Certified Sexologists Tell You Everything You Need To Know About Sex During Pregnancy

There are many myths and misconceptions with regard to sex during pregnancy.?Some people think it’s not good to have sex during pregnancy; others think having sex during pregnancy can harm the baby in the womb.

To help you differentiate between myth and fact, and to help you know whether it’s good for a pregnant woman to have sex during pregnancy or not, I consulted two sexologists to help us understand this issue better.

Let’s begin by looking at some of the myths and misconceptions about sex during pregnancy.

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Myths/Misconceptions About Sex During Pregnancy

There are several myths/misconceptions about sex during pregnancy. Here are some of them, and what the experts say about these myths.

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Myth: Having sex during pregnancy can harm the baby and cause miscarriage in early pregnancy.

One study found that about 80 percent of men worry about “hurting the baby.”

Fact: “Sex during pregnancy is generally safe,” says Rhiannon John, a certified sexologist in Brooklyn, New York. . “The developing baby is well protected by amniotic fluid, uterine muscles, and the mucus plug so penetration does not harm the baby or lead to miscarriage.”

In fact, a study done in 2011 found that sex doesn’t induce early labor in low-risk pregnancies.

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Myth: Sex during pregnancy can cause premature labor.

Fact: “In most cases, sex during pregnancy does not lead to preterm labor,” says John. “However, if a person has specific risk factors like a history of preterm labor or other complications, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider.”

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Myth: The baby can feel sexual activity during pregnancy.

Fact: “The developing baby cannot feel sexual activity as the amniotic fluid and uterine walls protect them,” says John.

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Is Sex Good During Pregnancy?

Unless your OB/GYN has recommended against sexual activity, it is healthy for a woman and her partner to have sex during pregnancy.

“Under most circumstances, it is perfectly safe and healthy to have sex during pregnancy,” says Sarah Melancon, PhD, certified sexologist, and researcher at Women’s Health Interactive in Los Angeles, CA.

In some cases, women who are at risk for preterm labor or issues related to the placenta may be advised to reduce or avoid sexual activity.

Dr. Melancon cautions that it’s very important that you ensure that you have safe sex. “Safe sex is very important during pregnancy, either with a tested partner or with condoms, as some STIs can be passed to the baby and that can increase the risk of preterm labor,” she says. “Any STIs present during pregnancy should be treated ASAP to reduce the risk.”

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Reasons Why A Pregnant Woman Should Make Love

There are many ways having sex during pregnancy woman can benefit a pregnant woman. According to John, some of these benefits include:

·???????Stress reduction: Orgasms release endorphins, which can help alleviate stress and improve mood, offering emotional benefits during pregnancy.

·???????Better sleep: Engaging in sexual activity can lead to relaxation and better sleep, which is beneficial for pregnant individuals experiencing sleep disturbances.

There are other benefits a pregnant woman will get when she continues to have sex during pregnancy, according to Dr. Melancon.

“Sex results in an increase in levels of oxytocin—also known as the “love hormone— in the body. Oxytocin plays a major role in the birth process, and increasing oxytocin during pregnancy in a variety of ways can help contribute to a healthy birth,” she says.

Additionally, research shows that sexual activity can increase intimacy and a sense of connection between partners. A stronger relationship between a couple can contribute to a positive birth experience—it can help reduce stress and increase positive emotions.

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What Kind Of Sex Is Safe To Have When You’re Pregnant?

During pregnancy, most forms of sexual activity are safe and do not harm the developing baby, according to John.

“Penetration of the vagina from a penis or sex toy is generally considered safe, as the cervix prevents anything from reaching beyond the vagina,” she says. “Clitoral stimulation and non-penetrative sexual activities are also safe options.”

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The Best, And Safest, Sex Positions To Try During Pregnancy

Some couples worry about having sex in certain positions because they are scared certain positions may affect the baby. However, John says most sex positions are safe.

“Most sex positions are generally safe as long as both partners feel comfortable and there are no specific health concerns,” says John. “Individual comfort levels and body changes during pregnancy will vary, so it's essential to communicate with your partner and explore what works best for both of you.”

Although most sex positions are safe and individual comfort levels vary from person to person, “you have to avoid extra pressure on the belly,” says Dr. Melancon.

Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and what feels comfortable for one person may not be the same for another. Trust your instincts and listen to your body's cues.

If any position feels uncomfortable or causes discomfort, don't hesitate to try a different one or explore non-penetrative sexual activities, John suggests. Ultimately, the goal is to prioritize your comfort and pleasure.??

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Science-Backed Sex Positions To Try

Some studies have shown that these positions are generally safe to practice:

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Spooning Position

One study showed that the spooning position—when a woman’s partner enters her from behind— is good and safe for pregnant women.

When should you try this position? How can it help the pregnant woman?

“The spooning position can be comfortable in any trimester, but especially in the second and third trimesters,” says Dr. Melancon. “Lying on one’s side takes the pressure off the pregnant woman’s back and belly and allows her to relax and enjoy sex.”

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Missionary Position

The missionary position is also generally safe though it can become uncomfortable as pregnancy progresses. In one study, 63.8% of couples used the missionary position during the first trimester, but only 37.9% used the missionary position during the third trimester. “Lying on one’s back can feel uncomfortable and add pressure on the abdomen,” says Dr. Melancon.

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Cowgirl

The cowgirl (woman-on-top) position is another safe position to try. In one study, 51.5% of women had sex in this position.

“This position allows the woman to control the depth of penetration, which can be especially important as the pregnancy progresses and vaginal discomfort increases,” says Dr. Melancon. “It also allows her clitoris to grind against his pubic bone and many enjoy this position for added pleasure.”

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Safety Tips And Precautions For Sex During Pregnancy

Here are some safety tips that John recommends:

·???????Communicate with your partner about comfort levels and desires.

·???????Use lubrication to reduce discomfort and friction.

·???????Avoid sexual activity if there is heavy bleeding, a history of preterm labor, or placental/cervical complications.

·???????Clean sex toys thoroughly before and after use to prevent infections.

·???????Consider using barrier protection for new partners or non-monogamous relationships to prevent sexually transmitted infections.

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And here are some safety tips that Dr. Melancon recommends.

Always Have Safe Sex

A monogamous committed partner is always safe. A casual partner who is tested and not currently sleeping with anyone else will typically be safe, though condoms are always a good idea with casual or especially untested partners. STIs can be passed to the baby or cause risks to the labor process.

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Communicate Your Needs

A woman’s body goes through many changes throughout pregnancy, and what feels good at one stage won’t necessarily feel good at another time. Adjust your positions and activities depending on your body’s comfort and desires.

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Use Lube

The hormones and physical changes that come with pregnancy can affect all aspects of sexual function, including lubrication. ?Many personal lubricants contain harmful ingredients that can increase the risk of infections or inflammation. Generally, avoid oil-based lubes that can increase the risk of vaginal infections and stick with water-based or silicone.

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Wash Your Hands And Sex Toys

Both partners should wash their hands and any sex toys before sexual activity to avoid introducing bacteria into the vagina. This also applies to pregnant women who are masturbating. Bacteria can cause infections and potential complications.

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Take Your Doctor’s Advice

Listen to your doctor if they recommend bed rest, or if they tell you to avoid physical activity or sexual activity. Depending on the circumstances, ignoring recommendations may trigger preterm labor, bleeding, problems with the placenta, or ruptured membranes.

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Don’t Have Sex When Your Water Breaks

Do not engage in penetrative sexual activity (with fingers, toys, objects, or a penis) after a woman’s water has broken because of the risk of infection. While sexual behavior is sometimes used during the early stages of labor in hopes it may move things along, keep any sexual activity during labor (after her membranes have ruptured) limited to external contact only. Be extra careful to wash your hands so as to avoid introducing bacteria into the uterus.

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Sources

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