Your sex drive may vary drastically in pregnancy. If you don’t have uncomfortable complaints in the 1st trimester you may notice your sex drive is very high. This is thanks to those lovely pregnancy hormones and the increased blood flow to all of your lady parts.

If you have many 1st trimester complaints, you may have no energy and no drive for sex, which is totally normal. You may notice your drive returns once those complaints are gone when you are farther along in your pregnancy. It is important to know that sex will not harm you or your baby in an uncomplicated pregnancy.

Sex does not always have to mean penetration, there are many ways that you can be intimate with your partner and still receive the amazing benefits of oxytocin and endorphins that come along with intimacy.

Benefits of sex in pregnancy:

  • Better orgasms due to increased blood flow
  • Stay fit with an active sex life
  • Bonding between partners
  • The oxytocin (love hormone) release during sex has many benefits during pregnancy
  • Stress reduction

Tips for getting in the mood in pregnancy:

  • Distraction free time – Make time for 20-30 minutes a day of uninterrupted, screen free connection between you and your partner. You can chat about your day, cuddle (fully clothed) or get in some nice skin to skin cuddling which will all build connection and desire for your partner. Even if it doesn’t lead to sex, it’s all beneficial.
  • Thinking & talking about sex – It is proven that couples who “talk dirty” to one another have higher sexual self esteem and more satisfying sex lives. Make sure you send that text message as a tease midway through the day so you are both looking forward to seeing each other later on.
  • Take it slow – If either of you are worried about having sex during pregnancy make sure you talk through it and take it nice and slow. If something doesn’t feel right then stop and try again next time. Don’t be afraid to ask questions to your healthcare provider if something is making you nervous about this.
  • Positions – Positions can be really tricky during pregnancy as your belly grows. You may have to try different positions to accommodate your belly size or you may like to be in control more now so that you can do what feels right in the moment.

MIDWIFE TIP #1: Sperm is beneficial for softening the cervix and getting it ready for labor! There are many benefits of sperm for the cervix in the 3rd trimester. If you are in a relationship where you can accomplish this, consider it the midwife’s orders. 😉