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Can You Have Sex During Pregnancy?
I have received some conflicting advice about having sex during
pregnancy. Is sex okay during pregnancy?
A: Yes, sex is usually okay during pregnancy. In fact, sometimes
sex is great during pregnancy. All kidding aside, sexual
intercourse is safe for mother and child throughout most
pregnancies, with a few stipulations.
Women may be advised to avoid intercourse during all or part of
the pregnancy under circumstances such as these:
A history of miscarriage
A history of preterm labor or birth
They are having preterm labor during the current pregnancy
Bleeding
Cramping
Infection
Problems with the placenta
Incompetent cervix
Although you may feel embarrassed, don’t hesitate to ask your
obstetrician if you have any doubts about what’s safe. If
intercourse is ruled out for you, remember that there are other
forms of sexual intimacy which can be very satisfying for both
partners. One practice that’s never safe, though, is blowing air
into the vagina. This can create what’s known as an air embolism,
which can be deadly to both mother and child.
Of course, some couples aren’t as interested in sex during
pregnancy. Others find it more desirable and more pleasurable.
The range of what’s “normal” is extremely wide. Late in
pregnancy, it’s common for couples to avoid sexual positions that
put the partner’s weight on top of the pregnant woman’s abdomen.
Couples who are able to talk openly with each other about their
concerns and emotions may have an easier time finding their
comfort zones when it comes to sexuality in pregnancy.
Nancy Snyderman, M.D., F.A.C.S
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