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Probably the most common concern among expectant couples is that during intercourse they might cause some discomfort to the baby. Expectant parents are concerned about not harming the baby or the pregnancy in any way. But doctors have good news: normally there is no such risk. It is anatomically impossible to be hit or touched by the penis. Find out with Barza more about myths about sex in pregnancy, what’s allowed and what’s not.
What actually happens when you have sex during pregnancy
It’s good to know from the start that the baby is well protected in the womb, flanked by uterine muscles and amniotic fluid.
The fetus is not bothered by the physical effort the mother puts in
…on the contrary, it’s quiet, because during sex it’s cradled in the belly, in the amniotic fluid.
Baby’s heart rate increases when mommy’s on the go
… but it quickly returns to normal, and these fluctuations don’t hurt it.
When the mother reaches orgasm, the uterus contracts, which causes some pressure
… but not to the point where it triggers the contractions (especially if you’re not close to term).
Even if, after orgasm, you feel the baby move, this is not a cause for concern. Your increased pulse sends him away too. That doesn’t mean he’s bothered or that he’s caught on to what the parents are doing.
As far as orgasm is concerned, it should be noted that, in a healthy pregnancy, orgasm-related contractions are harmless. The risk of miscarriage is very low and sex, even if it occurs towards the end of pregnancy, is very unlikely to induce labour.
Baby stays protected in amniotic sac
…so no “evil” can get to him.
Which sexual positions are favourable for a pregnant woman
It’s important to ensure your comfort during sex. It’s best to choose positions that are less demanding on your abdomen and back. So you can enjoy carefree sexual activity.
Sex during pregnancy does not cause miscarriage
In most cases, sex during pregnancy is safe and does not pose a risk to you or your unborn child.
However, when a woman does experience a miscarriage in the early stages of pregnancy, the causes are usually genetic (chromosomal abnormalities) and therefore not a result of sexual intercourse.
According to a study published in The Canadian Medical Association Journal, the risks associated with sex during pregnancy are very low and only occur in special cases when there are already problems with the pregnancy.
When can sex become contraindicated for pregnant women
It is important to discuss this with your doctor, as each pregnancy may have its own particularities.
In certain situations, your doctor may recommend sexual abstinence or restrictions on sexual positions or activities. This can happen in case of complications such as:
- placenta praevia;
- risk of premature birth;
- vaginal bleeding;
- other risk factors.
In conclusion, you can have sex during pregnancy if there are no medical contraindications or specific complications in your case. To learn more about the subject, we invite you to read the article Sex during pregnancy. Beneficial or contraindicated?
