Is It Safe To Use A Vibrator While You Are Pregnant?

Written by Ria Saha

Last Updated on Jan 13, 2016

We know how embarrassing asking the gynecologist if you can use a vibrator during pregnancy can seem. So, we at Momjunction decided to answer this question for you! Read our post below and learn whether it is safe to use a vibrator during pregnancy.

Is It Safe To Use A Vibrator While You Are Pregnant?

During your pregnancy, your raging hormones can heighten your libido, and the desire to have sex may overcome you. However, when you are expecting your first baby, you might not want to give full vent to your desires. The golden rule is that as long as your doctor does not ask you to refrain from having sex during pregnancy, you can fulfill your sexual desires. One of the questions such a stance raises is: can I use a vibrator during pregnancy?

And, the answer to the question is yes! Pregnancy is the phase where you should enjoy yourself, and we include fulfillment of sexual desires in the enjoyment. While the thought of having sex during pregnancy may put you off when you are thinking of babies, but science says that women experience increased arousal during pregnancy.

The increased pelvic blood flow and higher breast sensitivity only increase your libido. But, as your belly is now a football, you may find it difficult to perform the act. In such a scenario, the vibrator helps you achieve orgasm, without exerting a strain on your body. So, do away with all those not-so-comfortable comfort positions, which may harm your unborn baby, and use a vibrator during pregnancy. As long as you follow some basic safety guidelines, you can safely use the vibrators during pregnancy.

Note:

There are no clinical trials to study or support the view that sex toys can lead to safety hazards during pregnancy. Experts believe that, with some simple precautions you can safely use the vibrator and enjoy the orgasm. However, if you are a higher risk of developing preterm/ premature labor or experiencing the frequent uterine contractions, you may have to ask your gynecologist before you use a vibrator during pregnancy, as it can endanger your unborn baby.

[ Read: Is Sex Safe During Pregnancy ]

Precautions To Take Before You Use A Vibrator During Pregnancy:

You probably didn’t know that many expecting mothers prefer to use vibrators during pregnancy, as they make orgasms more pleasurable and less strenuous than having sex. However, you should strictly adhere to the following precautions:

1. Opt For External Vibrators:

During pregnancy, it is advisable for your to choose the external vibrators rather than the internal ones.

Manufacturers use plastic to make internal vibrators, which increases the risk of deeper penetration in the cervix.

The material can easily irritate your cervical lining and endanger your uterus, which can affect your pregnancy.

2. Follow Proper Hygiene Etiquette:

Pregnancy is a time for caution, and you need to sterilize the vibrator before and after you use it.

An unwashed vibrator can elevate the risk of bacterial infection.

You can use lukewarm water and a mild detergent to clean the tip of the vibrator thoroughly. After washing, take a tissue paper and wipe off the extra moisture.

Consider using a condom to cover the vibrator, before inserting it into your vagina. It limits your risk from experiencing vaginal infections or sexually transmitted diseases.

[ Read: Oral Sex During Pregnancy ]

3. Be Gentle:

As the material of the vibrators seems to be stiffer and harder that the male penis, you need to be gentle, while you are inserting it into the vagina.

A more forceful or deeper than normal insertion can damage your vaginal lining.

4. Store It In A Clean Place:

Once you sterilize the vibrator, store it in a clean and dry place.

Ensure that you wipe the extra moisture.

5. Seek Medical Assistance:

During the last trimester of pregnancy, it is better to seek medical guidance before using pregnancy vibrators.

If you have a low-lying placenta or a weak cervix, your doctor may ask you not to use a vibrator during pregnancy (1).

Warning Signs To Watch For While Using A Vibrator During Pregnancy:

Here are some potential warning signs that you watch for while using vibrator during pregnancy:

While using vibrators during pregnancy, if you feel discomfort, irritation or pain, stop using the device immediately.

After using the vibrator, if you notice vaginal spotting, speak to your gynecologist on your next visit.

If you experience mild to severe abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding after using the vibrator, seek medical assistance as soon as possible.

As you advance towards your third trimester of pregnancy (after 37 weeks), an orgasm or using a vibrator can trigger painful contractions. But if the pain persists for more than two hours contact the gynecologist immediately.

Benefits Of Using A Vibrator During Pregnancy:

Sex is a vital aspect of every relationship. During pregnancy, as your body goes through several physical and emotional upheaval, having sex can keep you well-connected with your partner. Sex helps improve your mood and relaxes you. In healthy women, regular sex during pregnancy eventually limits the risks of preterm delivery, and you can derive the same benefits from the vibrators, except the connection with your partner. However, it remains the most comfortable way to pleasure yourself when your belly is a football.

[ Read: Is Anal Sex Safe During Pregnancy ]

A Word Of Caution:

Avoid forceful penetration or anal penetration, especially if the material is a rigid plastic.

Make sure that the vibrator is clean and wash it properly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Unclean vibrators increase your risk of experiencing vaginal infections.

When you are at higher risk of premature labor, you should restrict the use of a vibrator as it can initiate contractions.

When the doctor diagnoses you with placenta previa (a low placenta located near your cervix), using a vibrator to have an orgasm can cause severe bleeding that can jeopardize your pregnancy and lead to miscarriage.

Refrain from inserting a vibrator into your vagina, if your water has already broken. Doing so elevates your chances of introducing bacteria into your vagina, and suffer from infectious diseases.

Did you use a vibrator to achieve orgasm during pregnancy? Tell us about your experience. Fellow mommies would love to know!

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