9 Crazy Things You NEVER Knew About Pregnancy Sex

Pregnancy brings a variety of changes to every couple’s life. It brings a whole new dynamic that prepares both you and your significant other for the arrival of your bundle of joy.

Nowadays, you can find useful information about pregnancy symptoms and how to handle them effectively. Thanks to the internet, it's easy to access expert opinions, from pregnancy websites to health and lifestyle blogs. But, what about sex?

In fact, sex life during pregnancy is associated with different misconceptions; which is why most expectant mothers are afraid of intimacy and passion during this period of their lives.

Is it safe to have sex during pregnancy? Will it harm the baby? You’ll find answers to these questions by reading this article:   

1. It's normal to want sex while pregnant.

Pregnant women often don't want to have sex because they think that it may harm the baby inside the uterus, but sex is a normal part of pregnancy. There is no reason to make changes in your sex life during pregnancy unless your specialist advises or you have a medical condition.

Intercourse movement or penetration doesn't harm the baby, but in the final weeks of pregnancy, many doctors suggest avoiding sex as a safety precaution. They believe that hormones present in semen can stimulate contractions.

Due to some changes during pregnancy, many women may feel different while having sex. Certain changes take place; the increased blood flow to the lower parts of the body can heighten sensitivity in some women, while for many others vaginal fluid changes make for an easier time.

But not all women are so lucky. Some may feel tired because of hormonal changes, and the influx of blood can make them feel uncomfortable and cranky.

2. It can affect a woman's libido.

Pregnancy is not the same for every woman, but some women experience low sexual desire because of the hormonal changes.

The first few months of pregnancy can be very difficult for some women as it leads to tiredness, nausea, and irritability. Mostly in the second trimester, the libido returns as these symptoms decrease and she feels energetic again.

3. Pregnancy can affect the father's sex drive.

Since your partner may become anxious and doesn't want to hurt you or the baby, pregnancy often makes him uncomfortable with intercourse. Alternatively, he may also find you more attractive as you get curvier day by day.

Talk freely with your partner, and tell him your feelings. There are other ways also to enjoy each other's company if you're both not ready for intercourse.

4. There are certain positions that make pregnancy sex comfortable.

Your normal positions may become uncomfortable as your belly starts to interfere, and it may become awkward. You have to try other positions that are comfortable. Here are some alternative sex positions to try while you're pregnant:

• While you straddle him, let your partner sit on a chair.
• To keep the weight off of your stomach, let your partner lie on his back while you straddle. You can also control penetration and pace in this position.
• To avoid deep penetration, lie on your side and let your partner lie behind you.
• With your feet and legs bent, lie on edge of the bed. Tell your partner to stand or kneel between your legs. After the first trimester, use a pillow under one side; don't lie flat on your back.

5. Most oral sex is safe during pregnancy.

When the third trimester starts, you should avoid oral sex completely, in case your partner has had oral herpes.

Most oral sex is safe during pregnancy as long as your partner doesn't ejaculate into your genital area as it may cause air embolism, which is harmful to your baby and you.

6. Undiagnosed STIS can cause pregnancy problems.

STIs affect both men and women, but women develop more serious complications. Undiagnosed STIs can cause pregnancy problems. It's possible for an infected mother to pass the infection to her baby.

Screening tests in the beginning of pregnancy can help improve the quality of life as some problems can be easily treated if infection is diagnosed early. Using latex condoms before sex or use of polyurethane female or male condoms is also a good option.

7. Pregnancy sex is safe.

Women with a normal pregnancy can continue to have sex with their partner; it doesn't cause any harm to the baby. The amniotic sac, as well as the strong muscles of the uterus, keep your baby safe.

You can enjoy sex until the end of your pregnancy without any fear as long as you are not having any complications. Orgasm may cause mild uterine contractions, but they are harmless to the baby and temporary.

8. Bleeding after sex isn't normal.

Cramping is normal at the time of intercourse or during orgasm, but if it doesn't go away after a few minutes or you notice bleeding after having sex, immediately call your doctor. Talk freely and clear all your doubts or concerns about sex.

If the doctor advises you to avoid sex, it is important for you to know whether you have to avoid orgasm or penetration or you have to stop having sex completely.

9. Not all women want to have sex while pregnant.

Many women experience sexual appetite fluctuations during pregnancy. You may feel nauseated or moody especially in the first trimester; this is not unusual.

It is important for your partner to know how you feel as you need his support. Communicate with him freely and spend more time with each other.