Sex During Pregnancy: Yes or No!

Sex During Pregnancy

If you are pregnant you probably wonder whether it is safe to have sex or not. Will it lead to miscarriage? Will it harm the unborn baby? When to avoid sex? Is there any specific period I need to avoid sex? Are there any sex positions to avoid? Is oral sex safe? Are there any symptoms to call the doctor?

So, here are the answers to all your queries during pregnancy.

Is it safe to have sex during pregnancy?

YES, it is completely safe during all the stages of pregnancy if you are healthy and having a normal pregnancy.

Though it is always advisable to consult with your doctor if you face any pregnancy complications.

Will it lead to miscarriage?

Sex will do no harm rather it is a healthy thing to do as it increases the blood flow in the pelvic area. But its always a good idea to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.

Will it harm the unborn baby?

NO, sex will not harm the baby at any stage if you are having a normal pregnancy. The baby is well protected by the strong muscles and the amniotic fluids of the uterus.

When to avoid sex?

Though having sex is considered to be safe during pregnancy but there are some situations when your doctor might recommend you not to have sex. The situations are:

1)   You are pregnant with multiples (twin, triplets or more)

2)     You are at risk of miscarriages or had a miscarriage in the past.

3)     You have an incompetent cervix. Your cervix begins to open prematurely.

4)     If you have a history of premature birth or labor. Or if You have symptoms of preterm labor in this pregnancy.

5)     You have placenta previa, placenta covers or partly covers the cervix.

6)     Your water, the amniotic sac has broken.

7)     You are having unexplained vaginal bleeding, discharge or cramping.

8)     Your partner has a genital infection. Using barrier contraception is a must to protect yourself and the baby from any Sexually Transmitted Infections.

Specific period to avoid sex?

Usually no. Sex during the first trimester or second trimester is completely safe and healthy as mentioned above. But doctors often advise not to have sex during the final weeks of pregnancy, just as safety precautions.

Sex positions to avoid?

As long as you are comfortable all the positions are safe. But you should avoid the positions like missionary position at the final stage of pregnancy, as it could put pressure on the belly. So here you need to be a bit creative to find the best position in which both of you can enjoy comfortably.

Avoid anal sex. As anal is full of bacteria, vaginal sex after anal sex could lead to infection in the vagina.

Is Oral Sex Safe?

Yes, it is safe. But not blowing air into the vagina as it results in air bubbles that block the blood vessels(embolism), which could be dangerous for you and the baby.

When to Call the Doctor?

If you are experiencing heavy bleeding, pain or discharges while having sex and don’t go away after sex, call your doctor immediately without any delay.

Sex After Pregnancy:

Most doctors recommend it is best to wait six weeks until after giving birth. As your body and mind need to get healed.

Though in most cases some changes may affect your sex life even after your body has healed, you may not enjoy or feel pleasure during sex or you feel a lack of interest in sex. But it is normal and usually, they go away over time.

Conclusion:

As long as you are comfortable and your doctor hasn’t told otherwise, it is completely safe and healthy to have sex during pregnancy. Moreover, it leads to a better postpartum experience. Openly discuss what feels right for both of you. And if you have any questions or situations during pregnancy just consult with your doctor without any delay.