Oral Sex During Pregnancy

Having oral sex during pregnancy is generally considered safe -- and as your pregnancy progresses, you may find it a good alternative to other forms of sex that may no longer be as comfortable. However, there are still a few precautions to keep in mind with this type of sex. For example, it's important to avoid oral sex during pregnancy if your partner has cold sores, because the virus could spread to your genital area.

 

An Overview of Oral Sex During Pregnancy

As your body changes and grows with your pregnancy, so may your sexual urges.
 One thing you do not have to worry about is birth control! It may actually be very liberating to have sex without worrying about getting pregnant or stressing about trying to get pregnant. Many women find that they enjoy sex during pregnancy more, due to an increased blood supply to the labia and vaginal area.
 
You may also be wondering: "What can we do sexually during pregnancy?" There are many ways that you can still enjoy sex with this new changing body shape! Try experimenting with your partner. You may grow together and learn new things about each other (see Sex Positions During Pregnancy). You will also be glad to hear that oral sex during pregnancy is safe.
 
A couple words of caution about oral sex during pregnancy:
 
  • If your partner has cold sores, avoid oral sex, as there is a chance that the virus could spread to your genital area.
     
  • If either you or your partner has a sexually transmitted disease (STD), avoid oral sex.
     
  • Make sure that your partner does not blow air into your vagina. This could cause an air embolism, which is an air bubble in a blood vessel (this could potentially be very dangerous for you and your baby).
     
  • Some healthcare providers recommend using a dental dam during oral sex, to prevent infection.
     
(Oral Sex During Pregnancy Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD