We’ll cut to the chase. If you’re wondering if it’s safe for your developing baby for you to have sex while pregnant, the answer is: Yes – as long as it’s comfortable for you. The amniotic fluid in your uterus as well as the muscular walls of the uterus itself help protect your fetus.
Having sex won't affect your developing baby, as long as you don't experience complications such as placenta problems or preterm labor.
Use caution if you decide to engage in anal sex. Hemorrhoids are more common in pregnancy and may make anal sex more uncomfortable or cause bleeding. Also, the anus is full of bacteria; if you have vaginal sex after anal sex, you’re more likely to transfer bacteria into your vagina.
Here are answers to common questions:
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I noticed some (blood) spotting after having intercourse. Is that normal?
Yes. And you may experience some cramping, too, which is also perfectly normal. Talk to your doctor if spotting continues for more than a few hours.
Are STIs a greater concern during pregnancy?
Having a sexually transmitted infection (STI, formerly known as STDs or sexually transmitted diseases) such as chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis during pregnancy can cause serious health problems for you and your baby. If your partner has an active or recently diagnosed STI, you should refrain from all forms of sex — vaginal, oral and anal — while you’re pregnant. Your partner should use a condom if:
- You're not in a mutually monogamous relationship.
- You have sex with a new partner while pregnant.
Is there any time I should avoid sex?
Your health care clinician might advise you to abstain from sex for a time if:
- You experience pain.
- Your placenta is low in the uterus (a condition called placenta previa).
- You experience unexplained vaginal bleeding.
- You’re leaking amniotic fluid.
- Your cervix begins to open prematurely.
I’m just not in the mood for sex.
That can happen. Your sex drive can change drastically – either increasing or decreasing – during pregnancy. Talk to your partner about what you’re feeling. If sex becomes difficult, the two of you might consider alternatives. We’ll let you figure those out.
Can sex induce labor?
No – not if you have a healthy, low-risk pregnancy. Not even during the third trimester. Having an orgasm may cause mild contractions, but these are generally short-lived and harmless.
How soon after giving birth can I have sex?
Most doctors recommend waiting six weeks after childbirth to resume intercourse, regardless of the delivery method. Postpartum follow-up with your doctor is very important. An exam can determine if any vaginal lacerations have healed. That exam usually happens six weeks postpartum.
