Embarrassing pregnancy questions
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I want my partner to be at the birth but I'm worried that he'll see me differently afterwards. Does it put some men off sex?
If you're worried about your partner's reaction to being at the birth, the two of you need to discuss it. If you're still concerned, ask him to stay at the 'top end'. Your partner can offer just as much support wherever he decides to stand or sit, and you need to feel comfortable with this. Most partners describe the birth as the most amazing experience ever. And if he sees you differently afterwards, it's with wonder and respect at what you've managed to produce!
It's important to acknowledge, though, that not all men feel comfortable being at the birth. Ultimately, the woman in labour needs a birth partner she can rely on and who can comfort and reassure her, and it may not be him.
I'm dreading giving birth in case I poo myself. Does this always happen in labour?
Not always, but many women do open their bowels during labour, and if it's going to happen, there's nothing you can do to stop it. Fear and 'holding back' will only make you feel more uncomfortable, so just go with your body.
During the second stage of labour, the baby's head puts pressure on the rectum so you'll feel as if you need to poo, even if you don't. Opening your bowels in labour is normal, it's a positive sign that birth isn't far away.
I've heard that sex can induce labour. Will the midwife know I've had sex when she examines me?
During pregnancy, vaginal discharge is increased, and believe it or not, when a man ejaculates, there is less than a teaspoon of semen. So, by the time it comes to a vaginal examination, there's no way a midwife would be able to know if you'd had sex. Sex can kick-start labour, but only if your body is ready.
- More embarrassing questions answered
More help and advice
- Insider's guide to labour and birth
- Inducing labour
- Caesarean births explained
- Pain relief options during labour
By Anne Richley, midwife
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Where to next?
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A guide to epidurals
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A guide to gas and air
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A guide to TENS
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Advice for dads-to-be
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All you need to know about Caesareans
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Assisted deliveries
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Caesarean link to childhood asthma
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Caesareans explained
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Choosing a birthing partner
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Choosing the right birth partner
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Common pregnancy worries
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Common pregnancy worries: 3rd trimester
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leisha, about 1 year
hello im 15 and may be pregnant. Im about 4'4 tall, my mum says that if i have the baby it will kill me is that true? Will it be able to get out properly? please write back x
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sasha, 11 months
hello i jus like to ask an embarrassing question. when you are on your period and you have sex and your partner comes inside, can you get pregnant? please write back..and also if so what can i do to have it become unborned? it happened like 5 days ago.
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