Pregnancy and Intimacy
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Pregnancy & Intimacy
During your pregnancy and after, your sexual relationship may change. This is normal and not necessarily a negative consequence of pregnancy. In fact, many women report a better sexual relationship in the years post pregnancy.
Most women are also very tired and disinterested in sex during the first
trimester. However, during the second trimester it is not uncommon for women's
sex drive to ramp up significantly.
Dyspareunia is pain that occurs in the vagina upon penetration during sexual intercourse. Pain can occur during pregnancy, but for some women is more likely to occur after pregnancy. In the early post partum weeks most women's vaginas are 'atrophic' meaning the skin in them is thin and there is little natural lubrication available. It is usually associated with decreased estrogen levels, and is common in breastfeeding women. Your vagina may be more easily irritated. It may help to use more lubrication and engage in more foreplay prior to engaging in intercourse to help alleviate the sensitivity associated with this condition. Partner's Reaction to Pregnancy Your partner's reaction to pregnancy may affect the quality or frequency of your sexual relations. Some men are tremendously aroused by their partner's swelling figures, whereas others might be afraid that sex will harm the baby in some way. Many partners are coping with the emotional aspect of their wife and sex partner turned mother. Some are even afraid that the baby will take something away from their relationship. Women also have many concerns, particularly about their body image and changing shape during and after pregnancy. While some women love the changes that occur physically, others are less contented. All of these concerns are normal, but when kept hidden may impact the quality of your sex life. The best thing you can do is keep an open stream of constant communication with your partner so that you can talk with each other about your fears, concerns and desires. For most women with uncomplicated pregnancies, sex during pregnancy is completely safe. Sex after pregnancy may take some time. The most important thing you need to do is ensure that you are completely comfortable and well before engaging in sex after your pregnancy. Remember that during the healing time there are many things you can do to remain intimate with your partner other than having sex. Remember to spend some time together whenever possible, to hold hands and to remind each other that you are in this together. Doing so will ensure a long lasting and fulfilling sexual relationship both during and after pregnancy.
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