“Having sex during pregnancy is healthy!?”
In my mind having sex during pregnancy was taboo (silly me, I know), with weird assumptions of sperms making the child blind or it being poked during intercourse. Sex is however beneficial to both mother and baby. It is perfectly safe and can be done in a comfortable way for both you and your partner. Here are 5 health benefits of staying sexually active during pregnancy:
Weight watch
A half an hour sex session can burn up to 50 calories. This may not be a substitute to your exercise routine but it will surely add a little bit of something to it!
Blood pressure
Keeping your blood pressure within a healthy range is very important. Mothers-to-be are aware of the risk and complications high blood pressure has to them and their unborn child. Having sex regularly helps regulate and lower blood pressure.
Sleep like a queen
Any pregnant woman knows of the sleep struggles that come with a growing baby bump, having sex can have you lounging in the “after sex” vibe making it easier for you to fall asleep (you tend to turn and twist less after getting some). The rocking during sex may also make your baby sleep, making them less active during the night. Mommy can have a better night’s rest.
Feel good after
Oxytocin (a feel-good hormone) is released when you orgasm, this increases pain tolerance making it easier to deal with nasty back pain and other discomforts after sex. Sex also acts as a stress reliever, releasing emotions of anxiety and depression that might creep in because of hormones. Oxytocin replaces them with those of love and happiness bringing you closer to your partner.
Immunity booster
It is believed that Oxytocin also acts as an immune system booster, which is very important since pregnancy makes you prone to catching infections and viruses.