Hormones are on the rise, and whilst you’re feeling nauseous during the first trimester, sex might be the furthest thing from your mind. For some however, these extra hormones can make women particularly frisky in the bedroom. You might be a bit worried about what intercourse itself or sperm could do to a fetus. We’re here to tell you the good news - sex is perfectly safe whilst pregnant!
Getting busy in the bedroom will not harm your baby, at any stage of pregnancy, and your partner cannot penetrate past the cervix, so your baby won’t have the faintest clue what’s going on.
Whether you’re just not feeling it, or you want it more than ever, changes to your sex drive are perfectly normal, and it isn’t something to worry about.
The closer you get to D-day, if you’re having a normal pregnancy and haven’t encountered any complications, having sex and orgasming will not increase your risk of pre-term labour. However, an orgasm or the act of intercourse itself can set off mild contraction-like cramps. During these cramps, you’ll feel your womb harden - no need to worry though, the baby’s not coming just yet! Just lay down until the contractions pass.
When Can’t I Have Sex?
If you’ve experienced any heavy blood loss during pregnancy, it’s likely your doctor or midwife will advise against having sex, so as not to disrupt a low-lying placenta or possible haematoma.
Other reasons you may want to avoid sex include:
There is a high risk of infection if your waters have broken and you’ve lost your mucus plug, as your baby will not have protection from bacteria.
- If your cervix has displayed any issues during the pregnancy, such as opening too early or becoming too thin.
- If you’re expecting twins or have previously had early labours.
- If you are sleeping with multiple partners during pregnancy, be sure a condom is always used for protection against STIs.
How Can We Do It Comfortably?
Comfortable positions are rather limited due to your bump, your back, or joints, and of course your tender breasts. Therefore, laying on your sides, either facing each other or the classic spooning position can be great for enjoyable, comfortable sex.
