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Sales of maternity clothes and baby gear have shot up with lovers getting busy between the sheets.

And experts say it is all because of the global financial meltdown. Brits have taken to spicing things up at home in a bid to save money.

Instead of heading to the pub or out for a meal, many of us are having steamy nights in – causing a surge in pregnancies.

Chemists across the country have reported a rise in sales of pregnancy testing kits, while Mothercare says sales have gone up by more than 20%.

And baby chain Mamas And Papas has reported a hefty 46% increase in sales of maternity dresses.

Miranda Levy, editor of Mother & Baby Magazine, said: “What’s cheaper and more fun than making babies?

“The trouble is, when they come out they are really expensive.”

Mel Wilson of Superdrug, added: “This year has seen a sharp increase in sales of products in our sexual health range.

“People seem to be staying at home and making their own entertainment.”

A recent survey by financial services firm Price-waterhouseCoopers predicted that meals out and trips to the pub would be the first luxuries to go in a recession, followed by holidays.

And it seems they were right. Couples are now turning to sex as a cheaper form of entertainment.

Sex toys are also popular, with online firm sextoys.co.uk reporting a 27% increase in sales.

Website spokeswoman Monique Carty said: “We are gobsmacked by the upturn in sales, while everyone else seems to be suffering.

“We’ve especially noticed the rise in sales of couples’ toys, showing that people are buying for play with their partners.”

Sex author Tracey Cox said: ‘Sex toys are a lot more couple-friendly than they have ever been.

“And they are one of the quickest and best ways to introduce some novelty into your sex life.”