Pregnancy is an incredible journey filled with both physical and emotional changes. Naturally, it comes with a flood of questions that mums-to-be have, many of which are related to sexual wellness and pleasure.
Is sex off the table? Can you use a vibrator while pregnant without any risk to your baby? These concerns are quite common,yet they are often met with outdated and misleading information that only adds to your worries.
Well, luckily for you, we are here to change that and offer an in-depth guide on vibrator use during pregnancy. Find a cosy spot, kick your feet up, and read on — here’s everything you need to know.
Can You Use a Vibrator While Pregnant? The Short Answer
We’ll get right down to business and answer your most burning question. Yes, it is generally safe to use a vibrator while pregnant. In fact, many women find sexual pleasure while pregnant — be it solo or with a partner — beneficial both physically and emotionally.
External vibrators — those you use on your labia and clitoris without insertion — are a particularly safe way to bring yourself extra pleasure. While internal vibrators carry a slightly higher risk due to the possibility of infection, they can be just as enjoyable and safe if used with caution.
So, it goes without saying that the myths surrounding sex toy use during pregnancy aren’t something to worry about. The vibrator cannot touch your baby, and the risk of injury or infection is not greater because you are pregnant.
That said, it is important to remember that every pregnancy is a unique journey. So, consulting with your healthcare provider and following their advice in regard to sex toy use is always a must.
This is particularly true for women with high-risk pregnancies, a history of miscarriage or preterm labour, or specific complications such as placenta previa.
The Benefits of Using a Vibrator While Pregnant
Just like sex in general, vibrator use during pregnancy comes with a wide range of physical and psychological benefits.
For starters, orgasms can help alleviate common pregnancy discomforts, including pelvic pressure, lower back pain, and muscle tension. Additionally, pleasure triggers the release of endorphins and oxytocin, which can significantly reduce pain-related stress and tension.
In terms of emotional wellness, using a vibrator can be just as beneficial. For example, it can help you maintain or improve intimacy with your partner at a time when penetrative sex might feel uncomfortable for different reasons.
Just as importantly, regular vibrator use can ensure you are more in tune with and appreciative of your changing body. As a result, you may feel more confident and secure in your appearance and overall desirability.
Using Vibrators During Pregnancy: Safety Tips
The key to safe vibrator use during pregnancy is always ensuring hygiene and comfort.
First, all the typical sex toy use safety tips apply — and are even stricter — for mums-to-be. This means your toy ought to be thoroughly clean and free of bacteria before use.
To ensure that, wash the toy according to the manufacturer’s instructions before and after each use. As tedious as that might seem, it’s the only way to stay infection-free while enjoying yourself.
Another tip is to opt for toys made from completely body-safe and eco-friendly materials. Ditch plastic for silicone, and look for toys that are manufactured using sustainable practices.
In this way, it’s a win-win situation, as you’ll keep yourself and your baby safe while also doing something positive for the planet — and your child’s future on it.
If you’re concerned about using your regular internal vibrator, consider switching to a palm model! That way, you can stimulate yourself externally and avoid infections at a time when your body is at its most vulnerable. Whether alone or with a partner, a vibrator like this can spice up your pleasure unlike anything else!
Finally, perhaps the most important safety advice we can give is to listen to your body. If something feels uncomfortable, stop and explore other ways to enjoy yourself. This applies to everything from the position you’re in to the type of toy you are using.
Additionally, talk to your doctor about any concerns and changes you notice. They are there to make your pregnancy journey safer and give you peace of mind, so never hesitate to share what’s on your mind.
Can You Use a Vibrator While Pregnant: Precautions and Red Flags
As we have mentioned, using a vibrator while pregnant is safe — so long as you take the necessary safety precautions.
With that said, there are certain situations where avoiding vibrators (and sex toys in general) can help keep your pregnancy as low-risk as possible. Put simply, if your doctor advises against it or expressly forbids it, do not use a vibrator in any way.
Listening to your doctor is especially important if you have a high-risk pregnancy or any history of complications. In some cases, they might advise avoiding orgasms as a whole, and doing so can be pivotal to protecting your baby.
In case they give you the green light, remember to always pay close attention to how your body reacts to the vibrator. If you notice any discomfort, pain, spotting, or unusual cramping, stop using your toy. Talk to your doctor about possible causes and ways to avoid them during future use.
All in all, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Listen to your healthcare providers — and to your body. That way, you will ensure your baby stays safe and you remain healthy and ready to greet it when the time comes.
Can You Use a Vibrator While Pregnant? Final Thoughts
As a time of profound change, pregnancy comes with a lot of uncertainty and fear of the unknown. Thus, it’s important to stay informed and always seek out answers to questions that worry or interest you.
Can you use a vibrator while pregnant? is one of the most common questions mums-to-be ask, and for good reason. After all, playtime with a good vibe can do a lot to relieve stress, alleviate tension, and make you more confident — all of which are pivotal during pregnancy.
Luckily, it’s something you can very much continue during pregnancy as long as you take all the necessary safety precautions. These include maintaining hygiene, opting for sustainable toys made of body-safe materials, and listening to your doctor’s advice.
Tick all these boxes, and you will be able to reap all the amazing benefits of vibrator use while keeping yourself and your baby completely safe!