Having sexual relations in the 3rd trimester
When pregnancy enters the third trimester or approaches delivery, many mothers wonder whether it is permissible to have sexual relations. Many people state that sexual intercourse during the third trimester of pregnancy is useful as a natural induction, making the process of childbirth easier. There is no prohibition against sexual intercourse during pregnancy in the third trimester, provided that the mother’s pregnancy is healthy, normal and does not experience problems. In fact, sexual activity not only improves the mood of pregnant women, but also provides health benefits. Even so, there are several things that pregnant women need to understand and know first if they want to have sexual relations during pregnancy in the third trimester.
Sexual Intercourse Approaching the Day of Delivery
Sexual intercourse during pregnancy is best done in the second trimester of pregnancy, because at that time, the symptoms that made the mother uncomfortable in the first trimester will slowly begin to disappear. The mother’s strength and vitality will recover in the second trimester, so that the mother can enjoy sexual relations with her partner more. If the mother’s pregnancy is healthy and there is no advice from the doctor to abstain from sex, the mother can still have intimate relations at 40 weeks of pregnancy or the third trimester of pregnancy.
Even so, a very large stomach and more sensitive breasts make it less comfortable for mothers to have sexual relations during this period of pregnancy. Apart from that, in the days leading up to delivery, many pregnant women lose their desire to have sexual relations. However, if you want to have sexual intercourse, don’t worry about doing it. After all, this may be the mother’s last chance to enjoy sexual relations with her partner. Because, after giving birth, the doctor will advise the mother not to have intimate relations for 4-6 weeks during the postpartum period.
The Truth About Sexual Intercourse in the 3rd Trimester of Pregnancy
Can sexual intercourse in the 3rd trimester trigger labor? The answer depends on the condition of each pregnant woman. If the pregnant woman’s cervix and uterus are ready for labor and the due date is near, sexual intercourse at 40 weeks can help facilitate labor. However, if the condition of the pregnant woman and the cervix are not ready enough, then sexual intercourse will not help anything. However, if the time for labor has arrived and the mother does not feel contractions, the mother can try to have sexual relations with her partner.
In fact, having sexual intercourse before or at maturity can facilitate childbirth in the following ways:
- Stimulates the uterus when the mother experiences orgasm.
- Triggers the release of oxytocin, which is a hormone that plays a role in regulating contractions.
- Dilating the cervix and opening it, due to the presence of prostaglandins in sperm, which are hormones that trigger labor, soften and ripen the cervix.
If the mother wants to have sexual intercourse to induce labor naturally, try sexual positions that do not put pressure on the stomach, such as spooning or doggy style.
Benefits and Risks of Having Sexual Intercourse Before Childbirth
Sexual intercourse close to the due date provides the same benefits as it does during pregnancy. This sexual activity helps pregnant women feel more relaxed, improves sleep quality, and even temporarily relieves some of the discomfort caused by pregnancy. Sex can also be a pleasant way for pregnant women to take a break from thoughts that might worry them before giving birth. Having sex in the third trimester of pregnancy also has no health risks. It is very safe to have sex during pregnancy, including at 40 weeks of gestation.
However, having sex during pregnancy may feel different compared to before. Pregnant women may notice a little spotting when the cervix begins to mature. Couples will also feel the difference. The profuse vaginal discharge that pregnant women naturally experience at the end of pregnancy can make the vagina extra slippery, making it more difficult for partners to maintain an erection. To overcome this problem, make sure your partner is really ready before penetrating.
That is the explanation regarding sexual relations in the third trimester of pregnancy. It is also a good idea for mothers to consult first with a doctor or midwife if they want to have sexual relations before the due date.
