Sex in the Third Trimester

August 30, 2008

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Sex in the Third Trimester

by Lisa Rodriguez, R.N. and Marjorie Greenfield, M.D.
reviewed by Marjorie Greenfield, M.D.

Whether intercourse is better than before, slightly uncomfortable, or completely absent, virtually every couple discovers that their sexual relationship changes in some way during the course of pregnancy. While some couples find that sexual desire is enhanced in pregnancy, others find it lacking. There are a number of reasons why this might occur.

Decreased sexual desire
Many women report a decrease in sexual desire during the third trimester. This can be related to the many bothersome symptoms that often accompany the pregnancy at this time, including heartburn, abdominal cramps, colostrum leaking from the breasts, swollen feet, and pelvic pressure. Some women worry about how their partner views their changing shape, and they might feel less sexually attractive to their mate. It's helpful if their partner is sensitive to this and gives the mother-to-be positive feedback. Numerous couples continue to make love during the last three months; they find ways around the growing abdomen and don't find it to be an obstacle. Others feel clumsy and uncomfortable as they try to work around the expectant mom's expanding middle.

Positions to try

The side-lying position: You and your partner lie facing each other, or he can enter you from behind.

The woman-on-top position: You lie on top of your partner, which takes the pressure off your abdomen. This also is a great position if your baby is low in your pelvis, which can make intercourse uncomfortable for some women. It gives you more control, to keep penetration from becoming too deep.

The partner-behind position: You can do this standing, kneeling, or lying down as described above so that your growing belly will be out of your way.

Cramping
Many women worry about cramping they might have during or after intercourse. This is normal in pregnancy. Sexual arousal and orgasm can lead to uterine contractions; however, the cramping should subside soon after intercourse. If cramping continues for several hours or is associated with any bleeding or leaking of fluid, you should call your practitioner.

Restrictions on sexual activities
In general, it's safe to continue having sex until your water breaks or you are in labor. If your pregnancy becomes complicated in any way, discuss with your practitioner any sex-life restrictions.

Communicate!
Whether your sexual relationship remains virtually unchanged with pregnancy, is better than before you were pregnant, or is less satisfying, you and your partner need to keep the lines of communication open. Honestly discuss your feelings with each other. This is a time in your life when it's important that the two of you be emotionally linked, and sharing your feelings is a big part of that process. (For the father's perspective, see the article "Sex with a Pregnant Partner".)


RELATED INFORMATION

			Pregnancy & Stress Urinary Incontinence
			Sleep Problems in Pregnancy
			Third Trimester Experiences
			Sex and Pregnancy: Mom's Perspective
			Dad's Sex and Relationships

Created March 20, 2001
Reviewed August 23, 2004

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