Pregnancy brings incredible changes to your body, including enhanced sexual sensations and exciting feelings of intimacy. Due to the increase in hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, your intimate areas become engorged and lubricated, which may make sex more enjoyable and orgasms more intense. Enjoying sexual pleasure during pregnancy can also help you stay in touch with your body and, if you have a partner, with them.
But what about using sex toys during pregnancy? Can you safely incorporate them into your intimate moments? In most cases, using sex toys during pregnancy is completely safe. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that the amniotic sac and strong uterine muscles protect the fetus.
As sex educator Lou Paget (author of Hot Mom: The Ultimate Guide to Staying Sexy During Pregnancy and the Months Beyond) suggests, you can continue to use the toys you're familiar with, but some modifications may be necessary. During pregnancy, your heightened senses may require you to try different types or sizes of toys or explore new ways of using them.
If you are at high risk of becoming pregnant, especially if you are at risk of preterm labor, your doctor may recommend that you refrain from certain sexual activities. However, specific guidelines and recommendations are lacking due to limited research in this area. It is important to discuss your doctor's recommendations and any restrictions they suggest, as some activities may be prohibited while others are safe.
Sex toys come in all shapes and sizes and are designed to target different erogenous zones. Some vibrate, others don't, and they can stimulate you both internally and externally. While there are usually no strict restrictions on the use of sex toys during pregnancy, it's vital to make sure your sexual experience remains safe, comfortable and enjoyable.
Here are some important considerations:
Keep it clean:
Proper hygiene is critical, especially when using internal sex toys. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends cleaning toys with hot, soapy water after each use or touch. Store them in a clean, separate place to avoid contamination.
Don't share:
Sharing sex toys can lead to infections such as bacterial vaginosis (BV), which can put pregnant women with BV at risk for preterm labor or low birth weight babies.
Don't mix and match:
Be careful when using toys for both vaginal and anal play, as introducing fecal bacteria into the vagina can lead to infections, and pregnant women are more prone to hemorrhoids, which can become irritated during anal play.
READ THE LABEL:
Be aware of the ingredients in erotic lotions and lubricants, as certain scents, flavors, colors and additives can irritate sensitive areas. Avoid products that contain ingredients that may cause discomfort or infection.
Check the materials:
Some plastic toys may contain phthalates, which can disrupt hormones in the body. When buying new toys, look for phthalate-free toys.
Be gentle:
Pregnancy can make certain parts of the body more sensitive. For example, the cervix is more fragile during pregnancy, so take your time and avoid pushing too hard. Use your comfort level as a guide.
Get creative:
If your doctor advises against penetrative sex, explore other erogenous zones and consider adapting old toys for new uses, such as massage.
In conclusion, using sex toys during pregnancy can be safe and enjoyable, with just a few precautions and modifications to ensure your comfort and safety. If you have any questions or experience discomfort or other concerns during your pregnancy, be sure to consult your healthcare provider.