Changing feelings and emotions
Forgetfulness
Some women forget things when they are pregnant. For most
women, this is not a big problem. But some may worry if they
do not know it is normal. No one knows why women become
more forgetful when they are pregnant, but it is common.
Feelings about sex
Some women do not want much sex when
they are pregnant. Others want sex more
than usual. Both feelings are normal.
Having sex and not having sex are both OK
for the woman and her baby. Sex is not
dangerous for the baby.
Sometimes sex is uncomfortable in
pregnancy. A woman and her partner can try different positions for making love. It
may feel better with the woman on top, or in a sitting or standing position, or
with the woman lying on her side.
There are other ways, besides sexual intercourse, for couples to be close and please
each other. Some couples touch and massage each other’s bodies. Some talk about
hopes and fears together.
Safer sex
When a pregnant woman has sex, it is important
to avoid infection by making sure that anything
put inside her body is clean. This includes the
penis and hands.
A man who is having sex with more than
one woman must always use condoms —
including with his pregnant partner.
Condoms are a good way to prevent infections,
HIV, and other illnesses. See Chapter 18 to
learn more about HIV and other sexually
transmitted infections.
Sex and early labor
A woman who has gone
into early labor in other
pregnancies might
choose to avoid sex after
the 6th month. This may
help prevent going into
labor too early.
A Book for Midwives (2010)
83