Health Information
Sex During Pregnancy
Topic Overview
Vaginal intercourse can be continued as usual if your pregnancy is uncomplicated. Discuss any concerns or questions with your doctor.
Sex during the first Reference trimester Opens New Window will not cause any problems, such as a miscarriage. The fetus will not be harmed during sex, because it floats in Reference amniotic fluid Opens New Window that acts as a cushion.
Your interest in sex may change throughout your pregnancy. For example, nausea and fatigue in the first trimester and physical discomfort from your enlarged uterus in the last trimester may affect your desire for sexual contact.
Sex during the second or third trimesters will not usually cause any problems. Later in pregnancy, you may find sex most comfortable when you lie on your side. Also, orgasm close to your delivery date may start uterine contractions.
Your doctor will probably advise you to avoid sexual intercourse if any of the following occur:
- The Reference placenta Opens New Window covers or partially covers your Reference cervix Opens New Window (placenta previa).
- Your "water" (Reference amniotic sac Opens New Window) has broken (ruptured membranes).
- Contractions start earlier than 37 weeks (preterm labor).
If you are infected with a Reference sexually transmitted infection (STI) Opens New Window during pregnancy, it can cause serious problems for you and the fetus. If you are or may be pregnant and are considering having sexual intercourse with a new partner or a partner who may be infected with an STI, use condoms to protect yourself and your baby.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference July 23, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
