What does the Bible say about prematernal intimacy?

The time before birth is a harried one. Morning sickness, doctors' appointments, people touching your belly without asking, constantly being asked, "So, when are you due?" Your baby sucks out all your brain cells. And something strange happens to your feet. They grow two sizes, but you can't tell because you can't see them.

Then there's getting the house ready. Baby-proofing the outlets and cupboard doors. Choosing the right shade of gender-neutral green for the nursery walls. Trying to figure out why you bought the crib from Ikea and wondering if you'll get it put together before the baby's younger sibling graduates from college.

As hectic and harried as this time is, it's important to remember that prematernal intimacy is very important. We're not talking about bedroom fun-time if you're not up for it. We're talking about parents spending quiet time together to express love and support. To talk through fears and hopes and whether that is really the shade of green you want.

Because once that baby shows up, your chance is gone. Baby sucks all your attention, time, and energy. Your conversations turn from whether you should get that matching Ikea changing table to philosophical discussions about the color and consistency of poop. If to you, "intimacy" means lying comatose next to your best beloved for hour-long increments, then you'll have what you need. But if you need more, take all the prematernal intimacy you can get because it's going to be years before you get it back again.

Just steer away from premarital intimacy. The Bible strongly endorses post-marital prematernal intimacy.

---