Even though women are proficient multi-taskers, when it comes to sex while pregnant, many women aren’t so sure. However, not only can it be done, it should – many women swear the sex is actually better during pregnancy. Granted, a pregnant woman may not always be up for it, but who wants to jump into the sack anyway when we’re beat, sick to our stomachs or battling a headache even when we’re not pregnant? Yet outside of those moments, there is no reason why a woman can’t enjoy sex during pregnancy – it’s just a matter of negotiating the physical landscape, which can be easily addressed by experimenting with new positions which keep the pregnant woman off her back. Basically, where there’s a will, there’s a way, except when:
• Your health-care practitioner has advised against it
• You have a history of premature birth or labour
• You’re experiencing bleeding or unusual discharge
• Your placenta is covering the cervix
Outside of those circumstances, sex can be enjoyed right up until labour. Contrary to popular belief, sex can’t induce labour; however, it can enhance it if the woman has already begun to dilate, by releasing oxytocin, which helps the uterus contract – and the semen can soften up the cervix as an added bonus.
When it’s all said and done, there is nothing more joyous than bringing home your little bundle of joy. But the pleasures of being a new parent also include fatigue, sleepless nights, new routines, hormonal changes and nursing. The good news is that you will eventually resume your sex life – you just need to abide by certain rules.
TAKE YOUR TIME
Make sure that you are mentally and physically ready before you get into it. But if more than a couple of months have passed, you need to discuss what it’s going to take to get you back on track.
AVOID TOUCH BURN-OUT
If you and baby have been bonding all day, by the time your partner enters the picture, your need to be left alone may outweigh your need to connect. However, since he’s in a different boat, save some bonding for him. Try a massage or a hot bath for two.
BEWARE OF THE FLIP-FLOP
Desire doesn’t always precede arousal – it can flip-flop. So rather than giving up when you’ve lost the urge, try to focus on how you’d like to feel versus how you are feeling and allow your partner a chance to arouse you. Even if it doesn’t lead to intercourse, at least you will connect physically.
BREAK THE ROUTINE
Bedtime may not be the best time for sex, so do as teenagers do and seize the moment whenever you can! You will have more energy and you’ll have fun with spontaneity. Try somewhere new!
Remember that while every woman follows a different timetable to get back her sexual groove, it will eventually happen. You just have to plan for it – like everything else – since intimacy is the most vulnerable part of a relationship.
