Sex During Pregnancy Usually Safe, But Risks Exist: Expert

Pregnancy often raises questions about sexual activity, with some couples fearing harm to the baby and others believing all sex should stop. However, medical guidance indicates that sex is generally safe for women with healthy pregnancies. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that the amniotic sac and uterus protect the developing baby during most sexual activity.

Despite this general reassurance, certain pregnancy complications can necessitate avoiding sex. Nurse and midwife Halimat Jimoh explained that conditions like unexplained vaginal bleeding, placenta previa, amniotic fluid leakage, cervical issues, or concerns about preterm labor can make sexual activity unsafe. Therefore, the safety of sex during pregnancy depends on individual circumstances and any complications present, rather than pregnancy itself being a reason to abstain.

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Pregnancy itself is not a reason to stop having sex; it is certain pregnancy complications or medical concerns that may make avoiding sex necessary.

Discussions about sex during pregnancy often focus on intercourse, but oral sex also warrants consideration. Ms. Jimoh noted that oral sex is typically safe in uncomplicated pregnancies, with a key precaution being to avoid blowing air directly into the vagina, as this can cause a potentially fatal air embolism. Furthermore, oral sex does not eliminate the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The NHS warns that infections like herpes, gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis can be transmitted through oral sex, especially if there are sores or cuts on the mouth, genitals, or anus.

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More importantly, oral sex does not eliminate the risk of sexually transmitted infections.