If one thing’s for certain during pregnancy, it’s that hormones are all over the place, and the body goes through changes you probably never thought possible.

It is not uncommon for these dramatic changes to affect your sex drive. Some women become completely disinterested in sex (due to being uncomfortable, nauseous, lack of libido or various other reasons), while other women say that they have never felt such a strong sexual drive before they fell pregnant.

Whichever you are experiencing, neither is something to worry about. However, it is important for you and your partner to talk about what you are feeling when it comes to intimacy, as it still remains a very important part of a relationship, even during this time of change.

The risks of harming your baby during sexual intercourse while pregnant are virtually non-existent. Your baby is protected by your womb which is filled with amniotic fluid, and your partner's penis can't penetrate beyond your vagina, so your baby will not be affected. However, you may want to experiment with or adjust positions as your belly grows to make sure you are still comfortable and that there is no pressure on your baby.

Whilst most couples can continue a healthy active sex life throughout pregnancy, a woman who experiences any complications with a pregnancy will be advised to avoid sexual intercourse.

You should also avoid sex if:

• You are expecting multiples babies and are in the later stages of your pregnancy.
• Your water has broken. This can increase the risk of infection because the amniotic fluid is no longer protecting your baby and your baby is on its way into the world.
• You or your partner has an STD that has flared up. This vastly increases the risk of passing the disease onto your baby – especially in the later stages of pregnancy and if you are about to give birth.
• You have problems or complications with your cervix. Sexual intercourse may increase the risk of premature labour or even miscarriage.

The most important thing to do is to talk. Talk to your doctor or midwife about sex during pregnancy so that it is still enjoyable while keeping you and your baby safe. And talk to your partner so they understand what you are feeling – whether your sex drive is in overdrive, or you’re just not feeling it.