The Truth About Sex During Pregnancy (A Must Read For Everyone)

Sex during pregnancy can be daunting, but many women find it just as satisfying as it is at other times. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, it's safe to have sex right up until your water breaks. 

However, there are certain practices and positions you may want to change in order to have a more comfortable experience. If you want to know more about how to have sex while you're pregnant, keep reading.

Talk to your doctor about the need for any precautions. Sex is safe during pregnancy provided you have a low risk pregnancy with few complications. Your doctor will let you know if you should avoid sex for any reason at all. You may be advised to avoid sex if you have experienced the following:

• Unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Leakage of amniotic fluid
• History of premature labor
• Other medical conditions

Know that sex during pregnancy is usually quite safe. One of the most common concerns of mothers and fathers-to-be is that sex will hurt the baby, or that they might "bump into" the baby during sex, but in reality there is no reason to worry. A woman's cervix forms a barrier between her uterus and vagina, cushioning the baby and preventing harm from occurring. Most women can enjoy a healthy and fulfilling intimate relationship throughout their pregnancy, right up until their delivery date.

• Consider bringing up the issue of having sex while pregnant during a prenatal visit to the physician. A little reassurance from your physician that sex will not hurt the baby may help both people feel more comfortable.

Understand how sex can feel different when you're pregnant. Since pregnancy increases blood flow to the pelvic area, many women feel increased sensation in the clitoris during sexual intercourse. Some women find this pleasurable, while others find it uncomfortable. The following changes may also be present:

• A feeling of fullness after sex
• Abdominal cramping after sex
• Sore nipples
• Increased vaginal discharge

Know that orgasms can cause uterine contractions. These types of contractions do not lead to labor, but if you're experiencing them for the first time, you might get confused. Orgasms are unlikely to trigger labor, so there's no need to avoid sex on these grounds.  

Practice smart sex. The same practices that apply to sex at other times apply during pregnancy. If you have more than one sexual partner or are at risk of contracting an STI, be sure to use a condom each time you have sex. Putting yourself at risk of infection may put the baby at risk as well.