Finding out you’re pregnant for the first time comes with many emotions and many questions. What will this new stage of life feel like? What can you do to best take care of your baby? What can you do to alleviate cravings or swollen ankles? And can you have sex while pregnant?
No matter how positive your outlook, the reality is that pregnancy also comes with plenty of uncomfortable aspects, such as feeling tired, having to pee all the time, and figuring out a way to get restful sleep. So when it comes to having sexual relations, your mind may be reeling with an additional set of concerns.
Sex During Pregnancy
In short, yes, you can have sex while pregnant. This generally won’t affect your baby’s development or cause any complications. However, pregnancy itself may play a role in your desire to have sex and in your level of comfort.
If you do want to have sex, rejoice in the fact that there are plenty of positions that will make the event enjoyable. In fact, some women have stated that they experience a boost in libido and intensity of orgasms while pregnant. This is due to increased blood flow and heightened sensitivity. The swollen breasts are an extra bonus.
How to Have Safe Sex While Pregnant
If you’re not in a committed monogamous relationship, it’s crucial to use a condom while having sex. This is because sexually transmitted diseases could affect your baby’s development as well as cause him or her to be born either with the same illness or with certain types of disabilities.
Sex During the Third Trimester
Sex during the third trimester tends to be the most complicated since this is when you’re at your largest and most sex positions will likely be uncomfortable. This shouldn’t be seen as a roadblock (unless you really want to skip it. In which case, we won’t tell). But if you’re feeling up to it, all you need to do is to get creative finding a position that works.
Do be aware that your breasts may leak colostrum, which is a secretion women’s bodies create in preparation for nursing a baby.
Finally, while there’s a popular belief that having sexual intercourse during the third trimester induces labor, there isn’t enough research to confirm this is the case.
Are There Times When Sex Should Be Avoided During Pregnancy?
While sex during pregnancy is relatively safe, there are instances when you should avoid it altogether. The only way to know if any of these conditions apply to you is to speak with your OB-GYN. Once confirmed, refrain from having sex if you have:
– A risk of premature labor
– A history of miscarriage
– A sexually transmitted infection
– Abnormal vaginal discharge
– A dilated cervix
– Your placenta is unusually low in your uterus (also known as placenta previa)
Your doctor will likely order pelvic rest, which is a medical term that simply means: avoid putting things into your vagina.
For Additional Questions Concerning Sex While Pregnant, Contact OB-GYN Women’s Centre
At OB-GYN Women’s Center, one of our goals is to establish good relationships with our patients. If have any concerns about having sex while pregnant, let us help you.
Contact us to schedule an appointment. We are happy to assist you.
