One of the biggest questions pregnant women have is, is it safe to have sex or engage in self-love during pregnancy? And the short answer is, yes. It’s perfectly safe, it won’t hurt or affect your baby whatsoever, and no, your partner’s penis cannot penetrate you beyond your vagina.
The only case where you should abstain from sexual activity however, is if it has been advised by your healthcare professional.
Having said that, let’s talk more about the different ways you can enjoy sex while pregnant, hormones, sex drive, and other pregnancy-related facts that’ll help you enjoy a happy and healthy sex life.
Pregnancy, Your Body, and Sex
During pregnancy you’ll experience a surge of estrogen and progesterone, which can affect your sexual appetite. “Typically, the second trimester is the golden spot,” says Holly Richmond, a clinical sex therapist.
This is because morning sickness typically takes place in the first trimester, and by the second, you’re more likely to be comfortable with your changing body. You’ll also have an increase in natural vaginal lubrication and clitoral sensitivity. The third trimester could prove uncomfortable for some because of the size of your belly.
If you are feeling particularly aroused during your pregnancy, there’s a good reason for it—an increased blood flow, especially to your sexual organs. When this happens, you will become more sensitive in places such as the nipples and the vulva.
In this case, we recommend sex or or sex-related activities, as it will prove to be even more pleasurable due to the sensitivity. It’ll also be a great way to maintain a physical and emotional connection with your partner and or yourself.
Another reason why we recommend sexual activity during pregnancy is because achieving an orgasm has a number of positive effects. Climax releases endorphins and reduces the production of cortisol which essentially means a calmer and happier disposition as well as less stress. These benefits are great for your baby too.
Sex Positions to Try During Pregnancy: The First Trimester
The Scissor Sex Position
This one is great for those who have fears of the baby perhaps feeling the effects of you having sex, as it is a more shallow sex position in terms of penetration. To do this position, sit facing each other, have your partner’s right leg over your left, and your right leg over his left. You will lean back, and he will prop himself up with his arms, controlling the thrusts.
The Couch Missionary Position
This is essentially the missionary position, but entails you lying on the edge of the couch with your feet on the floor. Your partner will either stand or get on his knees, depending on height, and then grab your thighs to penetrate.
Sex Positions to Try During Pregnancy: The Second Trimester
Doggy Style Sex Position
This sex position is already a favourite for many, and has been proven an excellent style to incorporate in your second trimester. It’s a great position for those who feel slightly self conscious about their growing belly, and is a way for him to give you a bit of clitoral stimulation too.
Spooning Sex Position
This one is useful for those who have any kind of back pain. It involves laying on your side with your partner in the spooning position, you bending your knees and pushing your butt slightly towards him. In this way, he can penetrate you in a more shallow fashion to reduce any discomfort you may have.
Sex Positions to Try During Pregnancy: The Third Trimester
Reverse Cowgirl Position
By your third trimester, perhaps you’d like to take more control of your sexual experience. By doing the reverse cowgirl, you can be the one to direct the thrusts and even incorporate a bit of clitoral pleasure. This position is when your partner lies on his back, and you will straddle him while facing his feet.
The TableTop Position
A comfortable and convenient position in the third trimester is the tabletop position. You can do this by lying comfortably on a surface (a bed, counter, table etc.) while your partner supports your legs. He can then enter you as you prefer and do all of the work, seeing as you’re a soon-to-be sexy mama!
The bottom line? Enjoy all of the sex, sexual energy, and arousal during pregnancy. It can help relieve some stress, and can cause you to feel more calm and happy. Before you do however, be sure to consult your doctor as they will be able to give you the official green light!
Article by:
Helena Lorimer, Sexual Health and Wellness Expert at JOUJOU
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