Is sex during pregnancy safe? Is a lack of libido normal? Here’s what you need to know about intimacy during pregnancy.
Is it safe to have sex in pregnancy?
For most people it’s perfectly safe to have sex, including penetrative sex or masturbation, during pregnancy. Parents might worry about hurting the baby. But the penis or sex toy can’t penetrate beyond the cervix, so the baby won’t feel it.
The mucus plug and amniotic sac also protect your baby from infection.
Will sex in pregnancy bring on Labour?
Sex during pregnancy won’t bring on labour or increase the risk of miscarriage where there are no other complications.
Having an orgasm can cause Braxton Hicks contractions. These ‘practice’ contractions don’t mean labour is starting, although they can be uncomfortable. Lying down and relaxing can help them go away.
Nipple stimulation might encourage a labour which is about to start anyway. Any kind of arousal may also lead to milk being produced.
What sexual positions are comfortable in pregnancy?
Some positions might become more uncomfortable as pregnancy progresses, the bump gets bigger and breasts can become more tender. The pregnant woman or person may find deep penetration uncomfortable.
Explore different positions to find what feels best.
During pregnancy, vaginal lubrication often increases. If needed, you could also use a lubricant.
Does sex drive change during pregnancy?
Changes in libido are normal during pregnancy. Common pregnancy discomforts like nausea and tiredness can mean the pregnant woman or person doesn’t feel like having sex.
The following are also common during pregnancy:
- Slight bleed from the cervix
- A sense of fullness in the pelvic organs
- Vaginal discomfort
- Less clitoral sensation
Talking about how you’re feeling can help you feel connected with a partner if you have one. It’s common to have less sex during pregnancy and after your baby is born, and instead increase non-sexual contact such as cuddling.
Social or cultural factors may mean some people feel pressured into having sex in pregnancy. Pressuring someone to take part in sexual acts when they don’t wish to or it is painful or uncomfortable is gender-based violence.
Alternatives to having penetrative sex
If you don’t feel like having penetrative sex, there are other ways to be intimate. You can cuddle, kiss, give or receive massages or masturbate.
When to avoid sex during pregnancy
Having sex during pregnancy is generally safe. Your healthcare provider may recommend avoiding penetrative sex for certain reasons. These include:
- Heavy bleeding during the pregnancy
- If the waters have broken, as this can increase the risk of infection
- Placenta praevia or other problems with the cervix
- Previous early labours
- Being in the late stages of pregnancy with twins or multiples
Can you get an STI when you’re pregnant?
Yes, you can catch Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) while you’re pregnant. Use a condom or another form of barrier protection if one or both of you have multiple sexual partners.
As always, make sure sex toys are clean before and after you use them.
Genital herpes can be transmitted from oral as well as genital sex, and this can lead to neonatal herpes.
