How to safely have sex while pregnant, according to health experts
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Preeclampsia: Symptoms, causes and treatments
Preeclampsia is a high blood pressure condition that develops during pregnancy.
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Being pregnant doesn't have to put a pause on your sex life.
Sure, it may change your sex drive or comfort levels. But from a health and safety perspective, the good news is that "most people can safely have sex while pregnant," says Dr. Karen Tang, author of "It's Not Hysteria: Everything You Need to Know About Your Reproductive Health (But Were Never Told)."
For the record, health experts say it's completely normal if you or your partner don't feel like having sex while pregnant, for any reason. The key is keeping an open dialogue about how you're feeling, and any worries about how the current pregnancy could impact your sex life as a couple.
But if you are interested in learning the dos and don'ts of having sex while pregnant, Tang is answering your FAQs.
'Pregnancy nose' videos go viral. Here's the problem with the trend.
Can you have sex during pregnancy?
In most cases, there's no need to worry about vaginal penetration, sperm or orgasms hurting a "normally-developing pregnancy," she adds. The uterine muscles and amniotic fluid are there to protect the baby, according to the Mayo Clinic.
But there are certain cases in which a doctor might suggest putting a pause on bedroom activity. Conditions that might lead an OB/GYN to recommend against having sex, according to Tang, include an early cervical dilation or weakening, concern about risk of uterine infection, placenta covering the opening of the cervix, a history of early labor, leaking amniotic fluid or experiencing vaginal bleeding.
Folate is crucial for prenatal care. But it could also prolong your life.
When to stop sex during pregnancy
As long as your doctor has said you don't have any of the aforementioned conditions that could make sex during pregnancy unsafe, you're fine to have sex throughout your pregnancy, experts say.
Ultimately, pregnancy sex should be discussed on a personal basis with your doctor, who can offer guidance depending on your unique situation, Tang says.
Condoms obviously aren't needed to prevent pregnancy if you already are pregnant, but the Mayo Clinic notes that condom usage is vital if your partner has a sexually transmitted infection, or if either of you have sex with a new partner while pregnant, as an STI can cause serious health issues for you and the baby.
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