Can You Have Sex While Pregnant? 34 Must-Know Answers to Play it Safe

So, you found out you’re having a baby! You’re in for an adventure, but you’re wondering, “Can you have sex while pregnant?”

What is the first thing you think of when you find out you’re pregnant? Aside from “oh my god, I’m going to have a baby” is, “so… can you have sex while pregnant?” And you know what, these are perfectly fine questions to ask yourself.

No one really tells you what pregnancy is like, you end up just finding out along the way or reading a ton of baby books and articles, like this one.

That’s really how you find out the ins and outs of pregnancy. Well, in this article, I’m going to help you figure out sex during early pregnancy. [Read: The amazing benefits of having sex when you’re pregnant]

Once Upon an Old Wives’ Tale

Once upon a time, when science was more myth than matter, there were some pretty wild ideas floating around about pregnancy. Especially when it came to the big question: “Can you have sex while pregnant?”

First up, the old school of thought was like a no-entry zone for sex during pregnancy. The reason? Well, people believed that getting busy could harm the baby, maybe trigger a miscarriage, or even kickstart labor way too early.

Kind of like saying eating pickles would turn your kid into a cucumber – interesting but, uh, not quite accurate. [Read: How to tell if you’re pregnant: Early signs to keep an eye on]

So where did these ideas come from? Imagine a world without ultrasounds and health blogs. All you had were tales passed down from your great-great-grandma, who probably heard them from her great-great-grandma.

Fast forward to now, where we’ve got science doing the heavy lifting. Spoiler alert: a lot of those old myths got busted. [Read: 23 tips to get pregnant faster & myths and secrets to increase your chances]

Studies have shown that if your pregnancy is cruising along without any major bumps, then yes, you can have sex while pregnant. It’s not the baby danger zone it was once thought to be.

For instance, there was this study published in the Journal of Perinatal Education. It turned the tables on the whole idea that sex during pregnancy is a no-go. The research showed that not only is it generally safe during a complication-free pregnancy, but it also helps strengthen the emotional bond between partners. Talk about a win-win!

Then there’s the myth about sex triggering early labor. Research in the “Obstetrics & Gynecology” journal gave this one a thumbs down too.

Unless your doctor specifically tells you otherwise, there’s no need to mark the bedroom as a restricted area.

But wait, there’s more! The fear that the act might be a rocky ride for the baby? Well, think of the uterus as a cozy, cushioned crib.

It’s designed to keep the little one snug and safe. Plus, the mucus plug at the cervix is like the bouncer at the club door, keeping infections out.

Sex During Early Pregnancy

Your baby is still looking like a tadpole at this phase, and you definitely don’t want to do anything to harm your child. So, is sex during early pregnancy okay? Or is it something to shy away from?

Well, actually, sex during pregnancy is something you should look forward to *if you’re in the mood for it—you know how it goes with hormones.* [Read: How to get in the mood for sex: Horny tricks to beat a dry spell]

Of course, we’re going to talk to you about it, but before you do have sex when pregnant, make sure you check with your doctor first. Your doctor just needs to give you a thumbs up and tell you that you’re healthy and able to have sex. If you have a high-risk pregnancy, sex may be out of the question for you during the first trimester.

1. Yes, You Can Have Sex

First of all, you should make sure that your doctor gives you the okay for having sex during early pregnancy. If you have a high-risk pregnancy, they may suggest you wait. However, if you’re cleared by your doctor, then sex during early pregnancy is perfectly healthy and normal. [Read: 20 loving & romantic touches in a relationship to make you feel closer]

2. Sex Doesn’t Hurt the Baby

You both may be freaking out that having sex will hurt the baby. It’s time to break that myth. Having sex, whether early pregnancy or late into pregnancy, will not hurt the baby. The sac that’s surrounding the baby is extremely strong, plus the penis can’t even reach the baby. [Read: 110 MUST-KNOW interesting sex facts, myths & strange secrets about sex!]

3. You May Not Feel Like Having Sex

Sure, you can have sex but when your body is going through a hormonal shift, you may not even feel the need to have sex. Symptoms of pregnancy are different for every woman.

Some may feel more arousal while others feel a decrease in arousal. Plus, if you’re experiencing morning sickness, the last thing you will want is a penis inside of you. Just sayin’.

4. Don’t Forget About STIs

I don’t know your partner or the arrangement you have with them but be highly aware of their sexual history and health before having sex with them when pregnant.

This is because if your partner has herpes or Hepatitis B, for example, these can be transmitted to you and your baby. So, this is something you to be aware of. [Read: STDs 101: The most common types and their symptoms]

5. You Can Have Oral Sex

There’s more to sex than just penetration. Having oral sex when you’re pregnant is actually safe. However, you should not blow into the genital area. If you force air into the vagina, it could cause an air embolism which is a life-threatening air bubble. Okay, I know that sounded dramatic. It’s very rare but let’s be safe than sorry.

