Pregnant Masturbation: What to Know & 10 Tips

Guess what? You can be pregnant and horny. Yep, it’s a thing — and nope, you don’t have to feel weird for not knowing that masturbating during pregnancy is totally normal (and actually kind of wonderful). We just don’t talk about it enough.

For some women, pregnancy hormones like estrogen and progesterone crank up the dial on libido. Add in increased blood flow to your pelvis, and suddenly your body’s like, “hi, yes, we’re turned on now.” A lot of people notice this especially towards the end of the first trimester or the start of the second.

But — big but — that doesn’t mean everyone feels this way. If you’re battling nausea, constipation, or vaginal dryness (aka pregnancy’s least fun party favors), sex might be the last thing on your mind. Both experiences are equally valid. There’s no “right” way to feel about sex while pregnant.

In this article: 📝

Are orgasms safe during pregnancy?

Unless your doctor has told you otherwise, having an orgasm during pregnancy should be absolutely fine.

And here’s the thing: Orgasms do cause uterine contractions, but these are usually gentle and totally normal. Plus, uterine blood flow also increases during an orgasm, improving placental circulation (which can even be good for baby). [1]

So in low-risk pregnancies, orgasms are safe and might make you feel even better. But if you’re unsure at all, chat with your healthcare provider. (And no, there’s absolutely no shame in asking the question.)

Tried and tested tips for pregnancy masturbation

So, you’re curious about going solo while pregnant? Here’s your no-BS guide to masturbating during pregnancy — what’s safe, what feels good, and what to look out for.

1. You’re allowed to ‘toy’ with yourself. Use your dildo or vibrator.

Unless otherwise instructed by your doctor, penetration is fine. You’ve got that mucus plug there acting as a bouncer for your baby so, in most cases, you’re good to go.

Just keep everything extra clean to be extra safe. Pregnancy makes your vagina a bit more sensitive to infections, so washing your toys thoroughly helps keep things safe and comfy. [2]

Rule of thumb? If it vibrates, soap and water. If it doesn’t, you can boil it in hot water to sterilize it.

2. Sharing toys = added risk of STIs.

Especially if you’re sharing toys, with a partner or anyone else, pop a condom on them first. And it’s a great idea to both get regular STI checks during pregnancy, just to keep everyone (and baby) protected.

3. Follow your own lead.

If anything feels strange, stop. If it feels good, go.

You know your body. And on that note:

4. Use pregnant masturbation as a means to explore.

Masturbation can be a pretty amazing way to get to know this transforming body of yours. And:

5. It may just help you with those pregnancy symptoms.

For some women, pregnant masturbation can help relieve all sorts of uncomfortable sensations, from aches and pains to swollen feet.

Why not give it a go? 💁

6. It may improve your sleep trouble. 💤

If pregnancy has made it difficult for you to get to sleep at night, having a little solo session before bed can go a long way. This is because orgasms release calming hormones (which can lull you into better sleep). [3]

7. There are some times that pregnant masturbation should be avoided.

While masturbation is usually safe during pregnancy, there are a few situations where it’s better to hit pause. Here’s when to give your body the break it’s asking for.

• If your water has broken, there might be an increased chance of infection. [4]
• If your doctor is monitoring you for the possibility of preterm birth. In some cases, penetration can cause early labor, so it may be worth staving off if this is a risk for you. [5]
• You have preeclampsia.
• You don’t feel like it.

8. You may feel some cramping after an orgasm.

This is generally normal. Your cervix is a whole lot more sensitive at the moment.

Add to that the increased blood flow in that general direction, and your body may respond with some cramps. If they’re severe, chat to your healthcare provider. [6]

9. You might have some spotting after orgasm.

Because your cervix is going through some changes, light spotting can happen. [6]

If it’s light and brief, don’t stress. If it’s dark red, heavy, or accompanied by pain, check in with your doctor.

10. Normalize the conversation.

Yup, this is our last tip when it comes to pregnant masturbation. Because it’s seriously about time.

Let’s get real: talking about masturbation during pregnancy isn’t taboo, it’s healthy. The more open we are, the less awkward everyone feels (and the better for your mental health)

There is absolutely no shame in enjoying your body. You may find that it’s just what you need.

And if it’s definitely not what you need right now, also totally fine. You do your pregnancy in the way that works best for you. Enjoy!

Can masturbating cause miscarriage?

A super common fear. In most healthy pregnancies, the answer is no. Orgasms and self-pleasure don’t trigger miscarriage — those heartbreaking losses are almost always linked to genetic or medical factors outside your control. If you’ve been told you’re high-risk, though, check in with your provider for peace of mind. [7]

Can masturbating induce labor?

Orgasms can trigger uterine contractions, but in a low-risk pregnancy, these are harmless “practice contractions” called Braxton Hicks contractions. They’re not strong enough to kick-start labor before your body is ready. Close to your due date, some people try orgasms to help bring on labor — but that’s only safe if your doctor gives you the green light. [8]

Will the baby feel it if I masturbate?

Nope. Your baby is cushioned in the amniotic sac, blissfully unaware. What they might notice is a wave of relaxing hormones after you orgasm — which is actually a lovely thing for them. [9]

Pleasure, pregnancy, and zero shame

At the end of the day, masturbating during pregnancy is just another way of tuning into your body — whether that means stress relief, better sleep, or simply a few minutes of joy. For most women, it’s safe, healthy, and nothing to feel embarrassed about.

And if it’s not your thing right now? Also totally normal. Pregnancy is full of changes, and your relationship with sex can shift along the way. The most important part is listening to yourself, talking openly with your doctor if you’re unsure, and remembering: pleasure is never something to apologize for.