Is sex during pregnancy safe?

Verified by Dr. Vaishali Sakpal Rane (MBBS, DGO Obstetrics and Gynaecology, DNB Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

Pregnancy is an emotional rollercoaster journey for both mother and father. Being intimate, staying connected and feeling loved is very important during this crucial period.

Usually couples avoid sex during pregnancy fearing that it might harm their baby and cause miscarriage. Well here's the good news —sex during pregnancy is normal and safe to a great extent. However it is always a good idea to talk to your doctor before involving in sexual activities.

Infact sex during pregnancy can prove to be beneficial in certain ways, for example it reduces your blood pressure, helps you sleep better and also makes you feel happier. 

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The baby inside your womb is surrounded by amniotic fluid and a tough amniotic membrane that protects it from infections and also acts as a shock absorber for mild thrust.

There are certain conditions where doctor may ask you to avoid sex, like:

• If there is bleeding from vagina
• Leaking of amniotic fluid due to the water bag breaking
• Previous history of miscarriage
• Low lying placenta
• Previous history of preterm delivery or labour
• Twin pregnancy

During the pregnancy there can be changes in the sex drive or libido. You may not feel like having sex, which is absolutely normal. You may also have an increased sex drive due to the surge in the hormones, which is also considered normal.

Lying on your back with your partner on top can be uncomfortable due to the big belly and tender breasts. You can explore other positions which are more comfortable for you like the side to side, you on the top or entry from back, this will help you control the penetration. There is no hard and fast rule for position, whatever is comfortable for you, you can practise that. However, don't forget to use condoms or dental dams to avoid the risk of STI. STIs like HIV, gonorrhoea , and syphilis are dangerous for the baby. 

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Sex during the last week may help to induce labour. The uterine contractions occurring during orgasm can help to kick start the labour pain. But this may not always happen. Sex during pregnancy is not a bad thing, there’s no need to deprive yourself of the pleasure if your doctor has given you green signal.

Have more queries regarding your pregnancy or sex during pregnancy? Connect to the experts at Gytree.