Masturbation is a fantastic way to enhance pleasure, and this includes during pregnancy. As long as you have a low-risk pregnancy and are not on pelvic rest (which might be advised if you have conditions like a low-lying placenta or placenta previa, risk of preterm labor, or other complications), masturbation is considered safe and beneficial.
The Benefits of Masturbation During Pregnancy
Masturbation not only feels great but also offers several health benefits. Orgasms release oxytocin, a hormone that contributes to overall well-being and provides pain relief. If you're dealing with pregnancy-related discomfort, such as back pain or sore breasts, a solo session might be just what you need. Furthermore, an orgasm can help reduce anxiety, offering a soothing effect during times of stress.
Additionally, sexual excitement triggers the release of serotonin, which can boost sexual satisfaction and stabilize mood. This makes pregnancy masturbation a great way to experience a blend of pleasure and emotional balance.
Expert Tips for Enhancing Your Masturbation Experience
Whether you're new to masturbation or a seasoned pro, sex therapist Jordan Rullo, PhD, offers valuable advice to maximize your pleasure:
Start the Desire Fire Pregnancy can affect your sex drive in various ways. Some people experience increased libido, while others may notice a decrease, especially during the first trimester due to hormone fluctuations and physical discomfort. Understanding that sexual desire is often a response to stimuli rather than an automatic reaction can help. To ignite desire, create a relaxed, private environment with soft lighting, soothing music, or other personal touches that help you unwind and focus on yourself.
Explore Your Whole Body Instead of focusing solely on your genitals, explore different areas of your body to discover erogenous zones. Gently massage your legs, inner thighs, arms, or abdomen to enhance your self-stimulation experience. This approach helps you connect with your body and can be particularly useful if you're dealing with low libido or body image concerns.
Lube Up Using lubricant can enhance pleasure by reducing friction and increasing sensation. Opt for a water-based lube with natural ingredients, free from sugar, parabens, and other harmful chemicals. Lubrication can make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
Start from the Outside The clitoris, with its approximately 8,000 nerve endings, is a key area for stimulation. During pregnancy, increased blood flow can make the genitals more sensitive. Begin by gently touching your labia before moving to the clitoris. Experiment with various techniques such as rubbing in circular motions, up and down strokes, or tracing side to side. A variety of speeds and pressures can enhance arousal.
Work Your Way In With increased sensitivity, vaginal penetration might be more pleasurable during pregnancy. Ensure you're fully aroused before attempting penetration. Insert one or two fingers or a sex toy into your vagina and gently explore the interior front wall with a rocking motion. Take your time and use lubrication to ensure comfort.
Combine Clitoral and Vaginal Stimulation For a more comprehensive experience, try combining clitoral and vaginal stimulation. Use one hand to stimulate your clitoris while the other explores internal areas. This dual approach can enhance overall pleasure.
Be Present Deep breathing is crucial for relaxation and enhancing your experience. Practice mindful breathing to help you stay present and grounded. This technique might take some practice, so be patient with yourself.
Tap into All of Your Senses Engage all your senses to enrich your experience. Pay attention to what you feel, hear, see, and smell. Focusing on these sensory details can deepen your connection to the moment and enhance pleasure.
Get Some Gear Sex toys, like vibrators, are generally safe during pregnancy but should be kept clean to minimize infection risks. Vibrators can provide concentrated clitoral stimulation and are useful for exploring different sensations. Choose a silicone vibrator with adjustable speeds and settings for a customizable experience.
Enjoy and Take Your Time
Masturbation during pregnancy is an opportunity for self-exploration and pleasure. Set aside time to fully enjoy your self-love sessions and approach them as important, pleasurable experiences. The more you invest in understanding and satisfying your own needs, the better your sexual experiences will be, both solo and with partners.
Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and embrace the journey of discovering what brings you pleasure.
References
1. https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/pregnancy/sex-during-pregnancy
2. https://www.nhs.uk/
3. https://academic.oup.com/jsm
