Discomfort During Intercourse While Pregnant

Key Takeaways

• Staying sexually active during pregnancy is generally safe, but discomfort or pain can occur.
• Changing positions and exploring different forms of intimacy can help relieve discomfort.
• Contact your doctor if you have severe pain, bleeding, itching, or burning while urinating.

Understanding Discomfort During Sex While Pregnant

Pregnancy transforms your body in many ways, and it's normal to feel some discomfort during sex. A study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that about 20% of pregnant women experience significant pain during intercourse, yet most do not seek treatment.

Several factors can cause discomfort during sex while pregnant. Hormonal changes increase blood flow and sensitivity in the pelvic area, making sex feel different or uncomfortable. The expanding uterus coupled with changes in the vaginal walls can also alter sexual positions and sensations. Physical changes such as increased vaginal discharge or swelling can add to the discomfort.

Sometimes, pain during sex relates to common pregnancy symptoms like round ligament pain, which is a sharp sensation sometimes felt as the ligaments supporting your uterus stretch. Stress or anxiety about the pregnancy can also affect your sexual experience.

How to Prevent Pain During or After Sex When Pregnant

To maximize your comfort during intercourse, consider trying the following strategies:

• Communicate Openly: Share your feelings and any discomfort with your partner. Open communication can help you adjust positions and reduce anxiety.
• Try New Positions: Find positions that are more comfortable for you. Positions that avoid direct pressure on your abdomen, such as side-lying, might feel better.
• Use Lubrication: Hormonal changes can sometimes cause vaginal dryness, so using a water-based lubricant can make intercourse more comfortable by reducing friction. A 2024 study found that 72% of participants found lubricant frequently or always effective in reducing pain.
• Relax and Take Your Time: Be patient and relax when it comes to intimacy. Foreplay can also help ease tension and increase comfort.
• Talk to Your Healthcare Provider: Your doctor can provide you with personalized advice and address any specific concerns related to your pregnancy.

As pregnancy progresses, studies show that women often go through a decline in orgasm and sexual satisfaction, along with an increase in painful intercourse. Knowing the causes of discomfort and understanding how to manage it can help you maintain a healthy and fulfilling intimate relationship with your partner.

When to Talk to Your Doctor About Painful Sex During Pregnancy

Engaging in sexual activity during a normal-risk pregnancy is generally safe. However, it's crucial to talk to your healthcare provider if you experience any significant or ongoing discomfort. Reach out to your doctor if:

• The pain is intense or doesn't get better with adjustments.
• You notice bleeding or unusual discharge.
• You experience symptoms like burning or itching during urination, or pain in your lower back or kidneys, which could indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI) or another infection.
• You’re concerned about how sexual activity might impact your pregnancy.

When in doubt, it's always better to be cautious about protecting your reproductive health during pregnancy. Your doctor can help identify any underlying issues and offer additional strategies to manage discomfort.

The Bottom Line

Feeling discomfort during intercourse while pregnant is common, but it doesn't have to affect your intimate experiences negatively. By understanding the causes and finding ways to relieve discomfort, you can maintain a healthy and satisfying relationship with your partner.

If you have any concerns or need personalized advice, don't hesitate to contact us at Fertility Associates of Memphis. Our compassionate team is here to help you throughout your fertility journey.

This article contains general information and should not substitute medical advice from a professional. Always consult your doctor for personalized guidance regarding discomfort during sex and any other medical concerns.