Sexuality, which is a normal routine for couples, can cause hesitation when it comes to pregnancy due to the thought of harming the baby. Acıbadem Fulya Hospital Gynecology and Obstetrics Specialist Dr. Selcen Bahadır answered questions about whether there are any harms in sexual intercourse during pregnancy, what are its benefits, and in which position to have sexual intercourse during pregnancy.
Can you have sexual intercourse during pregnancy?
First of all, I would like to separate the concepts of sexuality and sexual intercourse (sexual intercourse), that is, sex. Sexuality is the whole of experiences that do not only include the sexual organs, but also the whole body, the soul and the five senses. In other words, sexuality is all actions that include talking, looking, hugging, flirting, texting, as well as touching and kissing. When we look at sexuality, which is a normal and healthy part of life, from this perspective, it can accompany us in every period of our lives. According to the World Health Organization, sexuality; “It consists of the combination of the effects of physical, emotional, intellectual and social aspects that enrich personality, communication and love. As a sexual being, man is not only physical; It is a state of health that ensures emotional, intellectual and social integrity, and positively enriches and increases personality development, communication and the sharing of love.” In other words, sexuality is defined as a state of health that brings individuals closer, is experienced not only physically but also emotionally, and is good for the person.
Data obtained from conducted research; It is reported that most couples continue sexual activity until the 7th month of pregnancy. In addition, 10% of couples avoid sex from the beginning of pregnancy. Again, studies show that 1/3 of couples continue sexual intercourse until the 9th month. While women generally continue their emotional and erotic needs throughout the entire pregnancy period, it is stated that they avoid vaginal intercourse, especially in the last periods of pregnancy. Research shows that sexuality can be experienced in any period of pregnancy, except for special groups (high-risk pregnancies), and that it is not harmful to the mother and the unborn baby. Apart from this, sexual activities that do not include penetrative acts are considered suitable for all pregnant women.
Does sexual intercourse during pregnancy harm the baby?
One of the main reasons for avoiding sexuality during pregnancy is the fear of harming the baby in the womb, and this fear is observed in 30-50% of couples. The biggest concern about sexual intercourse in the early weeks of pregnancy is that the baby will miscarry. However, the studies carried out; It has been shown that sexual intercourse is not associated with pregnancy loss or miscarriage, and that sexual intercourse in the early stages of pregnancy has no negative effect, except for the presence of existing bleeding. In addition, we can say that the closeness of partners and sexual intercourse can increase their well-being in cases of psychological changes that occur in some women, such as anxiety that develops due to body change. Yet another social view is that pregnancy can cause premature birth or induce labor prematurely. There is a misconception that sexual intercourse causes contractions and triggers birth by causing the amniotic sac (water sac) to open. Research tells us that sexual intercourse and the orgasm experienced at the end are not related to conditions such as premature birth, premature rupture of membranes (early water breaking) and low birth weight. Again, contrary to popular belief in society, sexual intercourse or penis use during pregnancy does not cause any disability in the baby.
What are the harms of sexual intercourse during pregnancy?
There are several groups in which sexual intercourse during pregnancy may be harmful. The existence of conditions such as unexplained vaginal bleeding, short cervix, premature labor, leakage of amniotic fluid and placenta previa (the baby’s partner being first) are dangerous for both the unborn baby and the mother. These dangers include infection or serious bleeding. In addition, multiple pregnancy can also be seen as risky. However, all of these problems can be detected by gynecologists during regular follow-ups, and pregnant women and their partners are informed. Again, in high-risk pregnancies, especially in patients whose waters have broken, oral sex performed on the woman may be associated with infection.
What are the benefits of sexual intercourse during pregnancy?
Based on the World Health Organization’s definition of sexuality, we can say that “humans are sexual beings and sexuality is a set of actions that increase general health.” Pregnancy is a period that includes medical, psychological and relational changes for both the expectant mother and father. Especially the effects of hormones can cause some psychological and sexual problems in women. Again, the excitement, curiosity and sometimes anxiety experienced by both men and women towards their new roles and identities can be the basis for sexual problems on both sides. When we look at couples; Sexuality during pregnancy is a state of well-being that brings men and women closer to each other during this special period, allows them to enjoy the moment and reduces negative emotions. Some chemicals released during sexual intercourse, especially after orgasm, can make a woman feel good. A woman’s realization that she is desirable and beautiful can support her in having a psychologically healthy pregnancy. Again, as I explained above, it is important for couples to exhibit different sexual behaviors without seeing sexuality only as sexual intercourse.
In what cases should one avoid sexual intercourse during pregnancy?
Sexual intercourse during pregnancy is definitely not recommended in cases such as bleeding of unknown cause, danger of premature birth, placenta previa, which is known as the condition in which the baby’s partner comes first, and the waters have broken. Again, although sexual intercourse is considered risky in cases such as having previously given birth prematurely and multiple pregnancies, there is no problem in performing other sexual intimacy, romantic and erotic acts, in which we consider sexuality from a broader perspective.
Until which month of pregnancy can sexual life continue?
According to studies conducted; There is no problem in terms of sexual life in singleton pregnancies that do not pose any risk. As long as couples feel good and safe and desire sex both ways, sexual life has no harm to pregnancy. In addition, inclination to sleep, psychological changes, nausea and vomiting, which begin with the effect of pregnancy hormones, especially in the first three months; There may be a decrease in sexual interest and desire in the last three months due to positional difficulties that may occur due to the growth of the abdomen and fears about birth.
In what position should we have intercourse during pregnancy? How should partner support be?
Positions in which couples are comfortable during intercourse vary depending on the week of pregnancy. It is known that the position in which the man is on top, called missionary, is the position in which sexual intercourse is most commonly practiced, especially in the first three months. In addition, couples can engage in sexual acts in different positions according to their wishes during this phase. Positions where the woman is on top may be preferred after the second trimester. Pregnancy, and therefore the growth of the mother’s abdomen, makes this position more feasible for couples. Couples can also choose the spoon position or rear entry positions, which will not put pressure on the pregnancy. Knowing that pregnancy is a sensitive period, partners should consider the comfort of their spouses, see sexuality not only as a mechanical act of intercourse, but as a set of emotional and romantic behaviors, and avoid taking actions without the woman’s consent. They should not forget that their spouses may be more emotional during this period due to the changing hormones and should be understanding. In addition, avoiding sexual acts altogether may cause couples to drift away from each other.
Is there an important point you would like to add?
Pregnancy is a special period for the couple. It is a special period in which they journey from their male and female identities to their mother and father identities. Therefore, this period may bring with it some concerns.
In some cultures, experiencing or even thinking about sexuality is frowned upon by individuals who step into identities that are considered sacred, such as motherhood and fatherhood. There may be hormonal, physical, emotional, spiritual and relational changes in individuals, sexuality is not just a mechanical action; It should be known that it is a feeling of well-being that combines romantic and erotic games. My suggestion is that you share your fears and concerns about sexual life with your doctor who is monitoring your pregnancy. Because if you do not have a risk of pregnancy, there is no harm in continuing your sexual life. Let’s not forget that sexuality includes not only penetrative actions, but also emotional behaviors experienced with the whole soul and body.