Is having sex during pregnancy safe?
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Dr. Hilda Hutcherson of Good In Bed answered:Sex is perfectly safe for most couples. Your developing baby is shielded by the strong muscles of the uterus, as well as by the amniotic sac and fluid. The thick mucus plug that blocks the cervix during pregnancy adds another layer of protection. And I’m sorry to break it to you guys, your penis isn’t large enough to do any damage.
Sex is perfectly safe for most couples. Your developing baby is shielded by the strong muscles of the uterus, as well as by the amniotic sac and fluid. The thick mucus plug that blocks the cervix during pregnancy adds another layer of protection.... More -
Riverside Women's Health answered:Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, sex is safe. You may find that your interest in sex changes during pregnancy. Talk to your partner about other positions if the way you usually have sex is awkward or no longer feels good. Call your doctor if sex causes:
Pain Vaginal bleeding Fluid leakageThis answer is based on source information from the National Women's Health Information Center
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, sex is safe. You may find that your interest in sex changes during pregnancy. Talk to your partner about other positions if the way you usually have sex is awkward or no longer feels good. Call your doctor if... More -
Dr. Kim McCulloch of Intermountain Healthcare answered:Many patients ask whether or not they can remain sexually active during their pregnancy, and for most people the answer is yes. Some women find that it is more uncomfortable during pregnancy, so that could limit sexual activity. But if there are no complications of the pregnancy, such as preterm labor or bleeding problems, then most of the time intercourse can be continued normally.Many patients ask whether or not they can remain sexually active during their pregnancy, and for most people the answer is yes. Some women find that it is more uncomfortable during pregnancy, so that could limit sexual activity. But if there... More -
RealAge answered:Thanks to pregnancy-related mood swings, one minute you may crave nothing more than a steamy sex session, and the next you may feel about as sexy as clay.
So, if you do want to have sex, go ahead. As long as your pregnancy is proceeding normally, you can have sex as often as you like. If your uterus is in a typical position, there's no risk of hurting the baby during intercourse, because the amniotic fluid protects the baby from impact. Plus, because there's a mucus plug that blocks the cervix during pregnancy, there's virtually no chance of unintended contact between what's inside of you for 9 months and what may be inside of you for only 9 minutes.
That said, we know that the standard missionary position, with your partner on top, is likely the least comfortable as your belly gets larger.
There are uncommon cases in which you shouldn't have sex, and your doc will guide you. He or she may recommend that you refrain from sex if you're at risk for preterm labor, you're leaking amniotic fluid, your cervix begins to open prematurely, or you have placenta previa.
And if you don't want to have sex, there's absolutely nothing wrong with that. (Men, read that again.) Perfectly fine. We do recommend that you focus on finding other ways to physically, and thus emotionally, bond with your partner. (Men, read that again.) If the sex comes, fine. But if not, you've still made sure to connect on deeper levels and avoid feeling like the ol' spark is gone and your relationship is losing a bit of mojo.Thanks to pregnancy-related mood swings, one minute you may crave nothing more than a steamy sex session, and the next you may feel about as sexy as clay. So, if you do want to have sex, go ahead. As long as your pregnancy is proceeding... More -
Paula Greer answered:For most people with no other concerns, sex during pregnancy is perfectly normal and safe. Many women feel more amorous during pregnancy if they are not suffering from first trimester nausea/ vomiting and or the normal sleepiness early on. Many partners are turned on by mom’s increase in breast size and her new found desires. On the flipside some moms are too tired, feel awkward, fear miscarriage and or spend too much time nauseated to even consider sex. Dads sometimes fear they will hurt mom or the baby and avoid sex during pregnancy. Some even suffer from a Madonna complex (You don't make love to your mother!). The trick is to have both mom and dad on the same page (interested or not) at the same time. Healthcare providers are used to patients asking about sex during the prenatal visit so don't hesitate to bring up your questions with you to your midwife or ob/gyn. They have many helpful hints for creative positioning during the last few months.
Sex during pregnancy is perfectly safe for most couples, says nurse midwife Paula Greer. Watch the video to learn some ways to shift the baby weight to make sex more comfortable for a mom-to-be.
For most people with no other concerns, sex during pregnancy is perfectly normal and safe. Many women feel more amorous during pregnancy if they are not suffering from first trimester nausea/ vomiting and or the normal sleepiness early on. Many... More -
March of Dimes answered:Unless your health care provider advises you otherwise, sex during pregnancy is safe for you and your baby. Some circumstances make sex during pregnancy unsafe. Pregnant women who have any of these health complications should talk to their provider before having sex:
- A history or risk of miscarriage
- A previous preterm birth or other risk factors for preterm birth
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding, discharge or cramping
- Leaking amniotic fluid
- Placenta previa (when the placenta is low and covers the cervix)
- Incompetent cervix (when the cervix is weakened and opens too soon)
Usually, a woman can continue sexual activity during pregnancy as long as she feels comfortable. Talk to your health care provider about any specific questions.
Unless your health care provider advises you otherwise, sex during pregnancy is safe for you and your baby. Some circumstances make sex during pregnancy unsafe. Pregnant women who have any of these health complications should talk to their provider... More
