7 Must-know Situations When Sex During Pregnancy Is Unsafe

There is no doubt that making love during pregnancy can be a wonderful and enjoyable experience. It can help you feel closer to your partner while providing comfort and relaxation. However, there are some situations where making love during pregnancy may not be safe. Some of those instances are:

You’re at Risk for a Miscarriage

Women who have a high risk of miscarrying should avoid intercourse during pregnancy. Getting intimate during this time can increase the risk of miscarriage, especially in the first trimester. Why? Any intense physical exertion can stimulate contractions in the uterus, which could lead to preterm labor and potential miscarriage.

If your doctor has identified any signs of a possible miscarriage, they may advise against sexual activity until further notice. Alternatively, they may recommend doing it in a comfortable position to minimize the risk.

Other activities that could increase the risk of a miscarriage include hot tubs, saunas, smoking, drinking alcohol, horseback riding, or rollerblading.

You Have Placenta Previa

Placenta Previa is a condition in which the placenta attaches too low to the uterus, partially or completely blocking the cervix. If you have Placenta Previa, intercourse during pregnancy can cause heavy bleeding and severe cramping.

If you’re diagnosed with this condition, your doctor will likely advise you to avoid sexual activity altogether. If you experience any symptoms of Placenta Previa, including uterine bleeding, pain, or cramping, seek immediate medical attention.

You Have an Infection or STD

An untreated infection or sexually transmitted disease (STD) can put you and your baby at risk during pregnancy. Unprotected intercourse can lead to the transmission of certain infections, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, which can cause preterm labor and congenital disabilities.

If you have any signs of an STD or infection, don’t engage in sexual activities unless your doctor clears you. Once the infection is treated and cleared, you can safely continue having intercourse during pregnancy. The same goes for your partner – they should also get tested and, if necessary, receive treatment before having sexual contact.

You’re Experiencing Uterine Bleeding

Uterine bleeding is common during pregnancy and can be caused by several factors. If you are bleeding, especially in the first trimester, avoid intimacy until your doctor clears you.

Having intercourse while pregnant could increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm labor if the cause of the bleeding is unknown. It’s best to get checked by your doctor for any underlying causes and to receive their approval before having intercourse.

Your Uterus Has Opened Prematurely

If the cervix begins to open prematurely, it can lead to a serious health risk known as preterm labor. During this time, the uterus can weaken, increasing the risk of a miscarriage or other complications.

If your doctor suspects your uterus has opened prematurely, they will advise against having intercourse until after delivery. Additionally, they may recommend using a pelvic support belt to help prevent preterm labor.

You’re at Risk for Preterm Labor

If you’re at risk for preterm labor, sexual activities can increase the likelihood of it happening. Certain positions or physical exertion associated with intercourse may stimulate contractions in the uterus, which could lead to premature birth.

Women at high risk for preterm labor should avoid any position that strains their uterus. If you experience any symptoms of preterm labor, such as cramping or strong contractions, notify your doctor immediately.

Your Membranes Are Ruptured

If your amniotic sac—also known as the membranes—ruptures during pregnancy, it can increase the risk of infection and other medical complications. If the membranes have ruptured, doctors usually advise against sexual intercourse until after delivery.

Having intercourse while pregnant when the membranes are ruptured puts you at risk of developing an infection in your uterus. This can lead to preterm labor and other health risks, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and avoid intercourse until your baby is born.

Conclusion

Intercourse during pregnancy can be safe and beneficial in many cases. However, there are some risks. If you have a serious medical condition or experience symptoms of preterm labor, avoid engaging in sexual activities until your doctor clears you.

This article was produced on Health Makes You.