Rachel Baker is the founder of LBDO
Pregnancy changes so much: your body, your hormones, and often, your relationship with sex. Some days it might feel familiar, even heightened. Other days, completely out of reach. And that’s all normal. Many people find themselves wondering: What’s going on? Is this okay? And how do I stay connected to my body through it all?
Let’s explore how the changes brought on by pregnancy can impact desire, arousal, and comfort, and how tuning in, rather than tuning out, can help you feel more connected, not less.
Hormones, Desire and Fluctuations in Libido
During pregnancy, your body produces more oestrogen, progesterone, and oxytocin - hormones that can influence your mood, energy levels, and sex drive. In the first trimester, it’s common to feel a dip in desire. Fatigue, nausea, and physical changes can leave sex low on the priority list. That’s completely normal.
As you move into the second trimester, things often shift. Many people notice a renewed interest in sex - often thanks to a boost in energy, changing hormones, and increased blood flow. You might feel more sensitive, more curious, or more open to pleasure. But for others, emotional or physical discomforts may linger or even intensify. There’s no single way this journey unfolds - and no “right” level of desire to have.
The Body’s Physical Changes and Arousal
Pregnancy can make you feel more aroused - or less - depending on how your body is changing and how you feel in it. Increased blood flow to the pelvis can heighten sensitivity in the vulva, clitoris, and vagina, making arousal feel more intense or more accessible. Some people find orgasms come more easily. For others, the sensations feel different or a little too intense. At the same time, physical changes - like a growing belly, tender breasts, or shifts in posture - might change how you move, what positions feel good, and what you feel up for.
Lubrication can also fluctuate. Some pregnant people experience more natural lubrication, while others feel drier than usual. If dryness is affecting comfort, a gentle, pH-balanced water-based lubricant like LBDO’s Flow can help.
Comfort, Discomfort and Communication
Comfort during sex while pregnant isn’t just about physical positioning - though that matters too. It’s about tuning in to what feels right in the moment and giving yourself full permission to honour that. Some days, your body might say yes to intimacy. Other days, it might not.
Positions that once felt great might now feel awkward or uncomfortable. Try side-lying positions, being on top, or using pillows for extra support. You might also find that certain types of touch feel too intense, especially around your belly or breasts.
To get 20% off all LBDO products, enter THEMEMO20 at checkout!