Pregnancy Sex - Safe Techniques and Third Trimester Strategies

Sex is Good

Sex. The sight of the word evokes all kinds of things in people, doesn't it? But, the fact of the matter is that it is necessary for the procreation of mankind, and unless a woman becomes pregnant through assisted reproduction techniques, then getting pregnant involves having sex. The good news is that sex is a wonderful thing in the right context, and, unless there is a problem with the pregnancy, sex is perfectly fine, healthy and normal throughout pregnancy.

It Gets Better As the Pregnancy Progresses

When the decision is made to have a baby, then a couple begins to watch the ovulation calendar in order to time things for conception sex. During ovulation, sex is imperative because that's when conception takes place. During the first trimester, when your body is going through all kinds of changes, sex may not be uppermost on your mind. However, as you progress along in your pregnancy, by the second trimester you'll likely feel more in the mood. Some women experience an increased sex drive during pregnancy which makes for a need to explore new ways to enjoy one another. An increasingly larger belly is fertile ground for creativity (puns intended).

Being Creative

Actually, once the misconception that pregnancy is a medical condition is dealt with, and a willingness to do things a little differently is agreed upon, sex during pregnancy can be most satisfying. Being pregnant is not an illness and it doesn't weaken a woman. As a matter of fact, many women claim that back pain and other pregnancy discomforts are often alleviated with sex. Great sex means being mentally flexible enough to try new things. As a general rule of thumb, a good position for sex when pregnant is one where both people are comfortable and it allows for the kind of contact you both want. It is important to avoid putting pressure on the uterus or full weight upon the woman's belly. Medical experts say that after four months gestation, a woman should avoid lying on her back or on her right side. Side by side sex, spooning, woman on top, rear entry sex position and edge of the bed positions are some of the possibilities for safe and enjoyable sex during pregnancy.

When Sex May Not Be A Good Idea

The third trimester is no different than the second for sex - you're belly is bigger though, so you may have to be even more creative. As long as there are no complications with the pregnancy, then sex can carry on. However, it there are complications, then the doctor may recommend that you abstain from sex for the safety of the baby. Remember, too, that sexually transmitted diseases can cause serious problems for your baby, so condoms are recommended if STDs are a possible factor. Also, if you have a history of premature delivery, then sex later in pregnancy isn't recommended.

It may be hard to believe, but sex actually does resume after the baby is born. Initially, between being exhausted and sore, you probably won't be too interested. Whether you delivered by c-section or vaginally, your body is going to need some time to recover and heal which is why many healthcare professionals recommend waiting to have sex for four to six weeks. It takes that long for the cervix to close, postpartum bleeding to stop, and any tears or stitches to heal. Sex after pregnancy may be a bit uncomfortable at first, but it won't take long before things are back to normal.

The same guidelines exist for post-abortion sex. Abortion is surgery and as such, it requires time to heal. Having sex too soon can cause infection, bleeding, and other problems. If you have had an abortion, give your body time to heal before having sex.