Among the doubts that arise during pregnancy, those about sex are some of the most discussed, but also those that generate the most discomfort or even embarrassment for some women to talk about. The topic of sex in the first trimester of pregnancy is always very sought after! Sex is part of everyone’s life and, although it is often a taboo, it’s also part of the life of pregnant women. Related to this subject, one of the main questions is: Is sex in the first trimester of pregnancy allowed? Is there any risk? It’s very common for many couples to imagine so, but in reality, sex can be very beneficial for pregnancy, even in the first months. Here we will explain why there are those benefits and what the main recommendations on the subject are.
Benefits of Sex in the First Trimester of Pregnancy
To understand what benefits sex in the first trimester of pregnancy can bring, it’s also important to consider that a woman’s health does not depend only on her being physically well and the baby not being at risk, but also on her having good mental health, feeling good about herself. In this sense, it becomes clear why sex during pregnancy can be good for the woman1.
Sex is part of life and the routine of a couple. When this activity needs to be suspended, a woman may become more stressed and anxious. So, one of the main benefits that sex—not just in the first trimester, but throughout pregnancy—can bring is the feeling of pleasure and the relief of stress and anxiety.
In addition, the changes that pregnancy brings to a woman’s body often make her feel unattractive and down2. Sex can help her feel more desired and, consequently, raise her self-esteem, which is very beneficial for the pregnancy as a whole.
Can Sex During Pregnancy Harm the Baby?
In the life of a healthy couple, no. Especially when we’re talking about sex in the first trimester of pregnancy, when the woman’s belly is not yet very large and sexual positions do not cause much discomfort for her. The baby is inside the uterus, protected from any impact that many people are afraid he might receive3.
But this does not mean there are no dangers, such as having unprotected sex with men who have certain diseases like Zika and syphilis, for example. These diseases can end up affecting the baby and for this reason, protection is essential to avoid any problems. There are also cases where sex during pregnancy is not recommended.
In What Cases Is Sex Not Recommended?
Although they are considered exceptions, there are cases where not just sex in the first trimester of pregnancy, but throughout a woman’s gestation, is not advised. These are situations where the pregnancy is at some risk, such as risk of miscarriage, for example.
When there are intense cramps or vaginal bleeding, it’s necessary to see a doctor to find out exactly what’s happening and not have sex until the doctor individually assesses the case.
Does Pregnancy Affect Sexual Desire?
The answer is yes. And it can go either way you might think. The hormone storm that happens in a woman’s body can cause her sexual desire to increase, which is healthy and completely normal.
The opposite can also occur, as the changes in the body, especially the growing belly, often cause some discomfort for the woman. This is also normal. So don’t be alarmed if there are any sudden changes in your sexual desire during pregnancy.
It’s also common for the partner’s sexual desire to increase, as the changes in the woman’s body can further arouse their interest. As the weeks and months go by, the couple’s relationship may be different from sex in the first trimester, especially as the changes occur more rapidly and intensely. But that does not mean it can harm the woman or the baby in any way.
Sex is something natural that is part of everyone’s life. And as our society has various factors surrounding this topic, it’s very common for there to be questions about sex in the first trimester of pregnancy.
But it’s just as important to express these doubts and talk to specialist doctors who can tell you exactly if you are at any kind of risk and what precautions you should take when you are going to have sexual activity during pregnancy. Remember: Sex can be very positive for both women and men, but there are certain points you need to pay attention to so that neither the woman’s nor the baby’s health are affected.
Also read: Sex After the Arrival of Children Photo: pxhere
