Oh hey there mama’s-to-be or friends and family of a soon-to-be mom! Today we’re going to be talking about using a vibrator during pregnancy… in the ins and outs, is it safe, is it encouraged, or is it a big no-no?
Of course, we’re looking at giving you sound advice that includes satisfying any carnal needs, and making your pregnancy as comfortable as possible.
We’re also going to look at how a woman’s body changes during pregnancy, including their levels of arousal and hormonal changes. Welcome to the joys of preparing to bring a new human into the world!
Pregnancy: The First Trimester
During the first trimester, it’s common for a woman to feel a loss of libido. This is because her body is undergoing a dramatic change, which oftentimes shifts the focus from the simple pleasures in life i.e. sex and masturbation, to that of physical discomforts like morning sickness, and emotional changes.
Pregnancy: The Second Trimester
During the second trimester, pregnant women often see their libidos rise once again. This is partly because morning sickness slowly wears off for many, and women are becoming more comfortable with their bodies, often sporting that “pregnancy glow”. There’s also an increase in blood flow during the second trimester, which will often make a woman’s sexual organs feel more sensitive and create more pleasurable sexual experiences.
Pregnancy: The Third Trimester
In the third trimester, a pregnant woman’s libido often lowers once again. This is because their belly has become bigger, their breasts may be swollen and or sore, and they might be experiencing feelings of fatigue. Women in their third trimester might also have gained some weight and have to endure back pain, which too can decrease one’s sexual desire.
It is important to note however, that no two pregnancies are the same, and women may have different kinds of cravings, experiences, and sexual desires during the different trimesters.
Pregnancy and Sex Toys: Can You Use a Vibrator While Pregnant?
As mentioned, women tend to experience an increase of genital blood flow during pregnancy. And what does that mean? Intense orgasms! In fact, some even admit to experiencing their best orgasms ever whilst pregnant. For others however, they may find their genital region to be too sensitive.
Regardless, it’s actually been shown that orgasming during pregnancy can help reduce stress . And if sex is had, an even stronger bond can be formed between partners. In other words: an orgasm a day keeps the doctor away.
But to answer the most important question today: can you use a vibrator while pregnant? According to Cathy Wink, author of the book, Sexy Mamas:
“For women with normal healthy pregnancies, our research showed that sex toys, including vibrators, are safe.”
Keep Your Vibrator Clean (During Pregnancy)
With that, it’s important to keep your vibrators thoroughly clean during pregnancy (and all the time, actually), by washing them after use.
If one uses a sex toy that’s not cleaned, there is a possiblity of spreading bacteria which can be harmful. Using clean sex toys also helps prevents vaginal infections. Click here for more information on how to keep your sex toys clean .
Use Your Vibrator Gently During Pregnancy
Pregnant women should be careful and quite gentle with their vibrators. Try not to insert it too deeply, and avoid vibrators with sharp edges. This is not because you could cause damage to the placenta or baby, but just a precaution to eliminate the possibility of discomfort.
Then there’s also the possibility of experiencing Braxton Hicks after an orgasm, which is essentially mild cramps. These are not dangerous, yet can cause some pain, so be aware.
When Not to Use a Vibrator During Pregnancy
For women who are facing complications during pregnancy, such as placenta previa, multiple fetuses, UTI’s, cervical weakness, a low-lying placenta, vaginal bleeding, and the possibility of having their child prematurely, it’s advised to abstain from using sex toys and having sex. To confirm these conditions and to receive tailored advice however, it’s important to visit your doctor.
Additionally, you may want to be more gentle with your vibrator during the first trimester, as this is the window in which a miscarriage is at its highest. This in no way means that using a vibrator during pregnancy will directly cause a miscarrage. It simply means that one should be extra careful, and definitely make sure all toys are cleaned before use to risk any infections.
Can an Orgasm Induce Labor?
Then there’s also the age-old tale that says sex, or rather—an orgasm—can induce labour. This is actually true, as an orgasm causes the womb to contract. On the flip side, it could also induce unexpected early labor, so the best advice is to do everything in moderation.
And while we’re on the topic of orgasm, let us remind you of all the wonderful benefits of “the little death”.
The Benefits of Having an Orgasm
Mentally and physically, there are many blissful benefits of having an orgasm…
- It reduces stress by lowering levels of cortisol (the stress hormone)
- It makes you feel all warm and tingly because of the hormone oxytocin that’s released
- It helps you sleep more soundly
- It increases the level of estrogen, which helps in younger looking skin
- It gives your face a beautiful glow due to the increase in blood flow
- It temporarily relieves pain and highers your pain threshold
- It strengthens the pelvic floor which could aid in stronger orgasms in the future
- For men, it is good for your prostate health
- It allows you to get in-touch with your body, making you feel more (sexually) confident
Now back to the whole vibrator during pregnancy debacle: the bottom line? Vibrators are safe to use while pregnant if you are experiencing a normal and healthy pregnancy. It’s advised not to use a vibrator while pregnant if you have certain underlying health issues however.
The best way to use sex toys safely and to have the best possible pregnancy is to consult your GP, midwife or OBGYN. They will determine the health of your pregnancy, and ultimately be the ones who can give you the green light when it comes to achieving pleasure!
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