Many couples worry that sex and orgasms during pregnancy could pose risks to their baby, but recent research reveals this is more myth than reality. Engaging in sexual activity during pregnancy can be beneficial for both you and your little one. So, if you’re an expecting mama, it might be time to rethink those concerns and get busy!
Understanding the Guidelines for Orgasms During Pregnancy
Pregnancy brings a whirlwind of hormonal changes, which can significantly affect a woman’s libido. For some, these hormonal shifts lead to a heightened desire for intimacy, while others may find fatigue and various pregnancy symptoms make sex the last thing on their minds. Interestingly, many pregnant women hold back from sex altogether due to fears about potential complications. A study revealed that nearly 49% of women surveyed worried that intercourse might harm their pregnancy.
However, for women with low-risk or “normal” pregnancies, the evidence suggests that avoiding sex may not lead to better outcomes. A comprehensive study involving 10,981 singleton low-risk pregnancies found no significant increase in preterm labour among women who engaged in sexual activity compared to those who abstained.
What Does This Mean?
The conclusion is clear: sex is generally safe during pregnancy! Abstaining from intercourse should only be recommended for women at risk of preterm labour or experiencing complications such as antepartum hemorrhage due to placenta previa. While there’s limited evidence to suggest that sex can induce labour at term, it remains a safe option for women with low-risk pregnancies. So, if you’ve been fretting about the safety of sex during your first, second, or third trimester, rest assured that science is on your side.
Is It Ever Not Safe to Have an Orgasm During Pregnancy?
When it comes to navigating the world of sex during pregnancy, many couples experience a range of hesitations and concerns. From fluctuating hormones to the physical changes in the body, it’s completely normal to have questions about intimacy during this transformative time. You might be wondering: Is it safe to have orgasms while pregnant? Can sexual activity harm my baby? Let’s dive into this topic and clear the air.
Understanding the Concerns of Orgasm During Pregnancy
Pregnancy can throw your libido for a loop. Some women may find themselves feeling more amorous than ever, while others may experience a significant dip in desire, especially during the first trimester due to morning sickness and fatigue. Partners might worry about “poking the baby” or causing harm during sex, which can lead to anxiety around orgasms and uterine contractions.
While it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider about your specific situation, if you have a low-risk pregnancy and your doctor hasn’t indicated otherwise, it’s generally safe to enjoy intimacy, including orgasms.
You may also like: Truths About Parenting a Toddler While Pregnant
What Does the Research Say?
A study examining 1,483 pregnant women found no significant differences in labour contractions between those who engaged in sexual activity and those who abstained. Furthermore, in low-risk pregnancies, sexual activity was not linked to preterm birth, premature rupture of membranes, or low birth weight. This means that for most women, having sex during pregnancy poses no significant risk.
However, if you experience any of the following conditions, your doctor may advise against sexual activity:
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Spotting or bleeding
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Incompetent cervix (when the cervix is shorter than about 22 millimetres, increasing the risk of preterm birth)
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Vasa previa (when umbilical cord vessels run too close to the cervix)
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Placenta previa (when the placenta covers the cervix)
Additionally, if your water has broken, it’s best to avoid sex as it can increase the risk of infection.
5 Reasons to Embrace Orgasms During Pregnancy
Now that we’ve established that having sex during pregnancy is safe, let’s explore the wonderful benefits of orgasms during this unique time in your life. Here are five compelling reasons to indulge in pleasure as an expecting mama:
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Boosted Immunity: Engaging in regular sexual activity can enhance your immune system. Research indicates that levels of immunoglobulin A, which helps protect us from common colds and other illnesses, are higher in those who have frequent sex.
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Intensified Pleasure: Many women experience heightened sensations during orgasms while pregnant. Increased levels of oxytocin, combined with enhanced blood flow to the sexual organs, can make these experiences even more pleasurable than before.
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Easier Achievements: For some women, achieving orgasm may become easier during pregnancy, again due to increased blood flow. However, if you find this isn’t the case for you, don’t worry—everyone’s experience is different!
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Less Worry About Conception: Without the concern of becoming pregnant again, many couples find they can fully immerse themselves in the experience of intimacy. This newfound freedom can lead to a more fulfilling sexual relationship.
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Strengthened Bonds: Engaging in sexual activity can foster a deeper emotional connection between you and your partner. It’s a chance to enjoy each other’s company and nurture your relationship before the arrival of your little one.
What to Expect: Orgasm by Trimester
First Trimester
The first trimester can be a mixed bag when it comes to sexual desire. You might feel frisky one moment, only to be hit by nausea the next. Many women experience heightened sensitivity, especially in the breasts, which can lead to more intense sensations. However, it’s also normal for some women to feel less interested in sex due to discomfort and hormonal fluctuations.
Second Trimester
Many consider the second trimester the “sweet spot” for intimacy. With morning sickness usually subsiding and less discomfort than in the third trimester, you may find sex more enjoyable. Increased blood flow can heighten sensitivity, making orgasms more pleasurable. You might experience mild uterine contractions after orgasm, but these are typically harmless and not a sign of impending labour.
Third Trimester
As you enter the third trimester, physical challenges can make sex more difficult. The size of your baby bump can feel cumbersome, and you may find it harder to reach orgasm. A study from Poland found that sexual activity often decreases during the second and third trimesters, mainly due to misconceptions about the safety of intercourse.
It’s important to remember that during a typical pregnancy, your baby is well-protected by the amniotic sac, strong uterine muscles, and a mucus plug sealing the cervix. Therefore, the concern that intercourse might harm the baby is generally unfounded.
Solo Play: Safe Alternatives
If your doctor advises abstaining from intercourse or if you’re simply not in the mood for partnered sex, masturbation is a perfectly safe option during pregnancy. Orgasms can be achieved solo, and using sex toys is also safe as long as you maintain proper hygiene. Just remember to keep any toys clean to minimize the risk of infections.
Conclusion
Pregnancy is a beautiful journey filled with unique experiences, and embracing your sexuality can be an empowering part of that journey. With science backing the safety of sex during pregnancy, you can confidently explore the benefits of intimacy and orgasms. So, relax, enjoy the ride, and remember that getting busy can be a wonderful way to celebrate this special time in your life!
