Concerns About Sex During Pregnancy
Posted: Wednesday, November 30, 2005
by Susan Tanner
http://www.pregnancy-guide.net
Sex is among the top most enjoyable activities practiced
by couples. Why should this be any different during
the nine months of pregnancy?
Many expecting parents have concerns about having
sex during pregnancy. Anyone considering it will
undoubtedly have many questions. Hopefully these
answers can help to put you and your partner at
ease.
pregnancy, sex during pregnancy will not harm the baby.
The fetus is protected by the amniotic sac (a thin-
walled bag that holds the fetus and surrounding fluid)
and by the strong muscles around the uterus. There
is also a thick mucus plug that seals the cervix and
helps guard against infection.
When is it not safe? It is unsafe in high-risk
pregnancies. Some cases where you should not have
sex during pregnancy are:
* If you have a history or threat of miscarriage
* If you have a history or signs indicating the risk of
pre-term labor
* More than one fetus (twins, triplets, etc.)
* Unexplained vaginal bleeding, discharge, or
cramping
* Placenta previa (a condition where the placenta
is situated so low that it covers the cervix)
* Leakage of amniotic fluid
* Incompetent cervix (a condition in which the
cervix is weakened and dilates prematurely raising
the risk of miscarriage or premature delivery)
If any of these cases apply to you, or if you are at all
unsure, consult your physician before engaging in
sex during pregnancy.
Can the baby feel it? Some parents may have
concerns about disturbing the unborn baby by having
sex during pregnancy. Rest assured, the cervix is
protected by a thick mucus plug the penis will not
come into contact with the fetus. The baby may thrash
around a bit after orgasm, but this is simply because
of the mother's pounding heart, and not because the
baby is feeling discomfort or even knows what's
happening.
Can sex during pregnancy or orgasm cause
miscarriage or premature birth? It should not lead to
miscarriage or premature birth in normal low-risk
pregnancies. The contractions felt during orgasm are
completely different from the contractions associated
with labor. Some doctors recommend, though, that
all mothers discontinue sex during the final weeks of
pregnancy. There is a chemical in semen that is
believed to stimulate contractions.
Is it normal for my desire for sex during pregnancy
to fluctuate? It is perfectly normal for sex drive to
increase and decrease during pregnancy. Symptoms
suchas nausea, fatigue, breast tenderness, and the
increased need to urinate can make sex during
pregnancy bothersome, especially during the first
trimester. Some of these symptoms subside during the
second trimester, which may result in a heightened sex
drive. Increased blood flow to the pelvic area can cause
engorgement of the genitals and heighten sensation.
This same engorgement, though, can leave some
mothers with an uncomfortable feeling of fullness
after sex. The amount of vaginal discharge or
moistness may increase, which can either make sex
during pregnancy more pleasurable, or cause irritation.
In the case of a sudden change in the amount of
discharge, or a foul or unusual odor, consult your
physician.
Many couples find that intercourse is more fulfilling
with the added freedom from worries about
contraception and a unique new feeling of closeness.
Which positions are most favorable? You will
discover that as the mother's belly swells, finding
comfortable positions for sex during pregnancy will
require more interesting maneuvers. Mom may find
that lying on her back will become less and less
comfortable as the pregnancy progresses, and the
weight of the baby can restrict circulation.
* Lie sideways. Having the man on top will
become more and more difficult as the baby grows.
* Use the edge of the bed. The mother can lay on
her back with her feet and rear on the edge of the
bed, and the man kneeling or standing in front.
* Lie side-by-side in the spoon position. This will
allow for only shallow penetration. Deep thrust can
become uncomfortable as the months pass.
* Have the woman on top. This allows her to
control the depth of penetration and will put no
added weight on her abdomen.
Oral sex during pregnancy can be an excellent
alternative in situations where intercourse is not
recommended. It is safe, as long as you are in a
monogamous relationship, where both partners have
been tested and are HIV-negative.
The most important thing is that you communicate
with your partner. Experiment with different methods,
enjoy yourselves and try to keep a sense of humor.
Sex during pregnancy can still be one of your favorite
activities.
About the author:
Susan Tanner is a wife and mother of three. She is also the editor of pregnancy-guide.net. Pregnancy-Guide is an online community for mothers to find support and valuable information. Please visit Pregnancy-Guide at http://www.pregnancy-guide.net
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