Pregnancy transforms many experiences, including your intimate life. While the excitement of expecting can make pregnancy a joyful time, there are some ‘other’ experiences that accompany pregnancy that are less enjoyable - we mean intimate pain, ranging from mild cramping to more intense pain during sexual activity.
If you're experiencing discomfort and wondering if it’s normal to be sore after sex while pregnant, you're definitely not alone. Here are 5 reasons you might feel vaginal pain after sex during pregnancy, along with tips to make intimacy comfortable and pleasurable again.
What causes vaginal pain after sex?
Experiencing pain after sex during pregnancy is not uncommon, and it doesn’t mean you need to hit the panic button. Here are some factors that can contribute to vaginal pain during pregnant sex.
1. Hormonal changes
Pregnancy brings significant hormonal shifts, particularly in estrogen and progesterone, which can impact your comfort during intimacy. These hormonal changes can increase blood flow to the pelvic area, potentially leading to heightened sensitivity of the pelvic tissue or vaginal and vulvar tissue swelling. Some women report feeling aching or heaviness in the pelvic or genital area, which sexual activity can make worse.
It's important to understand that while vaginal pain during pregnancy, and specifically after sex, can be normal, it should be monitored. If the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms (like bleeding, unusual discharge, or cramps), it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider. They can rule out other conditions that might require attention and provide tailored guidance.
2. Physical changes
During pregnancy, your body undergoes significant physical changes to prepare for childbirth. The uterus expands, and the pelvic muscles and ligaments stretch, all accommodating your growing baby. However, these physical changes can lead to pain during and after sex as the pelvic region becomes more sensitive.
Additionally, the added weight of the baby contributes to increased pressure in the pelvic area, which can further intensify the sensation of discomfort. It's common for women to experience a range of feelings, from mild discomfort to noticeable soreness, particularly in the later stages.
3. Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal dryness during pregnancy can occur due to hormonal fluctuations, stress, dehydration, or infections. While estrogen levels generally rise during pregnancy, other factors may contribute to decreased natural lubrication. This lack of lubrication can lead to discomfort or pain during sex. The experience of dryness can vary throughout each trimester. Some women may notice it more in the early or later stages, while others might experience it sporadically. It's a natural part of the body's response to hormonal changes and is not typically a cause for concern.
4. Infections or Inflammation
Pregnancy can alter the body's immune response, making it more susceptible to microbial imbalances, which can lead to inflammation and soreness in the vaginal area. Alterations in pH levels and hormonal fluctuations can create an environment that can sometimes foster these infections.
For instance, yeast infections, characterized by itching and a thick, white discharge, and bacterial vaginosis, known for its fishy odor and greyish discharge, are the most frequent culprits during pregnancy. While these infections are relatively common and can be effectively treated, they can be the cause of pain during sexual activity while pregnant.
5. Emotional and psychological factors
Emotional well-being is intricately linked to sexual health. It’s understandable if the many changes, both physical and lifestyle-related, evoke a range of emotions from excitement to anxiety, which can have an impact on your sexual experiences. It's possible that your pelvic floor might not be as relaxed during sex due to concerns about the way your body looks or worries about the health of the baby, which can contribute to a less-than-comfortable experience.
5 ways to reduce painful sex during pregnancy
Painful sex during pregnancy doesn’t have to be your new normal. If intimacy feels less than comfortable right now, here are five ways to ease discomfort and put pleasure back into your intimate moments.
1. Use a clinically proven medical device
If pelvic floor tension, lack of arousal, or vaginal dryness is making intimacy uncomfortable, clinically proven medical vibrators like Crescendo 2 and Legato can make a big difference. These devices use targeted vibratory stimulation to boost blood flow, enhance natural lubrication and arousal, and ease pelvic discomfort - tackling the root causes of painful sex during pregnancy.
Crescendo 2, for instance, is clinically proven to relieve pelvic pain, ease discomfort during sex, and naturally increase arousal and lubrication. Its vibrations boost blood flow and help relax your pelvic floor muscles, reducing pain and tension in the vaginal tissues. Bonus: It’s a versatile enough tool to support you during different life stages - from perineal massage during pregnancy to pelvic floor therapy during postpartum recovery.
If external stimulation feels better for you, Legato is your go-to device. Clinically proven to boost external arousal and lubrication, this flexible vibrating ring can even be comfortably worn during intercourse, delivering continuous arousal (plus lubrication) so vaginal dryness doesn’t spoil the moment.
And if you're looking for a hands-free option to increase arousal and lubrication during intercourse, your partner can wear Tenuto 2 - a male vibrator designed to stimulate your entire vulva and clitoris with its 3 front motors, making intimacy more comfortable and enjoyable for both of you.
2. Bring back comfort with lubrication
Hormonal shifts during pregnancy mean your natural lubrication can vary from day to day, and vaginal dryness during pregnancy can be a culprit behind painful sex. A personal lubricant can be your secret weapon for smoother, more enjoyable sex. Water-based lubes are gentle and typically won’t disrupt your body’s natural balance.
If you're not sure where to start, Pjur Aqua’s water-based lubricant is a great option. It's dermatologist-tested, gentle, and formulated without oils, fragrances, or preservatives, making it ideal for pregnancy. Plus, it plays nicely with condoms and vibrators, so you can continue having the fun you want even while expecting.
