Sexual intercourse during pregnancy: Is it possible?

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Extract from the article: Some couples believe that during pregnancy, women should not engage in sexual intercourse. Moreover, some men think that the baby in the womb is observing them, while others tend to believe that by making love, they are harming the child. Is it...

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Some couples believe that during pregnancy, women should not engage in sexual intercourse. Moreover, some men think that the baby in the womb is observing them, while others tend to believe that by making love, they are harming the child. Is it safe to have sexual intercourse during pregnancy?

From a medical standpoint, there is no prohibition against continuing sexual activity throughout pregnancy. Sexual intercourse does not increase the risk of miscarriage, and the duration of the pregnancy is not related to the frequency or intensity of sexual intercourse.

Sexual Intercourse and "Harming" the Baby

Anatomically, it is impossible to "harm" the baby during sexual intercourse because the baby is protected by the amniotic cavity. It is also said that the penis cannot cause a rupture of the amniotic sac. The mucous plug, which is a mass of cervical mucus, tightly seals the cervix until the end of pregnancy, preventing potential infectious agents from reaching the uterus. While it is true that orgasm can cause uterine contractions, these contractions have no consequences on the proper progression of the pregnancy except in cases of threatened premature delivery.

Decrease in Libido During Pregnancy

Although sexual intercourse is not contraindicated during pregnancy, desire must be present in both men and women. However, during these nine months, libido varies greatly depending on the stage of pregnancy, any medical problems, the couple, how each person envisions this pregnancy, and their future role as parents. There is no "normal" sexuality during pregnancy, but rather different situations. The most important thing is to maintain communication within the couple and find common ground on the subject.

During the first trimester, changes in the body and pregnancy hormones can help one feel a bit sexier. However, libido may be lower due to morning sickness, fatigue, sensitive or painful breasts, and the urgent need to urinate.

Some annoying pregnancy symptoms may ease between the first and second trimesters. Additionally, since the belly is not too big yet, most positions are not yet uncomfortable. This may explain a higher libido at this stage of pregnancy. In reality, increased blood flow to the pelvic area and breasts can enhance sexual pleasure.

In the third trimester, several factors can explain the decrease in libido in both women and men. These factors may include weight gain and back pain, as well as the approaching due date.

Managing the Decrease in Libido

Libido also fluctuates according to the pregnant woman's psychological or emotional state, and how she perceives changes in her body. Some expectant mothers, feeling fulfilled, may experience a true uninhibition during their pregnancy, while others, on the contrary, may struggle to accept their physical changes or to reconcile their status as a woman carrying life with that of a lover.

Therefore, it is advisable for the expectant father not to forget that each woman is different, and what she feels physically and emotionally at any time during pregnancy can affect the couple's libido. There are also other ways to strengthen the bond with your partner so she does not feel neglected, such as discussing her feelings, cuddling, and kissing her.

Raymond DZAKPATA