Pregnant nookie
First trimester
- Don’t have sex on an empty stomach; it may aggravate nausea
- Remember that breast tenderness and other changes are only temporary
- Wear a bra during sex if it helps
- Don’t try to have sex when you are tired
- If your doctor has advised against having sex (this may be caused by bleeding or threatened miscarriage) use other ways to show affection towards one another
Second trimester
- Increased vaginal mucous may create a hygiene problem
- Wash 'your bits' with warm water and avoid deodorant soaps and douches
- A back rub after sex may ease discomfort
- Be creative with new positions
- Heightened or decreased interest in sex is normal
- Masturbation is normal during pregnancy and is a good alternative
- An orgasm is not a threat in an uncomplicated pregnancy
Third trimester
- Sex may be better in an upright position
- Alternatives to intercourse may be necessary if there are complications such as the baby lying in an odd position or there is more than one baby on board
- Your doctor/midwife may advise against having sex if you are threatening to go into premature labour
- Remind your partner that you need to be cuddled and complimented and reminded that you are sexy and not fat
- Sex in an uncomplicated full-term pregnancy is the best natural induction for labour
After the birth
- Don’t have sex for the first 4 to 6 weeks – your body needs time to heal
- Don’t have sex if you are bleeding
- Remember that sexual arousal will stimulate the "let-down" reflex and your breasts will leak
- With breastfeeding you need to wear a bra day and night
- Minimise pressure on your breasts during lovemaking
- You may need to use K-Y jelly for lubrication
- Kegel (vaginal muscle) exercises taught in ante-natal classes help restore vaginal muscle tone
- Prolonged lack of interest in sex could indicate post-natal depression
- Don’t rush breastfeeding before lovemaking
- Make sure your baby is asleep before having sex and never have sex in the same room as baby
- Soothing music may help to enhance lovemaking
- If you get into the habit of having the baby in the bed with you, your sex life may fizzle out
- To minimise tiredness, have a nap during the day while baby sleeps
- A glass of champagne will help you to relax and is harmless if you’re breastfeeding.
We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.