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Sex during Pregnancy: Is it Safe?

Sex during pregnancy is safe

Sex during pregnancy can feel different from how it felt before you were pregnant. But before we get there, you may still be toying with the thought – Can I have sex while I’m pregnant? You are not sure if it is safe to have sex during pregnancy. Of course, you do not want to do anything that can possibly harm the baby. In this post, we attempt to elaborate on all the common doubts about sex while pregnant, that we hear from the pregnant women we see at FabMoms. All your questions answered about Sex during pregnancy.

Is sex during pregnancy safe?

Can I have sex while I’m pregnant?

It is perfectly safe to have sex during pregnancy unless your doctor has told you not to. Infact, most sexual activity is considered to be safe for women having healthy pregnancy. So if your pregnancy is going smoothly and you have no complications, having sex and orgasms won’t increase your risk of going into labour early or cause a miscarriage.

As your belly grows, you can try different positions to find what is most comfortable for you. Let your partner know if anything feels uncomfortable, even if it’s something you’re used to doing.

Will sex harm my baby?

You might worry that sex will harm the baby. But your baby is well protected and covered in the amniotic sac, so you can’t hurt your baby by having sex.

Are there times when I shouldn’t have sex while pregnant?

There are some situations where sex might be unsafe during pregnancy. These might be, if you have:

  • Signs of a possible miscarriage or preterm labour
  • History of cervical weakness
  • Severe abdominal pain or cramps
  • Placenta previa
  • Vaginal bleeding, or the bleeding has stopped but the cause is unclear
  • Your water has broken

Your doctor will probably advise you to avoid sex if required in case of twins, or you have previously had early labours, and are in the later stages of pregnancy

What to expect from sex during pregnancy

When you’re pregnant, hormones and extra blood flow to your genitals can make sex more enjoyable. But symptoms like sore breasts and nausea, as well as your growing belly, can also make sex uncomfortable.

Also, it’s normal to have mild stomach cramps or contractions during or right after sex. These cramps might happen because the muscles in your uterus contract during orgasm. Cramps can also be triggered by hormones in a male partner’s semen.

If you have mild cramps during or after sex, you can ease your discomfort by taking a warm shower or bath or using a heat pack.

Related Reading : Sex during pregnancy at 6 months pregnancy; Sex in the later stages of pregnancy

Is it normal to go off sex during pregnancy?

Of course, it’s up to you whether you feel like having sex. Some women do, and some don’t. During the first trimester, you may feel too nauseated and tired to have sex. But you may find that your sex drive comes back during the second trimester after morning sickness goes away and you have your energy again. It’s also normal for desire to wane again during the third trimester. Whatever your mood, talk with your partner.

Sex during pregnancy: When to be worried?

Call your doctor, midwife or hospital immediately if you have any of these symptoms after sex during pregnancy:

  • severe stomach cramps or contractions that get stronger and more regular
  • bleeding
  • sharp stomach pain
  • dizziness, nausea or vomiting
  • fever or chills
  • vaginal discharge that looks or smells different.

Which sex positions are the most comfortable during pregnancy?

While sex is safe for most couples in pregnancy, it may not be all that easy. You will probably need to find different positions. This can be a time to explore and experiment together. Try the following sex positions instead:

  • Get on top. This keeps the weight off your belly and lets you control the depth of penetration.
  • Lie side-by-side in the spoons position.
  • Lie with your bottom on the edge of the bed, with your partner kneeling or standing in front of you.
  • Try getting on your hands or knees in the doggy position.
  • Straddle your partner while they sit on a chair. This is another position that puts no weight on your belly.
  • Sit on a table or counter.

Let your partner know if anything feels uncomfortable, even if it’s something you’re used to doing. Most importantly, communicate with your partner – That way, you can find a position that works for both of you.

References: 
Sex in Pregnancy, by Claire Jones, MD, Crystal Chan, MD, and Dan Farine, MD; CMAJ. 2011 Apr 19; 183(7): 815–818.; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3080531/
Safe Sex NHS https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/sex