3 Common questions about pregnancy and sex
Your body is changing, hormones are raging and your sex drive may be, too. Here are answers to some common questions about pregnancy sex and tips for making the most out of nine sexy months. Is it safe to have sex?
“Sex is almost always safe in pregnancy, unless the woman has a condition called placenta previa where the placenta is growing over the cervix or if the woman has experienced any leaking of fluid and ruptured membranes have not yet been ruled out,” explains Amy Romano, CNM, a Midwife who attends home and hospital births in Connecticut. “Some providers recommend that women with a history of preterm birth or with symptoms of preterm labor avoid intercourse, but there is no research to support this recommendation.”At your prenatal appointment, ask your doctor or midwife if there are any reasons why you shouldn’t have sex.
If your healthcare provider has given you the go ahead to, well, go ahead, you may still experience some other challenges.
I’m supposed to feel sexy while gaining weight?
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the average recommended weight gain during pregnancy is 25-35 pounds. This amount may vary depending on your pre-pregnancy weight. While many women -- and their partners -- feel super sexy as their breasts and belly grow and their body takes on a curvier shape, others may have a hard time with the added weight. Remember that you’re growing a baby -- not getting fat. If you or your partner find that pregnancy is affecting your sex life in a negative way, talk to your doctor or midwife.During the first trimester, if you’re exhausted or have morning sickness, sex may be the last thing on your mind. In the second trimester, you’re likely to feel better and have more energy. Many moms report increased sexual desire due to hormonal changes or because they can freely have sex without having to use birth control. By the third trimester, you may want to have a lot of sex but with a huge, beautiful belly, the missionary position probably isn’t going to be comfortable for you or your partner. You may need to get a little creative and try different positions like you on top or spooning.
