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Practical pregnancy sex tips

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Pregnant nookie
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.
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