Sex when you're pregnant: how (un)safe is that?

Some pregnant ladies can't even think about it and others can't think about anything else. No matter how big or small your sexual appetite is, a little romp during your pregnancy raises many questions, because is it safe for your unborn child? LotteLust gives tips.

Pregnant and in the mood
In the first trimester, most preggo's have little or no desire for sex. Often due to the many pregnancy ailments that arise in the first three months. After this, in the second trimester, many women’s libido rises again. You may even enjoy it more. When you are pregnant, 50 percent more blood flows in your body, making your clitoris, nipples, and labia better supplied with blood and therefore more sensitive. You get aroused faster and experience sex more intensely. You may also have a strong desire to masturbate. Dreams also become a lot more erotic. It is normal for a pregnancy to affect your sex life, so don't be ashamed of it. In the third trimester, the need decreases again. You have other things on your mind. You are mentally and physically preparing for childbirth.

By the way, this does not have to apply to all pregnant women; everyone is different.

Are you poking the baby?
The biggest concern for pregnant couples who want to have sex is whether the baby notices anything. And in the case of heterosexual couples, there is often the question: does thrusting during penetration cause a – well – bump? The uncertainty can be so great that couples just avoid it. Fortunately, the answer is: no. It is not possible for him to cause any pain or danger to your child in any way. Your baby is safely nestled in the cocoon of your belly and is protected by the amniotic fluid, the placenta, the uterus, and the membranes.

Don't have sex if...
Sex during your pregnancy is generally safe. However, there may be special situations where sex is discouraged. For example, if your membranes have ruptured, you are experiencing bleeding, your partner has an STD (ouch!), you have contractions before the 37th week, or because your doctor advises against it. Contact your midwife if you have questions.

Positions
So: sex (in all forms) is fine when you are expecting. Do keep in mind: the longer you are pregnant, the more limited the possibilities in bed become. With a round baby belly, missionary becomes a mission impossible. Don't force it, but try out what works, such as these three positions for pregnant couples.

After the birth
And what about desire and safety after childbirth? You can't just dive between the sheets right after giving birth – and you don't want to either. On average, you need to wait about six weeks; your body needs time to recover. After approval from a doctor, you are ‘allowed’ to resume. It may also happen that you still don't want to. Your sex life does not immediately return to normal after having a baby. It can vary greatly from woman to woman when she feels ready again. Want to know more? On LotteLust, four women share their experiences with sex after childbirth.