Pregnancy is an incredibly exciting and tumultuous time for a couple. The physical changes mean that how you have sex, particularly intercourse, changes. Not to worry, though – there are so many intimate, exciting and fulfilling sex positions to enjoy!

Having sex during pregnancy is generally safe. Unless your healthcare provider has told you otherwise, there’s no reason to not get it on after you’ve been knocked up. As a bonus, thanks to increased oestrogen, you may enjoy more sensitive breasts, stronger orgasms, and more natural lubrication.

Even better news: pregnancy sex has many benefits for your body and relationship – allowing you and your partner reconnect physically, mentally and emotionally. Plus, orgasms are great for your health! The hormones released when you climax:

• Relieve stress
• Help you sleep better
• Reduce pain
• Deepen the bond with your partner
• Make you feel happier

Pregnancy is also a great time to explore. As your body changes, different parts may become more or less sensitive. Explore what feels yummy and change or avoid what doesn’t!

Listen: Monique Bowley and Bec Judd talk to Dr Sgroi about having sex while pregnant on Hello Bump. (Post continues below…)

That said, pregnant bodies are different and have their limitations, so you do need to be mindful of what sex positions you get into. Your body is likely less flexible and more susceptible to injury while pregnant. Exactly what this means will vary from person to person and even pregnancy to pregnancy. Regardless, take care with the positions you choose. You want them to minimise stress on your belly and your joints. And remember, once you reach 20 weeks, don’t lie flat on your back (like in missionary). Your enlarged uterus puts pressure on your aorta, which can compromise blood flow to the placenta.

Here are seven sex positions that have been deemed safe, comfortable, and orgasmic by experts and expecting parents alike.

1. Mutual masturbation

Mutual masturbation is an often overlooked form of partnered pleasure, but it's super intimate and hot AF! And it's simple: get comfy and get to it. Bonus, watching each other masturbate teaches you more about how to touch each other.

2. On the couch

Furniture and pillows are a great way keep pregnant bodies comfortable. For this position, the pregnant partner can kneel on the ground, facing the cushions of a couch and then bend forward, resting her upper body on the cushions. There are lots of options here, so move around to get comfortable! Try kneeling on cushions as well for extra support.

Couch height doesn't work? Stack pillows on the ground (or the couch).

3. Gentle doggy style

This fun, simple sex position works just fine during pregnancy too. If a big belly makes kneeling like this uncomfortable, try dropping down to the elbows and using pillows or a sex wedge for support.

4. Golden Gate position

Strong legs and core are important during pregnancy and this position will provide a bit of a workout. It's pretty intense, though, so you may need to use it sparingly and switch things up.

5. Swiss Ball Blitz

Have an exercise ball lying around? Don't just use it to ease labour pains, have some fun on it! The Swiss Ball Blitz sex position allows for deep penetration, similar to doggy style, but keeps the pregnant partner in control. Plus, both partners' hands are free to roam over genitals, breasts, and more.

Rock, bounce, arch your back, and move in any other way that feels comfortable and isn't too taxing!

6. The Sexy Avocado

Like Hooked In, the Sexy Avocado is a hot, interlocked, skin-to-skin position.

Once hooked in, bodies are pressed tightly together, and the penetrating partner's hands are free to roam over the breasts, clitoris, and that marvellous, sexy belly!

7. Ladle of Love position

In this variation on spooning, the penetrating partner holds the receiving partner's thigh for support. This lets the receiving partner use a vibrator for added pleasure. Pillows can be used for extra support and comfort.

This gentle, intimate position can be used for either vaginal or anal intercourse. It's perfect for easing into anal penetration or stimulating the G-spot. It also makes stimulating the genitals of the receiving partners much easier!

Every body and every pregnancy is different. The trimester you're in, your physical health and flexibility prior to getting pregnant, and how you feel during pregnancy will determine which of these positions is the most pleasurable to you. Use them as inspiration to explore and keep the communication with your partner open to ensure sexual bliss all pregnancy long!

This article originally appeared on Kinkly and was republished here with full permission.