When you think of pregnancy, “sexy” might not be the first word that comes to mind. Between morning sickness, mood swings, and figuring out which pregnancy intimacy positions won’t feel like a Cirque du Soleil act, it can all feel… a little complicated. 

Here’s the reality: you are glowing in every sense of the word, and your sensuality doesn’t disappear when your belly starts to grow; it just evolves into something even more powerful and beautiful.

So whether you’re sporting a baby bump or navigating life with a newborn (and possibly a nursing bra or maternity lingerie), this one’s for you. Let’s talk pleasure, connection, and the art of staying intimate through it all.

Pregnancy Plot Twists: What Pregnancy Really Feels Like in the Bedroom

Pregnancy is a magical time filled with anticipation, fluttering baby kicks, and belly rubs – but it can also throw some curveballs when it comes to your sex life. Between ever-shifting hormones, lack of energy, and physical changes, your usual bedroom rhythm might feel a bit … off. 

Here are a few common pregnancy symptoms that can affect desire and comfort:

• Fatigue – growing a human is exhausting, after all.
• Nausea –  morning sickness? More like a "whenever-it-feels-like-it” sickness.
• Frequent bathroom trips – you might even feel like you live there.
• Sore breasts or a tender belly– not exactly the kind of “touchy” you’re craving.
• Heightened sensitivity to smells – and not always in a sexy way.
• Constipation and bloating – not exactly a huge turn-on.
• Heartburn –especially in the second and third trimesters, and often at night. 

The Sweet Spot: What’s Safe, What’s Sexy, and How to Deal With the Lack of Intimacy During Pregnancy

Good news – sex is usually safe during a healthy pregnancy (but always check with your doc first). Even better? It can actually feel amazing thanks to boosted blood flow, natural pain relief from orgasms, and a bonding boost from oxytocin.

Not up for full-on intercourse? That’s ok, too. But if less sex makes you worry about, “How do you deal with lack of intimacy during pregnancy?” – you’re not alone. Try some connection-boosting alternatives like:

• Sensual massages
• Maternity lingerie plus slow, teasing touches
• Showering together
• Sexy talk and naked cuddles 
• Oral, or manual play with fingers or toys
  
  

Bottom line: Pregnancy may shift how you connect, but it doesn’t have to dull the spark. This season of life won’t last forever. Keep communicating, stay playful, and take it slow – one tender moment at a time.

Bumpin’ and Grindin’: Finding Comfortable Positions During Pregnancy

Feeling frisky with a bump? Go for it – just stay flexible (in more ways than one). As your body changes, your go-to moves might need a remix. Some positions (like lying flat on your back or belly) aren’t safe later in pregnancy, but don’t worry – there’s still plenty of room for fun.

Try these favorite pregnancy intimacy positions:

• Side-lying: Cozy, intimate, and comfy – add a pillow between your knees if your back needs love.
• From behind: Whether it’s doggie-style, spooning, or standing, these positions avoid belly pressure and let you rest your upper body.
• On top: You’re in control of rhythm and depth. Belly has space, and you can face either direction – just know it may be trickier later on in pregnancy.
• Modified missionary: Works early on. After the first trimester, prop a pillow under your hips and have your partner support their weight with their arms to stay off your bump.
• Oral play: A pleasurable (and safe) option when intercourse isn’t appealing or allowed – but make sure your partner avoids any air-blowing to prevent rare but serious risks.
  
  

PROTIP: Invest in a sex pillow for comfort and support, and check out our position card deck for even more spicy ideas, safety tweaks, and trimester-friendly inspo in the bedroom.

Confidence with a Capital C: Feeling Sexy in a Changing Body

Growing a human is nothing short of miraculous, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy to feel like a showstopper while doing it. When your body is stretching, expanding, leaking (hi, reality), and shifting in ways you didn’t sign up for, confidence can take a hit. Especially when those changes are happening way outside your control.

But remember this: every curve, every stretch mark, every bit of softness is part of the wonder and magic. Your body is doing incredible things, which deserve celebration, not criticism.  Sure, it’s easy to say… but believing it? That takes time, acceptance, and a lot of self-love.

