When a woman is pregnant, her entire body changes. Some women notice a distinct spike in desire, especially during the second trimester, while others may discover that exhaustion and aches and pains sap their libido.
That doesn't mean, however, that you have to give up sex while pregnant. In fact, pregnancy sex can help bring you closer together than ever before. Try some of these pregnancy sex tips to increase enjoyment and connect with your partner.
Is it safe to have sex during pregnancy?
Yes, it is safe to have sex during pregnancy, unless the doctor says otherwise.
During a normal, low-risk pregnancy, most women can continue to have sex safely right up until labor. Until her water breaks, what you do will have little to no impact on the baby. In the third trimester, orgasm may bring on some contractions called Braxton Hicks contractions. In fact, when the baby is ready, sex could be just the thing to get things moving. As long as the doctor doesn't recommend otherwise (usually due to concerns with cervical competence or premature labor) there's no reason you and your partner can't continue to enjoy each other in bed.
9 pregnancy sex tips for mutual pleasure
Sex can change dramatically during pregnancy. But pregnancy does not have to mean putting intimacy on indefinite hold. Looking for ways to improve your sex life during pregnancy? Try these 9 sex tips designed to keep both of you comfortable, connected, and enjoying intimacy in new ways.
1. Find comfortable sex positions that reduce pressure
As a woman's belly grows during pregnancy, finding a comfortable position at any time, much less for sex, can be incredibly difficult. That means Missionary may not cut it once a belly starts to grow, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Think of it as an excuse to get creative with intimacy - try different angles, move slowly, and see which ones make you both smile (or gasp). Keep in mind that every woman will be different: a position that works for one woman may be incredibly difficult for another. Try out some of these positions to see if they work for you:
- Woman on top: Both cowgirl and reverse cowgirl give the pregnant partner control, making it easier to adjust for comfort and belly space.
- Modified missionary: Instead of lying flat, the pregnant partner’s legs are bent with feet resting on the chest or shoulders. This takes weight off the bump while keeping closeness.
- Doggy style: Hands-and-knees can work well, especially in early pregnancy. As the belly grows, you may want to adjust to side-lying or use pillows for extra support.
- Side-lying spooning: Lying side by side - either facing each other or with one partner behind, keeps pressure low and frees up hands for extra touch and exploration.
2. Communicate even more than usual
Pregnancy changes everything, including the body and you or your partner’s responses, so honesty is your best friend. One day one of you might crave extra intimacy, the next you might just want a cuddle. Many women experience increased sensitivity during pregnancy. In some cases, that increased sensitivity may cause overstimulation or even discomfort, even when doing things that have always worked for both of you in the past. Make sure you're communicating with your partner regularly. If you're a partner of a pregnant person, ask what feels good and what doesn’t - on a regular basis - like every time. The answers to those questions may surprise you - and you may end up with some fun new ideas to try in the bedroom. Keep the conversation open and playful - share what feels good, what doesn’t, and don’t be afraid to laugh together when something feels awkward. The more you talk, the more connected (and turned on) you’ll both feel.
3. Take things slow and prioritize comfort
Pregnancy can sometimes make sex feel different, and for some people, that means more discomfort or even vaginal pain after sex during pregnancy. Hormonal changes, increased sensitivity, and physical pressure from a growing belly can all play a role. That is why it is so important to slow things down and give your body time to adjust. Spend extra time on foreplay, build arousal gradually, and let relaxation set in before moving forward. When comfort is the focus, intimacy becomes more enjoyable and the chances of pain are reduced.
4. Explore intimacy beyond penetration
If penetration does not sound appealing, you still have plenty of ways to stay close with non-penetrative intimate activities. Massages, oral sex, kissing, and mutual masturbation can all feel just as satisfying as intercourse. These options keep intimacy fun, playful, and pressure-free while giving you both space to experiment with what feels good in the moment.
5. Use pillows for more comfort
Pillows are the unsung heroes of pregnancy sex. Place one under the hips, between the knees, or behind the back to relieve strain and add comfort. They can help take pressure off the belly while also introducing new angles that make intimacy feel exciting again. Experiment with different setups until you find the ones that help you both relax and enjoy the moment.
6. Try a couples vibrators for extra pleasure
Pregnancy can sometimes leave you or your partner with less energy to do all the work, and that is where couples vibrators come in, like the award-winning Tenuto 2. This vibrator is worn on the penis, but has motors dedicated to vulva and clitoris stimulation while keeping the penis more erect. It’s a win/win for couples trying to maximize pleasure during intercourse where some extra stimulation is needed. Another favorite couple’s vibrator is Legato. It's an adjustable vibrating ring that sits on the vulva and stimulates the vulva, labia, and clitoris while leaving a gap in the middle for a partner to penetrate through. This vibrating ring is super versatile with so many creative ways to use it.
If you prefer a handheld device, try Crescendo 2, which is a bendable device that’s been shown in independent studies to increase arousal and natural lubrication. Six powerful motors can stimulate multiple pleasure zones at the same time for a blended orgasm that is breathtaking.
7. Focus on foreplay and relaxation
Pregnancy can bring extra stress and fatigue, which makes slowing down even more important to let the body and mind catch up. If you’re having a hard time getting in the headspace, try listening to audio erotica or watching ethical porn to set the mood. Give each other sensual massages, or focus on breast massage, which may feel especially good during pregnancy. Longer foreplay gives the body time to relax and get aroused, so by the time you move further, pleasure feels more natural and effortless.
8. Listen to your body
Energy levels and comfort can change from day to day, so it is important to stay tuned in if you’re the pregnant one. Some nights you will feel ready for everything, and others you might just want to cuddle or enjoy lighter intimacy. Both are perfectly valid. By letting your body set the pace, you will avoid discomfort and make the times you do have sex more enjoyable.
9. Boost body confidence with self-care
While some women feel that pregnant glow, others may struggle with body image issues throughout pregnancy and beyond. You or your partner may need a little extra reassurance. Small rituals of self-care can make a big difference. Lingerie, candlelight, audio erotica, or pampering yourself before bed can help you feel more confident and sexy. When you feel good in your own skin, it is easier to let go and enjoy intimacy, and your partner will be drawn to that energy.
Takeaway
Pregnancy can completely change the way intimacy feels, but it does not mean pleasure has to take a back seat. You and your partner can keep sex fun and satisfying by experimenting with positions that reduce pressure, focusing on communicating, and building body confidence with self-care. Adding couples vibrators into the mix is another way to keep intimacy exciting, since they boost arousal for both partners and make sex more comfortable. If you are curious about exploring this option, here’s the ins and outs on how to use a couple's vibrator for mind-blowing pleasure.
