Healthy pregnancy
Sex during pregnancy
Being pregnant changes a lot — not only physically, but also how you feel about intimacy. In this article, we explain what changes, what’s perfectly fine, and when to be a bit more cautious — so you and your partner can continue to explore what feels good with confidence (and hopefully pleasure).
What’s okay and what’s better to avoid?
Good to know: in a healthy pregnancy, it’s perfectly safe to have sex. Intercourse, orgasm, and other forms of sexual activity are all safe for your baby. The uterus is well protected by amniotic fluid, the membranes, and a mucus plug in the cervix. Your baby barely notices any of it.
Avoid sex if:
- your waters have broken
- you experience vaginal bleeding
- you have contractions before 37 weeks
- you’ve been advised by us or your obstetrician to temporarily avoid sexual activity
Not sure? Always check with us. Safety comes first.
Sex during the first trimester
The first three months of pregnancy can be physically and emotionally challenging. Nausea, fatigue, sore breasts — not exactly ingredients for sexual desire. Hormonal changes can also affect your mood. You might feel more emotional or less comfortable in your body. All completely normal reactions — you’re not alone.
But some pregnant people actually feel more desire. Increased blood flow can make your body more sensitive in a pleasant way.
What helps: keep communicating with your partner. You might feel a stronger need for closeness rather than sex. Intimacy is broader than intercourse — cuddling, kissing, and dreaming together about the baby all count.
Sex during the second trimester
Many expectant parents experience the second trimester as a “good period.” Your body has adjusted to pregnancy, your energy often returns, and nausea usually decreases. Due to increased blood flow in your pelvic area, everything can feel more sensitive — from your vagina to your clitoris and nipples. For many women, that means more arousal and pleasure during sex. Some even experience their first orgasm.
However, that same sensitivity can sometimes lead to discomfort or pain. Your vagina may feel sore or irritated. A cold washcloth afterward or a different position can help. Remember: everything is open for discussion — including what doesn’t feel good.
Sex during the third trimester
The final stretch can come with quite a few discomforts. Your belly can get in the way, your back may hurt, and you tire more easily. That can affect your desire for sex — and that’s perfectly normal. Still, sex remains safe as long as it feels good. Many couples prefer other forms of intimacy during this time — a massage, cuddling, or relaxing in the bath together.
There’s no need to force anything. Listen to what your body tells you and try to keep a lighthearted attitude together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my baby ‘notice’ that we’re having sex?
No, your baby doesn’t notice anything. He or she is safely protected in the uterus by amniotic fluid, membranes, and a mucus plug.
Is it normal to have no desire for sex at all?
Yes, completely normal. Pregnancy changes your hormones, your body, and your energy levels. Give yourself time and be gentle with yourself.
It could also be that you're actually more interested in sex. Enjoy it!
What if my partner wants sex, but I don’t?
Keep communicating. Find forms of intimacy that feel good for both of you. Everything is allowed, nothing is required.
Can sex trigger labor?
You may have heard that orgasm or prostaglandins in semen can help start labor. This only has an effect if your body is already ready — that is, after 37 weeks. Sex cannot cause a premature birth.
When should we avoid having sex?
If you have vaginal bleeding, your waters have broken, or you’re experiencing early contractions, we advise against having sex. In other situations — for example, with a placenta previa — we may also advise you to avoid sex. If that’s the case, we’ll make sure to explain it clearly.
Summary
Pregnant and wondering about sex? In most cases, it’s perfectly fine. Your baby is safe, and you’re free to enjoy intimacy in whatever way feels right for you both.
- Sex is safe during a healthy pregnancy
- Your sex life may change — that’s completely normal
- Keep communicating about what feels good
- Intimacy is more than just sex
- If you have bleeding, broken waters, or early contractions — no sex without checking with us first