Bumping and Grinding: A Fun Guide to GREAT Sex During Pregnancy

Pregnancy, a time of new excitement, major transitions and wild hormones doing the cha-cha! But hey, guess what? Amidst all the impending changes, is another change, possibly to your sex life! For some, it could take a back seat and need some sizzling up. For others, the hormones of pregnancy are making them feel extra randy!

Buckle up, because we're about to dive into the fabulous realm of having not just good or great but downright amazing sex during pregnancy. So, grab your comfy pants (or hot pink bralette), and get ready for sassy advice from a doula on how to keep the spark blazing while you're expecting.

Communication is sexy.

Alright, let's kick things off with a dose of real talk. Communication is not just the key; it's the secret sauce to a mind-blowing sexual relationship, and it becomes even more crucial during pregnancy. Your pregnant body is putting on a show, and so are your emotions. Spill the tea with your partner about your desires, fears, and any discomfort you might be riding out.

Take the conversation to new heights, discussing not only the physical but also the emotional rollercoaster that comes with pregnancy. If you aren't feeling sexy, share that with your partner. Communicate clearly what they could do to help.

Share your wildest fantasies, fears, and everything in between. This isn't just about building trust; it's about creating a space where you and your partner can be unabashedly yourselves, leading to a connection that's hotter than a summer day.

Experiment with Positions

As your belly starts to pop, you might need to unleash your inner acrobat when it comes to sexual positions. When the belly gets big enough, it's time to forget the old classics; it's time to get creative. After all, variety is the spice of life, especially when you're cooking up a tiny human.

Navigating sex during pregnancy can be an adventure, but rest assured, there are plenty of comfortable and enjoyable positions for expecting couples. Remember, the key is open communication, listening to your body, and finding what feels right for both you and your partner. Here are 10 pregnancy-friendly sex positions:

Spooning:

This side-by-side position allows for close physical contact without putting pressure on the belly. Lie on your side, facing away from your partner, and let them enter from behind.

Pregnant Person-on-Top:

You're in control in this position. Straddle your partner and adjust the angle to your comfort. This position also lets you control the depth and pace of penetration.

Modified Missionary:

Place a pillow under your hips to elevate your pelvis, making missionary more comfortable. Your partner can then kneel or support themselves with their arms.

Doggy Style (On All Fours):

This position keeps weight off your belly. Get on all fours while your partner enters from behind. It allows for deep penetration without putting pressure on your stomach.

Seated Positions:

Straddle your partner while he sits in a chair or the edge of the bed. This provides a comfortable angle and allows for face-to-face intimacy.

Edge of the Bed:

Sit on the edge of the bed with your partner standing. This way, you have control over the depth of penetration, and you can both enjoy the closeness.

The Yab Yum:

Sit facing each other with legs crossed, your partner enters from the front. This position allows for eye contact, intimacy, and comfort.

Supported Standing:

Stand facing each other with your partner supporting your back against a wall or another surface. It takes pressure off your belly and provides a change of scenery.

Pregnancy Pillow Propped Positions:

Utilize pregnancy pillows to support your back, belly, and knees, making various positions more comfortable. Experiment with pillows to find the best setup for you.

Remember, every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one couple may not work for another. It's essential to communicate openly with your partner, listen to your body, and feel free to experiment to find the positions that are most comfortable and enjoyable for you both.

Embrace the Glow

Pregnancy often gifts you with a radiant glow, a boost in your self-confidence, and an overall sense of sensuality. It's like a backstage pass to your personal Beyoncé concert – embrace it!

Feel sexy and desirable because, spoiler alert, you absolutely are! Take advantage of this time to connect with your partner on a deeper level, making your love story hotter than a summer fling. Fall in love with your curves and bouncier-than-ever boobs! Buy a bra or lingerie that excudes these new parts and make you tap into your inner sexual goddess.

You're not just growing a tiny human; you're a goddess in the making. Revel in the newfound glow, let your partner bask in the glory of your sensuality, and turn up the heat in your relationship.

The Power of Massage

Let's talk about pampering the body outside of having actual sex. Treat each other to sensual massages or even just a foot rub with loving intention. If finding sexual desire is harder during pregnancy, go for just loving touch. This is intimacy at it's finest.

Invest in some massage oil, dim the lights, and take turns giving each other soothing rubdowns. It's not just about ending in the bedroom, it's about exploring your changing bodies and connecting as a couple in this special season.

Massages are like a luxurious getaway for your senses and amazing for relaxation. (Which remember, you need to practice for labor.) Women that can learn to relax their entire body mindfully, have been shown to have shorter labors, less pain and less complications. <Learn more about how to relax in labor here>

So, splash on that massage oil, let your hands do the talking, and turn your bedroom into a spa of love which could help you on the day of your birth. Check out Birth Dates for a couple-centered Birth Class that will bring the romance and confidence for labor all in the comfort of your own home.

Explore New Fantasies

Those pregnancy hormones can bring some spunk and flirt to the party...which is why pregnancy can be a time of increased sexual desire for some women. Why not ride that wave and explore some new fantasies with your partner? It's a time of transition, so why not spice things up a little? The script is yours to write, so make it a steamy novel.

Unlock the treasure chest of fantasies, and let your imagination run wild. This isn't the time for the same old routine; it's the time for a plot twist that leaves you both breathless. Whether it's trying new things or revisiting old favorites, this phase is all about turning up the heat and making your sexual journey one for the books.

Lubrication Station

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can play tricks on your natural lubrication, making sex a bit like a desert stroll. Fear not, my friends; a good-quality lubricant is your new best friend.

