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Sexuality and Pregnancy



You may find that during pregnancy your sexual desire has decreased. Or you may find that you have increased desire, especially in this trimester. Sexual relations and intercourse during pregnancy are perfectly safe; orgasms will not hurt the baby. The only times you should avoid intercourse are if you notice vaginal spotting or bleeding, your water has broken, if intercourse is painful, or if your health care provider has advised you to avoid intercourse or other sexual activities.

If you have decreased interest in sex, talk it over with your partner. Lack of desire does not decrease your love and desire for intimacy. Find other ways to express love for your partner. If you find that you have a desire for sex, enjoy yourself. As your uterus grows you may find certain positions are more comfortable than others. You and your partner can experiment to find out what's most comfortable and satisfying for both of you.

Continue to "Childbirth Education Classes" journey to parenthood

Most recent page update: 9/9/2010


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Childbirth Connection is a national not-for-profit organization founded in 1918 as Maternity Center Association. Our mission is to improve the quality and value of maternity care through consumer engagement and health system transformation. Childbirth Connection promotes safe, effective and satisfying evidence-based maternity care and is a voice for the needs and interests of childbearing families.
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Listening to MothersSM III is the third national survey exploring women’s experiences in pregnancy and childbirth. Commissioned by Childbirth Connection, conducted by Harris Interactive, and funded by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the survey polled 2,400 women who gave birth in U.S. hospitals from 2011 to 2012. Results show that medically intensive experiences are typical, and evidence-based practices are underutilized. Childbearing women need better support and knowledge to navigate their maternity care.
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