Has pregnancy spiked your interest in sex? Or is sex the last thing on your mind? Either way, here's what you need to know about sex during pregnancy. The amniotic fluid in the uterus and the strong muscles of the uterus protect your growing baby. Having sex won't affect your baby if you don't have health concerns during pregnancy such as preterm labor or placenta problems.
But being pregnant can cause changes in your level of comfort during sex and in your interest in sex. Miscarriage is the sudden loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week. Having sex while pregnant won't cause a miscarriage. Most miscarriages happen because the fetus isn't growing as it should.
It's common to have cramps or spotting after sex or orgasm. But if you have bad cramping that doesn't go away or heavy bleeding that is like a menstrual period, contact your healthcare professional. Most sexual positions are OK during pregnancy if they are comfortable for you. If a position bothers you, try another. As your belly grows, see what works best. Keep pleasure and comfort in mind. Having a sexually transmitted infection while pregnant can cause serious health problems for you and your baby.
Avoid vaginal, oral and anal sex if your partner has a sexually transmitted infection. Having sex or having an orgasm can cause the uterus to contract.
This most often isn't a reason to worry. That's OK. You may have nausea or be too tired for sex. Or you or your partner might not want to have sex. Share your needs and worries with your partner in an open and loving way. If you don't want to have sex, there are other ways to be close. Try cuddling, kissing or massage. This guide offers research-backed advice to help you and your baby experience a healthy pregnancy, written by some of the world's leading medical experts.
