There are varied views regarding sex during
pregnancy.
Some cultures believe that a woman
becomes sacred during pregnancy and that her sexual organs
should be left alone till the time she is breastfeeding. In
others, men feel it their birthright to choose when to have
sex with a woman irrespective of a woman's condition or her
desires. Regarding women, some feel it
disgusting to have sex during pregnancy, while others enjoy
their sexual relationship much more during these months.
Whatever one's viewpoint, after the confirmation of
pregnancy, whether acknowledged or not, both man and woman
develop an altered view of their sexuality from what
it was. This, being a potential area of conflict, should
be dealt with between the partners in an understanding
and frank manner so as to avoid any future problems in the
relationship. One must be honest and have
an open communication regarding their desires,
comfort levels, changing attitudes and the woman's changing
body. Whatever be the decision (whether to continue a sexual
relation or not) must be approached in a meaningful way.
During pregnancy, menstruation and fertility is suspended.
This reversal of function tends to support the belief that
it is inappropriate to use the vagina & uterus for sex
between conception and childbirth. So, those who intend
practicing celibacy or diminished sex during pregnancy need
to communicate this very openly. It is a time when the woman
can pay close attention to her body and mind. She can
internalize her sexual energy as extra sustenance for
the growing child. This is a challenging situation or the
man, so explaining why you are not interested in sex is a
good option. However, you may continue to share sensuality
in other ways without full intercourse. If
you wish to continue sex during pregnancy, it is important
for the woman to have greater control over initiation
and during sex. Lovemaking during sex can be an opportunity
for a shared appreciation of each other - more so for the
woman who may feel herself as awkward and bulky and not in
the same manner as she felt before.
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