6. Can You Have Sex in Any Position?

You may be wondering if some positions are better or worse than others and the answer to that is yes. Of course, it’s safe to have sex, but staying away from some positions which apply pressure onto the stomach is a good idea.

7. Positions to Not Have Sex In

These are the positions you should stay away from when having sex. The standing position and missionary position are both positions that apply pressure to your stomach. With the missionary position, it is possible to use that position, but you’ll need to place a pillow underneath your stomach for support.

8. Positions to Have Sex In

I know you were waiting for this, and I don’t blame you. So, here are some of the positions that most pregnant women feel comfortable doing. The side-by-side position, cowgirl, doggy style, and sex on the edge of the bed are usually top choices. [Read: Most common sex positions & sexy ways to spice them up to expert level]

9. Bleeding Isn’t Good

If you see any bleeding after or during sex, that isn’t a good sign. The minute you see bleeding when you’re having sex when pregnant means you need to call your doctor as soon as possible. In general, bleeding when you’re pregnant is always something you should seek medical attention for.

10. Stay Away From the Lube… For Now

You may love using scented lubricants, but during the first trimester, it’s best to stay away from it. This is because scented lubricants have been found to harm the lining of the vagina. And that’s something you don’t want to happen when you’re pregnant. So, for now, take a break from the lube. [Read: 35 slippery good lube substitutes, how & when to use them & ones to avoid]

11. Your Favorite Positions May Not be Comfortable Anymore

You’re literally growing a human being in your body, things are shifting around whether you like it or not. So, some of your beloved sex positions may not be doing you justice anymore. In this case, ditch those sex positions and find one that isn’t causing you discomfort.

12. Your Partner May be Terrified to Have Sex With You

You’re growing a baby inside of you and it’s growing pretty close to where the penis goes inside. You know female anatomy, you get where I’m going with this.

Your partner is probably terrified of doing anything that will harm the baby. But you need to assure them that their penis can’t reach that far. They’ll love hearing that. What an ego boost, right?

13. If it Doesn’t Feel Right, Call Your Doctor

If you feel that anything is wrong in your body when you’re having sex, call your doctor. Don’t mess around with this and assume it’s nothing. Most likely, it is nothing. It’s always better hearing that from a doctor who’s checked everything out.

14. If You Don’t Want to Have Sex, It’s Okay

I know you probably feel that you should have sex, but if you’re really not feeling it, don’t push it. Your body is going through a lot right now. It’s okay to not have sex. Sit down with your partner and talk about it so that they understand what’s going on. [Read: How to talk about sex without sounding like a pervert]

15. You Will Have Sex Again After the Delivery

You’ve watched some birthing shows and pretty much decided that you’ll never have sex again after the birth. Listen, you will. Give yourself around six weeks after the delivery of your baby, and you’ll be all ready to have sex again.

I know it’s a scary thought but just relax. Let’s just get through the pregnancy first.

16. You Might Experience Really Intense Orgasms

Oh, this reason alone is more than enough to make most women more than happy to make love while they’re pregnant. During pregnancy, blood flow to the genitals increases, making them more sensitive.

Also, the body releases hormones galore, one of which is oxytocin – the love hormone. This fun hormone has the ability to make orgasms more intense.

The combination of increased blood flow and hormones can lead to orgasmic pleasures you’ve never experienced before. If you’ve never experienced an orgasm during sex before *many women just don’t*, being pregnant might be your chance to finally find out what all the fuss is about.

Another hormone that increases during pregnancy is testosterone, which is responsible for increasing your sex drive. You might just find yourself the horniest you’ve ever been – a win-win for both, you and your partner! [Read: How to push the right buttons to achieve multiple orgasms]

17. Having Sex Keeps You Fit

Whether you’re pregnant or not, having sex burns calories and gives the body a great workout. After all, one 30-minute sex session burns about 100 calories on average.

However, when you’re pregnant and farther along, it can really help you stay in shape and get ready for the birthing process because of how creative you can be when it comes to positions.

Some of your favorite positions might not be comfortable anymore, but don’t let that discourage you from making love. Think outside the box and experiment. Who knows? You might just find a new position to add to your repertoire. [Read: 30 really sexy sex positions that are worth trying]

18. It Lowers Blood Pressure

Research shows that making love lowers blood pressure. This is a huge benefit since high blood pressure during pregnancy can lead to a condition known as preeclampsia, which is very dangerous for both the mom and the baby.

19. Having Sex Reduces Pain

Doctors recommend that pregnant women abstain from taking any unnecessary medications. Even popping a couple of Advils for a headache can be dangerous for the baby.

The next time you feel a headache coming on, don’t turn your lover down with the old complaint, “Not tonight. I have a headache.” No, instead, grab the bull by the horns, and rejoice in the pain-free pleasure the act provides.

By the way, it’s believed that oxytocin is the hormone responsible for this wonderful benefit.

