Sex during pregnancy: “Staying sexually active is a good thing to help with the birth process”

One of the biggest fears women have about sexuality during pregnancy is the safety of relationships or any sexual practices, for fear that they could cause a miscarriage, for example. But Megwyn White, Sexologist and Director of Education at Satisfyer, a brand of sexual stimulation products, rests them.

“The majority of spontaneous abortions are due to chromosomal abnormalities or any other problem with the developing fetus”, says the specialist, in an interview with VISÃO, adding that “it is perfectly safe to have sexual intercourse, as long as there is no contrary indication by part of health professionals”. “Fortunately, the penis cannot pass beyond the vagina and the baby will not be bothered at all,” she adds.

A recent study also found that sex does not induce premature labor unless the body is ready for birth. Therefore, guarantees the sexologist, “sex is a great way for pregnant women and their partners to stay connected during pregnancy and should be explored if that is what the couple wishes”.

Hormones help

As hormones fluctuate with pregnancy, particularly with the increase in estrogen and progesterone, a woman may feel more likely to have sex, although the opposite also happens regularly, says White.

“In addition”, he explains, during pregnancy “it may even be easier to have an orgasm and feel pleasure, especially in the second trimester, partly due to hormonal changes and also the fact that the body’s blood volume increases up to 40 or 50 %”. “Much of the blood naturally moves to the genitals, making them even more sensitive and swollen,” she says.

However, White reminds us “that each pregnancy is different and that it is best to pay attention to your body’s signals”. “It is also normal for there to be some spotting after sexual intercourse due to irritation of the cervix, but if they are persistent it is best to consult a healthcare professional”, he advises.

“Birth reflects the hormonal cocktail of orgasm. Therefore, staying sexually active is a good thing to help with the birth process”, he further states.

Sex toys during pregnancy: yes, but with care

According to White, masturbation with a sex toy is a “great way” to connect the mind to the body during pregnancy, “which will also ultimately help with childbirth”, but there are precautions that pregnant women should take.

“When faced with a feeling of pain or discomfort, it is important to stop and, in the case of using vibrators, a lower intensity should be chosen, as the body may be more sensitive”, says the specialist, adding that, “whether Whether it’s massaging the clitoris or penetration, the vibrator can be a very useful tool for accessing hard-to-reach areas.”

White also talks about the importance of cleaning the device before and after each use, to prevent bacteria from entering the vagina. Furthermore, it is also essential to avoid oily lubricants, as they can alter the pH balance and increase the chances of infection.

A water-based lubricant will be the best alternative, but the expert advises consulting a healthcare professional if any doubts arise, “especially in a high-risk pregnancy”.

The time of pregnancy should also be taken into account when it comes to sex. “In the first trimester, the body is going through major changes and protecting the new fetus growing in the belly. Women may have more difficulties during this period due to hormonal changes, including nausea, tiredness and even pelvic tension, which can often lead to more painful sexual intercourse”, explains the sexologist.

But between the 12th and 14th week, morning sickness usually ends, and it becomes “perfectly safe” to explore sex during this period, as long as there is medical authorization. “The second trimester is generally the time when the body begins to adapt to the changes and there is increased blood flow to the breasts and pelvis, which makes these genitals even more sensitive to touch, and generally checks There is an increase in libido and lubrication. The characteristic desire of the third trimester can often imply penetration,” says White.

Another of the main concerns regarding sex during pregnancy is positions. Most, he explains, are acceptable because the baby is protected by the amniotic fluid, but during the second trimester care must be taken not to place weight on the belly, avoiding positions in which the pregnant woman lies on her stomach or in which her partner is lying directly on top of the belly. “Positions must accommodate movements, and therefore a good rule of thumb is to allow yourself to change positions whenever you feel necessary, as the baby will reposition itself”, he further advises.