It’s often said that the first trimester of pregnancy is marked by fatigue, nausea, and hormonal upheavals, which can completely dampen libido. However, things often change from the second trimester onwards, when some women experience a real surge in desire. Increased blood circulation enhances sensitivity in erogenous zones, while the placenta produces estrogen, further boosting libido at this stage of pregnancy.

You may have heard that pregnancy amplifies desire and that pregnant women are swept up in passionate moments at all times. But the reality is that every experience is unique. For some, discovering a new kind of sexuality during pregnancy can feel unsettling, while for others, a gentle cuddle might be far more comforting than an intense encounter. Desires evolve throughout pregnancy, from the first to the last trimester, and can even change from day to day. The most important thing is to listen to yourself, respect your own rhythm, and communicate openly about your desires—without pressure or judgment.

And what about the baby? This is one of the main concerns for expecting mothers. Many wonder about the impact of sexual activity on their baby, but rest assured: unless there is a medical contraindication, sex poses no risk at all. As long as it brings you pleasure and well-being, there’s no reason to deprive yourself—quite the opposite! Protected by the amniotic fluid and the cervix, your baby only benefits from the release of feel-good hormones (endorphins) produced by your body.

After birth, your body needs time to heal. Between fatigue, postpartum pain, and the healing of the perineum or a C-section scar, every woman should go through this period at her own pace. There’s no fixed timeline for resuming intimacy. While some may feel ready after a few weeks, others may need several months—and both are completely normal.

So, when can you resume sexual activity? Medically, it’s often recommended to wait until post-birth bleeding (lochia) has stopped—typically around 4 to 6 weeks. But beyond the physical aspect, your feelings matter most. There’s no pressure: reconnecting with intimacy can start with gentle touches, massages, moments of tenderness, or even self-exploration at your own pace. If you choose to explore solo, sex toys can be an option—with some precautions in mind. For instance, vibrating models are generally not recommended early in pregnancy. However, non-vibrating options, such as Kegel balls or dildos, can be completely safe and even help strengthen the pelvic floor. Ultimately, the key is to listen to yourself and explore whatever brings you comfort and pleasure—always at your own rhythm.

As our friends at Bliss Stories remind us, if you feel anxious about resuming penetrative sex, know that there is absolutely no rush! Why not (re)discover other erogenous zones of your body—perhaps less well-known, but just as pleasurable? Think about your mouth and tongue, your neck and hair, your breasts and buttocks, but also your thighs, knees, and even your feet (especially the arch). These areas, when touched or kissed, can not only bring pleasure but also gently and excitingly awaken your libido.

If you experience persistent discomfort or feel apprehensive, don’t hesitate to talk to your midwife or gynecologist—there are many resources available to support you. You can also find ways to make your return to intimacy easier: for example, vaginal dryness is common postpartum, so using a suitable lubricant can help. Additionally, perineal rehabilitation can be beneficial for regaining intimate comfort.

For more personalized advice, we recommend these two episodes of La Matrescence podcast by Clémentine Sarlat:

🎙️ Episode 16 (Special Edition) – Postpartum Sexuality (with sexologist Manon Bonnet)
🎙️ Episode 97 – Rediscovering Intimacy After Baby (with sexologist and author Camille Bataillon)

Remember, every journey is unique! Your body has just been through an incredible experience, and treating it with care is essential. Whether you feel ready to reconnect with intimacy quickly or prefer to take your time, the only right answer is your own.

What matters most? Taking your time, listening to yourself, and never feeling guilty. Sexuality is an important part of reclaiming your body. Go at your own pace, do what feels right, and most importantly, do what brings you pleasure—alone, with a partner, or both.

Because in the end, the best way to experience sexuality during pregnancy and postpartum (or at any time, really) is with total freedom. 💕