Intercourse
Intercourse During Pregnancy
It’s perfectly safe to have sexual intercourse during pregnancy unless your healthcare provider has told you otherwise.
Changes in libido are normal. Increases in blood flow to the pelvic area and also larger, firmer breasts may enhance your interest and enjoyment. Tender breasts, nausea, and fatigue may make intercourse less appealing to you.
In most cases, intercourse during pregnancy will not harm the fetus and is not a cause of miscarriage. Your baby is well protected by the abdomen, amniotic fluid, and cervical mucous plug, which prevents semen and bacteria from entering the uterus.
Orgasms can cause contractions; however, most research indicates that in a normal pregnancy, it does not lead to premature labor or birth.
Vaginal spotting after intercourse can occur, but if it persists, should be reported to your healthcare provider.
Our recommendations:
- Use of water-based artificial lubricants if you feel dryness
- Condoms are safe to use during pregnancy
- Most sexual positions are allowed, as long as you are comfortable
Abstinence During Pregnancy
Abstain from intercourse while pregnant if:
- Healthcare provider advised abstinence
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Placenta is low or previa
- Subchorionic or Retroplacental hematoma
- Leakage of amniotic fluid
- Water breaks (increase the risk of infection)
- Short cervix or cervix begins to open prematurely (cervical incompetence)
- History of premature delivery
- Multiple pregnancy (twins / triplets)