The sexual health, that great (un)known. Present in our lives from the moment we are born until we cease to exist. Literally. That is why every September 4th, for more than 10 years, the World Sexual Health Day. And how could we not join SingularMom in addressing this issue that touches us so closely from a place of responsibility and naturalness?
We invite you to delve into the following lines where we not only talk about sexual health but also approach it from the prism that interests and passionate us so much: pregnancy.
What do we mean by “sexual health”?
The sexual health or reproductive health, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) is “the state of complete physical, mental and social well-being in aspects related to sexuality and reproduction at all stages of life“What does this mean? That you and only you, regardless of your gender or the moment in which you read this,You are free to choose how you want your sex life to be. With everything that the concept “sexual life” encompasses. Here you can have more free sexual health information.
Promoting sexual health prevents diseases
Once again we reiterate what is our maxim in life:“Information is power.” Hence the importance we give to the sexual health promotion with the main objective of raise awareness and prevent any risky behavior and resulting problems such as the transmission of sexual diseases (STDs) or unwanted pregnancies.
It is our right and our responsibility to be informed of all this before, during and after a pregnancy.
sexual desire
Not all people experience sexuality in the same way. And even less when there is a pregnancy involved!
Sexual behavior depends on sexual desire and the latter varies depending on personal history of each of the members of the couple (I always say that “we are the result of our environment and our genetics”).
Sexual health and sexual desire during pregnancy
During pregnancy, a woman can see how he sexual desire increases or decreases at certain times, both sensations being totally normal. During the development of the fetus in the first trimester of pregnancy, especially in new mothers, the desire is probably limited due to the physical changes of pregnancy that are beginning to be experienced. Let’s say it’s a adaptation stage that affects decreasing sexual rhythm and appetite.
Something that changes completely with the development of the fetus in the second trimester of pregnancy, where sexual desire is increased mainly due to hormonal changes. Again coinciding with the final stretch of pregnancy, in the third quarter As the time approaches delivery, most likely you will not have as much sexual appetite but you will demand more affection and other types of care due to the emotional vulnerability that you will experience. It goes without saying that in the postpartum You will gradually recover your sexual response.
You already know that physical changes will affect all levels. To them we must add the physiological and anatomical changes that influence sexual life such as greater lubrication and greater sensitivity, changes in vaginal discharge, oilier skin and darker in some specific areas, etc. Of course, we make special mention of the psychological changes that can lead to fears and insecurities during pregnancy directly related to sexual practices.
Are sex and pregnancy compatible?
Did you know that in some places pregnancy has been considered incompatible with sexual relations? Matizo. It has been considered and even today there are those who consider it dangerous and uncomfortable. However, this belief seems to be declining thanks to the sexual health promotion. And thank goodness!
Furthermore, it is a (too) frequent question that couples expecting a baby ask themselves every day. So the answer to this question we have to tell you, dear friend, is more than affirmative. One more of the myths related to sexuality in pregnancy.
Of course sex and pregnancy are compatible! Compatible and beneficial as long as there is no medical contraindication and paying attention to any unusual signs or symptoms.
Guidelines for sexual activity in pregnant women
Sexual health CAN be improved. Some of the recommendations that we want to give you at SingularMom so that you can lead a healthy sexual life during pregnancy include:
- The regular practice of physical exercise adapted to the week of pregnancy you are in while taking care of your diet. Here you can read more about the physical exercise in the first trimester,physical exercise in the second trimester and physical exercise in the third trimester.
- It is recommended that you avoid stress so that it does not affect your emotional health. You already know that if you are not emotionally well, you will hardly be able to enjoy your sex life.
- Don’t forget that changes don’t just affect you. ¿Do you know how pregnancy affects a couple?? Both members are going through a totally new situation so It is vital that you communicate assertively and try to rediscover yourself in this new stage what you are facing. Living and adapting sex to each moment of pregnancy will even have a positive impact on your relationship, favoring the well-being of both parties.
- It goes without saying that NOT everything is based on penetration. Make massages, caresses and other types of contact the protagonists of your intimacy.
Advantages of good sexual health during pregnancy
Practicing good sexual health during pregnancy positively influences couples by reinforcing the bond and complicity.
For the pregnant woman specifically, it helps Improve your self-esteem while strengthening the elasticity and flexibility of the pelvic muscles. Furthermore, it generally feels greater pleasure due to the dilation of the genital areas. Here you can read more about the labor dilation.As for the baby, it is not dangerous but quite the opposite. Sexual practice causes you to receive more oxygen and even the contractions of the uterus caused by intercourse are pleasant. And of course, you will benefit from the feeling of tranquility and well-being!
Enjoying good sexual health means you can live your pregnancy in a full and satisfactory way.
At SingularMom we encourage you to identify possible sexual problems before they interfere with your relationship. Both in life in general and particularly during pregnancy, one of the most important stages for a couple. Only in this way can your relationship be strengthened and renewed after the baby arrives home.
With our online childbirth preparation course we want to help you have a better sexual response and recover your sexual activity as soon as possible.
