Sex and Pregnancy

During pregnancy, there are many concerns that arise as one tries to navigate the aspects of ensuring a healthy pregnancy, even as they plan for the arrival of their child. As well, a pregnant person has to filter and sort all manner of information relating to pregnancy, some of it true, and some false. 

One study revealed that socio-cultural practices and beliefs impact not only pregnancy and childbirth, but extend beyond the postnatal period. It then comes as no surprise that there would be concerns regarding the safety of sex while pregnant, in relation to the impact sex  would have on the unborn child.  

If a pregnancy is proceeding healthily, there is no medical reason why one cannot have sex with their partner. There are other factors that may impact the pregnant person’s sexuality, and sometimes a pregnant person may need to abstain from sexual activity for a time. So let us delve into sex in relation to pregnancy, and address these concerns. 

Can You Have Sex During Pregnancy?

Yes, you can have sex during pregnancy. This is because the fetus is securely ‘sealed’ within the womb such that nothing from the outside can get in past the cervix. If there are underlying conditions that would put the mother and baby at risk, usually a professional healthcare provider would recommend abstaining from sexual activity. 

Sex and Pregnancy

The fact of pregnancy is that as the pregnancy progresses, one may need to find new positions to have sex in, in order to avoid putting pressure on the growing belly. As well, certain positions could become difficult to sustain. The biggest factor that affects sex,  sexuality and a person’s libido during pregnancy, is the changed hormones. For some, the changed hormones have a positive impact on their libido, for others, it could completely shut down any sexual desire. 

Due to the fact that we are all unique, there is no way to predetermine how pregnancy would affect a person’s sex drive. Keeping open channels of communication with one’s partner, where these shifting feelings, expectations, desires, and physical changes are discussed, can enable a couple to adapt their sexual activity to accommodate these developments. Let us touch on the more common ways that pregnancy affects sexual desire and sexual activity.

Sex During the First Trimester

The first trimester is the one in which a large number of changes are experienced by the pregnant person. The changes in hormones cause the body to respond in different ways such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, exhaustion among others, which would lower a person’s desire to have sex. As well, when the embryo implants itself, there could be light bleeding or spotting after sex. This is normal, observed in one out of four pregnancies, , although many pregnant people worry that it could be a sign of trouble. Typically, this resolves itself without any further incident. 

As well, after climax, one may feel some cramping, which would raise further concerns that something could be wrong with the pregnancy. Post coital cramps are also normal, as the uterus naturally contracts both during and after sex. However, if you are at risk for preterm birth, or have continual spotting or bleeding, it is advisable to seek medical attention. 

Sex During the Second Trimester

The second trimester is marked by improved appetite, improved sleep and increased energy levels.  By this time, a pregnant person has become accustomed to being pregnant as it were, and they begin to ease back into a more regular and familiar routine, including a restored interest in sex. What is needed at this point is to find sexual positions that keep the pressure off of the rapidly growing baby bump. At this point, the exploration of new positions also increases the enjoyment of sex. Eventually positions that are easier to sustain, and more comfortable will be discovered, and regular sexual activity is often restored. 

Sex During the Third Trimester

As the body begins to prepare for the delivery and care of the newborn, a pregnant person may experience discomfort or even minor bleeding during and following sexual activity. This is caused by a particularly sensitive cervix at this point in the pregnancy. Another thing that could happen is that a pregnant person’s breasts may begin to leak during sexual activity, and sometimes, even without any sexual activity. This is a sign that the breasts are preparing to produce milk once the baby is born. However, not having leaky breasts, is not a sign that the breasts will not produce any milk. 

When to Avoid Sex During Pregnancy

There are times when it is not safe to have sex during pregnancy. If for some reason, the safety of the child or mother is at risk, then a healthcare provider may recommend abstinence, in order for the pregnancy to remain uncompromised. Some of the circumstances under which abstinence from sexual activity may be recommended are outlined below:

• If the medical history of a person puts them at risk for premature birth or even preterm labor
• If there are signs that the amniotic fluid is leaking
• If a person has unexplained vaginal bleeding
• If a person has placenta previa, the placenta covers the cervix, wholly or in part.
• If a person has what is known as cervical incompetence, whereby the cervix begins to dilate prematurely. 

In Conclusion

The impact of pregnancy on a person’s body, mind and emotions cannot be predicted at all. As well, how pregnancy affects sex and sexuality will vary with each pregnancy. The way to manage this is by having open and honest communication with your partner and healthcare provider so that you can receive the support you need. If you are still worried about whether sex is safe for you during pregnancy, contact us. Our compassionate team of professionals are available to offer you the best personalized care.