Concerns About Sex During Pregnancy
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.
Is it safe for the baby? In a normal, low-risk 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
such as
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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