20. You’ll Sleep Like a Baby *Pardon the Pun*

It’s no secret that a little fun between the sheets relaxes the mind and body. When you’re pregnant, this can be a godsend, especially if your condition comes with insomnia.

The added benefit of this is the rhythmic rocking motion of your lovemaking lulls your baby to sleep, too. [Read: 30 benefits of sleeping naked & must-know tips you have no idea about!]

21. It Improves Immune System Function

Some studies suggest that having sex triggers the body to increase levels of certain antibodies that help prevent colds and other dangerous infections.

As every disease you get while pregnant can be a threat to your unborn baby, any method of boosting your immune system is a bonus!

22. You’ll Feel Closer to Your Partner

At a time when you’re both busy with preparing for your baby and getting everything settled, it’s always a good idea to revisit your intimate moments to feel close to your partner again.

Thanks to the release of oxytocin during sex, you’ll feel a stronger romantic attraction to each other. Oxytocin isn’t called the “love hormone” for nothing. [Read: 20 loving & romantic touches in a relationship to make you feel closer]

23. You’ll be Happier

Having sex and amazing orgasms releases endorphins, which make both you and your baby feel happy and more relaxed. Some women experience anxiety and even depression at some point during their pregnancy, so having sex to release those feel-good hormones can be one way of combating this.

24. Sex During Pregnancy Speeds Up Recovery After Birth

The orgasms you have with sex actually serve a purpose other than pleasuring you. They help prepare the pelvic muscles for childbirth. When your pelvic muscles are strong and fit, they heal faster after delivery.

One way to encourage strong pelvic floor muscles is to do Kegel exercises during sex. Not only will you strengthen your child birthing muscles, you’ll also increase sexual pleasure for both you and your partner.

Be prepared: In case you don’t know what Kegels are, here’s a quick rundown on how to do them:

– Imagine squeezing your partner’s penis with your vagina, and contract the muscles that stop the flow of urine.

– Hold it for a few seconds at a time, then release.

– Repeat, and experiment with different patterns of contracting and releasing.

If you do your Kegels right, your partner should notice a tightening around his penis. If you do this exercise at the right time, it will be quite pleasurable for both of you. [Read: Kegel exercises: Why both men and women should do it]

When to Not Have Sex During Pregnancy

Now, let’s hit the brakes for a sec! We know you might be revving up for some love during your pregnancy, but there are times when it’s better to park the car in the garage, if you catch my drift.

Here’s your essential “no-go” checklist for when sex might not be the best idea during pregnancy.

1. Placenta Previa

If you’ve been diagnosed with placenta previa, where the placenta covers the cervix, it’s a big red stop sign for sex. This condition can lead to serious bleeding, and keeping things calm down there is crucial. [Read: Tokophobia: Everything you need to know about the fear of pregnancy]

2. Preterm Labor

If there’s any risk of preterm labor, or you’ve had a history of it, it’s time to put the sexy times on hold. Preterm labor means your body’s trying to kickstart the birthing process early, and we definitely don’t want to encourage that prematurely!

3. Ruptured Membranes? No Way José

If your water has broken, that protective barrier around your baby is no longer intact. This means a higher risk of infection, and sex is off the table until after delivery.

4. Bleeding Blues

Experiencing vaginal bleeding during pregnancy? That’s your body’s way of saying, “Please take a break!” It could be a sign of various complications, so best to play it safe.

5. Cervical Weakness Caution

A weak or short cervix can lead to increased risk during sex. It’s like having a shaky foundation – you don’t want to add extra pressure.

6. History of Miscarriages

If you’ve sadly experienced miscarriages in the past, your doctor might advise you to abstain from sex, especially in the early stages of pregnancy, just to be on the safe side. [Read: Problems “down there” that you shouldn’t ignore]

7. Infection Inhibition

Got an infection down there? It could be a no-go for sex. Some infections can be harmful to the baby, so it’s better to clear those up first.

8. Multiple Babies, Multiple Concerns

Carrying twins, triplets, or more? This ups the ante for potential complications, and your doctor might suggest putting sex on pause to avoid any risks.

9. Preeclampsia Precaution

If you’re dealing with preeclampsia, a condition marked by high blood pressure, it’s a signal to avoid sexual activity. Keeping stress on your body low is key.

10. Doctor’s Direct Orders

Above all, if your healthcare provider gives you a specific “no” on sex during pregnancy, that’s the rule to follow. They know your situation best and have your and your baby’s health in mind.

Enjoy the Experience

Thankfully, women can still enjoy the pleasures of intimacy and maintain a healthy sexual relationship during most of their pregnancy. It’s a time of profound change, both physically and emotionally, but this doesn’t have to mean putting your sex life on pause.

[Read: The lack of sex in a relationship: Why it happens & what it means]

Naturally, there are some things you need to be mindful of when wondering, “can you have sex while pregnant?” but other than that, enjoy the experience. It’s about finding balance, being aware of your body’s signals, and adapting to the new and exciting journey of pregnancy together.