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But there's less talk about the topic of sex during pregnancy, perhaps because of cultural tendencies to
not associate expectant mothers with sexuality. Like many parents-to-be, you may have questions about
the safety of sex and what's normal for most couples.
Well, what's normal can vary widely, but you can count on the fact that there will be changes in your sex
life. Open communication will be the key to a satisfying and safe sexual relationship during pregnancy.
So what's a "normal pregnancy"? It's one that's considered low-risk for complications such as miscarriage
or pre-term labor. Talk to your doctor, nurse-midwife, or other pregnancy health care provider if you're
uncertain about whether you fall into this category.
Of course, just because sex is safe during pregnancy doesn't mean you'll necessarily want to have it! Many
expectant mothers find that their desire for sex fluctuates during certain stages in the pregnancy. Also,
many women find that sex becomes uncomfortable as their bodies get larger.
You and your partner should keep the lines of communication open regarding your sexual relationship.
Talk about other ways to satisfy your need for intimacy, such as kissing, caressing, and holding each
other. You also may need to experiment with other positions for sex to find those that are the most
comfortable.
Many women find that they lose their desire and motivation for sex late in the pregnancy — not only
because of their size but also because they're preoccupied with the impending delivery and the
excitement of becoming a new parent.
1. If you engage in oral sex, your partner should not blow air into your vagina. Blowing air can cause
an air embolism (a blockage of a blood vessel by an air bubble), which can be potentially fatal for
mother and child.
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2. You should not have sex with a partner whose sexual history is unknown to you or who may have a
sexually transmitted disease (STD), such as herpes, genital warts, chlamydia, or HIV. If you
become infected, the disease may be transmitted to your baby, with potentially dangerous
consequences.
If significant complications with your pregnancy are anticipated or detected by your health care provider,
he or she is likely to advise against sexual intercourse. Common risk factors include:
Your partner's desire for sex is likely to increase or decrease as well. Some men feel even closer to their
pregnant partner and enjoy the changes in their bodies. Others may experience decreased desire because
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of anxiety about the burdens of parenthood, or because of concerns about the health of both the mother
and their unborn child.
Your partner may have trouble reconciling your identity as a sexual partner with your new (and
increasingly visible) identity as an expectant mother. Again, remember that communication with your
partner can be a great help in dealing with these issues.
Remember, "normal" is a relative term when it comes to sex during pregnancy. You and your partner
need to discuss what feels right for both of you.
Note: All information on KidsHealth® is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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