Some pregnant women notice an increase in sexual drive, while others lose interest in sex because of nausea, morning sickness, and fatigue. This happens due to increases in the main female hormones progesterone and estrogen.

Women often wonder whether masturbation during pregnancy involves any risks. Most doctors agree that it is safe and can even provide health benefits, such as lowering stress, relieving pregnancy-related symptoms and cramps, and promoting blood flow.

Provided that the pregnancy is low-risk and that you have agreed it with your ob-gyn, masturbation during pregnancy is considered to be safe.

Remember to do the following:

• Wash your hands

• If you use any additional tools for masturbation, wash them with soap and rinse properly

• Cover any sex toy with a condom to minimize the risk of infection. Change the condom between each use of the toy.

• Keep fingernails clean and trimmed short to prevent scratches

There are some conditions when masturbation while pregnant would be prohibited. This includes a weakened cervix, risks of premature labor or a history of such, uterine infections, vaginal bleeding, intrauterine growth restrictions, premature rupture of membranes, or placenta previa.

When visiting your ob-gyn, remember to ask about sexual activity during pregnancy, including masturbation.