Here are a few ways to stay kind to yourself (and your reflection) as pregnancy transforms your body:

• Start with small mindset shifts: Compliment yourself out loud (yes, really). Focus on all that your body is doing, not just your appearance. Try saying a few of these affirmations whenever your inner critic shows up. 
• Open up to your partner: Honest conversations about how you’re feeling can lead to deeper emotional intimacy and way more connection in the bedroom.
• Move your body in ways that feel best: Lifting, walking, dancing, swimming, whatever helps lift your spirits.  
• Dress for yourself: Choose clothing styles that can accommodate a growing belly but that also help you feel your best.  
• Don’t underestimate the power of maternity lingerie: Slip into a stretchy lace bralette, a flowy open-front gown, or anything with a soft, forgiving waistband. Opt for maternity-friendly lingerie styles that celebrate your curves, highlight your bust, and leave plenty of room for your beautiful belly.

PROTIP: Ready to find your sexy again? Check out all our top maternity lingerie recommendations for styles that are as sultry as they are supportive. You deserve to feel radiant – every step (and trimester) of the way.

The Postpartum Real Talk: When (and How) to Ease Back In

You did it – your little one is here! Between the snuggles and the exhaustion from sleepless nights, it’s completely normal for intimacy to feel like an afterthought. Between night sweats, engorged breasts, cramping, and postpartum bleeding, your body’s been through the wringer – and with so much shifting, sex might be the last thing on your mind. And that’s more than okay.

The six-week rule is often mentioned, but true recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on everything from delivery type to healing from tears, c-sections, or other postpartum challenges. What matters most is honoring your recovery and tuning into your comfort, physically and emotionally. You get to choose when the time feels right – whether that’s two weeks postpartum or nine months down the road. 

Craving connection with your partner, but not quite up for sex yet? Try rebuilding your emotional and physical connection with:

• Little things like eye contact, hand-holding, hugging, or a lingering kiss. 
• Slow dancing together.
• Steamy showers or relaxing baths side by side.
• Snuggling skin-to-skin under the covers.
• Swapping fantasies or reminiscing on sexy memories.
• Or check out these quick and fun at-home date ideas.

When you're game to explore intimacy again, go slow, keep the communication open with your partner, and don’t be afraid to laugh through the awkward moments. You’re learning a new rhythm — and that’s the beauty of growing together through life.

You Can Still Be Sexy When Nursing – We Promise!

We get it – leaky boobs, sore nipples, and round-the-clock feedings aren’t exactly a turn-on. But just because you're breastfeeding doesn’t mean intimacy has to be off the table (unless you want it to be). That said, it can be tricky. 

Nursing causes a spike in prolactin and a dip in estrogen and testosterone (aka your desire-driving hormones) which can lead to lower libido and vaginal dryness. Still, with some flexibility, an open mind, communication, and lots of lube, intimacy is totally possible during this time.

Juggling hormones, feeds, and fatigue? Here are a few ways to reconnect with your sensual self (yes, she’s still in there!):

• Prioritize rest: Feeling sexy is hard when you’re running on fumes. It’s ok to let the dishes wait, to delegate responsibilities to your partner, take a nap, and carve out some time for self-care.
• Foreplay and lube are must-haves: Fluctuating hormonal shifts can slow down arousal and cause vaginal dryness, so take your time and reach for a high-quality lube (we love Coconu).
• Dress to feel good: Whether it’s a soft LBD or something lacy from Mentionables, slip into pieces that help you feel confident and cared for. Need more inspo? Pop over to our Bump to Baby blog for more postpartum and maternity lingerie recommendations made for the fourth trimester and beyond. 
• Feed first: Worried about leaking during sex? Nurse or pump beforehand, or wear a sexy bra with pads. (And remember, a little milk isn't a mood killer)
• Reframe touch: Feeling “touched out” is real. Shift the focus – ask your partner for the kind of touch that feels giving to you, not just one more thing to give away. 
• Know when to seek support: If sex feels painful, scary, or emotionally distant, talk to your healthcare provider. A pelvic floor therapist or sex therapist can help you heal and reconnect.

Because Sexy Doesn’t Stop at Motherhood

Mama, your body’s doing big things – and it still knows how to bring the heat. Sex during pregnancy and postpartum might look a little different, but it can still be exciting, intimate, and oh-so-steamy (even if it wraps before 9 p.m.). Whether you're reconnecting with your partner or rediscovering your own sensuality, you deserve to feel confident, relaxed, and sexy through it all.

Ready to feel like a total knockout at every motherhood phase? Shop our maternity lingerie and nursing-friendly picks that are designed to support, flatter, and entice through all stages of pregnancy and motherhood – leaks, bumps, and all. 

Tell us: What’s been the most surprising part of pregnancy or postpartum intimacy for you – sweet, steamy, or hilariously unexpected? We’d love to hear it!