SEX N PREGNANCY,WHAT'S OK, N WHAT'S NOT

Sex during pregnancy: What's OK, what's no

Has pregnancy spiked your interest in sex? Or is sex the last thing on your mind? Either way, here's what you need to know about sex during pregnancy. By Mayo Clinic Staff

If you want to get pregnant, you have sex. No surprises there. But what about sex while you're pregnant? The answers aren't always as obvious.
Here's what you need to know about sex during pregnancy.

SEX IS RISKY IF:

• Your practitioner has counseled against it for any reason.
• You have unexplained bleeding and a history of premature birth or labor.
• You have placenta previa, a condition where a portion of the placenta covers the cervix.
• Your water has broken.
• You are currently experiencing bleeding.
• You're in the last trimester, carrying multiples.

If you fall into one of the above risk categories, be sure to ask your doctor or midwife to clarify the length of time that intercourse should be restricted and any other specifics, such as avoiding orgasm. And always call your practitioner if you experience a discharge of bright-red blood after sex (especially if it's accompanied by fever), or any leaking fluid.

WHEN TO USE CONDOMS

Exposure to sexually transmitted infections during pregnancy increases the risk of infections that can affect your pregnancy and your baby's health.
Use a condom if:

• Your partner has a sexually transmitted infection
• You're not in a mutually monogamous relationship
• You choose to have sex with a new partner during pregnancy

 ORGASMS AND LABOUR

Orgasms can cause uterine contractions, but these contractions are different from the contractions you'll feel during labor. Orgasms — with or without intercourse — aren't likely to increase the risk of premature labor or premature birth.
Similarly, sex isn't likely to trigger labor even as your due date approaches.

TIMES TO AVOID SEX

Although most women can safely have sex throughout pregnancy, sometimes it's best to be cautious.
Your health care provider might recommend avoiding sex if:

• You have a history of preterm labor or premature birth
• You have unexplained vaginal bleeding
• You're leaking amniotic fluid
• Your cervix begins to open prematurely (cervical incompetence)
• Your placenta partly or completely covers your cervical opening (placenta previa)

HEY I NO WANT F...K, NA BY FORCE?

That's OK. There's more to a sexual relationship than intercourse.
Share your needs and concerns with your partner in an open and loving way. If sex is difficult, unappealing or off-limits, try another type of contact — such as cuddling, kissing or massage.

SEX AFTER BIRTH

Whether you give birth vaginally or by C-section, your body will need time to heal. Many health care providers recommend waiting four to six weeks before resuming intercourse. This allows time for your cervix to close and any tears or a repaired episiotomy to heal.
If you're too sore or exhausted to even think about sex, maintain intimacy in other ways. Stay connected during the day with short phone calls, email messages or text messages. Reserve a few quiet minutes for each other before the day begins or while you're winding down before bed.
When you're ready to have sex, take it slow — and use a reliable method of contraception if you want to prevent a subsequent pregnancy.

Source: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Nigeria's trado medical doctor, Dr. Fon Nnadi CEO Scodex Health Services ltd.

ok guys pls pls and pls, All content here, including advice from doctors and other health professionals, should be considered as opinion only. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your won health or the health of others.

until then next time...