You are not insane, you are pregnant! Being pregnant you are thrown into a crazy cocktail of mood swings, sickness, and cravings not to mention a fast expanding waistline. With so many changes going on it’s hard to determine what is normal. Even your vag has a mind of its own, you could be wondering does your vag get tighter when pregnant?
So, Does Your Vag Get Tighter When Pregnant? – Debunking The Myth
No, vag does not physically get tighter when pregnant.
However, it can feel tighter due to factors such as hormonal changes causing vaginal wall swelling, increased blood flow, and emotional factors leading to the contraction of pelvic floor muscles.
Your vag responds to pregnancy in many ways. Firstly women have increased blood flow, mix that with hormone increase and you can start to feel somewhat different down below. Does your vag feel tighter when pregnant?
Vag during pregnancy can feel tighter but it usually isn’t. The response from hormones can make it swell giving you the feeling it’s changed shape.
Is it Normal To Be Tight Down There When Pregnant?
Vaginal tightness can happen to anyone during pregnancy. These feelings are considered totally normal but to get a clearer picture of why you have such sensations we need to dive in deep to understand exactly what your vag goes through during pregnancy.
Why Does My Vag Feel So Tight?
The question: does your vag get tighter when you’re pregnant? Deserves an answer and to give it to you bluntly, no it does not actually contract making it tighter but before you feel insane it’s important to recognize that these feelings are typical especially when you are pregnant.
A woman’s blood volume increases around 20% when pregnant. That’s a whole lot more blood gushing and rushing through your body. As it increases your vag`ina will respond, it could be through swelling slightly or sometimes you will feel a tingling or even a pulse.
As the vaginal walls swell you may feel a tightness down stairs, don’t worry though things will relax over time.
Factors that can make you feel vaginal tightness during pregnancy:
- Hormonal changes
Pregnancy brings about significant hormonal changes in the body, which can cause swelling in the vaginal walls, making it feel tighter.
- Increased blood flow
Pregnant women experience increased blood flow, especially in the pelvic area, which can contribute to a feeling of tightness in the vag.
- Emotional factors
Anxiety, stress, and other emotions can cause the pelvic floor muscles to contract, leading to a sensation of tightness.
- Subconscious worry
If you’re concerned about your vag`ina feeling tighter during pregnancy, this worry can cause your muscles to tense up, making you feel even tighter.
- Pressure from the growing uterus
As the uterus expands to accommodate the growing baby, it can put pressure on the pelvic area, causing discomfort and a sensation of tightness.
- Swelling
Pregnancy can cause swelling in various parts of the body, including the vag, which can contribute to the sensation of tightness.
- Increased elasticity
Increased levels of estrogen during pregnancy can enhance the elasticity of the vaginal walls, making it feel tighter.
Does Your Vag Get Tighter In Early Pregnancy?
To make it clear, the vag doesn’t “get” tighter in early pregnancy, however it might “feel” tighter during this pregnancy period.
As we have already indicated, yes this is a totally normal response to the physical changes in your body. But it’s not the only reason you may feel a little firmer down below.
It might feel tighter because of changes in hormones, more blood flow, and emotions affecting your muscles. And these things can happen at any point in pregnancy.
Your Mind Matters
Our thoughts are one of our most powerful tools we have. The way we think can affect our bodies in ways you may have never considered.
Think of it this way picture an array if emotions:
- Happy – your physical response is to smile or laugh. This releases endorphins from your brain to give you a relaxed feeling.
- Angry – with anger you become tense, your head feels like it may explode, you make fists, you may clench your jaw, you can shake.
- Sad – feeling low your body can become run down, natural defences are low, you cry.
- Excited – everyone can resonate with butterflies in their tummy right?
Needless to say, the way we think has a huge impact on our physical body. So if you feel anxious and are concerned with does your vag get tighter when pregnant then this can cause your pelvic floor to contract, actually making you feel like you’re doing a long kegel exercise!
Being pregnant can spark every emotion in your mind. But the one emotion that stood out strong for me was anxiety. Is everything going to be ok? Is what’s happening normal? Why am I feeling so worried?
