Unless your gynecologist tells you to abstain for baby’s sake, sex in pregnancy is okay since it does not harm the fetus. However, some conditions can prompt your doctor to prohibit you from having sex when pregnant.
When to stop sex during pregnancy
- If you have a history of going into premature labor, medics will discourage you from having sex. You need to rest your pelvis (pelvic rest), so nothing should be inserted in your vagina. Nevertheless, you can discuss other ways to achieve sexual satisfaction.
- Some women suffer from a condition known as placenta previa during pregnancy. In a normal pregnancy, you’ll find the placenta attached to the upper part of the uterus. However, sometimes the placenta can attach itself to the lower part of the uterus, covering the cervix in exceptional cases (placenta previa). When that happens, having an orgasm will stimulate contractions.
- Can one have sex when their water has broken? The answer is no. Any bacteria entering your birth canal through sexual intercourse will quickly reach your unborn baby. You can engage in sex without penetration, though.
- Unusual bleeding from the vagina, funny discharge or mysterious cramps are reasons to abstain from sex in pregnancy. You’ll also feel uncomfortable engaging in sexual activities in such a state.
- If your cervix opens too early or your amniotic fluid starts leaking, you should stop having sex.
- When you or your partner has a sexually transmitted disease, you must consult the doctor before intercourse. However, the clinician might allow you to use condoms.
- When the experts feel that you might have a miscarriage, you’ll be forbidden from sex. The same happens to those carrying twins or triplets. However, it’s essential to ask the doctor whether you can enjoy other forms of pleasure.
Having sex during pregnancy
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- Always use protection to protect your unborn baby and yourself from STDs.
- Go for pregnancy sex positions like woman on top or spooning.
- Avoid rough sex, which can cause bleeding or premature labor.
- Explore other areas of your body that can lead to arousal apart from direct nipple stimulation, leading to early labor or lactation.
- Sex in pregnancy is okay for most women. In fact, you might experience the best orgasms in this period. However, if the doctor prohibits it, don’t do it.
- If your sexual desire declines, look for other ways to enjoy intimacy.
- Semen contains prostaglandins, the chemicals that induce labor. Hence, you might want to stop having sex in the last weeks of pregnancy.
Conclusion
The above reasons to abstain from sex in pregnancy should not keep you from enjoying other intimacy forms. Also, enquire from your doctor whether you can still have sex without orgasm. Remember to carry your partner to all antenatal clinics.
