October 15, 2020

Being pregnant may make life more difficult in some ways, but when it comes to sharing intimate moments with your partner, pregnancy doesn’t have to hold you back.

Sexual Health During Pregnancy

Most women who are pregnant can continue to enjoy an active sex life, as long as they wish to continue having sex, and their doctors say it’s OK. Because of hormonal changes, some women want to have sex more often during pregnancy, while others choose to abstain completely.¹ If you or your partner are having sex with other people, it’s very important that you use a form of barrier contraception to protect your baby (and each other) from sexually transmitted viruses and infections.

Risks to the Fetus

Having sex does not put babies at risk of harm, as they are protected in the womb by amniotic fluid. However, the baby may be able to sense movement while you are having sex.^1-2

When Sex is Uncomfortable During Pregnancy

For expecting moms concerned about having sex while pregnant, or who find sex uncomfortable but still want to enjoy physical intimacy, there are other ways to enjoy being intimate with your
partner. Here are a few ideas:

• Maintain physical closeness with lots of hugging, cuddling, and handholding
• Give each other massages
• Have a make-out session
• Spice things up with a focus on foreplay – the fun stuff that usually leads to sexual intercourse
• Try mutual masturbation, oral sex, or the use of sex toys

Remember, intimacy isn’t just a physical act. Setting aside quality time, giving undivided attention, and doing special things for each other (that aren’t sexual) can be great ways to strengthen the intimate bond with your partner.

What if I don’t want to have sex while pregnant?

Don’t like the thought of having sex while pregnant? Then don’t do it! It’s totally fine to abstain from sex at any time, for any reason. Your partner may not be thrilled with your decision but remember – it’s your decision. Try to be understanding with your partner and communicate your reasons for choosing to abstain, but never compromise on your personal boundaries.

When You Should Stop Having Sexual Intercourse

If you experience sex that is uncomfortable, painful, or causes any type of anxiety, stop having sex, and see your doctor. Your doctor may have you avoid sexual intercourse if you have experienced any of the following^1-3:

• Heavy bleeding during your pregnancy
• Leaking amniotic fluid
• Problems or abnormalities with your cervix
• Premature opening of your cervix
• Preterm labor in previous pregnancies or a history of premature birth

Talk to Your Doctor

If you have any questions or concerns about your sexual health while pregnant, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your doctor. Although you may feel shy or embarrassed to approach the subject, it’s very important that you communicate effectively with your doctor.

 

Prenate^® Vitamin Family
This post is sponsored by the Prenate^® Vitamin Family, a line of prescription prenatal supplements designed to enhance preconception, prenatal, and postpartum nutrition in women. Talk with your doctor about how taking a daily prescription prenatal or postnatal vitamin could help support a healthy pregnancy and postpartum wellness.