Sexual intimacy is often one of the most cherished aspects of a relationship, and it is also one of the areas people become concerned about when a pregnancy enters the picture. Not only do women suddenly wonder about their level of attractiveness and if they can meet their partner’s needs, but men often also feel fearful of decreased intimacy and fear they might harm their partner or the baby.

But pregnancy is not a time to be timid and shy around one another. Healthy men and women can still have a fulfilling sexual life — as long as each is aware of some important dos and don’ts.

Do be aware that hormonal changes can make your libido fluctuate, and such fluctuations are normal. Women often experience enhanced desire during the second trimester when blood flow to sexual organs increases.

Don’t let your partner feel that if you are not in the mood, it is because you feel he is inadequate. Prior to entering pregnancy, seek counseling from a professional who can discuss the changes in sexual desire with both parties. Having an outside voice of authority often helps men overcome self-esteem issues, which accompany a woman’s lack of desire.

Do understand that normal sex will not cause a miscarriage during the first trimester. During this time frame, miscarriages are associated with complications, not sexual activity.

Don’t worry about your baby’s safety. The baby is well protected in the uterus and can’t be bruised or harmed by sexual intercourse.

Do keep comfortable. If a sexual position does not feel right, stop it immediately. Some women prefer to lie on their sides later in the pregnancy rather than on their backs or stomachs.

Don’t have anal sex. During pregnancy, anal sex could cause harmful bacteria to pass and invade the vagina.

Don’t allow your partner to blow air into your vagina during oral sex. If this is a concern, refrain from oral sex completely. A suddenly puff of air can cause an air embolism, a life-threatening condition for you and your baby.

Don’t have sex without consulting with your doctor first if you have vaginal bleeding, are at risk for premature birth, have cervical incompetence, are leaking amniotic fluid, or have placenta previa.

DADMAG.com reassures fathers that sex during pregnancy is often enjoyable for both parties and, as mentioned before, won’t harm the baby.

Being a responsible sexual partner also means knowing what you can and can’t do during a pregnancy, especially if your partner is willing to let a rule fall to the wayside due to out-of-control hormones.

Do know your stuff. Make sure you attend as many pregnancy doctor visits as possible. Your health care provider will often make recommendations, and it’s important to have both parties present to ensure advice is being followed.

Don’t worry about sexual positions. As long as your partner is comfortable, sex in most acrobatic positions is okay. Anal sex should be avoided, however, as should oral sex if there is concern about air bursts entering the vaginal canal.

Do remember your partner is going to experience hormonal changes, and a change in desire is not a reflection on your masculinity. Be patient and considerate.

Don’t try to pressure sex if your partner isn’t up to it. It may not harm the baby, but it will harm your relationship. Hormonal fluctuations can’t be controlled, and if your partner isn’t in the mood, she reallyisn’t in the mood.

Do realize you may also experience a lack of libido. Your partner will be putting on weight and spending a lot of time caring for herself and the baby inside of her. It is normal for men to take a step back during this process.

Don’t panic about providing for your family. One of the most common fears men have during a woman’s pregnancy is how they are going to afford the new bundle of joy. Too much worry of this kind will also keep you from desiring sex, even when she’s all set to go.