Can You Have Sex While Pregnant?

by Heather Long | More from this Blogger

This is a very typical question that many mothers to be ask of their obstetricians because pregnancy brings about enough changes in their bodies that they can be concerned that sex could be harmful. It's important to recognize that if you are restricted from having sex - your OB will be the first person to tell you. In fact, for many mothers in the late term of their pregnancy - sex can actually stimulate labor so if you're tired of waiting - your OB may recommend an old fashioned method to stimulate the onset of labor.

Intimacy is Important

Intimacy is a vital component for pregnant women and their spouses and should be maintained throughout the pregnancy. While sexual intercourse is a part of intimacy, it is not the end all of it. Holding each other, cuddling, kissing and petting can be intensely satisfying for both partners and can keep you in touch with each other.

Don't be surprised if your husband is curious about the changes in your body. Be sure to express to him what feels good and what doesn't. Some women experience deep sensitivity in their breasts during pregnancy and it can make fondling a not pleasant option. If this is the case for you, don't hesitate to share what you do and don't find pleasing during this period of your life.

One of the most exciting things new parents can share is feeling the baby move. While moms can feel this automatically beginning with the first flutters - the further along you are, the more pronounced the movements will become. Your husband can only share this experience by laying his hand against your burgeoning tummy.

Spending time together in the evening, laying side by side while he gets to hold your tummy and feel the baby move can increase your sense of personal intimacy. It also increases your husband's connection with the baby. These are all feelings to be encouraged - for both of you.

In My Humble Experience

When I was pregnant, my husband and I went to sleep every night with his hand resting firmly on the tummy. The touch soothed me and it also soothed our daughter. She usually chose ten p.m. at night to get really frenetic in her movements. By eleven, I felt like a soccer team was rolling around in there. When my husband put his hand on my tummy, she would settle down and soon - the three of us could sleep peacefully.

Touching and intimacy are integral to your marriage. As long as your doctor has not advised against sex and you do not experience severe discomfort - then enjoy the sexual side of your relationship while you await the arrival of your baby.

How did you promote intimacy and connection during your pregnancy?

Related Articles:

When Your Due Date Passes

Will Intimacy During Pregnancy Cause a Miscarriage?

Working During Pregnancy

Learn more about Heather Long

Heather Long is 35 years old and currently lives in Wylie, Texas. She has been a freelance writer for six years. Her husband and she met while working together at America Online over ten years ago.

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