Can You Have Sex During Pregnancy?

Having sex during pregnancy is a topic that often sparks curiosity and concern. For many couples, intimacy remains an essential part of their relationship even as they are expecting a child. Fortunately, in most cases, sexual activity during pregnancy is safe and healthy (and encouraged!). The baby is well-protected within the uterus, and the amniotic fluid acts as a buffer. However, it’s essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider, especially if you have any complications or concerns. Remember that each pregnancy is unique, and maintaining a positive and respectful connection with your partner is crucial during this transformative time. 

For example, there are some circumstances when sex during pregnancy is best avoided, or when you should first check with your healthcare provider. As one of Melbourne's leading Gynecologists, Dr Lin Kliman, states "if you have a complication in this pregnancy or have had a significant complication noted in a previous pregnancy you may be told by your obstetrician to avoid intercourse."

Dr Kliman goes on to list several conditions that, if a women has been diagnosed with or has a past history of, she should seek further advice regarding any of the below before continuing intercourse during her pregnancy. These include:

• Premature delivery
• The presence of a low placenta
• A condition called placenta previa
• The presence of a stitch in the cervix called a cervical suture or recurrent unexplained bleeding

"If you have a normal straightforward pregnancy and no past history of significant obstetric complications, intercourse is safe during pregnancy" - Dr Len Kliman OAM, MBBS, FRANZCOG

Can sex early in pregnancy cause a miscarriage?

Rest assured, assuming you have a normal pregnancy, it is safe to have sex throughout your pregnancy, including those first 12 weeks after conception. There’s also no need to worry if you were taking birth control pills before you realized you were pregnant — this isn’t linked to pregnancy loss either.

Will the Baby Feel You Having Sex?

When it comes to sexual activity during pregnancy, many couples wonder if the baby can feel anything. Rest assured, the developing baby is well-protected within the uterus. The amniotic fluid acts as a cushion, shielding the baby from external sensations. The strong uterine muscles also provide an additional barrier. So, while you and your partner enjoy intimacy, the baby remains blissfully unaware. Remember to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any concerns or specific conditions. Each pregnancy is unique, and maintaining a positive connection with your partner is essential during this transformative time.

Is your partner freaked out that making love during preganacy may harm their baby? As Obstetrician Dr Jennifer Leighdon Wu states, you can reassure your partner that the baby is safe and snug up in your uterus, well out of reach. She goes on to say, "As long as they take their cues from you, and your doctor has given you the green light to enjoy intercourse, you two can go for it without a worry."

Dr Len Kliman is an Associate Professor & experienced gynaecologist practising in Melbourne, Australia who specialises in vulval and vaginal skin disorders and diseases. With over 30 years of experience both here and overseas, Dr Len strives to deliver only the best gynaecological care and support for his patients. You can read more articles by Dr Len Kliman here.

Dr. Jennifer Leighdon Wu is a board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist with her own private practice, Women's Health of Manhattan, in New York City. Dr. Wu completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, New York. You can read more articles by Dr Jennifer Leighdon Wu here.

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