Growing a tiny human is no walk in the park. Your body goes through all sorts of unusual changes that can make you feel less than attractive and downright exhausted. And on top of that, you have a partner who still wants to get busy with you.
Sure, some women absolutely revel in pregnancy and are all about that intimate life. But for many of us, it’s a different story. Enter Sarah Blake, an Australian blogger and mom of three who’s expecting her fourth child this June. In a recent post, she humorously tackled the subject of sex during pregnancy—especially the shock of her husband still being interested in it during her third trimester. If you’ve ever felt this way, you’ll likely see yourself in her words.
“Pregnant intimacy—let’s keep it real, we’re talking about pregnant sex here.” Exactly, right? If you’re even getting some at all, consider yourself lucky. Just get in and out, and please—bring her snacks afterward!
“There are women who thrive during pregnancy, loving every bit of action from their partner. Then there are folks like me.” And me. And countless other women. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever spoken to a mom friend who enjoyed pregnancy sex beyond those magical few weeks midway through when you’re not nauseous or enormous, and life feels somewhat manageable.
At 30 weeks pregnant, Sarah is past that blissful window. “We try. I really think we do. I know how I got into this situation, and I promised myself I’d embrace it this time. I’d thrive, I said. I’d be a total sexy goddess while pregnant—yeah, right.”
Now she feels like a “beached whale” who’s sweaty and sporting a panty liner—not for the reasons you might think. Her belly is rashy, her breasts are like “weapons,” and she’s breathing as if she just ran a marathon. The last time she shaved? Let’s just say it was a touch-and-feel job. “And he still calls me beautiful and sexy,” she marvels.
Sarah can’t help but wonder what’s wrong with her husband. “I’m at my worst. I’m leaking, I stink, I’m hairy, and I probably have more sweat under my breasts than he does on the hottest summer day. And yet, he still wants me.”
Preach, right? I’ve had this convo with so many women, and it’s honestly baffling how any man is still interested in late pregnancy. Sarah jokes that maybe he’s one of those guys who’s into pregnant women, but deep down, she knows the truth. “Or maybe he’s just an incredible, caring partner and a terrible liar dealing with an emotional and stretched-out pregnant wife. Either way, I’ll keep him.”
To all the partners out there who may not make us feel beautiful but do make us feel loved—thank you, from the bottom of our sweaty hearts.
If you’re interested in more about pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource from the NHS or discover some essential tools for your journey at BabyMaker.
In summary, Sarah Blake’s candid post about the realities of intimacy during pregnancy resonates with many women. While some thrive on affection during this time, others find it challenging to embrace their changing bodies and the physical demands of pregnancy. Yet, the support and love from partners can make all the difference, reminding us that attractiveness comes in many forms.