All of us moms have a switch and as soon as those pesky hormones flood our bodies it can lead us to believing the irrational feelings are our truth.
Sex
Having intercourse whilst pregnant is thought to be no more harmful than doing the deed when you’re not. Providing you haven’t been told by your doctor to refrain jumping in the sack it can be a good way to release tension and bring you and your partner closer.
Does your vag get tight when pregnant? Obviously this can go hand in hand with a tighter vag. An increased libido happens to the best of us and we can thank the extra blood flow for this, but if you are nervous about doing the deed whilst pregnant it can cause you to tense up making you tighter as a result. According to Psychology Today if a woman is tight before penetrative then it could signal that having sex is making her feel uncomfortable.
I was one of these women, terrified of losing my baby (even though I knew that sex had no bearing on miscarriage) I could not bring myself to get down and dirty with my husband.
Does your vag get tighter in early pregnancy? If you feel you are too tight for penetrative acts then it could be your subconscious worry preventing your vaginal muscles from loosening.
There are many ways you can be romantic sexually without actually doing the deed. Take this time to be playful together after all your senses are heightened and your body is super sensitive together you can still create magic without the pressures of sex.
Changes in your Vag
Pregnancy as we know it has many bizarre effects on our bodies. You may not have thought about your vag as much before but being pregnant can shift your mindset. Thoughts of does being pregnant make your vag tighter? Why am I feeling aroused all the time? How am I going to get a watermelon out of it?
All these questions make us more in tune to what is happening in our bodies and the worry of our most intimate parts being on show to the world can fill you with anxiety.
Let’s look at how our vag change through pregnancy and acknowledge the wonderful organ that will eventually birth our babies.
Vivacious Vulvas
Your vulva has a lot going on right now, from increased blood flow it may only need a little stimulation to get your juices pumping but it can also change colour.
I’m not saying it will change with your moods, you’re not hosting a mood ring down there but as with your areolas on your breasts your vulva can also darken giving it a blue tinge.
Swelling can be Significant
No it won’t grow, and as we have discovered it won’t get smaller but as your pregnancy progresses your vag not only has hormones dictating it’s response but you also have a lot of pressure pushing down on it. This can make you feel swollen and sore.
Each to their own in my first pregnancy my underwear was the worst, there was nothing quite like going commando under a flowing skirt to help with air flow.
Elastic and Elongated
No you are not a superhero by any means but an increase of Oestrogen can make your vag not only feel tighter but it can increase the elasticity in it too. Your vag is preparing itself for birthing your baby so be grateful that this is happening!
Disgusting Discharge
I know the thought of pregnancy symptoms may sound horrific but at least you get a break from bleeding for nine months right? Unfortunately being pregnant means that you can expect an increase of discharge down below. Usually it will be fairly thick and white in consistency. Losing a bloody discharge can also indicate the loss of your mucus plug which is your body’s way of preparing you for labor.
Take note any off colour discharge in pregnancy can also signal infection so whilst you were packing away your sanitary towels you may want to keep them on side.
Orgazmic Capabilities
That’s right ladies! The sensitive nerve endings in our vag`inas mean that we can achieve many orgasms! That is definitely a plus point in pregnancy. Having an orgasm is totally safe providing you haven’t been told not to. So if you’re feeling up to it, get a little attention from your partner and release that tension you are harbouring. You deserve a little treat!
Incontinence
So after praising your vag for its orgasmic capabilities there comes a downfall! Of course with all the pressure from tiny toes kicking your bladder and extra pressure you may experience a weakened bladder. This is why it is super important to get your pelvic floor muscles in tip top shape!
Debunking Myths: Misunderstandings About Vaginal Tightness During Pregnancy
During the first & second of my five pregnancies, the internet was not as resourceful as now. I did feel the same tightness down there, but I have heard so many misinterpretations. Luckily, technology and research are so advanced now & thanks to the internet.
