It is entirely normal to experience changes in sexual desire during pregnancy. Although each woman is unique, there are common patterns of changing sexual drive during each trimester of pregnancy. Hormonal, physical and emotional issues influence women?s sexuality throughout pregnancy. Men may also experience changes in sexual drive and desire.

Most women experience a noticeable decrease in sexual desire during the first three months of pregnancy. Many of the normal physical and emotional changes of early pregnancy contribute to this. For example, physical fatigue, nausea, breast tenderness, anxiety, financial worries, or fears about pregnancy and parenting can all hamper sexual interest. Many women express a need for loving attention and romance even though uninterested in physical lovemaking.

The second trimester of pregnancy is typically a time of increased erotic desire and satisfaction for most women. The discomforts and concerns of early pregnancy have passed. Greater blood flow to the entire pelvis and increased vaginal lubrication are two of the physical changes that make sex more pleasurable at this time.

The size of the growing uterus, fatigue or minor aches and pains can cause sexual interest to decrease again at the end of pregnancy. Experimenting with different positions during lovemaking to find the most comfortable position may be helpful.

Often women?s views of sex during pregnancy are influenced by cultural beliefs, religious teachings and stories told by friends and family. Many women and men are fearful about harming the baby during sex. Generally, sex is safe throughout pregnancy. There are a few medical situations that require eliminating sex during pregnancy. Talk with your physician or midwife about your individual circumstances and feel free to ask any questions you have about your sex life.

Communicate with your partner about both your fears and your desires. Explore nonsexual ways to remain intimate and connected to one another during the times that your physical drive is low. Most importantly, accept and trust your feelings about your body and your sexuality as they change throughout your pregnancy.

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