Is It Safe To Have Sex During Pregnancy?

Are you a soon-to-be mother wanting to keep your romance alive during these nine months? No worries, you’re not alone! Many moms-to-be have the following  burning questions– " Is it safe to have sex during pregnancy?" But yeah, it’s all normal to wonder about sex during this magical time. Every mom wants to keep that connection with their partner while keeping the baby safe. 

So, to ease your mind about safety, let's explore this topic further.

Is It Okay To Have Sex During Pregnancy?

Absolutely! For most couples, it's perfectly fine to continue enjoying intimacy. The baby is always well-protected within the mother's amniotic sac and by her strong uterine muscles. Therefore, their little one remains safe during these intimate moments. However, it's always good to touch base with a doctor for personalised advice about you engaging in intercourse during pregnancy. ^{1 2}

Let's explore another concern couples often have.

Can Sex During Pregnancy Cause A Miscarriage?

Many expectant couples are hesitant about having sex during pregnancy. They end up fearing it could harm their baby or even lead to a miscarriage. But the truth is that miscarriages mostly happen due to factors related to the baby's health development. They include genetic abnormalities or issues with the placenta and not sex. In addition to this, you must be aware that a woman’s amniotic sac provides a cushioning layer of protection around her growing baby. But if you’re unsure of your health, you must always seek a doctor’s advice for specified problems. ^{3 4 5}

Let us now delve into the circumstances in which one should stop sex during pregnancy.

What Are The Best Sexual Positions During Pregnancy?

The studies indicate that sexual intercourse during pregnancy is safe for women except in cases of complications, such as placenta previa or preterm labour. ⁶ As the pregnancy advances, finding comfortable positions becomes crucial. Positions such as side-lying or spooning are the favourite for most couples during the last weeks of pregnancy. ⁷ This position does not put pressure on the abdominal region; therefore, it is comfortable and pleasurable . ⁷ However, it is always advisable to discuss with your healthcare provider for personalised advice.

Are Condoms Needed During Pregnancy?

It is recommended to use condoms during pregnancy to prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections or STIs. These infections can cause various complications for the growing baby  during pregnancy like stillbirth, premature birth and low birth weight. ⁸ Additionally, these infections can lead to serious health problems for the mothers, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility.⁸ Therefore, if you are opting for sexual intercourse during pregnancy, the simplest and most effective way to prevent the transmission of STIs is by using condoms.

Sex During Pregnancy: When To Avoid

Most of the time, having sexual activity during pregnancy can be a natural and enjoyable part of a couple's relationship. But, during the special time of the motherhood journey, if you experience any of these conditions, it's crucial to skip sex: 2 6

• Placental bleeding near the uterus
• If you’re expecting twins
• History of miscarriage & premature birth

So, always make sure you put your and the growing baby's health first. And also remember to check with the doctor about all these conditions before having sex to be on the safer side.

Let us now take a closer look at the trimester-specific changes your body experiences.

Trimester-Specific Changes During Pregnancy

Pregnancy involves trimester-specific changes to your body, especially regarding sex during the first three months. Let's check out some of the key changes for every trimester below:

First Trimester Changes:

In the initial months of pregnancy, some women can feel less interested in sexual activities due to fatigue, nausea and breast tenderness. In fact,  about 54% of women experience a drop in sexual interest during pregnancy. However, these drops are often temporary, and as your body adjusts, you can notice an increase in sexual desire in the second trimester. Thus, it's important for women to keep open communication with their partner regarding the specified changes that occur during pregnancy. ^{9 10}

Second Trimester Changes:

In the second trimester, breast size increases, sometimes making intimacy uncomfortable. Additionally, increased blood flow to the genitals heightens sensitivity, making orgasms easier and boosting sexual desire. ¹⁰

Third Trimester Changes:

In the final trimesters of pregnancy, the growing uterus makes women feel heavy and short of breath. Fatigue returns, becoming more apparent. Frequent night-time bathroom trips lead to trouble sleeping. And lastly, the growing baby bump leaves women emotionally low, impacting self-confidence. In this way, natural shifts in responsibilities demand more focus, leading them to lose interest in sex. ¹⁰

Next, let us explore the next section below..

Benefits Of Sex During Pregnancy

Having sex or being intimate with your partner during pregnancy can provide several physical and emotional benefits. It includes:

1. Oxytocin Boosts

During pregnancy, engaging in sex can enhance oxytocin levels. This hormone is vital for childbirth and lactation. The release of oxytocin brings calming effects and strengthens trust between the partners. ¹⁰

2. Pain relief

Sexual activities can actually release pain in some couples, with notable effects including the reduction of migraine headaches. The pleasure of sex can be as immersive as watching a romantic film or as engrossing as watching a sports event, effectively distracting both partners from pain. Such actions can effectively redirect attention away from pain sensations for both partners. ¹⁰

3. Improve Heart Health

Regular sex is good for the heart and brain too! It boosts blood flow, which keeps your heart healthy and lowers the chances of other related problems. Sex can also improve brain function by delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the brain, potentially preventing memory problems.  ¹⁰

Now, let us take a closer look at the safe sex tips to follow during pregnancy.

Safe Sex Tips During Pregnancy

Here are some important tips for keeping sex safe during pregnancy: ^{2 11 12}

• Choose positions that make you comfortable, especially as your belly grows.
• Keep the conversation flowing with your partner to make sure you both feel good and supported.
• Practise safe sex to stay protected against any chance of passing on STIs during pregnancy.
• Never skip prenatal check-ups—keep them regular.
• Communicate any sex-related concerns or complications directly to a doctor.
• Seek immediate guidance from a doctor, if your partner experiences vaginal bleeding.

As we discussed so far, having sex during pregnancy is safe and a matter of personal decision, it's crucial to recognize that abstaining is equally valid and should be respected. Let's bust this common myth.

Is It Ok To Avoid Sex During Pregnancy?

It is very common for most women to feel less desire for sex during pregnancy. ¹³ This can be due to hormonal changes, emotional shifts, physical discomfort and fatigue, and mood swings.¹³ An open communication between the partners is the key during this phase. Also, couples may practise other acts of intimacy such as cuddling or massage to be intimate without the pressure of intercourse. Building an emotional connection can promote a healthy relationship during pregnancy, ensuring both partners feel supported and understood.

The Final Note!

In conclusion, your body goes through so many changes that can impact your comfort and intimacy levels. While having sex during pregnancy is generally safe, it is equally important to remain attentive to your body's signals. Keep those lines of communication open with your partner, and don't forget to integrate those safety tips we’ve discussed earlier. And of course, regular prenatal check-ups are a must. Remember, every pregnancy is different, so it's all about listening to your body and seeking personalised guidance from your healthcare provider. 

*Disclaimer: The information in this blog is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

FAQs

Q1. Is Sex Safe During Pregnancy?

A: Yes, unless advised by your doctor not to have sex due to complications related to pregnancy.

Q2. What are the benefits of sex during pregnancy?

A: Sex during pregnancy is generally safe and has positive benefits, such as improving sleep, relieving stress, and boosting mood.¹⁴

Q3. Can I engage in sexual activity after my water breaks?

No, it's not safe to perform sex after your water breaks. It can further pose the risk of infection due to rupturing of the protective amniotic sac. ²

Q4. Can I get an STI while pregnant?

Yes! You can get an STI during pregnancy. Being pregnant doesn't shield you or your partner from any risks of infections.  So practise safe sex practices when required. ^{2 11}

Q5. Is It Safe To Use Condoms During Pregnancy?

Yes! Condoms are safe to use during pregnancy as they prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). These infections can be harmful to you and your unborn baby's health. ¹⁴