Sexual Activity During Pregnancy Essay

Changes in the Sexual Function

The long-lasting duration of pregnancy might lead to discomfort of the habitual aspects of everyday life, particularly in the sexual life of parents expecting a child. Hence, it is essential to examine the most common questions and concerns related to sexual activity during pregnancy to be fully aware of the possible outcomes and solutions. Many couples demonstrate the unpreparedness to sexual problems and changes during this period.

According to Gałązka et al. (2015), changes regarding the appearance of the pregnant woman might influence her perception of pregnancy and sexuality, which results in decreased sexual functioning. There is a lower yet significant output concerning the rejection of one’s appearance, or a negative self-perception of the body was a cause of sexual abstinence during pregnancy. Besides, such a change in sexual life is also caused by the common concern for the baby’s well-being, as well as the damaging impact on the fetus. A general “tendency toward a decline in the sexual intercourse”, particularly in the third trimester, was noted (Gałązka et al., 2015, p. 453).

Sexual Distress

Sexual distress is a common issue during pregnancy because of its unique characteristics and is directly linked with the decrease in sexual functioning. As describe by Vannier and Rosen (2017), pregnant women reported difficulties with the alignment of changing sexual and maternal facets of their self-identity. These changes might transform into feelings of “guilt, frustration, worry, and embarrassment” concerning their sexuality, which may lead to decreased sexual and relationship satisfaction (Vannier and Rosen, 2017, p. 392). The increased exposure to distress might affect those who are unprepared to experience these changes. The sexual distress, in general, is connected with decreased sexual and relationship satisfaction.

Fears of the Sexual Activity and Relationship Well-Being

Following the ideas of Beveridge, Vannier, and Rosen (2017), the sexual and relationship well-being during the pregnancy is more connected with the physical and hormonal well-being of a pregnant woman. Furthermore, this may be related to the pregnancy-related changes in “physical appearance, nausea, and fatigue” (Vannier, and Rosen, 2017, p. 142). Considering a close interrelation of relationship satisfaction and sexual satisfaction, the outcomes of such changes might affect women’s relationship satisfaction. Amongst other reasons for sexual abstinence, the higher need for sleep, feeling unattractive, or painful experiences are as well critical factors.

Psychological and Physiological Aspects

The psychological factor and physiological changes during pregnancy are strongly intertwined with the sexual function of the pregnant woman. As for the early period of the pregnancy, when the body is adapting to new conditions, it is still important to maintain intimacy in this period, as well as intensify partners’ mutual engagement (Staruch et al., 2016). It was noted that women experience lower sexual satisfaction and desire during this period. Although the third trimester of pregnancy is considered the most challenging due to physical pain and restrictions, including “decreased desire, lubrication and sexual satisfaction” (Staruch et al., 2016, p. 452).

The stress and anxiety levels are enhancing according to a closer time of delivery. It is important to note that each pregnancy results in stress and concerns, which emphasizes the significance of the appropriate support and professional care for a woman.

The Risk Factor

One of the most frightening concerns related to sexual activity during pregnancy is the risk of miscarriage. While there is a lack of research in this area, Johnson (2019) highlights specific reasons to avoid sexual activity during this period. Those include the risk of miscarriage related to the history of past miscarriages; the risk of preterm labor; vaginal bleeding, discharge or cramping; the low position of the placenta in the uterus (placenta previa), or the expectancy of twins or triplets (Johnson, 2019, par. 5). If such avoidance is strictly prohibited by the doctor, this relates to all forms of sexual activity involving orgasm or sexual arousal.

References

Beveridge, J., Vannier, S., & Rosen, N. (2017). Fear-based reasons for not engaging in sexual activity during pregnancy: associations with sexual and relationship well-being. Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology, 39(2), 138-145. Web.

Gałązka, I., Drosdzol‐Cop, A., Naworska, B., Czajkowska, M., & Skrzypulec‐Plinta, V. (2015). Changes in the sexual function during pregnancy. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 12(2), 445-454. Web.

Johnson, T. (2019). Sex During and After Pregnancy. Web.

Staruch, M., Kucharczyk, A., Zawadzka, K., Wielgos, M., & Szymusik, I. (2016). Sexual activity during pregnancy. Neuroendocrinology Letters, 37(1), 101-106. Web.

Vannier, S., & Rosen, N. (2017). Sexual distress and sexual problems during pregnancy: associations with sexual and relationship satisfaction. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 14(3), 387-395. Web.