Sex and Pregnancy

Family building is an innate desire in many people, whether they desire to raise a family as a single parent, or as a couple. Whereas the desire to build a family may be strong, the ability to build a family may not always come easy for some. Assisted reproductive technologies have enabled many individuals and couples to overcome various reproductive challenges and build their families.

When a person becomes pregnant, it is normal to want the best outcome and there are many considerations that one makes in this regard. From diet and nutrition, to lifestyle changes and home makeovers, all to make room for the expected bundle of joy! Other considerations arise regarding sex and intimacy, with the main concern being that having sex during pregnancy could harm the baby. This article will be addressing this concern. 

Can You Have Sex During Pregnancy?

From a medical perspective, there is nothing that should hold you back from having sex when you are pregnant. This is, of course, if you do not have any underlying conditions that would put you or the baby at risk. Much of the conversations regarding pregnancy are largely driven by socio-cultural practices and beliefs. These have to do with pre-pregnancy all the way to the postnatal period, and they affect how a person will go through their pregnancy journey. 

It is important to understand the biology of pregnancy, beginning with the structure of the womb during pregnancy. For a start, the cervix closes and seals itself once conception and implantation occur. This is necessary as it prevents anything from getting into the uterus through the vagina. As well, the thickened uterine lining provides cushioning for the growing fetus. The amniotic fluid can be seen as a shock absorber in a sense, this is why minor bumps to the baby bump do not have any impact on the growing child or mother.

Sex and Pregnancy

To better understand sex in pregnancy, we need to understand how pregnancy itself affects a person’s sexuality. Before we begin, it must be pointed out that every individual is unique and therefore their pregnancy journey is bound to be just as unique. Again, the information discussed here is a general perspective sweeping across a majority of cases. 

Having said that, it is important then for each individual to have honest conversations with their sexual partners regarding how they are feeling and what their needs may be throughout the course of pregnancy. In this way, adjustments can be made where necessary, and intimacy maintained. So let us get into sex by trimester, so that we can have a broader perspective of the things that influence sex, both biologically and medically.

Sex During the First Trimester

In the first trimester, the most changes are felt and many adjustments made by the body. For a start, when the embryo implants itself into the uterine wall, a person may experience light bleeding or spotting. This is quite common, in fact, it is experienced by one out of every four pregnant people. The new surge of hormones creates a wave of symptoms that include vomiting, nausea, loss of appetite and tiredness. 

As a result, a person’s desire for sex may be lowered. In some instances, they can be completely put off by even the very idea of sex. Cramping after sex is another common symptom experienced by a person when they are pregnant. While the spotting and the cramping are fairly normal, if one experiences continued bleeding, or is at risk for preterm birth, it is highly recommended that they go and see a doctor. 

Sex During the Second Trimester

After a time, a pregnant person mentally adjusts to being pregnant, as well, the body adjusts to being pregnant. By this time, most, if not all the symptoms from the first trimester have resolved. This translates to a person experiencing better sleep, an improved appetite, and more energy. As well, they are able to return to their regular routine including regular sexual activity. 

In this trimester as well, the baby bump is beginning to also grow. Meaning that the regular sexual positions one is used to may not be as comfortable or as easy to get into. This however can be looked at as an opportunity to explore different and new ways to continue enjoying sex. This has been known to boost and renew the intimate connection between partners. The one thing to be aware of is not to put any weight on the bump during sexual intercourse.

Sex During the Third Trimester

In the third trimester, sex can continue to be enjoyable, but the baby bump may sometimes cause some positions to be difficult to sustain. This does not mean that sexual activity must cease. A solution to this may be to find ways to support the pregnant partner perhaps using pillows. As well, taking breaks or taking the top position when having sex can be helpful. 

Biologically, this is the season where the body is making its final preparations toward delivery. So a pregnant person may experience some minor bleeding, and even leaking breasts during or after sexual intercourse. Not to worry though these are quite normal, as the cervix is particularly sensitive during this time, and the breasts are simply in preparation for milk production!   

When to Avoid Sex During Pregnancy

At times, medical reasons may cause sex to be a risky affair for a pregnant person. Typically, a professional healthcare provider may recommend abstinence for the sake of the wellbeing of both mother and child. Below are some situations where abstinence may be recommended:

• A medical history whereby a person is at risk for preterm labor or premature birth 
• If the cervix starts dilating prematurely
• If the placenta is covering the cervix - either partially or fully
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Signs of leaking amniotic fluid

In Conclusion

How a person will experience pregnancy is not something that can be predicted or planned for ahead of time. For some, pregnancy brings with it much discomfort, whereas for others, the pregnancy may not have too many ups and downs. As well, the impact on a person’s libido varies from very high to none at all.

These changes must be approached with patience and a willingness to adapt. As well, honest and clear communication between the pregnant person and their partner, as well as with their medical practitioner is of value in finding solutions to hiccups along the way. The priority at all times should be the wellbeing of the developing child in the womb, and that of the pregnant person. If you would like to know more about how to navigate sex during pregnancy, contact our team at IVF Fertility Center.