One of our favorites is Prepare Down There Balm: This product is for the ALL-NATURAL couple who doesn't want extra chemicals in their sexy time! This product was designed specifically for the vaginal area. Infused with herbs and all natural oils...not a single chemical or additive in this natural ointment. <buy here>

Don't let discomfort rain on your parade; instead, invite lubrication to the party. Choose a high-quality product that suits your body and preferences. It's not just about avoiding friction; it's about turning up the pleasure. Here are some other lubricant options for your pregnancy sex pleasure.

Astroglide: Astroglide is a popular water-based lubricant that provides long-lasting smoothness. They offer various formulations, including ones designed for sensitive skin and specific preferences.
KY Jelly: KY Jelly is a widely recognized brand offering water-based and silicone-based lubricants. They have options catering to different needs, such as those designed for sensitive skin or intense sensations.
Durex: Durex, known for its condoms, also produces a range of lubricants. They offer water-based and silicone-based options, as well as varieties with added sensations for extra pleasure.
Sliquid: Sliquid is known for its natural and organic lubricants. They offer a variety of water-based and silicone-based options, and their products are free from parabens, glycerin, and other potentially irritating ingredients.
System JO: System JO provides a range of water-based, silicone-based, and hybrid lubricants. They are known for their high-quality formulas that aim to enhance the pleasure of intimate moments.
Good Clean Love: Good Clean Love focuses on natural and organic lubricants. Their products are made with body-friendly ingredients, avoiding synthetic additives, parabens, and petrochemicals.
Uberlube: Uberlube is a premium silicone-based lubricant known for its silky-smooth texture and long-lasting formula. It is free from additives and preservatives and is designed to enhance rather than overpower natural sensations.
Woo More Play: Woo More Play offers organic coconut love oil, which can be used as a lubricant. It is made with natural ingredients and is free from parabens, glycerin, and artificial fragrances.
Pjur: Pjur is a well-established brand offering a range of silicone-based and water-based lubricants. They are known for their high-quality and long-lasting formulas.
YES: YES produces organic, plant-based lubricants. They offer water-based and oil-based options, and their products are free from synthetic additives, hormones, and irritants.

When selecting a lubricant, consider personal preferences, any allergies or sensitivities, and whether you prefer water-based, silicone-based, or oil-based formulas.

Always check the ingredients list, and if you have any specific concerns or sensitivities, consult with your healthcare provider. Additionally, it's important to choose a lubricant that is compatible with the type of sexual activity you engage in and the type of condoms or sex toys you may use.

Orgasms: Your Superpower

Did you know that orgasms are like a secret weapon during pregnancy? They release feel-good hormones like oxytocin and endorphins, turning your bedroom into a happiness factory. So, don't be shy – indulge in some self-love or share the pleasure with your partner. It's not self-ish, it's actually can help you enjoy a more positive emotional and mental health.

Orgasms aren't just a pleasure cruise; they're a one-way ticket to bliss. The release of oxytocin, often called the "love hormone," is like a sprinkle of magic that enhances your mood and reduces stress. It's self-care in its most pleasurable form. With the experience of a pregnant belly, you might need different things so be sure to communicate with your partner on what you like and need to get you on the road to a climax.

Take It Slow

Let's be real; growing a tiny human is like running a marathon. Your pregnant body is working overtime, and that can leave you feeling tired and achy. So, don't rush through sex; take your time and enjoy the journey. Remember the tip of communication? Be clear with your partner on the speed and what you need to get into the mood. Consider it quality time with your partner, a slow dance in the realm of intimacy.

Acknowledge the superhero feats your body is performing and treat them with the reverence they deserve. Realize your pregnant body is only here for a time, so honor it and be compassionate to the changes.

Don't pretend things are the same as they were...they aren't. Growing a baby is a transformation that comes with vulnerability, which is incredbly sexy. So tell your partner you may need to go slow and that is perfection.

Don't force it

If you are just not feeling it, that's okay. Sometimes in pregnancy, there is so much movement, growth, aches and tiredness that comes with carrying the baby around all day that no matter how many candles are in the room - you just a'int feeling it. And that's okay.

Communicate with your partner about your capacity. Be honest about the realities you feel mentally, emotionally and physically. Instead of a forced romp in the sack...order in pad thai, snuggle on the couch and watch reruns of the Vampire Diaries. Intimacy is made in more ways than just having sex.

The Afterglow: Post-Sex Cuddle

After the crescendo of pleasure, there's the pregnancy post-sex cuddle – an essential act of intimacy. This is the time to wrap yourselves in each other's arms, exchange sweet nothings, and revel in the afterglow. It's not just a cuddle; it's a celebration of the bond you share. And the family that you are creating.

Post-sex cuddling is the cherry on top that solidifies the emotional connection, making the entire experience more than just a physical act. Take the time to express your feelings, share your love, and relish in the warmth of being wrapped up in each other. It's also a time to revel in the beauty of the baby that you will meet soon. Love hormones can abound after pregnancy sex!

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Sex in pregnancy can be many different things to different couples. If you are wanting to spice things up in pregnancy, go for it! Your sex life doesn't have to take a back seat to the baby. In fact, it can be a time of exploration, intimacy, and deepening your connection with your partner.

But, remember to communicate openly, prioritize safety, and embrace the changes in your body. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the incredible experience of being pregnant while keeping the spark alive in your relationship. May your love story be as sizzling as a summer blockbuster!

About the Author

Sherilee Peters, owner and founder of Baby Nest Birth Services for over 18 years she has been supporting parents to have empowering births and postpartum experiences. Growing up on a recreational farm in Canada watching animals give birth from a young age is where she had her first realization of how natural the birth process could be. She is a mother of two, a Birth & Postpartum Doula, a Bradley Method Birth instructor and certified placenta specialist in the Vancouver, WA and Portland, OR areas.