Many men (and women) worry that pregnancy coupling – having intimate relations during a period of pregnancy – will be difficult and may have a negative impact on a couple's level of intimacy. In fact, using various positions can ensure that a couple can continue to have an active, healthy and thoroughly enjoyable intimate life all during the pregnancy. Coupled with appropriate attention to male organ health, using appropriate pregnancy positions will allow partners to maintain closeness and intimacy as they progress to parenthood.

Are there health and safety concerns?

Some people (especially men) may be overly worried about how intimacy can damage a woman or a fetus. In some cases, of course, there are complications or special considerations that may require extra care be taken in terms of intimate contact; these are things that should be discussed with the attending physician.

In general, however, a woman is just as capable (and desirous) of having relations during the pregnancy period as she is when not pregnant. There may be times when coupling is not the best idea: for example, a woman who experiences severe morning sickness is unlikely to be in the mood for a "quickie" before work. However, common sense will guide both the man and the woman in determining appropriate times for intimacy.

What may be substantially "different" in the activity are the positions used. Again, this may not be true for all couples; many partners engage in a wide range of positions before pregnancy and so are already accustomed to the positions they will use during pregnancy.

Others, however, may be primarily "missionary position" lovers, or may tend to use another position almost exclusively. These partners may need to expand their horizons somewhat and enter into new territory.

What positions are best?

There is no right or wrong answer to "what position is best" when pregnant. A position that works for one couple may not for another. The things to keep in mind are:

• Are we both comfortable with the position?
• Are we both getting what we want from the position?
• Does the position avoid putting too much weight or pressure on the uterus and/or the woman's stomach?

In addition, in later stages of pregnancy, it is best to avoid positions where a woman is flat on her back, as the weight of the fetus can put excessive pressure on her spinal cord. That said, here are some positions that many pregnant couples explore.

1. Perpendicular bodies position. Many couples prefer this because the positioning is similar to the traditional missionary position. In this position, the woman lies on the back, but with her hips on the edge of the bed, her feet on the floor. The husband positions himself between her legs and penetrates, but remains standing (or kneeling) so that his torso does not put any pressure on the uterus or abdomen.

2. Side by side position. This is similar to taking the missionary position and turning it on its side. The couple faces each other, lying on their sides. Balance can be a bit challenging for some people.

3. Spooning position. Here, both couples lie on their sides, but the man is behind the woman and his male organ enters from behind. Again, balance can be an issue, but many couples like the special intimacy of spooning.

4. Woman on top position. The man lies on his back and the woman places herself atop him, guiding the male organ into her. 

5. Doggy position. Also called "rear entry," in this position the woman kneels on her hands and knees and the man enters from behind. Many women find this position allows for intense pleasure, but it can also be tiring, and support may be needed for the weight of the growing baby.

Intimacy during pregnancy can be a unique and very special experience. Keeping the male organ in good health through the use of a top notch male organ health cream (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) will contribute to a man's enjoyment of the experience. Opt for a cream that includes a superior antioxidant, such as alpha lipoic acid, to offset harmful oxidative processes in male cells. One that also includes vitamin D, for improved cell functionality, is essential.