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You may be married for ages and probably have children too. Yet, like a lot of couples, you may have nearly a dozen lovemaking-related questions on your mind. But you may be too embarrassed to ask them. Don’t worry, we have your back. We, at Momjunction, answer some of the common lovemaking questions that couples have, especially after childbirth. Here goes:
1. Is Lovemaking Safe During Pregnancy?
Rest assured it is. As long as there are no complications in the pregnancy, getting intimate with your partner should not be a problem at all. And no, it does not hurt the baby. Because the male genitalia does not come into contact with the baby during coitus. Consult your doctor before you go ahead to be doubly sure (1).
2. Can The Baby Feel Us During Coitus?
No. The baby is well protected by the fluid in the amniotic sac. The endocervical canal is also sealed by the protective mucous plug which prevents the semen or vaginal bacteria from getting inside the intrauterine environment (2).
3. What Positions Are Safe During Pregnancy Lovemaking?
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The physical changes in a woman’s body during pregnancy make it a little difficult for a couple to find a comfortable lovemaking position. Do away with the usual male-on-top position. Instead, it is preferable to practice the side-to-side, woman-on-top, or rear vaginal entry for safety’s sake (3).
4. Is Oral Lovemaking Safe During Pregnancy?
Couples can indulge in oral lovemaking but the partner should be cautious not to blow air into a woman down there. This could lead to air embolism which can prove to be fatal. Also, give it a miss if either of you has any sort of infections (4).
5. Does Pregnancy Coitus Trigger Preterm Labor?
According to a number of studies, women who indulged in coitus during pregnancy showed no increase in the risk of preterm labor, premature deliveries, a low birth weight of the baby, or perinatal deaths throughout the pregnancy. Thus, it confirms that there is no relationship between pregnancy coitus and labor (5).
6. Why Is The Big O More Intense During Pregnancy?
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There is an increased amount of blood flow and vascularity in a woman during pregnancy. This heightens the sensitivity of the woman, especially in areas such as breasts and genitalia. Therefore, it results in a more intense coital response to arousal. Thus, the heightened orgasm (6).
7. Are Those ‘Love Pangs’ Normal During Second Trimester?
Most couples generally lose interest in lovemaking, especially during the first and third trimester due to the various illnesses associated with them (7). So, during the second trimester, you are done with nausea and vomiting of the first trimester. And, of course, there is no added stress of an impending childbirth like the third trimester, making it a safe bet. This makes you concentrate fully on your love life during this stage.
8. Does Coitus Hurt After Childbirth?
It may, depending on various factors like episiotomy, C-section surgery, hormonal changes, the stress of additional responsibilities, etc. All of this can affect your love life for a while. However, non-coital lovemaking can be resumed at any time if you are ready for it after birth. Do discuss with your doctor if and when he/she thinks you can restart coital lovemaking (8).
9. Is It Okay To Make Out While Our Baby Sleeps In The Crib In The Same Room?
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Of course. Your baby is too small to even understand what is going on. For all you know, he/she might be sleeping snug. So, let not those feelings of guilt or anxiety come in the way of your love. Just make sure to keep the noise down!
10. Will My Partner Still Find Me Attractive After Childbirth?
A pregnant woman’s body goes through a lot of physical changes making her feel insecure about her looks. But, have a heart. First, accept yourself the way you are. Remember that these changes are fleeting. Then, chalk out a plan for yourself to help you keep fit. Your understanding with your partner comes into the picture now. So, make him a partner in your fitness plan as well. That way, it’ll give him one more reason to bond with you other than lovemaking.
We hope some of your burning concerns regarding lovemaking have been answered now. Having said this, remember that love is not always about making out. It is about understanding each other’s needs and making adjustments, especially when you are expanding your family. Because, in the end, it is for a greater purpose – your baby!
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