When thinking about trying for a child, sex is usually a hot topic, especially with this being the main source of pregnancy. Your sex drive is usually at it's highest before pregnancy and having a child, as expected.
Article Contents
Is It Safe to Have Sex During Pregnancy?
It is perfectly normal and safe to continue having sex during pregnancy, given everything has been straight forward with minimal complications. As long as you are experiencing a low-risk pregnancy, you should be ready to continue with your usual sex life. Well, that's if your sex drive hasn't been completely wiped out.
Just because having sex is safe, doesn't mean you're going to want it. During the first trimester, you may feel too unwell to engage in even kissing your partner, never mind any form of sexual activity. As your body is growing with your baby, you may being to feel uncomfortable during simple tasks throughout the day that even the thought of sexual intercourse makes you tired.
Is There Anything to Avoid in Sex During Pregnancy?
During pregnancy there are some things in which you will need to avoid or take into consideration when engaging in sexual intercourse.
- Any sexually transmitted diseases (STD's) such as chlamydia, HIV or herpes can be passed on to your baby if you become infected and this can be very dangerous for your unborn.
- No air should be blown into the vagina as this can cause an air embolism which can be fatal for both mother and baby.
- Avoid anal sex during pregnancy.
- Try to choose positions which are comfortable and safe for both you and the baby.
- Know when to call a doctor if you experience any abnormalities after intercourse.
You may need to get advice from your healthcare provider if you experience or have previously experienced any of the following:
- A risk of miscarriage,
- Multiples (twins, triplets etc),
- Any leaking of what could be the amniotic fluid,
- Placenta previa,
- If you have previously had a pre-term labour or a still-born, or
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding.
The answer to the question is situational. You need to speak to your healthcare provider and see if your pregnancy is low-risk enough for no changes to be made to your sex life.