Are you pregnant and wondering if using sex toys and masturbating are okay? The good news about sex during pregnancy is that, as long as you have your doctor’s OK and it feels good for you, it’s usually safe for your unborn child. You and your unborn child will be safe if you always abide by the fundamental guidelines for pregnancy safety.

Here are some rules for using sex toys and masturbating.

Is it okay to masturbate when carrying a child?

Masturbating during pregnancy, either solo or with your partner is completely safe — and a terrific way to relieve any extra strain you’re feeling unless climax is off-limits due to a high-risk pregnancy or concerns about premature birth.

Self-pleasuring and sexual activities can be absolutely safe as long as your doctor has given the all-clear for vaginal penetration and orgasm (which are, rarely, off-limits for a number of reasons).

Is it okay to use sex toys like vibrators and dildos while pregnant?

Dildos and vibrators are safe sex objects to use when expecting, but always make sure the vagina is clean before using any sex objects.

For non-vibrating silicone toys, you can boil them for five to ten minutes or place them in the top rack of the dishwasher; for vibrating toys, you should wash them in warm water with antibacterial soap for about 20 seconds (hard plastic toys should be cleaned according to particular instructions).

Don’t worry that your fetus is “watching,” as is the case with all things sex and pregnancy; while uterine spasms during orgasm may soothe the baby, he cannot see what you are doing and most likely won’t remember it.