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Can You Masturbate On Pelvic Rest?

While pregnant with my first child, my doctor placed me on complete bed rest at the beginning of the second trimester. As terrified as I was of something happening to my baby, the idea of spending the next six months in bed totally bummed me out. But rather than risk complications my pregnancy, I spent the time watching soap operas and knitting — a lot. Although pelvic rest is not quite as restrictive, if your doctor recommends it, you may be hoping to do a little more than knit while you wait. In fact, you may have wondered, can you masturbate on pelvic rest?

According to the Mayo Clinic, pelvic rest is generally defined as avoiding activities that would pressure on your pelvis, including tampon use, lower body exercise, and yes, sex. Pelvic rest is usually prescribed when the mother has been diagnosed with placenta previa or is at risk for preterm labor.

So what's a girl to do when you can't do what you want to do? The answer to that question is best determined by your healthcare professional, and would depend on why you were prescribed pelvic rest in the first place. According to VeryWell, moms-to-be with placenta previa may be advised to avoid masturbation, as orgasms can cause uterine contractions and bleeding as a result of the opening of the cervix.

The idea of having to go without sex with your partner or yourself may seem impossible — unless you are completely turned off by the idea being touched at all right now — but it doesn't have to mean that you can't be intimate with your partner. A foot massage, romantic dinner, and even good old fashioned kissing can be fun alternatives that will ensure you have a healthy baby. Be sure to continue to communicate with your doctor or midwife about what is best for your pregnancy.