Pregnancy Facts, Stage, Signs and Tests » sex and pregnancy http://www.earlypregnancysigns.net/blog Early Pregnancy Signs and Symptoms Fri, 22 Jan 2010 12:05:52 +0000 en hourly 1 Sex and Pregnancy http://www.earlypregnancysigns.net/blog/sex-and-pregnancy/ http://www.earlypregnancysigns.net/blog/sex-and-pregnancy/#comments Wed, 16 Dec 2009 10:01:14 +0000 admin http://www.earlypregnancysigns.net/blog/?p=326 Sex and PregnancyIn a normal, uncomplicated pregnancy, engaging in most sexual activities right up to the time that labor begins is possible. But it is always safe to seek and follow your doctor or midwife’s recommendation because they are the ones responsible for informing you if there are existing medical conditions that will prevent you from engaging in sex. Sexual activity is contraindicated in conditions such as placenta previa or premature rupture of membranes.
Responses to pregnancy vary. There are many women whose enjoyment of and response to sex is greatly increased during pregnancy. That does occur in many cases, especially during the second and third trimester when the tiredness and nausea have begun to abate. Sensation can be heightened at this time because blood circulation is already increased in order to sustain the baby. It is not unheard of that women who had been unable to achieve orgasm will be able to do so during pregnancy. In addition, some women and men find great freedom because as ironic as it may sound during this time, they are relieved of the fear of impregnation.
It is important to understand, however, that this does not hold true for all women. In some cases, the discomforts of pregnancy such as the increasing size, heartburn, swelling, and frequent urination may prevent a woman from engaging not only in sex but other everyday activities. Other times it can be the psychological adjustment to the changing body image. Unfortunately, in our size-conscious culture some people (either pregnant women or their partners) confuse the growing bump with other weight issues. If this is the case with you or your partner then sometimes these issues can be resolved with encouragement and loving support. The important thing though is to accept and accommodate any change in sexual appetite. The same communication skills such as listening, empathizing and accommodating the needs of others are quite useful.
Positioning is also important. Some positions for sexual intercourse that you may have enjoyed (almost been routine) before may not be possible anymore because of the increasing size of your bump. Do not let this discourage you. Spoons, woman on top, and rear-entry (doggy) are better during this time. There are a lot of other more imaginative ones as well if you take time to consult the Kamasutra.
Breasts are more sensitive during pregnancy. Stimulation of the breast and nipples especially during the final weeks of pregnancy may trigger contractions but these are likely to be the beneficial Braxton Hicks type that helps to soften the cervix and prepare your body for birth. Raise your specific concerns with your doctor or midwife especially if you have a previous history of premature labor.
There is absolutely no scientific or even valid anecdotal evidence of causing either physical or psychological harm to the unborn baby by engaging in sexual relations. Your cervix prevents any penetration from hurting the fetus throughout the complete term of a normal pregnancy. It may seem odd if your baby suddenly starts doing somersaults in there, but this is the result of your increased breathing and heart rate that results in a significantly noticeable proliferation of oxygenated blood to the baby.

]]> http://www.earlypregnancysigns.net/blog/sex-and-pregnancy/feed/ 0 IS SEX SAFE DURING PREGNANCY ? http://www.earlypregnancysigns.net/blog/is-sex-safe-during-pregnancy/ http://www.earlypregnancysigns.net/blog/is-sex-safe-during-pregnancy/#comments Wed, 11 Feb 2009 06:24:34 +0000 admin http://www.earlypregnancysigns.net/blog/?p=121 (Sex and Pregnancy (courtsey : www.gerber.com)

(Sex and Pregnancy (courtsey : www.gerber.com)

Sex is considered to be safe during all the stages of normal pregnancy. This may be because, the fetus inside the womb is covered with amniotic sac and strong muscles of the uterus. It also has a thick mucus plug that encloses the cervix and protects against infection. The penis has no chance to come into contact with the fetus during sex.

There are a few types of sexual behavior that are thought to be highly risky for any pregnant woman:

    During oral sex, your partner should not try to blow air into your vagina. This might cause an air embolism (a blockage of a blood vessel by an air bubble), that would be potentially fatal for mother and child.
    Never try sex with a partner whose sexual history is unknown or might have a sexually transmitted disease, such as herpes, genital warts, chlamydia, or HIV. By chance, you become infected, it may be transmitted to your baby, with potentially dangerous consequences.

If your gynec, finds certain complications with your pregnancy, she would advise to avoid sexual intercourse. The most common risk factors include:

    Threat of miscarriage
    History of pre-term labor or signs indicating the risk of pre-term labor
    Unknown vaginal bleeding, discharge or cramping
    Leakage of amniotic fluid surrounding the baby
    Placenta Previa (placenta (the blood-rich structure that nourishes the baby) is situated so low that it covers the cervix (the opening of the uterus))
    Incompetent cervix (cervix is weakened and opens prematurely, risking for miscarriage or premature delivery)
    Multiple fetuses (twins, triplets, etc.)
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