Pregnant Sex

Now that you are pregnant, you and your partner may have questions about the types of sex you can have and the positions that will best accommodate your changing body. You may also be wondering if pregnant sex will hurt the baby. Generally, as long as you are having a healthy pregnancy, you can have sex -- but check with your healthcare provider first.

 

An Overview of Pregnant Sex

One of the biggest questions asked during pregnancy is: "Can I have sex?"
 
The answer is usually yes, as long as you are having a healthy pregnancy without complications. Still, make sure to talk with your healthcare provider before doing so.
 
Pregnant sex can be a fun way to explore your relationship with your partner, and pregnancy should not limit your sex life. However, you may have to work through certain issues, such as:
 
  • Self-consciousness about your changing body shape
  • Your changing physical shape bringing new obstacles to your sex life
  • Worry about the baby
  • Morning sickness (actually "anytime sickness")
  • Changing sexual urges as the hormones increase.
 
Your partner may also have concerns, such as not hurting the baby or curiosity at your changing body shape. With a little communication and experimentation, these are all things that can easily be worked through!
 

Other Considerations for Sex While Pregnant

You probably have many questions about sex during pregnancy.
 Let's get started with the first few things that may come to mind:
 
  • Is sex safe during this time?
  • What positions will work?
  • What types of sex can I have while pregnant?
     
Safety of Sex While Pregnant
As long as you are having a healthy pregnancy, sex will be safe. If you have had bleeding or other complications, check with your healthcare provider first. Don't worry -- the baby is well protected in the amniotic sac. It will cushion the activity for him or her. One thing to keep in mind is to not have your partner penetrate too deeply, as this could irritate your cervix. Otherwise, have fun!
 
Sexual Positions While Pregnant
As your body changes, you will notice that it may be more difficult to have sex the way you are used to. Now is the time to experiment with new positions that will accommodate your growing belly. When trying to find positions that will work, a good rule of thumb is to try to keep your partner's weight off your abdomen (stomach). This will make sex much more comfortable for you.
 
(Click Sex Positions During Pregnancy for more information.)
 
Types of Sex While Pregnant
Again, as long as you are having a healthy pregnancy, you should be able to have vaginal, oral, and/or anal sex -- whatever you are in the mood for!
 
(Click Types of Sex During Pregnancy for more information.)
 

Final Thoughts on Pregnant Sex

Most people find sex during pregnancy to be a new experience to share as a couple. One of the great things about it is that you do not have to worry about becoming pregnant. Also, if you've been trying to conceive for a long time, the pressure is now off. You can have sex whenever you want and for as long or as short a time as you want. For example, you may be used to being on the bottom. Eventually, you will almost have to be on top, as there will be no room for your belly otherwise!
 
Have fun with this window of opportunity. Your lives will soon be changing to a very different lifestyle. In a few more months, sex will not be the first thing on your minds!
 
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD