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Concerns About Sex During Pregnancy
by: Susan Tanner
Sex is among the top most enjoyable activities practiced by couples. Why
should this be any different during the nine months of pregnancy?
Many expecting parents have concerns about having sex during pregnancy.
Anyone considering it will undoubtedly have many questions. Hopefully
these answers can help to put you and your partner at ease.
Is it safe for the baby? In a normal, low-risk pregnancy, sex during
pregnancy will not harm the baby. The fetus is protected by the amniotic
sac (a thin-walled bag that holds the fetus and surrounding fluid) and by
the strong muscles around the uterus. There is also a thick mucus plug
that seals the cervix and helps guard against infection.
When is it not safe? It is unsafe in high-risk pregnancies. Some cases
where you should not have sex during pregnancy are:
* If you have a history or threat of miscarriage

* If you have a history or signs indicating the risk of pre-term labor
* More than one fetus (twins, triplets, etc.)
* Unexplained vaginal bleeding, discharge, or cramping
* Placenta previa (a condition where the placenta is situated so low that
it covers the cervix)
* Leakage of amniotic fluid
* ncompetent cervix (a condition in which the cervix is weakened and
dilates prematurely raising the risk of miscarriage or premature
delivery)
If any of these cases apply to you, or if you are at all unsure, consult
your physician before engaging in sex during pregnancy.
Can the baby feel it? Some parents may have concerns about disturbing the
unborn baby by having sex during pregnancy. Rest assured, the cervix is
protected by a thick mucus plug; the penis will not come into contact
with the fetus. The baby may thrash around a bit after orgasm, but this
is simply because of the mother's pounding heart, and not because the
baby is feeling discomfort or even knows what's happening.
Can sex during pregnancy or orgasm cause miscarriage or premature birth?
It should not lead to miscarriage or premature birth in normal low-risk
pregnancies. The contractions felt during orgasm are completely different
from the contractions associated with labor. Some doctors recommend,
though, that all mothers discontinue sex during the final weeks of
pregnancy. There is a chemical in semen that is believed to stimulate
contractions.
Is it normal for my desire for sex during pregnancy to fluctuate? It is
perfectly normal for sex drive to increase and decrease during pregnancy.
Symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, breast tenderness, and the increased
need to urinate can make sex during pregnancy bothersome, especially
during the first trimester. Some of these symptoms subside during the
second trimester, which may result in a heightened sex drive. Increased
blood flow to the pelvic area can cause engorgement of the genitals and
heighten sensation. This same engorgement, though, can leave some mothers
with an uncomfortable feeling of fullness after sex. The amount of
vaginal discharge or moistness may increase, which can either make sex
during pregnancy more pleasurable, or cause irritation. In the case of a
sudden change in the amount of discharge, or a foul or unusual odor,
consult your physician.
Many couples find that intercourse is more fulfilling with the added
freedom from worries about contraception and a unique new feeling of
closeness.
Which positions are most favorable? You will discover that as the
mother's belly swells, finding comfortable positions for sex during
pregnancy will require more interesting maneuvers. Mom may find that
lying on her back will become less and less comfortable as the pregnancy
progresses, and the weight of the baby can restrict circulation.
* Lie sideways. Having the man on top will become more and more difficult
as the baby grows.

* Use the edge of the bed. The mother can lay on her back with her feet
and rear on the edge of the bed, and the man kneeling or standing in
front.
* Lie side-by-side in the spoon position. This will allow for only
shallow penetration. Deep thrust can become uncomfortable as the months
pass.
* Have the woman on top. This allows her to control the depth of
penetration and will put no added weight on her abdo
men. Oral sex during pregnancy can be an excellent alternative in
situations where intercourse is not recommended. It is safe, as long as
you are in a monogamous relationship, where both partners have been
tested and are HIV-negative.
The most important thing is that you communicate with your partner.
Experiment with different methods, enjoy yourselves and try to keep a
sense of humor.
Sex during pregnancy can still be one of your favorite activities.
About the author:
Susan Tanner is a wife and mother of three. She is also the editor of
pregnancy-guide.net. Pregnancy-Guide is an online community for mothers
to find support and valuable information. Please visit Pregnancy-Guide at
http://www.pregnancy-guide.net
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