Worried that your baby might be hurt during sex? Feeling a loss of desire for your partner? Wondering what positions might be most comfortable for you? If any of these questions ever crossed your mind, be reassured! Most of these are general misconceptions. In most cases, there is no reason for you to stop having sex during your pregnancy. Let’s clarify a few points:  

• Is sex safe during pregnancy?

Many couples wonder if sex is safe during pregnancy. The answer is YES! Sex remains safe throughout the whole pregnancy. Why? Because the baby is very well protected inside the uterus. There is no direct co-relation between sex and miscarriage. Sometimes, women might feel uterine contractions after intercourse. This is absolutely normal. Seminal fluid (sperm) contains prostaglandins which can trigger contractions. However, most studies have shown that such contractions will not cause preterm labor.  

• When is sex not safe during pregnancy?

In some cases, it is better to refrain from having sex while you’re pregnant. If you witness unexplained vaginal bleeding for instance, or if exams detect preterm labor, placenta previa (placenta occupying the lower part of the uterus) or rupture of the membranes: this means sex should be avoided.  

• How does the hormonal changes affect the sexual drive?

During pregnancy, your body will undergo physiological and hormonal changes. That might make you feel less desirable or enjoy sex less than usual. However, other women sometimes report the exact opposite and feel that these hormonal changes make sex more desirable for them. Generally speaking, as pregnancy progresses into the third trimester, weight gain and back pain will likely reduce your interest in sex. But this is not a scientific rule.  

• What sexual positions are acceptable in pregnancy?

When pregnant, all positions remain acceptable. But as pregnancy progresses to the third trimester, some positions might be more suitable and/or comfortable for both partners (for instance, women on top position and partners sideway positions).     If you had any worries regarding sex during pregnancy, reading this article should make you feel more comfortable. There are no scientific reasons to stop having sex while you’re pregnant. In the end, it should always remain a personal choice depending on your and your partner’s personal feelings, sexual drive and comfort.