| | Sex and Pregnancy Sexual relations undergo a form of “change” during the nine months of pregnancy. This does not mean that sex will be less enjoyable or that is should be avoided. In fact, many couples report that their sexual appetites increased during the nine months of pregnancy. It is important to note that the sexual practices of couples vary. While one couple may think that sexual intercourse once or twice a week is a drop in sexual relations, another couple may feel that is an improvement. One couple may engage in sexual intercourse every few days, while another couple may only have sex a couple of times each month. The frequency of sex is a private matter between adults. It is normal for the libido of a pregnant woman to wane during the first and last months of pregnancy. During the first weeks of pregnancy a woman may be experiencing nausea, painful breasts and fatigue. The last month of pregnancy may bring about aches and pains in the back and abdomen as well as a general feeling of fatigue. Fear of Sex Many expectant couples have fears that sexual intercourse will hurt the baby, or the expectant mother. Many couples fear that orgasm will stimulate early labor or even a miscarriage. In a normal pregnancy, sexual intercourse will not hurt the mother or the fetus. Likewise, having an orgasm in a normal pregnancy will not hurt the baby or bring on labor or miscarriage. Some studies even report that couples who stay sexually active during their pregnancy may actually lower the chances of premature labor. Special Concerns There are instances when sex may be restricted. In the case of a high risk pregnancy, sexual intercourse may be limited at certain times. Sexual intercourse may also be restricted if the mother has unexplained bleeding, history of miscarriages, history of premature labors, if twins are being carried, or if the mother has placenta previa. It is important to discuss with your doctor what is safe and what is unsafe. Many times sexual intercourse may be allowed if the woman does not orgasm. You should know exactly what your doctor is instructing–whether it is abstaining from sexual intercourse, orgasm or both.
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