Can I still have sex if I’m pregnant?

Many people wonder whether sex during pregnancy is safe and if it could harm the developing baby. The good news is that, in most cases, sex is completely safe throughout pregnancy—unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.

However, it is important to remember that your sex drive might change during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, physical discomfort, or emotional shifts. This is completely normal.

 Sex and Orgasm won’t increase the chance of you going into early labour, nor will it cause a miscarriage. However, in the later stages of pregnancy, orgasms may trigger mild contractions known as Braxton Hicks contractions - these are harmless and a natural part of pregnancy.

When to avoid sex in pregnancy

There are a few reasons why your health professional might advise you to avoid sex during pregnancy, including:

• Heavy bleeding (having sex might increase the risk of further bleeding if the placenta is low,  or there is a collection of blood)

• Your water has broken (sex can increase the risk of infection)

• There are problems with entrance to the womb (this may put you at higher risk of early labour or a miscarriage)

• You’re having twins

• If you’ve previously had premature labour

It is also important to remember that if you or your partner are sexually active with other people during pregnancy, it’s essential to use condoms or dental dams consistently. This helps protect you and your baby from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which can pose health risks during pregnancy.

Every pregnancy is different—if you have concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider.