Pregnant women and their partners often wonder whether having sex during pregnancy is safe or not, especially during the first and third trimesters. They often worry about harming the baby. But women who have a healthy pregnancy are safe to have sex right up until their waters break. So, here we are to help you clear all the doubts related to sex during pregnancy.

In this article:

Is Sex during Pregnancy Safe?
Will sex feel as Good During Pregnancy?
What are the Best Sex Positions while you’re Pregnant?
8 Instances when it can Harm you
When to call the Doctor?

Things you Should Know about Sex During Pregnancy

Is Sex during Pregnancy Safe?

Sex is considered safe during all stages of a normal pregnancy. Normal pregnancy is one that’s considered low-risk for complications such as miscarriage or preterm labor. Your developing baby is protected by the amniotic fluid in your uterus, as well as by the strong muscles of the uterus itself. Sexual activity won’t affect your baby, as long as you don’t have complications such as preterm labor or placenta problems. However, pregnancy can cause changes in your level of comfort and sexual desire.

And just because sex is considered safe during pregnancy doesn’t mean you will necessarily want to have it, many pregnant women find that their desire for sex changes during certain stages in the pregnancy.

Will sex feel as Good During Pregnancy?

Whether sex feels good during pregnancy depends on the individual. Some women might like it and some women might not. Increased blood flow to your pelvic area during pregnancy can heighten sexual sensation, or feel uncomfortable. Some women say they can’t get turned on or reach orgasm as easily while they’re carrying a baby. If you find your usual positions uncomfortable, there are other ways to enjoy sex. During pregnancy many couples get pleasure from foreplay, oral sex, sex toys or masturbation. Use your pregnancy as a chance to spice up your sex life and try something new and creative.

What are the Best Sex Positions while you’re Pregnant?

Any position is considered safe as long as it’s comfortable and feels okay. Here are some positions that are best to try during pregnancy:

Spooning

Spooning is a great option, since pregnancy leaves you exhausted entire day even without you doing much work. In spooning you don’t really have to do anything, just lie on your side in front of your partner and have him enter from behind. Since it doesn’t allow deep penetration, you will not even feel uncomfortable.

Read More:7 Safe and Best Sex Positions for Second Trimester of Pregnancy

On the Chair 

This position requires a sturdy, comfortable chair that’s not too high off the ground. Sit on the chair and have your partner kneel in front of you and enter that way. It works best if he’s thrusting slightly upward instead of straight on towards your belly. Another variation is to have your guy sit in the chair and then sit on his lap, facing away from him.

On a Couch

Your living room is another great place to try new ways to make love. Kneel on your couch, facing the back of it then have your guy enter from behind. Use your arms to support yourself on the back of the couch. The cushions will provide plenty of comfortable support. If your legs or arms start to hurt then shift to other position.

Read More:7 Best Sex Positions for First Trimester of Pregnancy

Edge of the Bed

This one is like good-old missionary except it keeps your man’s weight off of you. Lie on your back with your legs bent and your feet resting on the edge of the bed and have him stand in front of you. This position will keep your husband from putting any weight on the belly.

Policeman 

Another comfy position which you can try during pregnancy is the policeman position. In this you will have to stand against the wall with your arms supporting your weight and your feet spread apart, and then have your man come up from behind. If your arms start to get tired, use your elbows to support your weight.

You on Top

You will have the complete control in this position, therefore making it more suitable during pregnancy. It also takes your baby bump out of the equation. Make your partner lie on the bed and straddled him, then choose your ideal speed and depth of penetration. Another option is to do the reverse position, where you’re facing away from your partner’s face.

Leap Frog 

Similar to the doggy-style, this position has you rest your arms and head on the mattress while your partner enters you from behind. It offers more support so you can hold the extra weight of your baby bump. If you’ve ever done yoga, this can be easy for you.

Non-Penetrative

Sometimes you might not feel ready for penetrative sex, in such case, the best is oral sex and mutual masturbation, or even using sex toys can give you the same pleasure. This is also a great way to connect with your partner on an intimate level. Any pregnant sex that involves rubbing, grinding, or vibrating is great to explore, as long as it makes you feel good.

8 Instances when it can Harm you

Sex during pregnancy is not harmful until:

• If you are at risk for miscarriage or have a history of past miscarriages
• If you are at risk for preterm labor(contractions before 37 weeks of pregnancy)
• If you experience vaginal bleeding, discharge, or cramping after sex
• If your amniotic sac is leaking fluid or has ruptured membranes
• When your cervix has opened too early in pregnancy
• If your placenta is too low in the uterus (placenta previa)
• If you are expecting twins, triplets, or other “multiples”
• You have a history of cervical weaknessor giving birth prematurely

You should avoid sex if your partner has an active sexually transmitted infection (STI). If your partner has an STI, or if you think he might, talk to your doctor or midwife for specific advice. It is best to use a condom to protect against STIs.

When to call the Doctor?

Sometimes things might get messy and result in creating a situation which might need you to call a doctor. So make sure you are having safe and comfortable sex during the final phase of your pregnancy.

If you have oral sex, your partner should not blow air into your vagina. Blowing air can cause an air embolism (a blockage of a blood vessel by an air bubble), which can be potentially fatal for mother and child. Health care providers also recommend avoiding anal sex during pregnancy, since it can make things uncomfortable for you. Call a doctor immediately if you have vaginal bleeding or severe cramping after your intercourse.

References

https://www.babycentre.co.uk/sex-during-pregnancy-overview

https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/sex-and-relationships/pregnancy-sex-guide/