Most expectant moms experience shifts in their sex drive through pregnancy, according to the Kids Health website. Some days a mom-to-be may feel sexual, while on other days she might not have any interest whatsoever in sexual activity. Sometimes, emotional blocks against intercourse during pregnancy or fears of harming the baby can cause a woman to develop sexual aversion during her term, notes the March of Dimes. However, most women can safely enjoy sexual intercourse during pregnancy.
Causes of Low Sex Drive
During pregnancy, hormonal changes can decrease your natural libido, according to the Kids Health website. Also, the discomfort of pregnancy-related symptoms, such as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, frequent urination and backaches, can cause you to lose that natural desire to make love with your partner. Antidepressants, such as Prozac and Celexa, can also reduce the libido, as can untreated depression, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Causes of Increased Sex Drive
Those same hormonal changes that can sap your sexual energy can also boost your sex drive while you’re expecting, notes Kids Health. Emotional factors, such as feeling closer to your partner or not having to worry about unexpected pregnancy, can also increase your sexual desire.
Time Frame
Most pregnant women feel their optimal sexual drive during the second trimester, according to Kids Health. The symptoms like morning sickness in the first trimester as well as the possible pain and pressure experienced during the third trimester usually lead expectant moms to think about anything but going into that bedroom.
Considerations
Women who don’t ingest enough iron during pregnancy not only risk delivering children with birth defects, but they may also suffer from anemia, according to Women’s Health. Anemia is a major medical cause of low libido.
Warnings
Be careful what supplements you take during pregnancy, warns the March of Dimes. Also, classic aphrodisiacs, such as raw oysters, can harm both you and your future child during this phase of your lives. Talk to your doctor before trying any supplements to combat sex drive. Pregnant women can also still contract sexually transmitted diseases, so always insist your partner use a condom unless you are certain he does not have any STDs and is monogamous.
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