Pregnancy is often associated with unwanted bouts of vomiting, tender breast, fatigue, morning sickness and mood swings. One thing we don’t notice is the libido or sex drive. However, there is nothing to worry about as these changes are normal. Sex might suddenly seem appealing and suddenly it would be the last thing on your mind. Many people are also worried if it is safe to have sex during pregnancy? We have come up with this detailed post on pregnancy changes and their relation to sex drive.
Sex During Pregnancy
As they say, each pregnancy is different similarly all experiences are unique to every woman. In general, a women’s sex drive will ebb and flow throughout her pregnancy.
PC- Healthline.com
Does pregnancy increase your sex drive?
Pregnancy indeed triggers various changes in the woman’s body and it can affect the sex drive too. Increasing hormones leads to blood flow in the lower parts of the body causes heightened sexual desire. And on the other hand, nausea, fatigue, stress and other physical changes cause reduced desire to have sex. So, here are various phases of pregnancy and if it is safe to have sex during pregnancy.
Read more about Pregnancy
First Trimester of pregnancy (week 0-13)
Most women come to know of pregnancy when they are almost halfway in their first trimester. And that is around the 5th or 6th week of pregnancy. The initial days of pregnancy are full of surprises and varied body changes. An increase in hormone levels, physical discomfort, vomiting, fatigue and stress can lower the libido in the initial phase of pregnancy.
As mentioned earlier all women are different and may go through unique experiences. Some women may have reduced libido while some may witness increasing desires. It varies from women to women. It’s advisable by medical experts to avoid sex during the initial stages of pregnancy.
Second Trimester of Pregnancy (Week 14-27)
The second trimester is quite relaxing and comfortable for most women. Overwhelming emotions, fatigue, nausea and various other symptoms you have overcome by now. Lower levels of HCG hormones typically lessen the nausea sensation and helps in maintaining higher levels of energy. Increasing Estrogen and progesterone hormone levels lead to increased arousal, sensitivity and pleasure in women.
The second trimester is relatively happy for most women due to reduced physical discomfort and fatigue. Thus, this is a great time to rekindle the romance and enjoy the time with your partner.
Here are things you might expect in each trimester and if sex during pregnancy stages is safe.
Third Trimester of Pregnancy (week 28-40)
You are almost there and soon will have your baby in your arms. The body is yet again gearing up for the last trimester and supporting the pregnancy and growing baby. In the third phase, you might notice a fresh set of symptoms. Weight gain, swelling, gestational diabetes, body aches and uterus pushing in the chest are few other issues. And all of this leads to yet again a lack of interest in sex drive.
PC-Parents.com
The growing belly can cause discomfort while trying to get intimate. However, trying out different positions might be of help and helps bond further. And it’s better if you listen to your body and medical advisor. If you have heightened sexual drive and still worried about having safe sex better to take doctors’ advice. You could try different ways to enjoy this time with your partner without worrying about harming the baby.
So, is sex during pregnancy bad for the fetus?
I am sure most of us might have the first thought that sex might harm the baby within. However, the baby is very safe and secure within the uterus and sex won’t cause any harm unless your doctor or midwife has advised you otherwise. Avoid sex during pregnancy if there are any possible complications/placenta praevia/ history of miscarriage/ or you are experiencing any uterine cramps or bleeding.
Conclusion
Being aware of symptoms and things to expect in these stages of pregnancy makes women feel more comfortable and happier. Every woman feels these ups and downs in their pregnancy and unless the healthcare professional advices otherwise, most forms of sex are safe during pregnancy.
If you are pregnant and reading this, all you have to do is be positive, avoid stress, enjoy the time to the fullest. And for your libido, it is always best to listen to your body and medical expert before trying to have sex during pregnancy.
** This post is not a substitute for medical advice and is always advisable to do as your Gynaecologist or midwife suggest.
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Pregnancy is a sensitive and delicate phase of any women’s life and as you said, each woman may experience different symptoms and desires. regarding sex, it is always better to consult your doctor. they can guide better as per your individual pregnancy stage.
Much needed! You have clearly busted the myths of sex during pregnancy! Many , even the elders think that sex is bad during pregnancy. You have nicely listed everything!
I am sure this is the most common doubt of every pregnant woman. Some of them may even feel shy asking about it with their gynecologist. You have explained it so well in your post, I am sure it will clear a lot of doubts. Thanks for this informative post, Rakhi.
This is.a topic many women shy away from discussing, even with their partners. It is so important to have this conversation and frankly, so both partners are on the same page.
This post gives me better understanding of the consequences. I will keep in mind when my is pregnant. Thank you for sharing this important information.
You have made so many things crystal clear regarding having sex during pregnancy. Surely a helpful post for all the couples who are basking in the beauty of pregnancy. Still, The advice of Gynae should be top of everything!
You have mentioned some very good pointers, pregnancy is a sensitive phase in a woman’s life. Its a natural thing and with the doctor’s recommendation it should be okay too.
Pregnancy is a phase that sees so many changes, both psychologically, emotionally, and physiologically. Sex during pregnancy is a topic that people shy away from. However, you have shared valuable information which would be really helpful for would-be moms.
Well said, dear! Every pregnancy is different and a woman should understand the constant bodily changes and make a decision accordingly. Although I’ve read as well it is completely safe to have sex during pregnancy.
That’s a helpful and very informative post for pregnant couples. I didn’t know about all this. Thanks for sharing.
This is very informative Post. Many people have so much doubts on this and you really tried well to clear all doubts.
I agree the last trimester and sex is a strict no-no. As it may lead to a put off for the mother and harm the baby inside too.
I think this is the most common doubt . Your opinion and this post is definitely helpful vand answers so many questions which arise in mind . Thank you
when I read this blog I realized and also was brought awareness about the dedicated baby laundry detergents . This is definitely the most important parts of parenting
You have clearly busted the myths of sex during pregnancy! I had heard that sex should be avoided during pregnancy. You have nicely listed everything on this topic
Couples are always apprehensive about sex during pregnancy. It’s great that you broke it down trimester-wise. With a doctor’s green flag and the right information, one can breathe easily.