Sex during pregnancy: Safety, effects, and positions

Sex during Pregnancy – Is sex during pregnancy safe or risky? This question often comes to mind, and there are many myths surrounding it. Many people believe that orgasm can harm the baby, increase the risk of miscarriage, or cause premature labor.

But is this true? And even if sex is possible, which positions are safe and comfortable, which ones should be avoided, and are there any benefits to having sex during pregnancy?

In today’s article, we’ll answer all these questions. If you’re pregnant or planning to get pregnant with your partner, be sure to watch this video.

Is it safe to have sex while pregnant?

Many people believe that having sex or achieving orgasm can harm the baby, increase the risk of miscarriage, or cause premature labor, but these are myths.

Sex is completely safe during a normal and healthy pregnancy. At any stage of pregnancy, if there are no complications, sexual activity does not harm the baby. The baby is well protected by strong uterine muscles, amniotic fluid, and the mucus plug surrounding the cervix.

If the pregnancy is normal and the doctor has given the green light, sexual activity is completely safe.

Can sex trigger labor?

Several studies have found that vaginal intercourse during pregnancy is not directly linked to premature labor or preterm labor. This means that intercourse does not usually trigger labor.

However, if a woman’s pregnancy falls into the high-risk category, her doctor may advise her to avoid intercourse. This restriction may continue throughout the pregnancy or only for the first few weeks, depending on the situation.

Braxton Hicks contractions can sometimes occur in late pregnancy after climax or sexual penetration. These are mild contractions that some pregnant women experience towards the end of pregnancy. They are not a sign of actual labor; they are a natural response of the baby’s body that prepares for labor and helps with delivery. If these contractions occur, there is no need to panic; they are normal and do not indicate the onset of labor.

Best Positions for Sex during Pregnancy

Let’s now understand which positions you should try during pregnancy.

At this time, it’s best to choose positions that the pregnant woman has control over, such as the depth and speed of penetration. This will provide greater comfort and reduce strain on her body.

There are some sex positions that are safe and comfortable during pregnancy, especially as the baby grows.

For example, in the “woman-on-top” position, the pregnant woman is on top and can control the depth and speed of penetration. This is more comfortable and safe for her, and also reduces pressure on her abdomen.
In the “side-by-side spooning” position, both partners can be intimate while lying on their sides. This position reduces the extra weight on the abdomen and relaxes the body.
Also, having sex while sitting on the edge of the bed provides support for the pregnant woman, allowing her to maintain comfort and control.

In the later stages of pregnancy, one should choose such positions for sex which do not put pressure on the stomach and the pregnant woman feels comfortable.

Oral and Anal Sex during Pregnancy

Oral sex is generally considered safe during pregnancy. But keep one important thing in mind: your partner should never blow air into the vagina.

Doing so can cause an air embolism, in which an air bubble blocks a hole in a blood vessel. This condition is very rare, but if it occurs, it can be serious or even life-threatening.

Furthermore, anal sex does not directly harm the baby. However, if a pregnant woman has hemorrhoids, anal sex may increase pain and discomfort.

Another important thing is to avoid vaginal sex immediately after anal sex. This can transfer bacteria from the rectum to the vagina, increasing the risk of infection. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to both hygiene and safety.

When to avoid sex during Pregnancy

Every pregnancy is different, so sex isn’t necessarily safe for everyone. In some situations, doctors may advise against having sex for the safety of both the pregnant woman and the baby.

If there are any problems with the cervix that may increase the risk of miscarriage or premature labor, sex should be avoided. Doctors often advise avoiding sexual activity during twin pregnancies, as it can increase pressure on the uterus.

Placenta previa is a condition in which the placenta covers the entrance to the cervix. This condition can make sex difficult or increase the risk of complications. Similarly, if there is cervical incompetence, meaning the cervix is opening too early, sex may also be unsafe.

If you have previously experienced premature labor or excessive vaginal bleeding, you should avoid sex until your doctor advises.

In some cases, amniotic fluid may leak. This increases the risk of infection, so it’s best to avoid sex in such a situation.

Benefits of sex during pregnancy

Having sex during pregnancy can have some positive benefits. Whether both partners are going through physical or emotional changes, it can help me manage sex better.

When a woman is pregnant, blood flow to her genitals increases. This can lead to more powerful and sometimes more frequent orgasms.

Sex is a form of physical activity that keeps the body active and burns calories. It helps me maintain my fitness, especially when my body is experiencing weight and hormonal changes.

Emotional support and connection are crucial during pregnancy. Sex strengthens the bond between partners and helps them feel closer to each other.

A 2004 study found that sex increases antibodies called IgA in the body. These antibodies protect against colds and infections, meaning sex also helps strengthen the immune system.

Furthermore, orgasms release natural happy hormones called endorphins that make the pregnant woman feel relaxed and happy, and this has a positive effect on the baby as well.

A note from Kamarth

Friends, having sex during a healthy pregnancy poses no risk to the mother or baby. However, if you experience unusual pain, bleeding, or any other unusual symptoms during or after sex, you should consult a doctor immediately.

Some Additional Questions

Question: Is it good to have sex while pregnant?
Answer: Unless a doctor advises otherwise, having sex throughout a typical, uneventful pregnancy is safe.

Question: In which month of pregnancy should sex be stopped?
Answer: Unless medical difficulties dictate limitation, sex can continue throughout pregnancy; there is no set month to cease.

Question: How much sex is normal during pregnancy?
Answer: Comfort, desire, and medical safety are the only factors that determine the frequency.

Question: Can sperm go inside during pregnancy?
Answer: In a healthy pregnancy, sperm can enter the vagina, but they do not harm or reach the unborn child.

Question: Why do doctors say no sex during pregnancy?
Answer: Only in high-risk situations, such as placenta previa, cervical incompetence, hemorrhage, or the possibility of preterm labor.

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Sex during pregnancy: Safety, effects, and positions

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