Introduction
Pregnancy is a joyous journey for the most part. But pregnant mothers, especially first-time moms, have a lot of doubts and confusion. One of the top doubts that most couples have is whether or not to have intercourse during pregnancy.
The short answer is, yes, you can have safe sex during pregnancy, but if your doctor has advised you not to, then please listen to their advice.
Is it safe to have intercourse during pregnancy?
Yes, it is safe to have intercourse during pregnancy unless you have any specific pregnancy complications, and if your doctor has asked you to refrain from having sex while pregnant.
For those with low-risk pregnancies and low complications, sex doesn’t usually harm the baby, as the baby is protected by the uterus, amniotic fluid, and the mucus plug that protects the cervix during pregnancy.
Benefits of having intercourse during pregnancy
There are certain benefits of having sex in pregnancy including:
- Better blood flow to the vaginal region
- Better bonding between the couple
- Boosts immune system
- Relieves stress
- Improves sleep cycle
- Improves pelvic floor strength
Can intercourse during pregnancy cause miscarriage?
In a low-risk pregnancy, intercourse doesn’t usually cause miscarriage or pregnancy loss.
Miscarriage usually occurs in the first trimester, often due to growth defects in the fetus.
Although sex can cause mild abdominal cramps and spotting, it isn’t usually harmful.
But if you are experiencing severe stomach cramps, bleeding, or running a high fever, contact your gynecologist immediately
Can intercourse during pregnancy cause early labor or preterm birth?
There is no scientific evidence to prove that sex causes preterm labor during pregnancy.
Researchers say that there is no harm in having sex during pregnancy if the mother has a low risk pregnancy.
But if you are going through a high-risk pregnancy with complications, including a short cervix and placenta previa, it is better to avoid intercourse as it might increase the risk of preterm labor and other pregnancy-related complications.
Safe sexual positions for intercourse during pregnancy
Healthcare experts recommend trying positions that you feel comfortable in.
Do not try positions that put pressure on your abdomen. Take it slow and ensure your safety and comfort at all times
When to avoid intercourse during pregnancy?
It is recommended to avoid intercourse in pregnancy if you have pregnancy complication including:
- Placenta previa
- History of preterm labor
- Having a short cervix
- Hypertension or preeclampsia
- Cervical insufficiency or weak cervix
When to seek medical help?
It is important to seek medical help if you experience:
- Severe vaginal bleeding
- Severe abdomen cramps
- No baby movements
- High fever with chills
- Fluid leakage
- Severe headache
- Blurry vision
- Frequent urination than usual
Conclusion
Intercourse during pregnancy is safe for most pregnant mothers with low pregnancy complications.
Sex in pregnancy is also said to relieve stress and improve blood flow to the pelvic region.
So, if you have the sexual urge, you can go ahead. But, if you are dealing with a high-risk pregnancy and have complications, including a short cervix, placenta previa, or a history of preterm birth, it is better to avoid sex during pregnancy.
Although spotting or light bleeding after sex while pregnant is quite normal, consult with your doctor if you experience heavy bleeding.
Contact your gynecologist if you have any discomfort. For consultations with the best gynecologist in Chennai, Dr. Deepthi Jammi, contact Jammi Scans at 7338771733. Jammi Scans is one of the best gynecology clinics and scanning centers located in T Nagar, Chennai.
FAQ
1. When should intercourse stop when pregnant?
You can have intercourse during pregnancy unless your doctor specifically asks you to stop.
2. Can we release sperm during pregnancy?
Yes, releasing sperm during pregnancy doesn’t usually harm the mother or the baby if the pregnancy has no potential risks or complications.
3. Which month is safe to have intercourse during pregnancy?
For a mother with low risk and no potential complications in pregnancy, it is typically safe to have sex in all trimesters.
4. Is it ok to have sex during first 3 months of pregnancy ?
If you are having a low-risk pregnancy with no potential complications, you can have sex in all the trimesters. But it is recommended to consult with your gynecologist.
5. 7 weeks pregnant sex- is it safe?
Yes, it is usually safe if you have a low-risk pregnancy and do not have any pregnancy complications. But if you have pregnancy complications such as hypertension, and history of msicarriage or preterm birth, refrain from having sex during pregnancy.
Deepthi
Dr. Deepthi Jammi (Director, Jammi Scans) is a qualified OB/GYN and Post-Doc in Maternal Fetal Medicine. As a pregnancy ultrasound expert, she is passionate about healthy pregnancies and works towards spreading awareness on the latest diagnostic options available for parents to choose from. Dr.Deepthi has received gold medals and awards in Fetal Medicine at international and national conferences, and has appeared in numerous prestigious regional magazines and TV interviews.