Can I use a vibrator during pregnancy?

Can you use a vibrator during pregnancy? Ah, the million dollar question that crosses the minds of many pregnant people, especially when dealing with hormonal fluctuations and the need to relax. The short answer is, yes, it’s safe in most cases. However, as with many things during pregnancy, there are some considerations to keep in mind to ensure the safety and health of you and your growing fetus.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s safe, what to avoid, and how to maintain peace of mind when using your favorite bedroom toys.

Can I use a vibrator during pregnancy?

As long as you have a healthy pregnancy with no complications, yes, vibrator play is very safe for you and your unborn child, says Dr. Staci Tanouye, a hospital-certified obstetrician-gynecologist and sex education advocate on TikTok. (@dr.staci. t), tell Well+Good. What makes it safe? your body design.

“Vibrators, penises, and other objects cannot pass through the vaginal canal,” says Dr. Tanouye. That’s because you run into obstacles around your cervix, the narrow passage that connects your uterus (or uterus) to your vagina.

During pregnancy, the cervix is ​​sealed by a mucus plug (a large clump of mucus) to prevent infection. Beyond the cervix, which is about four centimeters long, the fetus is well protected inside the womb by a fluid-filled barrier called the amnion, Dr. Tanouye added. So when you use a vibrator, rest assured that your fetus is safe behind some barriers (and you can’t see what’s going on).

Safety aside, using a vibrator during pregnancy can have some benefits. According to Dr. Tanouye and the American Pregnancy Association (APA), here’s why you should give up sex toys.

Increased pleasure: Thanks to hormones and increased blood flow to the vaginal area, the sensations in your vulva and vagina may become more intense (which may improve orgasms). Relaxation: When you reach climax, your body releases endorphins. Endorphins are feel-good brain chemicals that make you feel happy and calm. Exercise: Knock Boots can help you burn calories and stay active, even when using a vibrator. A closer bond with your partner: Involving your partner in vibrator play helps the two of you maintain a close emotional connection. This is especially important during times of so many changes, such as pregnancy.

Is there anyone who should not use a vibrator during pregnancy?

Generally, it is safe to use a vibrator during pregnancy unless your health care provider tells you otherwise. Most pregnancies have no restrictions, but some high-risk cases may require “pelvic rest” (pause from sexual activity) and avoidance of vibrator use and other types of penetrative sex. there is. Dr. Tanouye and the APA say examples of these high-risk cases include:

What other safe sex practices are there during pregnancy?

As long as there are no pregnancy complications, most sexual activities are safe during pregnancy, including vaginal penetration, external stimulation, and oral sex, Dr. Tanouye says. Still, your body goes through a lot of changes during pregnancy (hello, belly), so you may need to make some adjustments to your sexy time to make it more comfortable. Everything is made to be comfortable and enjoyable,” she says.

Try these tips to get the most out of sex during pregnancy.

1. Switch positions

“During penis-in-vaginal sex, the angle deepens in certain positions,” which can put pressure on the cervix and make it uncomfortable during pregnancy, Dr. Tanouye says. “Also, as your uterus grows, even lying in certain positions, such as on your back, may become uncomfortable.”

Additionally, “during pregnancy, the joints and supporting structures of the pelvis become looser, which can further increase hip discomfort,” Tanouye says. However, it can be easily solved by simply changing the position. The APA notes that sitting side by side or on top of each other, for example, may be more comfortable positions for pregnant bodies.

You can also use pillows to support or support your body in certain spots (you’ll have to experiment to find out what works best for you), says Dr. Tanouye. Plus, she adds, there are products on the market like the OhNut ring ($75) that can help if it hurts to go deeper. These stackable rings attach to the base of your penis, dildo, or vibrator and act like a cushion, allowing you to adjust how deep they go.

2. Explore other types of touch

During pregnancy, some parts of your body, such as your genitals, may become very sensitive. That’s because more blood is pumped to the pelvic area, causing swelling in the genital area and increased sensation there. While this may up the pleasure factor for some pregnant people, it can be a bit excessive for others.

The same applies to the breasts. Your breasts may become soft and tender to the touch because of all the changes that are occurring, including your breasts getting larger in preparation for milk production.

This means that the foreplay you enjoyed before getting pregnant may not be as pleasurable now. Talk about it with your partner. Together, let’s explore new ways of touching that feel comfortable at that moment.

