Many people fear that having intercourse during the first and last three months of pregnancy may harm the baby. However, this belief is not correct.
Is it safe to have intercourse during pregnancy?
Many people have questions about whether intercourse during pregnancy is safe. Specifically, some fear that having intercourse during the first and last three months of pregnancy may harm the baby. However, this belief is not correct.
If your pregnancy is normal and your doctor has not advised you to avoid intercourse due to any specific health complications, then having intercourse during pregnancy is completely safe and risk-free. There is no possibility of harm or injury to the baby in the womb.
However, during pregnancy, many people experience a decrease or change in their desire for intercourse. This is completely normal, and there is no reason to worry about it. If this happens, discuss it with your partner. Open communication and mutual understanding are very important in this matter.
Does intercourse during pregnancy harm the baby in the womb?
If your pregnancy is normal and free of complications, intercourse alone does not pose any risk of miscarriage or early labor. However, towards the end of pregnancy, intercourse might cause mild uterine contractions.
If this happens, it may feel like your uterine muscles are tightening or pulling. Medically, this type of contraction is called ‘Braxton Hicks Contractions.’ You may feel some discomfort, but it is not actual labor pain.
Towards the end of pregnancy, such contractions can occur not only due to intercourse but also for other reasons—or sometimes without any specific cause. There is no need to worry, as this is a normal part of pregnancy. If you experience this, you can lie down and rest for a while or try to relax by focusing on something else. Usually, these mild contractions go away on their own after some time.
When Should Intercourse Be Avoided During Pregnancy?
In some cases, doctors advise avoiding intercourse during pregnancy, such as:
- If there has been heavy bleeding through the vaginal passage for any reason
- If there is any weakness or complication in the cervix
- If there was a history of preterm labor in a previous pregnancy
- If the placenta is positioned lower than normal (a condition called placenta previa)
- If the water breaks before labor begins
- If carrying twins or more (multiple pregnancies) at the same time
In such cases, it is best to consult a doctor before engaging in intercourse.
Rules for Intercourse During Pregnancy
Although intercourse during pregnancy is safe for most couples, it may not always be easy. If it becomes difficult to have intercourse in the usual way, you can try different positions. The primary concern should be the comfort of both partners. However, it is always important to be cautious to ensure that neither you nor the baby in the womb is harmed in any way.
During intercourse in pregnancy, if your partner is on top, it may feel uncomfortable for you, as your belly grows and you may experience tenderness in your breasts and other parts of your body. Additionally, deep penetration can also cause discomfort during this time. To avoid these issues, you can try lying on your side while having intercourse.
Additionally, you can try being on top instead of your partner or positioning yourself in front while your partner is behind. You can also use pillows or cushions for support when leaning on your hands or knees.
Unprotected intercourse can spread various sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which may cause serious complications for the baby in the womb. Therefore, to protect yourself and your unborn child from such infections, use condoms or similar contraceptive measures during intercourse in pregnancy.