Relationships & Intimacy While Trying to Conceive
Pregnancy is a transformative time, bringing about significant changes in both physical and emotional health. One area that can be impacted is sexual desire, which can fluctuate throughout the pregnancy stages. Understanding these changes is vital for couples navigating this exciting and sometimes challenging journey, as each person’s experience with libido can vary. Whether you’re experiencing a decrease or an increase in sexual desire, it’s important to recognize how these shifts can affect your relationship and intimacy.
Sex Drive Changes Through the Pregnancy Stages
During pregnancy, many factors such as hormonal shifts, physical changes, and emotional adjustments can influence libido. Here's how these changes typically unfold through the three trimesters:
- First Trimester (weeks 0–13): In the early stages of pregnancy, many people experience a decrease in sexual desire due to hormone fluctuations, nausea, and fatigue. However, some may notice an increase in libido due to rising hormone levels.
- Second Trimester (weeks 14–27): For most people, libido tends to increase in the second trimester. As nausea diminishes and energy returns, the body experiences a boost in hormones, which can heighten sexual desire and pleasure.
- Third Trimester (weeks 28–40): During the final stage of pregnancy, challenges such as swelling, fatigue, and discomfort may reduce the desire for sex. Experimenting with different positions or finding other forms of intimacy might help couples navigate this period with more comfort.
How Safe is Sex During Pregnancy?
In most cases, sexual activity is completely safe during pregnancy, although comfort and safety are paramount. As the pregnancy progresses, certain adjustments may be needed to ensure both partners feel comfortable. For instance, deep penetration may become uncomfortable, so experimenting with different positions can help. Anal sex can be safe if it is comfortable and proper hygiene is maintained. Oral sex is generally safe, but it’s important to avoid blowing air into the vagina. Masturbation is typically safe unless there are specific health concerns or instructions from a healthcare provider.
How Relationships and Intimacy Can Be Affected When Trying to Conceive
Trying to conceive is an exciting but often emotionally charged experience. For many couples, it brings both joy and unexpected challenges. The pressure to conceive can sometimes create stress and tension, which may affect intimacy and sexual desire. For some, the process of tracking ovulation, scheduling sex, and navigating fertility treatments can make intimacy feel more mechanical than spontaneous, which can reduce enjoyment and connection.
Additionally, repeated disappointments or unsuccessful attempts can lead to frustration, resentment, or feelings of inadequacy. These emotions can strain the relationship, making it harder to maintain a strong bond. It’s essential for couples to openly communicate, support one another, and consider professional help or counseling to navigate these difficult moments together. Building a foundation of trust, empathy, and emotional support is key to maintaining intimacy through this challenging yet hopeful process.
How Can We Help?
At Wholesome Psychology, we understand the complexities of relationships, intimacy, and emotional well-being, especially during pregnancy and while trying to conceive. Our Amare program offers compassionate, accepting resources and counseling for individuals and couples dealing with changes in libido, sexual dysfunction, or intimacy challenges. Our certified sex therapists are skilled in addressing issues that arise during pregnancy and beyond, helping couples reconnect and strengthen their relationship.
- Support for individuals and couples experiencing libido changes during pregnancy
- Certified Sex Therapists to address sexual behaviors and intimacy issues
- Guidance on overcoming sexual dysfunctions to improve connection with self and others
- Tailored therapy for challenges faced during pregnancy and post-pregnancy
- Specialized support for the LGBTQ2S+ community in navigating intimacy and sexual health
We are here to help you through this beautiful but often challenging journey. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you on your path to emotional and relational well-being.