Is it safe to have sex during the first trimester of pregnancy?

The concept of sex during pregnancy invokes strong and conflicting beliefs across different cultures. Irrespective of cultural and personal beliefs, sex during pregnancy is probably the last thing on the mind of most women as they are already dealing with nausea, vomiting, fatigue, morning sickness and more.

Can I have sex during pregnancy?

Sex during the first trimester is considered to be medically safe in most pregnancies. However, if you have had a past history of complications during pregnancy, then it is advisable that you avoid sex till you consult an Obstetrician. Consult a gynaecologist as soon as you miss your periods to confirm your pregnancy. Your doctor will take a proper case history and advice you if sex is to be avoided. The first trimester of pregnancy is characterized by a rapid increase in human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) levels. Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is responsible for nausea and fatigue. Each pregnancy is unique and the last thing some women want is sex, while some others may crave it.

Under what conditions is Intercourse during pregnancy not allowed?

For most normal low – risk pregnancies, intercourse during pregnancy is allowed, and does not cause any risks. But if you have any of the following complications, then you may be advised to avoid intercourse:

• If you have threatened abortion
• If you have bleeding in pregnancy

It is generally observed that women who conceive with much difficulty or have had a bad obstetric history refrain from penetrative sex or indulge in it very occasionally. In various studies it has been proved that penetrative sex does not increase the risk for abortion or preterm delivery in an otherwise normal pregnancy..

Is it safe?

It is normal for young to-be parents to be concerned about whether it is safe to have sex during pregnancy. In a normal pregnancy, the foetus is well protected in the strong muscles of the uterus and there are no chances that sex may cause any harm to your baby. Remember the penis enters only within the vagina and does not go beyond it, so there are no chances that it can harm the foetus in any way. Also it is safe for pregnant women to orgasm. Orgasmic contractions do not cause any problems to the pregnancy..

Things to keep in mind

Intercourse during the first trimester of pregnancy can be as pleasurable as any other time, if not more. Keep the following in mind:

• Positions: Opt for positions that are comfortable to both of you. It is observed that women tend to be more comfortable in the woman-on-top position as this helps them to be in control.
• Avoid insertion of any foreign body in the vagina as these may cause harm to the vagina.
• Avoid blowing air into the vagina.

If you have any bleeding during pregnancy, get in touch with your doctor immediately.

Disclaimer: The information in the article is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor.

Also read: Pregnancy Sex Myths Busted!

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