Practical pregnancy sex tips

First trimester

• Don’t have sex on an empty stomach; it may aggravate nausea
• Remember that breast tenderness and other changes are only temporary
• Wear a bra during sex if it helps
• Don’t try to have sex when you are tired
• If your doctor has advised against having sex (this may be caused by bleeding or threatened miscarriage) use other ways to show affection towards one another

Second trimester

• Increased vaginal mucous may create a hygiene problem
• Wash 'your bits' with warm water and avoid deodorant soaps and douches
• A back rub after sex may ease discomfort
• Be creative with new positions
• Heightened or decreased interest in sex is normal
• Masturbation is normal during pregnancy and is a good alternative
• An orgasm is not a threat in an uncomplicated pregnancy

Third trimester

• Sex may be better in an upright position
• Alternatives to intercourse may be necessary if there are complications such as the baby lying in an odd position or there is more than one baby on board
• Your doctor/midwife may advise against having sex if you are threatening to go into premature labour
• Remind your partner that you need to be cuddled and complimented and reminded that you are sexy and not fat
• Sex in an uncomplicated full-term pregnancy is the best natural induction for labour

After the birth

• Don’t have sex for the first 4 to 6 weeks – your body needs time to heal
• Don’t have sex if you are bleeding
• Remember that sexual arousal will stimulate the "let-down" reflex and your breasts will leak
• With breastfeeding you need to wear a bra day and night
• Minimise pressure on your breasts during lovemaking
• You may need to use K-Y jelly for lubrication
• Kegel (vaginal muscle) exercises taught in ante-natal classes help restore vaginal muscle tone
• Prolonged lack of interest in sex could indicate post-natal depression
• Don’t rush breastfeeding before lovemaking
• Make sure your baby is asleep before having sex and never have sex in the same room as baby
• Soothing music may help to enhance lovemaking
• If you get into the habit of having the baby in the bed with you, your sex life may fizzle out
• To minimise tiredness, have a nap during the day while baby sleeps
• A glass of champagne will help you to relax and is harmless if you’re breastfeeding.