Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know About Pregnant Sex

Pregnant sex is a topic many people have questions about that they’re too afraid to ask. Can you have sex while pregnant? Is it comfortable? Safe? Satisfying?

Unfortunately, there is still much the average person doesn’t know about pregnancy. This is strange considering that a huge percentage of the world’s population has or will experience pregnancy in their lifetime. Also, the natural biological process got us all here today!

Despite sex being the act that leads to pregnancy, having sex while pregnant is seen by some as taboo. In fact, there are a ton of benefits to having sex while pregnant, as well as things to learn and bear in mind to make your pregnant sex as comfortable and satisfying as possible.

Here are the answers to your most-asked questions about pregnant sex.

Can you have sex while pregnant? Is it safe?

The general answer to Can you have sex while pregnant? is yes, you totally can, if you have a low-risk, normal pregnancy. However, this can vary from person to person, so you should always consult with your doctor.

When having pregnant sex, keep in mind standard safety measures, such as using condoms and dental dams if you’re not in a monogamous relationship to prevent STIs (which can pass from mother to child), and to be sure not to go from anus to vaginal penetration without changing condoms or washing the penis or strap-on.

It’s also important not to blow air into a pregnant person’s vagina, as this can cause a rare but life-threatening air embolism.

Are there times you should avoid sex during pregnancy?

There are some situations in which pregnant sex should be avoided or signs that sex could be unsafe for you. Sex could be unsafe if you have an STI, had prior premature labor, or had contractions or your water has broken.

You should also stop having sex and visit your doctor if pregnant sex is leading to lots of bleeding or other unusual leaking or if you feel pain.

What are the benefits of having pregnant sex?

Where do we start? Pain relief, stress relief, better sleep, enhancing the emotional bond with your partner, enjoying sex with new kinds of fat on your body… And of course, anything that benefits the mother’s physical and mental health also benefits the baby. So go ahead!

It’s also not unusual for sex to feel more pleasurable for the pregnant partner during pregnancy because the increased blood supply to the vaginal area, uterus, and cervix can lead to heightened arousal, vaginal lubrication, and powerful orgasms.

It’s perfectly normal, however, not to desire sex at points or throughout pregnancy. You might have morning sickness in your 1st trimester or feel bloated and in discomfort from a large stomach in your 3rd.

Pregnant sex might just be the last thing on your mind, and that’s fine.

What are the best pregnancy sex positions?

The short answer is that the best pregnancy sex positions are whatever feels good for you. However, it’s crucial to note that you should avoid lying on your back for too long after 20 weeks, meaning missionary style is not advised.

Popular and comfortable pregnancy sex positions are spooning, doggy style, and woman on top.

Does pregnant sex hurt the baby?

Despite misinformed rumors, sex won’t “poke” or “scar” your baby during a normal pregnancy. Your cervix is a barrier between your uterus and anything that enters your vagina. Your baby won’t know what’s going on, trust us.

How does pregnancy affect libido?

Your hormones fluctuate a lot during pregnancy. Your body increases its levels of estrogen, progesterone, and a hormone called human placental lactogen (hPL). Hormone increases combined with heightened sensitivity can send many pregnant women’s libidos through the roof.

Can sex induce early labor?

Sex is unlikely to cause you to enter labor before your baby is ready. However, because an orgasm causes your uterus to contract, it can be a way to jump-start labor if you’re overdue or if your baby is ready to go - though it’s far from a guarantee.

These are general answers to the most-asked questions about pregnant sex, but you should always consult with your doctor about your specific needs and questions.

Every pregnancy and everybody is different. Take the time to explore what yours wants. You deserve it!