Being pregnant doesn't have to mean the end of intimacy. Sexual activity in pregnancy doesn't harm the foetus and some couples find that their enjoyment even increases. We address some of the common concerns, to put your mind at rest:
By Associate Professor TAN Thiam Chye Head & Senior Consultant, Dr Michelle LIM Associate Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital
Is It Safe to Have Sex When Pregnant?
If you're enjoying an uneventful pregnancy, sex is perfectly safe. A sac of amniotic fluid surrounds your baby to protect it — and a mucus plug in the cervix prevents any possibility of infectionsreaching the womb.
Related: Sex In Pregnancy
Are there comfortable positions for sex during pregnancy?
Experiment to find what works best for you and your partner. Some women find that being on top or lying on their side is more comfortable as the missionary position puts pressure on a growing belly!
Related:Sexual Positions And Timing Of Conception
I'm Not in the Mood – Is That Normal?
Most women find that they're not in the mood for sex, especially in the first trimester when they're likely to be nauseous and extra sensitive. By week 10 and going in to the second trimester, some mums-to-be find that their enjoyment is heightened as they're more responsive to touch as their hormones rise. In the third trimester, fatigue and an expanding baby bump are likely to cause a dip in sexual desire.
Be honest and open with your partner if you're feeling like this. Maintain a loving relationship by spending time together and cuddling in bed. Focus on your love for one another and the excitement that your new arrival will bring.
Related: In The Mood For Love (During Pregnancy)
Should I be concerned if I bleed after sex?
You may suffer from some spotting after sex as the blood flow increases to the genitals, as you will have a higher level of circulating oestrogen. If you suffer from any type of bleeding after sex, you should consult your doctor.
Related: Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy
Are There Times When I Should Avoid Sex?
Sex in pregnancy is generally harmless to your baby — even if you've suffered a miscarriage or premature labour in the past. But if you've been diagnosed with a low-lying placenta, you bleed after sex or you or your partner suffer from any discomfort during sex, it is advisable to abstain until your baby is born.
Visit Parent Hub, for more useful tips and guides for a healthy pregnancy.
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Read these next:
- Trimester 1: Intimacy
- Resuming sexual relations and contraception
- Looking and Feeling Good When Pregnant
Sources:
The New Art and Science of Pregnancy and Childbirth 2008, World Scientific
Healthy Start for your Pregnancy 2012, Health Promotion Board Singapore
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