Thursday, May 02, 2013

Sex During Pregnancy: What You Should Know

By Rituparna Roy Deshpande, Team iDiva

A woman’s body undergoes several changes during pregnancy. At a time when the only thing that she can think of is the well-being of her child, sexual intimacy naturally becomes a secondary affair. While most women are almost averse to the idea of sex during those nine months, others experience an increased drive due to hormonal changes. Here’s what you should know and keep in mind about sex during pregnancy.

Can I have sex during pregnancy?
This is the most widely asked question by pregnant women. Pregnancy can reduce your sex drive, often leading to misunderstandings between you and your spouse. But, the good news is that sex during pregnancy is completely normal and should be treated as a natural activity. However, consult your gynaecologist about any complications that you may suffer from during this stage.

Can we experiment with sex positions?
With a baby bump, it is not very advisable to experiment with sex positions at this stage. Instead of asking your husband to be on top, lie sideways for shallow penetration. Putting weight on the uterus can be extremely dangerous when you are heavily pregnant. You can also get on top as it allows you to control the depth of penetration.

Will I enjoy sex while I am pregnant?
Honestly speaking, sex during pregnancy can be an uncomfortable experience for most women. An increase in blood pressure may cause heightened sensation, which in turn may give you a feeling of fullness. The bad news is that several women also suffer from abdominal cramps during intercourse. Hence, ask your partner to go easy.

Is it normal if I am not in the mood for sex?
It is completely normal for expectant mothers not be in the mood to indulge in sex. The fact that the body undergoes several changes during pregnancy is reason enough for women to refrain from any kind of sexual intimacy. Alternatively, you and your partner can come up with ideas like a hot bath or a sensual massage to stay intimate and enjoy the romance.

Can we have oral sex while I’m pregnant?
Oral sex is completely normal if you find intercourse risky. However, anal sex during pregnancy is a complete no-no as it may cause infection from the rectum to the vagina. Also, make sure your partner does not blow air inside the vagina during oral sex as this may lead to blockage of a blood vessel by an air bubble.

Will sex harm my baby?
Not at all! The cervix is guarded by a thick mucus that keeps infections at bay; even the amniotic sac and strong uterine muscles protect your baby from any kind of movement caused during sexual activity.  A lot of times your baby may move after an orgasm, but that’s because of your increased heart beat. So that takes care of almost everything, doesn’t it? :-)

Can sex during pregnancy cause a miscarriage? 
Miscarriages are the result of chromosomal abnormalities and have nothing to do with sex. Your baby is protected by the fluid in the amniotic sac, and therefore penetration would not harm the baby. However, do check with your gynaecologist if you are in a high-risk pregnancy, and if so, you may have to look for other ways to enjoy yourselves.


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