THE BABBLE TAKE
Pregnancy brings a slew of hormonal changes, and that can affect your sex drive in a variety of ways. Experts assure pregnant women that it's all normal, from hugely heightened arousal to the absence of any desire. As long as you're healthy, not in acute pain and not at risk for preterm labor, doctors say sex and orgasms are A-okay and are not likely to damage the baby. As for the logistics, there's advice on how to work around a belly: one expert recommends "lots of pillows." One pregnancy website even offers a "sex position game" to help couples overcome obstacles. But there are times not to have sex while pregnant. If you're deemed to be at risk for complications and are asked not to have sex for the rest of your pregnancy, double-check with your health care provider that you're on the same page regarding definitions of sex.
JOIN THE DISCUSSION IN OUR MESSAGE BOARD
-
iVillage
"It is safe for most couples to continue making love throughout their pregnancy. Although orgasm, as well as breast stimulation, can cause the uterus to contract, this will not cause miscarriage in healthy pregnant women."
...read the full article
-
BabyCenter ®
"Your baby is surrounded and cushioned by amniotic fluid, and protected by your uterus and a layer of muscles. [. . .] In certain circumstances, though, you may have to modify your activity or abstain from sex altogether for part or all of your pregnancy."
...read the full article
-
About.com
"What sex positions are okay during pregnancy is one of the most common questions people ask about pregnant sex. [. . .] There are infinite safe ways to have sex during pregnancy, depending on what kind of sex you want to have. [. . .] Great sex requires a flexibility of thought, and a willingness to try new things when the old ones aren't working anymore."
...read the full article
-
Pregnancy Today
"Attention all of you soon-to-be dads! Here is the information you've been waiting to hear: 'Sex is safe for most women throughout their pregnancies,' says Dr. Helen Rhodes, an obstetrician/gynecologist [. . .]. In some instances, it's even recommended. 'If I have a patient at the end of her pregnancy who is ready to have the baby, I tell her to go home and have sex!' says Dr. Teresa Hoffman."
...read the full article
-
American Pregnancy Association
"It is common for couples to wonder whether sex is safe when they discover they are pregnant. Unless your health care provider advises you otherwise, sex during pregnancy is safe for both you and your baby. The baby is protected by the amniotic fluid in the womb, by your abdomen, and by the mucus plug which seals your cervix and helps guard against infections."
...read the full article
