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Tuesday, 11 October 2011

Sex during pregnancy

Sex during pregnancy
Most pregnant women can enjoy sexual activity during pregnancy throughout gravidity.




Decreased sexual desire and frequency


Most research suggests that, during pregnancy, both sexual desire and frequency of sexual relations decrease. In context of this overall decrease in desire, some studies indicate a second-trimester increase, preceding a decrease. However, these decreases are not universal: a significant number of women report greater sexual satisfaction throughout their pregnancies.



How to Have Sex During Pregnancy






Low-risk behavior


Sex during pregnancy is a low-risk behaviour except when the physician advises that sexual intercourse be avoided, because it may, in some pregnancies, lead to serious pregnancy complications or health issues such as a high-risk for premature labour or a ruptured uterus. Such a decision may be based upon a history of difficulties in a previous childbirth.






Psychological usefulness


Some psychological research studies in the 1980s and '90s contend that it is useful for pregnant women to continue to have sexual activity, specifically noting that overall sexual satisfaction was correlated with feeling happy about being pregnant, feeling more attractive in late pregnancy than before pregnancy and experiencing orgasm.Sexual activity has also been suggested as a way to prepare for induced labour; some believe the natural prostaglandin content of seminal liquid can favour the maturation process of the cervix making it more flexible, allowing for easier and faster dilation and effacement of the cervix. However, the efficacy of using sexual intercourse as an induction agent "remains uncertain".




Prevention of pre-eclampsia


There is substantial evidence for exposure to partner's semen as prevention for pre-eclampsia, largely due to the absorption of several immune modulating factors present in seminal fluid.




Fetus protected by amniotic fluid


During pregnancy, the fetus is protected from penetrative thrusting by the amniotic fluid in the womb and by the woman's cervix.




Sexual intercourse after pregnancy


Sexual intercourse after giving birth can begin when the couple are both ready. However most couples wait until after six weeks and they should consult their physician if they have any concerns.



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