3. Switch things up with pregnancy-friendly sex positions
Your go-to sex positions might feel less comfortable as your pregnancy progresses, but that doesn’t mean intimacy needs to be off the table. Try exploring new, pregnancy-friendly sex positions to ease discomfort and bring back pleasure. Spooning is a go-to position for relieving pressure off your belly and hips, making sex more comfortable if you’re dealing with pelvic pain. Being on top can also be ideal as it lets you control the depth and pace, minimizing discomfort and any potential irritation. Every pregnancy is different, so the key is to stay open-minded, listen to your body, and find what feels best for you.
4. Try pelvic floor therapy or pelvic floor massage
Your pelvic floor is doing a lot of heavy lifting during pregnancy, and sometimes it needs extra support. Working with a certified pelvic floor therapist can be a game-changer for addressing pelvic pain and discomfort. Gentle exercises like pelvic tilts can ease lower back tension and improve posture, while Kegel exercises help strengthen your pelvic muscles, providing the extra support your body craves. It’s all about giving your hardworking pelvic floor the attention it deserves, so you can feel comfortable and confident again.
5. Communicate with your partner
Your body is changing, and so might your comfort levels during intimacy, so clear communication is key. Don't hesitate to openly share what you're feeling, whether it's general soreness, specific pains, or even just anxiety about sex during pregnancy. Talking honestly about your experiences helps your partner understand what you're going through, so you can both adjust and find solutions together. Plus, getting these feelings out in the open can relieve anxiety, strengthen your emotional connection, and help bring back comfort and closeness to your intimate moments.
How to practice safe sex during pregnancy
Sex during pregnancy can be a healthy and enjoyable part of your experience, and despite common myths, you won’t harm your baby, provided you have an uncomplicated pregnancy. Your little one is well-protected by the strong muscles of your uterus, cushioning amniotic fluid, and the mucus plug sealing your cervix. However, there are some precautions you may want to take. Here’s what you should know to practice safe, comfortable sex during pregnancy.
- Consult your healthcare provider: While sex during pregnancy is generally considered safe, everyone’s case is unique. It’s always recommended to consult with your OBGYN or doctor before continuing or initiating sexual activity during pregnancy. They can offer personalized advice based on your medical history or potential pregnancy complications.
- Avoid air in the vagina: Avoid any activity that introduces air directly into the vagina, such as certain types of oral sex (note, oral sex is perfectly safe during pregnancy, so long as it’s not blowing air inside the vagina) as this can potentially lead to an air embolism, a rare but serious condition that could be life-threatening to you and the baby.
- Be cautious with anal-to-vaginal contact: While anal sex itself is generally safe during pregnancy, good hygiene practices are vital. Always ensure thorough cleaning or showering between anal and vaginal contact to avoid transferring bacteria, which could cause infections harmful to you or your pregnancy. Additionally, while anal sex is also considered safe, and will not harm the baby, it might be uncomfortable if you have hemorrhoids - which can occur during pregnancy.
- Use protection with new or multiple partners: If you or your partner has other sexual partners, or if you have a new partner, always use condoms to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). STIs can pose significant risks to you and your developing baby.
- Listen to your body: Your comfort is the best guide. If something doesn’t feel right or causes discomfort, stop and communicate with your partner. It’s completely normal for sexual desire and comfort levels to change throughout pregnancy.
Takeaway
Pregnancy brings plenty of changes, including to intimacy but vaginal pain after sex during pregnancy doesn’t have to define your expectant experience. Whether you opt for adding personal lubricants to your list, trying new pregnancy-safe sex positions or using the clinically proven medical vibrator Crescendo 2, a timeless tool that can support you from perineal massage and pelvic floor therapy to postpartum recovery, there are plenty of ways to bring comfort and pleasure back into your love life.
FAQs
When should you stop having sex while pregnant?
It's important to consult with a healthcare professional about sexual activity during pregnancy if you encounter any complications, like bleeding, significant pain, or if your water breaks. Apart from these specific conditions, sex can generally be a normal and healthy aspect of the pregnancy experience.
What is the least painful sex position while pregnant?
Every woman will have to explore what works best for her anatomy and unique circumstances, but among favorites include: side-by-side positions, like spooning, or woman on top.
Is it normal not to get wet during pregnancy?
Yes, experiencing vaginal dryness during pregnancy is normal and common due to hormonal changes. Using a high-quality water-based lubricant, like Pjur Aqua, can alleviate this issue. It provides the necessary moisture, making sex more enjoyable during pregnancy.
Can sex cause early labor?
Numerous studies have shown that vaginal intercourse during pregnancy is generally safe and isn't linked to an increased risk of premature birth or early labor. However, if your healthcare provider identifies that you have a high-risk pregnancy, they might advise you to abstain from intercourse altogether or during the later months of your pregnancy.
Some people confuse labor contractions with Braxton Hicks contractions, which may occur after orgasm or sexual penetration, particularly toward the end of pregnancy. Braxton Hicks contractions are normal, harmless, and don’t lead to early labor, so they aren't a reason to be concerned.
