15 Things No One Ever Tells You About Pregnant Sex – A Guide for Expectant Parents

Pregnancy brings about significant changes to your body and your relationship, including how you experience intimacy. While antenatal sex is a topic many feel awkward discussing, it is completely normal and, in most cases, safe for both mother and baby. However, many expectant parents don’t get the full picture of what to expect. In this article, we’ll dive into the 15 things no one ever tells you about pregnant sex, offering guidance, reassurance, and practical tips to help navigate intimacy during this special time.

1. Your Libido Might Surprise You

Pregnancy affects everyone differently, and one of the first things you might notice is a change in your libido. For some, the surge in hormones leads to an increased sex drive, especially in the second trimester. Others may find themselves less interested due to fatigue, morning sickness, or other physical discomforts. Antenatal care professionals often reassure couples that fluctuating sexual desire is completely normal. Open communication with your partner is key to maintaining a healthy relationship during this time.

2. It’s Perfectly Safe (In Most Cases)

A common concern for many expectant parents is whether antenatal sex is safe. Unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise, having sex during pregnancy is generally safe. Your baby is well-protected by the amniotic sac and uterine muscles. However, if you have complications like placenta previa, premature labour risk, or other health concerns, your doctor may recommend avoiding intercourse. Always consult your antenatal clinic or healthcare provider if you’re unsure.

3. Pregnancy Care Might Change Your Preferences

As your body changes, so might your sexual preferences. Many women find that certain positions become uncomfortable or less enjoyable as their pregnancy progresses. Trying new positions or using pillows for support can help you find what works best for both comfort and pleasure. Antenatal yoga or prenatal yoga can also help improve flexibility and body awareness, which may enhance your comfort during intimacy.

4. It’s Normal to Feel Emotional

Hormonal fluctuations can lead to heightened emotions, and that applies to your sex life as well. You might feel unusually sensitive, vulnerable, or even teary during or after sex, and that’s completely normal. Pregnancy is an emotional journey, and those emotions often play out in your intimate moments. Practising relaxation during pregnancy through activities like antenatal massage can help manage stress and create a more comforting space for intimacy.

5. Antenatal Vitamins Can Impact How You Feel

The antenatal vitamins you’re taking for your pregnancy care may affect your body in ways you hadn’t anticipated. Some vitamins and supplements can cause nausea, fatigue, or digestive issues, which may impact your sexual desire and comfort. If you notice any unpleasant side effects, discuss your options with your healthcare provider during your antenatal appointments. It might help to switch brands or adjust the timing of when you take your supplements.

6. Increased Blood Flow Heightens Sensation

Pregnancy brings increased blood flow to the pelvic region, which can result in heightened sensation for some women. This increase in sensitivity can make sex feel more pleasurable than before. However, for others, this extra sensitivity may lead to discomfort. If you’re feeling more sensitive than usual, try experimenting with gentler forms of intimacy or different techniques.

7. Morning Sickness Can Get in the Way

Morning sickness can dampen your enthusiasm for sex, particularly during the first trimester. Feeling nauseous or fatigued is not conducive to intimacy. If you’re struggling with morning sickness, try to focus on closeness in other ways, such as cuddling, massages, or just spending time together. By the second trimester, many women feel a boost in energy and experience less nausea, which may improve your desire for sex.

8. Sex Positions Will Evolve Over Time

As your pregnancy progresses, certain sex positions may become uncomfortable or impractical. In the later stages of pregnancy, lying flat on your back can cause discomfort or even reduce blood flow, making positions like missionary more difficult. Side-lying positions or rear-entry positions often work better for comfort and pleasure. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make adjustments based on how you feel.

9. Antenatal Massage Can Enhance Intimacy

Pregnancy can cause physical discomfort, which might make sex less appealing. Incorporating antenatal massage or prenatal massage into your routine can help relieve tension and enhance intimacy. Massage increases relaxation and body awareness, allowing you to connect with your partner in a more soothing way. It can also alleviate common pregnancy symptoms like back pain or swelling, making sex more comfortable.

10. Your Partner Might Feel Hesitant

It’s not just you who may experience changes during pregnancy—your partner might feel unsure or hesitant about sex too. Many partners worry about hurting the baby or causing discomfort. Open communication is key to reassuring them and addressing any concerns. You can also encourage your partner to accompany you to antenatal checkups or pregnancy clinic visits, where a healthcare professional can answer questions about antenatal sex safety.

11. Post-Sex Spotting Can Be Normal

Spotting after sex during pregnancy is often harmless and caused by increased blood flow to the cervix. However, if you experience heavy bleeding or cramping, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider right away. Mild spotting may not require concern, but it’s always best to get reassurance during your antenatal appointments if you’re unsure.

12. Pregnancy Hormones Affect Lubrication

Increased progesterone levels during pregnancy can sometimes lead to vaginal dryness, making sex uncomfortable. If this happens, using a water-based lubricant can help improve comfort. Some women also find that engaging in yoga during pregnancy or antenatal fitness classes helps with circulation and overall body awareness, which may reduce discomfort during intimacy.

13. You Can Still Get Pregnant Again!

It’s important to remember that pregnancy does not protect you from becoming pregnant again if you don’t use contraception. While it’s rare, some women ovulate while already pregnant. Discuss contraceptive options with your healthcare provider during your antenatal checkups to ensure you’re fully informed.

14. Sexual Desire May Decrease in the Third Trimester

As you enter the third trimester, it’s common for sexual desire to wane. The physical changes, such as a growing belly, swollen feet, and general discomfort, may take precedence over sexual desire. That said, closeness and intimacy can still be maintained through other means, such as cuddling, kissing, or spending quality time together.

15. Antenatal Education Can Help

Finally, one of the best ways to navigate sex during pregnancy is to attend antenatal classes near me or explore antenatal education resources. These classes often cover topics beyond labour and delivery, including relationships, intimacy, and how to maintain a healthy connection with your partner during pregnancy. Attending classes together can be an excellent way to strengthen your bond as a couple.