Can you have sex while pregnant? Absolutely – here’s why

Pregnancy is full of surprises, and when it comes to sex, myths abound. Let’s clear up the confusion and get to the facts.

Myth 1: Sex can hurt the baby

Reality: Your baby is chilling in a comfy, amniotic-fluid-filled bubble, protected by the uterus and a mucus plug that’s basically nature’s version of a security system. Unless you’re in a high-risk pregnancy, sex isn’t going to bother them one bit. So no, your baby isn’t going to get traumatised by what’s happening, they have no idea!

Myth 2: Sex will send you into labour

Reality: While orgasms can cause mild uterine contractions, they won’t induce labour unless your body is ready. If sex could induce labour, doctors would be prescribing it! In the third trimester, discomfort might lessen your interest, but if you’re in the mood, it’s perfectly safe.

Myth 3: Pregnancy kills your sex drive

Reality: This one’s a mixed bag. Some women feel too exhausted, nauseous, or bloated to even think about sex, especially in the first trimester. Others feel like their libido is on fire (thank you, increased blood flow and hormones). Basically, it’s a roller coaster. One day you’re turned on by the scent of your partner’s shampoo, the next day you’re gagging because they breathed too close to you.

Myth 4: Certain positions are dangerous

Reality: There are no dangerous positions, just uncomfortable ones. Try positions like side-lying or spooning for more comfort.

Myth 5: Sex can cause a miscarriage

Reality: Miscarriages are heart-breaking, but sex is not what causes them. Most miscarriages happen due to chromosomal abnormalities or other medical factors beyond anyone’s control. If your doctor hasn’t specifically told you to avoid sex, then it’s not a problem.

Myth 6: The baby will know what’s happening

Reality: Okay, let’s be realistic your baby has no idea. They’re floating around in their little world, listening to muffled sounds of the outside world. At most, they might notice a bit of gentle rocking. So no, they’re not giving you a judgmental side-eye from inside the womb.

Myth 7: Sex after pregnancy will never be the same

Reality: Your body has been through a lot, so sex might feel different at first. Healing takes time, hormones need to rebalance and sleep deprivation is very real. With patience, open communication, and possibly some pelvic floor rehabilitation (this can really help), things will get better.

When should you avoid sex?

There are some situations where your doctor might put sex on hold:

• Placenta previa (when the placenta covers the cervix).
• A history of pre-term labour.
• Unexplained bleeding or fluid leakage.
• Certain high-risk conditions.