Sexual desire can arise anytime, even when pregnant, and it can get scary, especially for first-time parents. But experts suggest that having sex is totally safe during pregnancy.
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Certified sex therapist, Donna Oriwao told Women’s Health, that:
Because your body is changing, areas may become sensitive to the point of pain. It is necessary to check in from week to week—and even day to day—to know what works, what feels good, and what doesn't.
Your body’s levels of estrogen and progesterone are heightened during pregnancy. So why not make good use of that and try out comfortable sex positions in your time of gestation.
Tami Rowen, MD an OB/GYN specializing in sexual health at the University of California San Francisco, advised:
I think it's so important to have sex during pregnancy because it maintains intimacy in a relationship.
There is no need to be scared of it.
These are our 5 advised sex positions for when you are pregnant.
1. Spooning
This method involves your partner holding you from the back and penetrating you while you lay facing away from him. It mimics a normal ‘spooning’ technique and ensures comfort coupled with satisfaction.
Initially, it is good to arouse the clitoris, but in the latter trimesters it is advised that your partner hold the belly during intercourse.
2. Standing
You can stand if your partner supports you around the waist if you're under 20 weeks. In the late trimesters, balance problems can occur in this position.
The pregnant partner can lean against the wall with their palms for additional support, and voilà!
3. Legs on shoulder
This position is especially effective in the third trimester.
It is a comfortable position for the pregnant partner, while she lays down, balancing her legs on the partner's shoulder, providing easy access for the partner to penetrate.
4. Reverse cowgirl
The 'reverse cowgirl' position involves straddling the partner. She will prop herself at the top and face away from you. Locating and stimulating the clitoris stimulation is important for the success of this position.
In the later trimesters, this position can become challenging, as the belly starts growing more.
5. Side by side
The same as spooning, but in here you are facing your partner. This position works throughout your pregnant journey.
It is the most successful position as it allows your partner and you to gauge the intensity of the thrusts. For extra comfort, you can prop your belly with towels and cushions.
Positions to avoid
Missionary. This is one position to avoid during pregnancy, as it can put extra strain on the belly. It can compress the blood flow in the mother and child, especially after the 20th week.
Keeping in mind the above, you can enjoy a comfortable sex life throughout your new journey.
