The good news is that, in most cases, it is totally safe.
During pregnancy, some women find that their libido increases due to hormonal changes. An increase in the level of oestrogen and progesterone will likely boost your sexual appetite.
On the other side, for some pregnant women, morning sickness, nausea, and fatigue remove any interest in sexual activity, including masturbation.
Most doctors agree that engaging in masturbation and even sex during low risk pregnancies is completely safe that it can even provide health benefits, such as lowering stress and promoting blood flow.
Sex or Masturbation helps you relieve stress and manage an elevated libido, and most safer way is Clitoral Stimulation. That said, women should always defer to the advice of their doctors. Penetration and intercourse’s movement won't harm the baby as well, who is protected by your abdomen and the uterus’ muscular walls. Your baby is also cushioned by the amniotic sac’s fluid.
It is safe to use sex toys, such as vibrators or dildos, as long as they are clean and dust free. Before using any toy in or around the genitals, wash it with soap water to prevent bacteria from entering the vagina. This applies to the hands as well. Keep the fingernails trimmed short to prevent scratches.
Benefits of sex or masturbation during pregnancy
Masturbation or sex, during pregnancy, can be good for the body. Some women even report stronger or more intense orgasms while pregnant.
Some benefits of masturbation or sex during pregnancy include:
- lowering stress levels
- improving sleep
- easing pregnancy-related discomfort and pain
- increasing the release of endorphins
In addition, masturbation is the safest form of sexual activity as there is no risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) unless a person is sharing a sex toy with someone else.
What are the risk factors?
There are no risks associated with masturbation for a woman having a low-risk pregnancy who has no complications or other medical issues.
When preterm labor is a risk, however, vaginal penetration — or even having an orgasm — can trigger labor. In these cases, the doctor may recommend avoiding intercourse or orgasms to lower the chances of premature delivery.
Masturbation can cause small tears in the internal or external genitalia, especially if a woman has long nails. Breaks in the skin can introduce bacteria into the body and cause infection, which can be more serious when pregnant.
To reduce this risk, keep the nails short and make sure that the hands and any sex toys are clean. Placing cotton balls in the fingertips of a latex or nitrile glove and wearing it while masturbating can provide extra protection.
It is important to recognize the risk of contracting STIs from sharing sex toys. Covering a sex toy in a condom will minimize any risk of infection. Make sure to change the condom between each use of the toy.
When to avoid masturbation or sex during pregnancy?
Only doctor can explain when sexual activity is not safe during pregnancy. Make sure to take advice before getting into any sexual activity.
When women experience certain complications, doctors may recommend avoiding orgasms and sexual activity, including masturbation during pregnancy. The restriction may be temporary or apply to the entire pregnancy.
Conditions and complications that may make some sexual activity risky include:
- Placenta Previa, in which the placenta covers the cervix
- a weakened cervix
- premature rupture of membranes
- a history of premature labor
- vaginal bleeding
- uterine infections
- intrauterine growth restrictions
It is extremely important to ask a doctor about specific risks. They may advise that a woman avoid having orgasms altogether or only refrain from vaginal penetration, for example.
Having an orgasm causes the muscles in the uterus to contract. In some situations, this can trigger early labor, premature delivery, or other serious complications.
If a doctor advises against vaginal penetration, masturbation or mutual masturbation with a partner can be a good alternative. If an orgasm is off-limits, avoid masturbation and all other sexual activity.
Couples yearning to connect may consider engaging in sensate focus exercises.
Sensate focus is about touching and being touched — two distinct activities. You can maximize the potential of sensate focus by beginning without preconceived notions— of what you will experience, how it will feel, how much pleasure it will produce. In other words, begin with an open mind so as not to colour your experience and feelings. Try to avoid being judgmental or evaluative.
The aim of these exercises is to build intimacy and increase physical awareness through mindful touching and enhanced communication.
If the water has broken or if there is any vaginal bleeding, refrain from masturbation and other sexual activity and consult a doctor immediately.
Are all types of sexual activity is safe during pregnancy?
Not all types of sexual activity are created equal, especially when you are expecting. If you are not feeling uncomfortable or having complications — like preterm labor or placenta problems — being sexual during pregnancy is OK.
The most important thing is for you to feel comfortable, listen to your body, explore various types of sexual activity, and if you desire partnered sexual activity, to communicate with your partner about your preferences.
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