Becoming pregnant can be a very exciting time for future mothers, especially for couples who have been trying to conceive. Though no pregnancy is the same, research has shown us how to prepare for the rollercoaster of changes that come with carrying a child. In this article we will introduce you to the various shifts you can expect to see in your body as you enter the first, second, and third trimester. Here at Reproductive Fertility Center, we believe in the importance of educating our patients and readers alike. Dr. Peyman Saadat, a double-board certified specialist in obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive endocrinology, is ready to help you navigate through your new journey.
Understanding Hormonal Changes During Pregnancy
While completely normal and to be expected during pregnancy, hormones play a significant role, as they can have a rather intense effect on mood and libido.
One example is estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen is a hormone that aids in regulating the reproductive system, supporting uterine growth and blood flow. Progesterone's role focuses more on maintaining the uterine lining and preventing contractions from happening too early.
The changes in mood can be prevalent as follows: estrogen is considered a mood booster as it may increase dopamine levels, which can result in improved mood, energy, and emotional highs. Whereas, progesterone can induce a calming, sedative-like shift in mood. This hormone is partially responsible for the emotional irregularity that many women experience during pregnancy.
The two hormones can have opposite effects on the female’s libido; with an increase of estrogen, many women report experiencing a surge in libido, while progesterone may lower libido, as this hormone contributes to fatigue and physical discomfort.
Likewise, testosterone also plays a vital role in female libido and energy levels. Higher testosterone levels can boost sexual sensitivity in some women, and may even contribute to feelings of confidence and assertiveness, though its effects are subtler than to estrogen and progesterone.
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) is the hormone linked to morning sickness and nausea, which can reduce intimacy in early pregnancy.
Lastly, Oxytocin, the love and bonding hormone, gradually increases throughout pregnancy and spikes during labor. This hormone is released during intimacy, touch and orgasm, and can make physical touch much more fulfilling. It may also enhance feelings of emotional closeness and bonding with a partner or baby.
These complex interconnections are why no two pregnancies feel exactly the same– and why sexual desire and mood may fluctuate varyingly from month to month.
Libido Fluctuations Across Trimesters
Fluctuation is at the center of pregnancy. Though the outcomes vary per woman, each trimester is met with a new set of changes, ranging from symptoms as common as fatigue to reduced libido.
Trimester 1: Many expecting mothers experience a dip in low sex drive. This is due to the surge in progesterone, estrogen and hCG, because of this, the body’s energy is often low. A few common physical and emotional effects include fatigue, nausea, breast tenderness and mood swings. Low sex drive in early pregnancy is completely normal as the body adjusts to pregnancy.
Trimester 2: Entering the second trimester, many women experience the bounceback of their libido. The surge in sex drive is often referred to as the “honeymoon” phase of pregnancy. This is due to the increased blood flow and the hormones are somewhat stabilized, resulting in an improvement of energy and mood. As the body begins to adjust, nausea fades and the energy returns.
Trimester 3: In the third trimester, we see a dip in libido once again. This is because of high levels of progesterone and rising oxytocin as the body prepares for birth and physical discomfort expands as the baby continues to grow. Some common physical and emotional effects include back pain, swelling, insomnia, anxiety about labour, body image issues, and fatigue which may all contribute to a decreased sex drive.
Libido during pregnancy is non-linear. It may rise and drop, and may even change from week to week. It’s important to be kind to yourself and remember that these fluctuations are completely normal.
Emotional and Psychological Factors
The emotional and psychological factors of a pregnancy play just as big of a role – if not larger– than hormones in shaping one’s libido. Pregnancy is more than a physical transformation, but a psychological journey as well. The following mental and emotional changes can greatly impact your sexual desire, either boosting it or lowering it. Here are the most prominent factors:
- Stress and Anxiety: Worrying about varying factors such as the baby’s health, financial pressures or birth fears can cause chronic stress, resulting in a decrease in sex drive. Stress increases cortisol levels, which can suppress the libido and disarrange hormonal balance.
- Body Image and Self-esteem: Though normal, weight-gain, stretch marks, and physical changes can leave a woman feeling self-conscious or even disconnected from their bodies. This can result in feeling unattractive and less likely to desire physical intimacy.
- Mood Swings and Mental Health: The frequent fluctuation of hormones can lead to irritability and depression. In fact, prenatal depression is more common than many people realize. These factors can greatly impact desire.
If this resonates with you, try stress relief techniques like meditation, breathing exercise, or therapy to support your emotional well-being. Pregnancy is complex and deeply personal; we strongly recommend open communication and self-compassion ensure your well-being is being taken good care of.
When to Seek Professional Guidance
While mood shifts and changes in libido are a normal part of pregnancy, there are moments when you need to recognize it’s time to seek professional support. Knowing when to seek help can make a huge difference in feeling supported, healthy, and confident during your journey.
- Persistent low mood or anxiety: Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or worry that last for more than two weeks or interfere with daily life should be addressed as it may be a sign of prenatal depression or anxiety.
- Pain or discomfort during intimacy: While it’s normal to feel a shift in your libido, feeling disconnected from yourself, your body, or your partner in a way that causes tension or distress may be worth exploring with a professional.
- Loss of interest in intimacy with emotional distress: Any pain as a direct result of sex, spotting or irregular discomfort should be thoroughly discussed with your health care provider to rule out infections, cervical issues, or other concerns.
Remember that seeking help is not a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of strength. Whether it’s medical support, medical clarity, or help navigating intimacy, you should never have to do it alone.
Conclusion
Pregnancy hormones are variable and may be situational. The array of hormonal shifts is a normal byproduct of pregnancy and can be navigated with self-compassion and community support. Here at Reproductive Fertility Center, we are committed to offering our patients compassionate care providing resources and counseling for expecting mothers. To learn more about how we can assist you, contact us today to speak with our capable staff.
