If you’re expecting, you’re probably thinking a lot about how your life will change when the baby arrives, including your sex life. You might be experiencing conflicting feelings about having sex, and even wonder whether sex will feel different during pregnancy.
Research shows that, on average, people experience a decrease in sexual activity during pregnancy – having sex 1 to 3 times per month, compared to 1-2 times per week before pregnancy.
The most popular reason for decreased sexual activity during pregnancy is decreased libido – 35.5% of people experience it. But there’s more to it, and the way you engage in sex might fluctuate depending on what stage of your pregnancy you’re in.
We discuss how sex might look and feel during pregnancy, and the reasons for the changes you might experience.
How Sex Feels by Trimester
Sex During the First Trimester (Weeks 0–13)
Pregnant women experience an array of symptoms as their body changes and hormones fluctuate. Due to the hormonal changes in the first trimester of your pregnancy, you might feel nausea, fatigue, discomfort, breast tenderness, and other symptoms which can negatively impact your desire to have sex.
The hormonal changes might also impact vaginal lubrication and blood flow. Some people experience less natural lubrication which can cause vaginal dryness and painful intercourse. Increased blood flow in the pelvic region can also increase genital sensitivity, which can make sex heightened for some and too stimulating for others, causing discomfort.
If you choose to have sex, incorporating a body-safe lubricant is a good idea to combat vaginal dryness.
Sex During the Second Trimester (Weeks 14-27)
The second trimester is typically when couples have the most of sex. Studies show that by this time in the pregnancy, women are more familiar and accepting of their changing bodies, which can help relieve negative feeling towards sex in their first trimester.
The lack of early pregnancy symptoms, like nausea, also helps women focus on arousal and intimacy with their partners. Like in the first trimester, increased blood flow to the pelvic region can make sex more pleasurable for some women – one-fifth of women report that they had an orgasm for the first time during the second trimester.
Sex During the Third Trimester (Weeks 28-40)
The third trimester is usually when pregnant women find sex a lot less pleasurable. Studies show that men continue to be interested in sex during the third trimester, but women experience a decrease in sexual desire. And there are plenty of reasons why.
Women experience certain physical symptoms of late pregnancy like swelling, rapid weight gain, exhaustion, and body aches, which can all make sex more challenging. It might require finding new positions and angles to make sex comfortable enough and pleasurable.
Anxiety over inducing early labor can be another mental roadblock. Some women worry that orgasms can induce labor, however, there is no conclusive scientific research of this. Having an orgasm during the late stages of pregnancy might cause light contractions known as Braxton Hicks, but these are not an indication of early labor and are usually safe.
Lastly, research shows that some women experience decreased self-esteem during the third trimester, making them feel less attractive and less capable of sexually satisfy their partners.
On the other hand, many women continue to enjoy sex up until labor. It is really up to personal preference.
Pregnancy Sex is Individualistic
Everyone’s pregnancy is different, including sexual experiences. Some people might not experience a difference in how sex feels, while others might prefer not engaging in sex until after birth.
Listen to your body and do what feels good. Always make sure to communicate your feelings with your partner, and maybe even find new ways to connect without having sex.
If you experience vaginal dryness and painful intercourse during sex while pregnant, consider using more lube or engaging in longer foreplay sessions to give your body more time to adjust and prepare for intercourse. Or, forego intercourse completely and focus on other pleasurable activities instead.
If you are feeling very into the idea of having sex while you’re pregnant and your doctor says it’s safe, then use this as an opportunity to explore and have fun with your partner.
See Also:
Can Sex During Pregnancy Harm My Baby?
The Truth About Orgasms During Pregnancy
Pregnancy Sex: What’s Okay and What’s Not
The Best Pregnancy Sex Positions
Can I Use a Vibrator While Pregnant?
