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Sex During Pregnancy: Myths, Facts, and How to Keep Intimacy Alive
- Holly Wood
- Jun 24
- 6 min read
Sex during pregnancy is a topic that sparks a lot of curiosity—and even more confusion. Many couples worry about whether it’s safe, whether it might harm the baby, and how to navigate changes in libido and intimacy throughout pregnancy.
As a licensed sex therapist, I’ve had countless clients ask me about sex during pregnancy. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, which can lead to unnecessary anxiety, shame, and even relationship strain. In this post, I’ll break down the most common myths about sex during pregnancy, explain the facts based on science and experience, and give you some practical tips to maintain intimacy and connection with your partner.
If you’ve been wondering whether sex during pregnancy is safe—or you just want to better understand how pregnancy affects desire and intimacy—you’re in the right place.
And if you'd rather watch than read, feel free to check out my YouTube video on this topic! Let’s dive in.
Is It Safe to Have Sex During Pregnancy?
The short answer: Yes, sex during pregnancy is usually safe for most people.
Your baby is well-protected by the amniotic sac, the muscular walls of the uterus, and the mucus plug in the cervix, which helps prevent infections. Unless your doctor has advised you to avoid sex due to complications, it’s perfectly safe to have sex throughout all three trimesters.
That said, it’s normal for your libido and comfort level to shift during pregnancy. You might feel more interested in sex at certain stages and completely uninterested at others—and that’s totally normal. The key is to listen to your body and communicate openly with your partner.
Myths About Sex During Pregnancy
Let’s bust some of the most common myths about pregnancy sex once and for all.
Myth #1: Sex Can Harm the Baby
This is probably the most widespread myth, but it’s completely false.
During sex, the baby is protected by:
The amniotic sac
The thick muscular walls of the uterus
The mucus plug, which acts as a barrier to infections
Unless you’ve been diagnosed with a high-risk condition like placenta previa or preterm labor risk, there’s no evidence that sex or orgasms can harm the baby or lead to complications.
Fact: The baby might “sense” the uterine contractions caused by orgasm, but they’re not harmful. In fact, the endorphins released during orgasm may actually have a calming effect on the baby!
Myth #2: Orgasms Can Cause Preterm Labor
Orgasms do cause mild uterine contractions, but they are not strong enough to induce labor unless you are already full-term.
Semen contains prostaglandins, which can help soften the cervix, but the effect is
mild unless your body is already prepared for labor. Doctors sometimes even recommend sex as a way to naturally encourage labor once you’re at or beyond 40 weeks!
Fact: Orgasms are not dangerous during pregnancy unless you’ve been advised to avoid sex due to a medical complication.
Myth #3: You Have to Stop Having Sex in the Third Trimester
Many people think that once the belly gets bigger, sex is off the table—but that’s not true. While some positions may become uncomfortable in the third trimester, sex is still safe unless your healthcare provider has advised against it. You might need to adjust to side-lying positions or positions where you have more control over depth and angle, but you don’t have to stop altogether.
Fact: Comfort is key. If it feels good, and your doctor hasn’t raised any red flags, it’s completely fine to have sex in the third trimester.
Comfort is key. If it feels good, and your doctor hasn’t raised any red flags, it’s completely fine to have sex in the third trimester.
Myth #4: Certain Positions Are Dangerous for the Baby
Positions that put pressure on your belly might become uncomfortable as your pregnancy progresses, but they’re not inherently dangerous.
Some pregnancy-friendly positions include:
Side-lying or spooning
Being on top (you can control the depth and pace)
Rear-entry positions (with support from pillows for comfort)
Fact: The key is to adjust based on your comfort level and your changing body. If a position feels uncomfortable—skip it!
Myth #5: Pregnancy Always Increases Your Sex Drive
Some people experience a spike in libido during pregnancy—especially in the second trimester when increased blood flow to the pelvic area heightens sensitivity and arousal. However, for others, the physical and emotional changes of pregnancy—like nausea, fatigue, and body image shifts—can lower interest in sex. Both experiences are completely normal.
Fact: Pregnancy affects everyone differently. Don’t worry if your libido increases, decreases, or fluctuates—just communicate with your partner about how you’re feeling.
Why Libido Changes During Pregnancy
Pregnancy brings major hormonal, emotional, and physical changes that can impact your sex drive. Here’s why your libido might feel all over the place:
1. Hormonal Changes
Estrogen and progesterone levels rise significantly during pregnancy, which can heighten sensitivity and increase vaginal lubrication.
These same hormones can also cause mood swings and fatigue, which may reduce sexual desire.
2. Increased Blood Flow to the Pelvic Area
More blood flow means increased sensitivity—this can lead to stronger orgasms and heightened pleasure.
3. Emotional and Psychological Shifts
Pregnancy can bring up feelings of vulnerability, body image issues, and stress about parenting—all of which can affect your desire for intimacy.
4. Physical Discomfort
Back pain, swollen feet, and general exhaustion can make sex feel like the last thing you want to do. Adjusting your position and using pillows for support can help increase comfort.
How to Stay Connected and Intimate During Pregnancy
Even if you’re not in the mood for sex, you can still nurture intimacy and connection with your partner.
1. Communicate Openly
Be honest with your partner about how you’re feeling, physically and emotionally. Let them know if you’re feeling uncomfortable or just not interested in sex.
2. Explore Non-Penetrative Intimacy
You can still experience pleasure and connection without penetration. Try:
Kissing and cuddling
Mutual masturbation
Oral sex
Sensual massages
3. Adjust Your Positions
In the later stages of pregnancy, try side-lying, spooning, and rear-entry positions to reduce pressure on your belly.
4. Focus on Emotional Connection
Spend quality time together, talk about your hopes and fears for parenthood, and nurture the emotional side of your relationship.
5. Be Patient with Yourself
It’s normal for libido to fluctuate during pregnancy. Give yourself grace and know that intimacy can take different forms.
When to Avoid Sex During Pregnancy
While sex is safe for most people during pregnancy, you should avoid it if you experience:
Placenta previa (when the placenta covers the cervix)
Preterm labor risk
Unexplained vaginal bleeding
Leaking amniotic fluid or if your water has broken
An incompetent cervix or cervical cerclage
Always consult your doctor if you’re unsure about what’s safe for you.
Final Thoughts
Sex during pregnancy is safe, normal, and beneficial for most people. It’s completely natural for your libido to shift during pregnancy—and it’s okay if sex feels different than it did before.
The key is to listen to your body, communicate with your partner, and embrace the emotional and physical changes of pregnancy without judgment.
If you have questions or concerns about intimacy during pregnancy, I’m here to help. As a licensed sex therapist, I specialize in helping couples navigate changes in their sex lives and maintain intimacy through life transitions—including pregnancy.
If this blog resonated with you, don’t forget to check out my YouTube video on this topic and subscribe for more insights on sexual health and intimacy. And if you’re ready to start therapy, reach out today.
About the author
Holly is a leading expert in sexual health based in Orange County, certified as both a clinical sexologist and AASECT sex therapist. With Ph.D. studies in Human Sexuality and extensive experience in sex therapy, sexual wellness, and relationship counseling, Holly provides evidence-based insights to clients in Orange County, the state of California and beyond. Recognized for expertise in libido, sexual dysfunction, and intimacy, Holly is dedicated to empowering individuals with practical advice and research-backed strategies. For more, follow Holly for expert advice on sexual health and relationships.
Visit www.thehollywoodsexologist.com to learn more and request a consultation.
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