Sex during pregnancy, is it safe?

Yes, for the vast majority of people, it is safe to have sex during pregnancy. If the pregnancy is normal and you have not received other advice from a midwife or doctor, there is no increased risk that intercourse will harm the baby or cause a miscarriage. At the same time, it is common for the body to change, for libido to vary, and for many questions to arise.

In this guide, we go through everything you need to know about sex during pregnancy – from safety and common ailments to which positions tend to feel most comfortable.

Can you have sex during pregnancy?

Yes. Most people can have sex throughout the pregnancy.

The baby lies well protected inside the uterus, surrounded by amniotic fluid, fetal membranes, and the muscles of the uterus. Furthermore, the cervix acts as a natural barrier, meaning the penis cannot reach or harm the baby.

If the pregnancy is progressing normally, there is therefore no reason to avoid sex simply because you are pregnant.

The most important thing is that it feels good for you and your partner.

Can sex harm the baby?

No.

This is one of the most common questions expectant parents ask, but the answer is reassuring.

The baby does not notice the intercourse in the way many imagine. However, the baby may sometimes move a little more afterwards because the uterus contracts slightly after an orgasm. This is completely normal and not a sign that the baby has been harmed.

Can sex cause a miscarriage?

No.

Normal intercourse does not cause a miscarriage.

The vast majority of miscarriages are due to chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus and have nothing to do with physical activity or sex.

If you have had a miscarriage before, it is natural to feel worried, but sex does not increase the risk in a normal pregnancy.

Can orgasm trigger labor?

For most, no.

An orgasm can cause the uterus to contract for a short while. These contractions are usually harmless and go away on their own.

Labor will not be started by sex if the body is not already ready.

However, if you have reached full term and your body is ripe, the contractions can sometimes become more noticeable.

When should you avoid sex during pregnancy?

There are certain situations when a midwife or doctor may recommend that you refrain from vaginal intercourse.

This could be, for example, if you have:

• placenta previa (the placenta is covering the cervix)
• ruptured membranes
• risk of preterm birth
• cervical shortening
• unexplained vaginal bleeding
• strong contractions
• an infection for which healthcare has advised against sex.

If you are unsure, it is always best to consult your midwife.

Bleeding after sex during pregnancy

A little bleeding or pinkish discharge after intercourse is relatively common.

During pregnancy, the cervix becomes softer and has increased blood flow, which makes it more prone to bleeding upon contact.

Minor bleeding is therefore usually not dangerous.

However, you should contact healthcare if you:

• bleed heavily
• have severe pain
• experience regular contractions
• suspect your water has broken.

Sex drive during pregnancy

There is no "normal" when it comes to sex drive during pregnancy.

Some experience increased desire, while others have no desire at all.

First trimester

During the first few months, it is common to experience:

• nausea
• fatigue
• sore breasts
• worry about the pregnancy.

This causes many to feel less desire.

Second trimester

Many describe the second trimester as the period when they feel at their best.

Increased blood circulation can make the genital area feel more sensitive, which makes some experience an increased sex drive.

Third trimester

As the belly gets bigger, it can be harder to find comfortable positions.

Pelvic pain, fatigue, and increased pressure on the pelvis often mean that libido changes again.

All experiences are normal.

Which sex positions are comfortable during pregnancy?

As the belly grows, some positions may feel more comfortable than others.

Many pregnant women enjoy:

• spooning
• woman on top
• sitting positions
• positions where both lie on their sides.

After about week 20, it can become uncomfortable to lie flat on your back for a long time because the growing uterus can press against major blood vessels.

Listen to your body and change position if something feels uncomfortable.

Lubricant during pregnancy

Hormonal changes can make mucous membranes drier than usual.

A water-based, fragrance-free lubricant is usually a good option if you experience dryness or discomfort during intercourse.

Avoid products that sting or irritate the genital area.

When should you contact healthcare?

Contact your midwife or the delivery ward if, after sex, you:

• experience heavy bleeding
• suspect your water has broken
• have persistent contractions
• have severe pain
• feel that something does not feel right.

It is always better to call once too often than once too seldom.

Summary

For most people, sex during pregnancy is both safe and completely normal. The baby is well protected in the uterus, and intercourse does not cause miscarriage or harm the baby in a normal pregnancy.

At the same time, the body changes during pregnancy. Libido can vary, some positions may feel better than others, and minor bleeding after intercourse can be completely normal. If you have received specific advice from healthcare or experience heavy bleeding, pain, or contractions, you should always contact a midwife or doctor.

Common questions about sex during pregnancy

Can you have sex in week 5?

Yes, if the pregnancy is normal, there is no reason to avoid sex early in the pregnancy.

Can you have sex in week 20?

Yes. Many actually feel they are at their best during the second trimester.

Can you have sex in week 30?

Yes, as long as the pregnancy is normal and it feels comfortable.

Can you have sex right up to birth?

Yes, if the midwife or doctor has not recommended otherwise.

Is it dangerous to have an orgasm during pregnancy?

No. Orgasm is not dangerous during a normal pregnancy.

Can the baby feel when you have sex?

No. The baby is well protected inside the uterus and is not affected by intercourse.

Is it normal to have contractions after sex?

Yes. Temporary contractions after orgasm are common and usually go away on their own.

Can you use lubricant when pregnant?

Yes. Feel free to choose a water-based and fragrance-free lubricant if you experience dryness.

Can you have bleeding after sex during pregnancy?

Yes. Minor bleeding can occur because the cervix is extra sensitive during pregnancy.

Is it normal not to want to have sex during pregnancy?

Yes. Sex drive varies greatly between different individuals and during the different phases of pregnancy.