It also allows for easy adjustment of the penetration angle and depth, which can help ensure comfort and pleasure.
- Woman on Top – Another position that often works well during pregnancy is having the woman on top. This position gives you control over the depth and speed of penetration, allowing you to adjust as per your comfort. Additionally, it avoids direct pressure on your belly.
- Side-Lying Positions – Side-lying positions can also be a great option during later stages of pregnancy. One such position is the ‘starfish,’ where you lie on your side, and your partner kneels and straddles your lower leg while your upper leg is bent towards your chest. This position reduces pressure on the belly while allowing for face-to-face intimacy.
- Other Adaptations – Don’t forget that you can also make use of pillows to provide extra support and comfort during sex. Placing a pillow under your hips in certain positions can reduce strain and increase enjoyment.
Remember, everyone is different, and a position that works well for one person might not be comfortable for another. Experiment with your partner to find what works best for you, always keeping comfort as your guiding principle. If something feels uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to communicate this with your partner and switch things up.
Use Lubricants If Necessary
Hormonal changes may cause vaginal dryness or make sex uncomfortable. Using a water-based lubricant can make sex more enjoyable. However, if you experience persistent dryness or discomfort, consider discussing it with your healthcare provider.
Understand and Navigate Changes in Desire
Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can have a profound impact on your sexual desire. These changes can be confusing and unexpected, making it even more essential to understand what’s happening and how to navigate these shifts.
- Increased Arousal – One of the surprising side effects of pregnancy for some women is increased libido. This boost in sexual desire is often attributed to increased blood flow to the pelvic region and higher levels of hormones like progesterone and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). The increased blood flow can lead to heightened sensitivity, potentially making sex more pleasurable. It’s perfectly normal and healthy to embrace and enjoy this enhanced desire if it occurs.
- Decreased Desire – Conversely, you might also experience a decrease in your sexual desire during pregnancy. This can be due to numerous factors, including fatigue, nausea, physical discomfort, emotional fluctuations, or concerns about the safety of sex during pregnancy. It’s important to remember that this is also completely normal. Every woman’s experience with pregnancy is unique, and changes in libido are a part of that journey.
Navigating these changes in desire requires understanding, patience, and open communication with your partner. If your libido has increased, communicate this to your partner, so they can accommodate and engage with your heightened desire. If your desire has decreased, express this as well. It’s important for your partner to understand that this isn’t a reflection of your feelings for them, but rather a common occurrence during pregnancy.
You and your partner can explore other forms of intimacy during periods of decreased sexual desire. Activities such as cuddling, massaging, sharing fantasies, or even simple acts of affection like holding hands or a loving gaze can maintain a close connection and foster a sense of intimacy, even if sexual activity is less frequent.
Listen to Your Body
As you navigate the remarkable journey of pregnancy, your body undergoes significant changes. These transformations can affect your sexual comfort and preferences, making it vital to stay attuned to your body. Recognising and respecting your physical signals, whether of discomfort or pleasure, is key to maintaining a healthy and enjoyable sexual relationship during this unique phase.
Key Steps to Listening to Your Body
- Respond to Discomfort – Your body can guide you towards what feels good and what doesn’t. If you experience discomfort or pain during sex, it’s crucial to stop immediately. Discuss this with your partner – you might need to alter your position, reduce the pace, or pause sexual activity.
- Seek Medical Advice for Persistent Discomfort – While some discomfort is normal during pregnancy, persistent issues should be addressed. If you frequently experience pain or discomfort during sex, consult your healthcare provider. They can help identify any underlying issues and provide suitable advice.
- Tune into Pleasure – Pregnancy can enhance sensitivity in some areas, increasing pleasure during certain sexual activities. Be mindful of these changes, and don’t hesitate to communicate to your partner what feels good for you. It’s a time to explore and enhance mutual pleasure.
- Respect Your Emotional Boundaries – Pregnancy can bring a tide of emotions. Always consider your emotional well-being in your sexual relationship. If you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or not in the mood, it’s okay to refrain from sex. Respecting your emotional boundaries is just as important as acknowledging your physical ones.
Remember, while sex is typically safe during pregnancy, certain conditions may necessitate modifications or even abstinence. Always consult your healthcare provider if you’re in any doubt to ensure that sexual intercourse is safe for both you and your baby. Your body’s signals are an essential guide in this journey, helping you maintain a balanced and healthy sex life during pregnancy.
Summary
Sex during pregnancy can be a beautiful and enjoyable aspect of your changing relationship, providing a unique opportunity to explore and adapt to your evolving bodies. With open communication, a willingness to adapt, and a focus on mutual pleasure and comfort, you and your partner can maintain a healthy and satisfying sexual relationship during this special time.