So let me debunk some common misconceptions from my experience and reveal the truth about vaginal tightness during pregnancy:
Myth: Tightness means there’s a problem with your pregnancy
Fact: Feeling tight is normal during pregnancy. It’s caused by hormones, blood flow, and emotions. It doesn’t mean there’s a problem.
Myth: Tightness will stop you from having a vaginal delivery
Fact: The vag is very stretchy and can adjust for childbirth. It will naturally loosen when it’s time for your baby to be born.
Myth: Sex during pregnancy makes you tighter
Fact: Sex during pregnancy is usually safe and doesn’t make you tighter. In fact, it can help you relax and improve blood flow in your pelvic area.
Myth: Kegel exercises make you tighter during pregnancy
Fact: Kegel exercises help strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, which is good for you during pregnancy. They focus on both tightening and relaxing the muscles, so they won’t make you too tight.
Myth: The feeling of tightness lasts forever after pregnancy
Fact: Your body changes a lot during and after pregnancy. While you might feel tight for a little while, your vag will go back to the way it was before. Keep in mind that every woman is different, and recovery times can vary.
Easy & Safe Tips for Keeping Your Vag Healthy During Pregnancy
Taking care of our vaginal health is important especially when we are expecting. Here are some simple yet effective tips to help you keep your vag healthy:
- Keep it clean: Gently wash your vaginal area daily with warm water. Avoid using harsh soaps or scented products, as they can cause irritation.
- Wear cotton underwear: Choose breathable cotton underwear to keep your vaginal area dry and comfortable. Avoid tight or synthetic materials that can trap moisture.
- Stay dry: Change out of wet or sweaty clothes as soon as possible to prevent infections.
- Wipe front to back: Always wipe from front to back after using the toilet. This helps prevent bacteria from spreading to your vag.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps flush out toxins and keeps your urinary tract healthy.
- Eat a balanced diet: A healthy diet supports your immune system and can help prevent infections. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your meals.
- Do Kegel exercises: Strengthen your pelvic floor muscles with Kegel exercises. This can help prevent urinary incontinence and support your pelvic organs.
- Avoid douching: Douching can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in your vag, increasing the risk of infection.
- Keep your doctor in the loop: If you have any concerns about your vaginal health during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider for guidance and support.
When To Consult A Healthcare Professional
Is it normal to be tight down there when pregnant? You now know the answer is yes. However, it’s still important to know when to reach out to your doctor:
- Pain or discomfort: If you experience significant pain or discomfort in your vaginal area that doesn’t go away or worsens over time.
- Bleeding: Any unexplained bleeding or spotting during pregnancy should be reported to your healthcare provider.
- Persistent itching or burning: If you have ongoing itching or burning in your vaginal area, it could be a sign of an infection that needs medical attention.
- Unusual discharge: If you notice a change in the color, consistency, or smell of your vaginal discharge, it could indicate an infection or other issue that requires treatment.
- Difficulty with sex: If vaginal tightness is causing pain or making you feel difficult to have sex, discuss this with your healthcare provider.
Wrapping Up
Does your vag get tighter when pregnant? Physically no, it doesn’t shrink when pregnant but the emotional impact pregnancy has along with the hormones and increased blood flow it can certainly feel different down there.
No matter if you want sex or if you are feeling a bit anxious these feelings make our vag react and respond in different ways so feeling tighter is normal.
It won’t last! As your body prepares for labor your body will respond to hormonal changes and your vag will become loose to deliver but practise relaxation methods to help it on this journey.
If you are concerned at all then try to relax a little. You may not know it but even the smallest amount of anxiety can trigger those muscles to tighten. It is a taboo topic that you may not wish to consult your doctor with but if you are ever worried just know you are not the first vag to be presented to your doctor, you won’t be the last. What’s embarrassing for you is their normal working day!
More to Read
- Is My Baby Hungry When I’m Hungry During Pregnancy?
- It Feels Like Baby Is Shaking Inside Me! Is That Normal?
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- Why Does My Pregnant Belly Look Smaller Some Days?
- Can You Crack Your Back While Pregnant – Is It Safe?
- Pregnant and Scared of Life Changing – Guide to Overcome