Healthy Living - Sex during pregnancy is still often considered a taboo. Many women avoid it out of fear for the fetus, with some believing it may cause premature birth. But is this really true?
Pregnant sex causes premature birth?
Most studies do not show that sex during pregnancy increases the risk of preterm birth. In general, sex during pregnancy is safe if you have no medical complications.
The fetus is well-protected by the amniotic sac, uterine muscles, and the cervical mucus plug, which prevents sperm and other things from reaching the fetus.
Orgasms may cause mild uterine contractions due to the hormone prostaglandin, but this does not usually trigger premature birth. However, if you have a history of premature birth, it’s advisable to be cautious. Your doctor may recommend avoiding sex until after delivery.
Avoid sex during pregnancy if you have special conditions
Avoid sex if you experience unusual bleeding during pregnancy, especially if you have a low-lying placenta (placenta previa). Sex in such cases can lead to further complications, including premature birth.
Other conditions where sex should be avoided include:
- History of premature labor
- Previous miscarriages
- Amniotic fluid issues
- Cervical disorders
- Weak uterus
Some doctors may also advise against sex in the last weeks of pregnancy due to the potential for prostaglandin-induced contractions.
Rules for having sex during pregnancy
Generally, sex is unlikely to cause premature birth if your pregnancy is healthy. However, consider the following precautions:
Use condoms
If your partner has a history of sexually transmitted infections, using condoms is crucial to protect both you and the fetus.
Choose the right sex position
There's no single best position for sex during pregnancy. As long as you feel comfortable, any position is acceptable. Communicate with your partner and be open to trying different positions to find what’s most comfortable for both of you.
