Health Topics for Pregnancy and Childbirth

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Department of Pediatrics

UI Family Care Center

Iowa Registry for Congenital and Inherited Disorders

Sex during pregnancy

A pregnant woman may wonder if it is safe to have sex. For almost everyone, the answer is yes. Unless your prenatal care provider tells you of a problem that prevents it, you and your partner can continue to have sex throughout your pregnancy.

Some couples worry that sex could harm the baby. The fluid around the baby and the strong muscles of the uterus cushion and protect the baby. Sex does not disturb the baby, but you may feel the baby move or kick during this time. This does not mean the baby is uncomfortable, although the baby's kick may surprise you and your partner.

During pregnancy, your interest in sex may change. In early pregnancy, you may feel tired or have nausea. This may cause you to feel less interested in lovemaking. By the fourth month, your energy level returns and your interest in sex may increase. When you get closer to delivery, your interest in sex may lessen once again.

As the uterus and abdomen become bigger, finding new positions for lovemaking may be necessary. Lying side by side, having the woman on top, or having the man facing the woman's back, may be more comfortable. These positions do not cause deep penetration.

Pregnancy also causes changes for your partner. He may feel more protective of you and the baby. He may not want to have sex for fear of hurting you. Maintain open communication and understanding by asking your partner about his feelings. If either partner does not feel like having sex, agree to respect those feelings. Touching, kissing, and holding are fulfilling and tender ways to show love and affection.

There are two types of sexual behavior that are not safe during pregnancy.

1. Oral sex, such as blowing air into the vagina, can cause an air embolism. This is a blockage of a blood vessel by an air bubble. Embolisms can be fatal for the mother and the baby.
2. Having sex with someone whose sexual history is unknown to you or who may have a sexually transmitted disease. These include: herpes, genital warts, chlamydia, and HIV. If you become infected, you may pass it on to your baby.

If you have one of the following risk problems, your healthcare provider may suggest that you stop having sex during pregnancy:

• a history or threat of miscarriage
• a history or threat of premature labor or delivery (before 37 weeks)
• unexplained vaginal bleeding, discharge, or cramping
• leakage of amniotic fluid or "water" (the fluid that surrounds the baby)
• placenta previa, which means the placenta is so low it covers the cervix (the opening to the uterus)
• incompetent cervix, which occurs when the cervix is weakened or opened (This can cause a miscarriage or premature delivery.)
• multiple births (you are having more than 1 baby, such as twins, triplets, or more)

Some providers may suggest not having sex during the final weeks of pregnancy, just as a safety precaution. Semen contains a chemical that may actually stimulate contractions. Call your provider if you have pain, bleeding, or discharge after sex or if you have contractions that continue after sex.

"Normal" is a relative term when it comes to sex during pregnancy. You and your partner need to decide what feels right for both of you. If you have questions about sex during pregnancy, ask your provider. Although you may feel bashful or embarrassed, your questions deserve answers.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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