Sex can be a tough topic to talk about, especially when your body, hormones, and sense of self are changing. So, in this episode, we’ll cover what you need to know about sex during pregnancy and after your baby arrives. To dig deep into this topic, Natalie is joined by Dr. Somi Javaid, an OB/GYN, founder of HerMD, and host of the award-winning podcast disruptHER.
Pregnancy often changes how moms feel about sex, and these shifts can happen at different stages. In the first trimester, things like morning sickness and changes in breast size can affect how women see sex. Some women even notice their sex drive goes up in the second trimester, but that’s not true for everyone. By the third trimester, more gas and concerns about the pelvic floor can make sex less appealing again. Dr. Somi points out that not all women go through the same sexual changes during pregnancy. What matters most is talking openly with your partner about how you feel. These conversations can cover what you’re comfortable with and what you’re not, and it’s best to keep them going throughout pregnancy and after.
Dr. Somi also clears up some common myths about sex during pregnancy, such as worries about hurting the baby or causing labor to start.
She also encourages moms to ask their doctor questions about sex and pregnancy to make sure they are staying safe, especially if they have a condition that could be a concern. She also reminds listeners how important it is to have an OB/GYN you trust and feel comfortable talking to.
Overall, Dr. Somi emphasizes that you are in control of your sexual health and have the right to ask questions to get the best care for yourself.
Episode Highlights
00:58 – Changes in pregnant mom’s sex life.
05:34 – Dr. Somi busts some pregnancy sex myths.
08:30 – Are there times when moms shouldn’t have sex when pregnant?
11:20 – Advocating for clear conversations with your OB/GYN.
13:11 – How mom’s sex lives change after giving birth.
15:36 – Communicating with your partner before and after the baby arrives.
16:31 – Busting the ‘six week’ myth.
19:14 – Other ways of creating intimacy.
24:25 – Dr. Somi’s final thoughts.
About the Guest: Dr. Somi Javaid
Dr. Somi Javaid is a board-certified OB/GYN and surgeon who founded HerMD in 2015, a women's healthcare platform built to close longstanding gaps in menopause, sexual health, and gynecologic care. She earned her medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, completed her OB/GYN residency there (serving as Chief Resident), and did a preceptorship at the San Diego Institute of Sexual Medicine. She later served as an assistant professor of gynecology at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center before scaling HerMD into a venture-backed care platform.
She's been named to Inc.'s Female Founders 250 (2024), received the Cincinnati Top Doc honors, and delivered a TEDx talk on gender disparity in sexual healthcare. Her work centers on de-stigmatizing conversations around women's sexual health, hormones, and menopause care. She is also the host of the award-winning disruptHER podcast,
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About the Podcast: Momcozy Village – Together We Grow
Momcozy Village: Together We Grow is a podcast where moms gather to learn, share, and support each other. Hosted by Natalie Gouché, each episode features inspiring conversations on motherhood: from career transitions to mental health and beyond.
Backed by Momcozy, makers of innovative wearable breast pumps and cozy nursing bras, the podcast is part of a movement to empower moms through every phase of early motherhood.
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Narrated by Abbe Opher
Music by Sokratis Seirlis
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Welcome to the Momcozy Village - Together We Grow. Dive into candid conversations with host Natalie Gouché, alongside maternity experts and remarkable moms. Together, we'll explore the highs and lows of motherhood and uncover new possibilities for personal growth.
In each episode, you'll have the opportunity to hear practical parenting tips tailored to your needs, inspiring mom stories, and receive essential tips on self-care and personal development. Discover how to thrive while nurturing both your baby and yourself in our community.
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