"My husband used to want to make love all the time, but now that I'm pregnant, he won't even touch me. I don't know what to do about it, but I wish he would take advantage of the fact that I'm feeling really turned on these days (oddly enough!). It seems like this would be a great time for both of us if he could just get past this."
Isn't it funny how the very same pregnancy hormones that make you bloated and queasy can also leave you hungry — for sex? (Though if you're a mom-to-be experiencing a decreased sex drive, that's perfectly normal too.)
But if you're always in the mood lately, there are good reasons for it. For one — your perpetually engorged pelvic region might contribute to an increased sex drive. For another, there's probably less stress between the sheets than there's been in a while — since you're not actively trying to prevent a baby or create one. (And, if you're a first-time mom, you're not tending to one yet, either!)
All of which sounds like the perfect recipe for romance, except for one missing ingredient: your partner.
For some non-birthing partners, it's a matter of fear — it's possible your partner is just afraid of hurting you or hurting the baby. For others, it's the weirdness factor — getting close to you might mean getting too close for comfort to your baby during a decidedly adult activity.
Whatever the reason, remember not to take it personally — it's not a reflection on you, or a rejection of you. But don't resign yourself to a nine-month dry spell, either. Instead, initiate some pillow talk. Tell them how you're feeling (all fired up and no place to go), and find out what's going on in their head.
Read This Next
Be understanding and patient if your partner has baggage they need to unpack before you hit the sack again. Reassure them that pregnancy sex is perfectly safe (as long as your practitioner has given you the green light).
Let them know (or let them read about it on the site or in What to Expect When You're Expecting) that babies are completely oblivious to parental goings-on (and gettings-it-on), completely impervious to the proceedings (plus, not within reach and likely to be lulled to sleep by the gentle, rhythmic rocking of lovemaking and orgasm). If they're not biting, have your practitioner give them the "sex is safe (and good exercise)" talk.
If they're still not jumping on the jumping-you bandwagon, maybe the two of you could explore other sexual options that might inspire them — like visiting an adult store (online if you're shy) for some toys (the kind that won't be for the baby) to stimulate their interest. Or set the stage for romance — add some mood lighting and music, and offer up a massage (complete with scented oils).
Or, if you're afraid that's too much pressure for them (and for you), just engage in some cozy cuddling on the sofa — it might just put them on the same passionate page as you, and make their hang-ups history.
Yes 
No 
Trending On What to Expect
