Sex during pregnancy can be a challenge for many couples as pregnancy is a time of both physical and emotional changes. Some experience a very low sex drive during pregnancy, while others feel a high sex drive. Regardless, it is good to know that it is absolutely NOT dangerous to have sex while pregnant and it DOES not pose any risk to the baby in the womb. If you are pregnant and feel like having sex – go ahead! If you are pregnant and have a decreased sex drive? That's perfectly fine too!

Sex during pregnancy

As mentioned, there are no problems with having sex during pregnancy unless your midwife has given you other directives to follow. However, there are some things that are good to know:

You may experience bleeding

During pregnancy, the cervix is more sensitive than usual and may bleed more easily. Light bleeding during pregnancy is usually harmless, but if you bleed, whether after sex or at other times, it is still a good idea to check with your midwife before having sex again.

Orgasms can cause contractions

During orgasm while pregnant, contractions in the uterine muscles can occur. If you have an uncomplicated pregnancy, these contractions are usually harmless and tend to subside after a while. Substances in semen from the penis can also cause contractions, but these also resolve on their own.

The body changes

The mucous membranes become more engorged with blood during pregnancy, especially during the second trimester, which can mean that it is easier to achieve orgasm or that it feels more intense. Many women also experience increased lubrication due to changes in the body, and breasts can become both larger and more sensitive. Some pregnant women find this beneficial, while others feel unrecognizable and mostly feel large, uncomfortable, and cumbersome. Opinions on sex during pregnancy are highly individual, but the guiding principles should be: If it feels good, it is good. If it doesn't feel good, you shouldn't do it.

Common questions about sex during pregnancy

Can sex during pregnancy be dangerous for the fetus?

Answer: No, unless your midwife has given other directives, it is not dangerous for the fetus if you have sex during your pregnancy. The baby is well protected in the amniotic fluid inside the strong uterine muscles and will not be harmed by either penetration or orgasm.

Does the baby in the womb understand that we are having sex?

Answer: You don't need to worry that the baby will perceive anything of what is happening, even if it might feel that way. The baby in the womb does not know the difference between the movements caused by driving a car, running for the bus, or having sex.

Can sex induce labor?

Answer: There are theories that sex at the end of pregnancy can help initiate labor contractions – but there is no scientific evidence to support this.

Can you have sex while pregnant?

Answer: Yes, as long as you feel like it and your midwife has not given other directives, you are free to have sex throughout the entire pregnancy.

Can you miscarry from having sex during pregnancy?

Answer: No, miscarriages are not caused by having sex during pregnancy.

Having sex during pregnancy

The most important thing to remember about sex during pregnancy is that it must feel good. If it feels good and pleasurable for everyone involved, then continue having sex while pregnant. If something hurts or feels uncomfortable, you should not force yourself to have sex during pregnancy.

Pregnancy is an emotional time for everyone involved, both the pregnant person and their partner. Try to have open communication about what feels good and how you want things to be. Especially later in pregnancy when the belly starts to take up space, and it becomes necessary to experiment a little to make it work physically!