Is It Really Safe To Have Sex During Pregnancy? Can It Cause Miscarriage?

Absolutely! Most ‘would- be -parents’ worry about this, but if you have a normal pregnancy, you can keep making love right up until your waters break. However, if you have a history of

cervical weakness, a low-lying placenta or bleeding, check with your doctor first. In a normal pregnancy, having sex is not linked with early miscarriage and is not a cause of vaginal infections. Try not to worry if you do get a vaginal infection. Sex won’t interfere with any antibiotic treatment for the condition. In fact, it’s even been linked with a decreased chance of having an early birth, despite the infection. If you do have an infection your husband, should wear a condom to ensure he doesn’t become infected too. Studies have also shown that in a normal healthy pregnancy, there’s no link between having sex and premature birth.

Research has even indicated that women who have regular sex during pregnancy may be less likely to give birth prematurely. Having orgasms may also be related to a lower chance of giving birth early. If you’re feeling sexy and well enough, then it’s a good thing to keep your love life going throughout pregnancy. Having satisfying sex during this time is good for your relationship, both now and after your baby has arrived.

Will sex harm your baby? You won’t hurt your baby by making love, even with your husband on top. The thick mucus plug that seals your cervix helps guard against infection. The amniotic sac and the strong muscles of your uterus (womb) also protect your baby. At orgasm, you may notice your baby moves around more. However, this is because of your pounding heart, not because he knows what’s happening or feels discomfort. However, your doctor may advise you not to have sex if you have experienced: bleeding abdominal pains or cramps broken waters, a history of cervical weakness, a low-lying placenta (placenta praevia), particularly if you have had some bleeding. You may also be advised to avoid sex during pregnancy if your husband has genital herpes. If you catch genital herpes for the first time during pregnancy there’s a small risk that it could affect your developing baby.

Will sex feel as good during pregnancy? It depends. It’s even better for some women, not as good for others. Increased blood flow to your pelvic area during pregnancy can cause your genitals to engorge, and heighten sexual sensation. But some women report that this leaves them with an uncomfortable full feeling after intercourse ends. Many women find that their clitoris is slightly less sensitive during pregnancy or that their orgasms are less powerful. It’s also reasonably common for women to say they can’t reach orgasm as easily while they’re carrying a baby. Some would-be-mothers find sex painful during pregnancy. This is particularly the case when penetration is deep. However, this can be avoided by adopting sexual positions where penetration is shallow or under your control. You may experience abdominal cramps after having an orgasm, as this can set off a wave of contractions. This is particularly noticeable in the third trimester. It can be off-putting, but wait a few minutes and the tightening of your uterus will ease, just as with Braxton Hicks contractions.

During pregnancy many couples find that they feel more pleasure from foreplay, oral sex or masturbation than intercourse. So although you may change the way you make love during pregnancy, it doesn’t mean you’ll be less satisfied! So if you can, try to keep some level of intimacy going throughout your pregnancy. Not only does it help to keep your relationship healthy, it also makes it more likely you won’t have sexual problems after your baby is born.

As Responded By

Dr. Ferdinand Umelo, consultant obstetrician & gynaecologist