Can I continue to have sex during pregnancy?
June 25, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Marie Czakaj
Dear team of the online consultation,
my name is Petra Fischer and I am 12 weeks pregnant. Over the past few weeks, I have had some concerns and uncertainties regarding my sexuality during pregnancy. Before getting pregnant, I regularly had sex with my partner, but since then I have held back because I am not sure if it is safe to have sex during pregnancy.
I have heard that sex during pregnancy is generally safe for both me and the baby, as long as there are no health problems. However, I worry that I could harm my baby during intercourse. Can you please tell me more about whether it is safe to have sex during pregnancy and how I can ensure that my baby and I are protected?
I have also heard that some women experience a lower sexual desire during pregnancy or feel uncomfortable when it comes to sex. I have noticed that my libido has decreased recently and sometimes I feel uncomfortable when trying to be intimate with my partner. Are there ways to increase sexual desire during pregnancy or to feel more comfortable when it comes to sex?
I want to ensure that both my baby and I remain healthy, but I also do not want to neglect intimacy with my partner. I would greatly appreciate your advice and recommendations to clarify my concerns and uncertainties regarding sex during pregnancy.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Kind regards,
Petra Fischer
Dear Petra Fischer,
Thank you for your candid words and concerns regarding sex during pregnancy. It is completely normal for you to have these thoughts and uncertainties about how sex could affect you and your baby. I would like to offer you some information and advice to address your concerns.
In most cases, sex during pregnancy is considered safe. Your baby is well protected by the amniotic sac and uterus and typically not impacted by intercourse. As long as your pregnancy is proceeding without complications and your doctor has no concerns, there is no reason to abstain from sex. However, there are some exceptions where sex during pregnancy should be avoided, such as in cases of high risk of preterm birth or certain types of bleeding. Therefore, it is important to discuss your concerns with your doctor so that they can provide personalized advice.
Regarding your decreased sexual desire and discomfort during sex, these are also normal during pregnancy. The body undergoes many changes, hormonal fluctuations can affect sexual desire, and physical discomforts like nausea or fatigue can impact your well-being during sex. There are ways to increase your sexual desire and feel more comfortable. It may be helpful to talk to your partner about your concerns and find solutions together. Trying new positions or varying foreplay techniques can also help maintain a satisfying sex life during pregnancy.
It is important to listen to your own needs and not force yourself to do something that doesn't feel right. Communication with your partner, self-care, and involving your doctor in your decisions can help you find a balance between intimacy and health during pregnancy.
I hope this information and advice help clarify your concerns. If you have any further questions or need additional support, I am here to help.
Best wishes for you and your pregnancy!
Kind regards,
Marie Czakaj
