One of the main fears that arise in the couple when the woman is pregnant is about sex, whether or not to do it during pregnancy and if this is beneficial (or not harmful) to the baby.
En MothersHoy.com We have talked on several occasions about sex during pregnancy and we have told you that if your doctor allows it (because your pregnancy is not at risk) having sex during pregnancy is totally beneficial, but you have to take into account other factors that can influence sexual desire such as hormone levels, first trimester nausea or excessive tiredness.
Normally a doctor will restrict or limit sexual relations if your pregnancy is risky for you or the baby. To do this, you need to consider:
- Threatened abortion
- preterm labor (before week 37)
- Vaginal bleeding
- Infection
- Pain during intercourse
- Fluid loss or bag rupture
And it is at one of these points where we will stop today: pain during intercourse. In this case, the doctor will need to assess whether you did not experience the same pain during intercourse (dyspareunia) before becoming pregnant. If so, you will need to assess whether it is caused by lack of lubrication or by other factors, including the groin pain during pregnancy. In case of poor lubrication, use some water-soluble lubricant and consider foreplay to achieve optimal arousal. If other factors are involved, the obstetrician will need to assess whether it is a organic or psychological factor, being able to consult with a psychologist to begin treatment.
During pregnancy, symptoms usually occur: certain discomforts or pains that we didn't feel before, like the low back painThis is pronounced in both the first and third trimester, the second trimester It is the best stage to enjoy sex, as long as your pregnancy is normal.
But if you present pain during intercourse and you have already ruled out dyspareunia, then consult with your obstetrician or, if the pain is severe, check when to go to the emergency room.
Is it safe to have sex during pregnancy?
For most women, intercourse does not involve any risks. The baby is protected by the amniotic fluid, uterine muscles and the mucous plug of the cervix. The penis does not come into contact with the baby during intercourse. It is common to feel mild cramps or a slight stained After orgasm; if bleeding is heavy or the intense pain doesn't subside, contact your healthcare provider.
When to avoid sex and warning signs
It may be recommended to avoid relationships if there are vaginal bleeding, loss of fluid, previous placenta, cervical incompetence, multiple pregnancy, background of premature birth or signs of infection. Having a orgasm It may cause mild contractions; if they are regular, painful, or do not subside, seek medical attention.
STI prevention: use a condom if available new partner or relationships non-exclusive. Avoid sex with a partner with an active infection. In oral sex, the partner should not blow air in the vagina. During anal sex, be extremely hygienic and do not alternate from anal to vaginal without changing condoms to reduce bacteria.
Pain during sex during pregnancy: causes and solutions
The pain may be due to hormonal changes, higher pelvic blood flow, uterine growth, dryness, infections, hemorrhoids o vulvar varicose veins. It can also influence a increased cervical sensitivity or deep penetration.
What helps: switch to comfortable positions, use water based lubricant, place pillows for support, go slowly and communicate feelings. The kegel exercises and techniques of relaxation improve pelvic floor control and can complement measures to relieve sciatica pain. If the pain is intense or persistent, or is accompanied by fever, bad breath or bleeding, consult.
It is relatively frequent: up to three out of ten women may experience discomfort at some point, such as lower abdominal pain in the second trimesterIf the pain is mild and there are no other symptoms, it is usually safe to continue adapting practices.
Most comfortable positions per quarter
Woman on top: allows you to control rhythm and depth, reduces abdominal pressure. Teaspoon: on your side, with less pressure on your abdomen. In four- Especially useful in the first half; if it becomes uncomfortable, change it. Avoid staying face up long in advanced stages so as not to compress large vessels.
Intimacy without intercourse and self-care
If you don't feel like having sex, there are other ways to be intimate: hugs, kisses, massages, manual stimulation, mutual masturbation and oral sex (with the indicated precautions). communication with your partner is key to adjusting expectations and enjoying.
After giving birth, it is advisable to wait until postpartum checkup before resuming intercourse. It is common to notice dryness (especially with breastfeeding), for which water-based lubricants help. Keep gentle hygiene before and after sex and prioritize rest; desire may fluctuate.