3. Use condoms

Sex during pregnancy is usually safe if you are in a monogamous relationship and both partners are aware of the other’s sexually transmitted disease status. However, if you are with a new partner or multiple partners, you may be exposed to sexually transmitted infections, many of which can harm your pregnancy and fetus. If you find yourself in this situation, always wear a condom during sex to reduce your risk.

Types of sex to avoid during pregnancy

Although most sexual activity is okay during pregnancy (as long as you take the precautions listed above), certain forms of sex during pregnancy are or may be too risky. If you are expecting the following types of sex, try to avoid the following types of sex:

1. Insertion of sharp objects or other objects not intended for insertion into the vagina.

This can lead to injury and infection, Dr. Tanouye says. When it comes to penetration, it’s safest to use your penis, fingers, or properly cleaned sex toys.

2. Blow air into your vagina during oral sex

It may feel good when you’re not pregnant, but blowing air into your vagina can form air bubbles that can reach the placenta and affect fetal development, the APA notes. . Dr. Tanouye also says, although it’s rare, air trapped in the vagina can build up pressure and cause blood vessels to burst, causing spotting and bleeding. “Although this has been reported in some literature, there are only a few case reports so far,” she added.

3. Anal sex

The APA states that anal sex during pregnancy is generally not recommended for several reasons.

Hemorrhoids: Pregnancy can cause hemorrhoids or swollen blood vessels in or around the anus and lower rectum. This can make anal sex painful and increase the risk of bleeding and rupture, which can be serious and require medical attention. Infections: Certain infections, such as giardia and group B streptococcus (GBS), can cause problems for you and your unborn baby. Giardia can cause chronic diarrhea, dehydration, and malnutrition, and GBS can be transmitted to the fetus during childbirth. Both can spread from the rectum to the vaginal canal if you don’t practice proper hygiene, including washing your vagina and anus thoroughly. Sexually transmitted infections: Anal sex increases the risk of sexually transmitted infections, which can have serious effects on a developing fetus, including low birth weight, infections, and brain damage.

Can sex induce or cause labor?

“Generally speaking, no,” Dr. Tanouye says. “There’s no real evidence that sex induces labor or contractions.” However, having an orgasm can cause your uterus to contract, causing cramps. These contractions only last for a short time and go away quickly, but keep in mind that they are different from the contractions you get when you are in labor.

Unlike sex-related uterine contractions, contractions gradually get stronger. “Labor contractions are highly coordinated and organized waves of muscle contractions that work to push down on the baby,” Dr. Tanouye says. So if you feel a little tightness or cramping after sex, most of the time it’s completely normal and nothing to worry about.

But on the other hand, if you have a healthy pregnancy, are near term, and want to start the birth process, sex can be helpful. Although orgasm itself doesn’t cause labor, it may help stimulate the uterus, says Dr. Tanouye.

Similarly, allowing your partner to ejaculate into your vagina during sex (if he has a penis) may also help start labor. Tanouye says this is because “semen has prostaglandin-like properties, hormone-like substances that help regulate uterine contractions.” Semen can also irritate the cervix.

Tips for using vibrators safely during pregnancy

Whether you’re looking for a little sexy time alone or a little fun with your partner, safety should always come first. These vibrator safety tips will give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on having fun.

Get an “OK” response from your provider. If you’re unsure, ask your health care provider if it’s safe to use a vibrator. Make sure your vibrator is clean. Sterile vibrators help reduce the risk of infection. Check your sex toy’s manual for special care instructions. However, in most cases, a little scrubbing with mild soap and water is sufficient. Start with a slow setting. During pregnancy, “both clitoral and vaginal stimulation may be more sensitive,” says Dr. Tanouye. Therefore, using the vibrator at full speed may feel a bit uncomfortable. Try using a lower setting instead. This helps you literally feel things out and know what feels good to you and what is too strong. Please be gentle when inserting. “It’s best to avoid forceful movements that can cause injury or bleeding,” says Dr. Tanouye. Pay attention to your body. “If you experience pain, bleeding, or fluid leakage, stop and call your health care provider,” says Dr. Tanouye.

final point

“Most vibrator use during pregnancy is healthy and safe,” says Dr. Tanouye. “It might be more fun than usual.” As long as you have an uncomplicated, low-risk pregnancy and follow some safety precautions, feel free to experiment to your heart’s content.

And remember: It’s normal for your sex drive to change during pregnancy. You may like it, or you may not be very interested in it, both are perfectly fine. There are many ways to show love and intimacy other than sex. If you have a partner, it can help to be open about how you feel about sex.