Using a vibrator during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a unique adventure, marked by numerous physical and emotional changes. After all, a being is growing inside you, so it's perfectly normal. It's an extraordinary time where each day brings a host of discoveries. And among all these changes, a fluctuating libido may arise .

At Puissante, we are often asked if using a vibrator during pregnancy poses any risks: we finally answer you in this article! 

How does libido fluctuate during pregnancy?

In conversations about pregnancy, the topic of desire is rarely addressed. Yet, the evolution of desires and the relationship with the body is crucial for continuing to enjoy one's sexuality.

During the different trimesters of pregnancy, libido can vary from one woman to another.

The dreaded first quarter

Sometimes a difficult period as the body adapts to physical and hormonal changes , the first trimester is sometimes accompanied by fatigue and nausea. These symptoms can lead to a decrease in sexual desire .

But you might also find your libido skyrockets due to increased blood flow to the pelvic region. It varies from person to person! In our last postpartum survey, 44% of you reported not experiencing any significant changes in your sex drive.

The second quarter: time to breathe

For many women, the second trimester is often a period of respite where the symptoms of the first trimester subside.

Estrogen produced by the placenta can boost libido , making vaginal tissues more receptive and sensitive to touch. Some women even experience an intensification of sexual pleasure. This can lead to a second honeymoon before the baby arrives. A few even experience their first orgasm !

These fluctuations last throughout the pregnancy and are completely normal. It's therefore important to talk about them with your partner and share your feelings. This way, you'll both be ready to ride the waves of evolving desire.

Using a vibrator during pregnancy? Go for it!

To answer this big question: generally speaking, using a vibrator during pregnancy poses no real danger . In fact, you might experience a strong urge to masturbate during the first trimesters, and that's perfectly normal.

It's like sex; introducing something into a changing body can be scary, but there are no medical contraindications. So go ahead and explore your fantasies and desires, alone or with a partner!

At a certain stage of pregnancy, however, inserting objects into the vagina is less advisable . This is discussed below in the precautions to take.

Contrary to popular belief, orgasm does not trigger labor in pregnant women. While vaginal and uterine contractions can help the cervix ripen in late pregnancy, they are not strong enough to induce labor on their own.

Whatever your situation, we still advise you to consult a healthcare professional. You can then enjoy your pregnancy and a fulfilling sex life with complete confidence.

Vibrator during pregnancy: some precautions to take

Excessive uterine stimulation

During the first trimester, the risk of miscarriage is higher . Although most miscarriages are not related to sexual activity, doctors may recommend avoiding any stimulation of the uterus. 

The use of penetrating vibrators such as the rabbit could cause uterine contractions or stimulation deemed inappropriate at this stage.

Precaution against the onset of labor

During the third trimester, internal vibrations could trigger uterine contractions and thus induce premature labor. Although the risk is low, it is generally best to take extra precautions during this sensitive period. 

The perfect vibrators for every stage of your pregnancy

If your healthcare professional recommends avoiding all internal stimulation, for whatever reason, externally stimulating vibrators will become your friends!

Designed to gently stimulate arousal by emphasizing sensation rather than performance, Toupie allows for simultaneous stimulation of both the clitoris and vulva . You can also try clitoral suction devices like the Mini-Coco .

The specific case of high-risk pregnancies

In France, of the approximately 830,000 women who become pregnant each year, 160,000 will experience a high-risk pregnancy , according to Le Figaro Santé . A high-risk pregnancy is defined as one "during which an event occurs that poses a risk to the mother or the child." In such cases, the vibrations of a toy are strongly discouraged.

In the case of a high-risk pregnancy, where the risk of premature labor is already high, this could worsen the situation and potentially trigger labor.

Several factors can be characteristic of a "complicated pregnancy":

• a multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets, etc.),

• a history of difficult pregnancy (premature cervical dilation, premature birth, etc.),

• certain medical histories or chronic illnesses in the mother (diabetes, hypertension, heart transplant, etc.).

It is important to talk to your midwife or gynecologist to find out if you have a high-risk pregnancy and therefore adapt your intimacy and experience these 9 months in the best possible way.

The benefits of orgasm during pregnancy

We often repeat this on the blog and on our Instagram account: having an orgasm has many benefits .

But there are others:

• mapping one's desire and taming one's body,

• release of endorphins and a cocktail of feel-good hormones,

• Wishing you and your little baby good cheer,

• pain reduction, which can be a real relief during pregnancy and the fatigue that it causes.

• promoting blood circulation, thus contributing to the general health and well-being of the expectant mother.

While orgasm is not an end in itself, pregnancy can be a wonderful opportunity to explore it. The pressure exerted by the fetus on the vagina and pelvic floor, along with increased sensitivity of the skin and erogenous zones, makes your body fertile ground for pleasure, whether alone or with a partner.

Our best tips for using a vibrator during pregnancy

A top-notch interview

It is essential to clean your vibrator before and after each use to prevent the growth of bacteria. Use a pH-neutral cleaning foam , specially formulated to pamper your vibrators. 

Respect your body

Pay attention to your body's signals during and after using the vibrator. If you experience any discomfort, pain, or abnormal contractions, stop immediately and consult a healthcare professional.

Read the instruction manuals carefully

Whether you're using a vibrator, lubricants, or oils, we advise you to carefully read the labels to understand the ingredients, as some can cause irritation or be unsuitable during pregnancy. Our lubricant is water-based and contains lily extract , perfect for soothing your intimate areas!

Choosing the right materials

Some plastic toys may contain phthalates, substances that can potentially disrupt the body's hormones. This is why these products are no longer permitted in the manufacture of baby bottles, pacifiers, and other infant products.

When buying a new plastic vibrator, be sure to choose those labeled "phthalate-free ." The best and safest material is undoubtedly medical-grade silicone.

Take your time

Depending on the type of vibrator you're using , it can also be a good idea to go a little slower than usual, especially at first. Try slower movements and a gentler intensity to see how you feel, then get creative! Dare to take this moment to rediscover your pregnant body and give each erogenous zone some love.

You now have all the information you need to use a vibrator during pregnancy. Remember that every pregnancy is different. There are no right or wrong ways to experience these nine months, as long as you respect your own rhythm and listen to your body. And this is true even after giving birth; it's important to listen to your body and your libido. To understand postpartum libido, this is the place to start.