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Warning: You may not want your children to read some topics in this section. |
Sexuality, libido and your relationship
Libido and communication
During the middle phase of pregnancy (from about 12-14 weeks until about 28 to 30 weeks), many women find they have a renewed interest in sex, as they feel physically better and more energetic. The pregnant belly is not very big yet, making you feel relatively comfortable (compared to later in the pregnancy). There are now less concerns about miscarriage (or contraception) and both partners have usually come to accept the pregnancy, if there was initial ambivalence.
Women often feel more relaxed now, with sexual arousal and sensuality often become heightened. Extra blood supply to the vagina and clitoris increase sensations, making the genitals softer and 'full' and being able to achieve orgasm more readily. The nipples can be extremely sensitive to touch, being either more sensuous or perhaps uncomfortable. The breasts are larger and sometimes tender, so handle with care! A few women will start to secrete colostrum from their nipples after about 14 to 16 weeks (although not every woman will).
By about 20 to 22 weeks (or earlier), the baby will start to be felt moving. This will initially only be sensed by the woman, but as the baby grows bigger and stronger (after about 24 weeks) the partner will also be able to feel their baby move (often as 'jabs' in their back at night if the woman's belly is resting up against it when laying side by side).