You may have heard several ideas or warnings about sex while pregnant, and chances are that most of these are simply myths. You may have heard these from a trusted resource or friend, and some of the ideas might make a lot of sense. However, a lot of people don’t really know what they should and shouldn’t do with regard to sex while pregnant.
Here are some of the most common myths about pregnancy sex.
Myth: It will hurt Baby
Babies are very well protected in the amniotic sac. Penetrative sex will not reach or harm your baby. Even if it could reach (it won’t), the cervix is clamped shut to prevent any harm to your baby.
Myth: Pregnant sex hurts
Of course, some positions will be off-limits because they could cause you some pain, but many people find pregnant sex to be even more enjoyable than regular sex. This is because the genitals are engorged and nerve endings are more sensitive. Also, oxytocin, a hormone with increased levels during pregnancy, fuels a feeling of lust. Some even enjoy their first orgasms during pregnant sex.
Myth: Post-sex bleeding means damage to Baby
Post-sex bleeding is not a cause for alarm. When you’re pregnant, your cervix becomes very soft and can start bleeding from even minimal contact. Spots of blood do not mean damage has been done to Baby. However, it’s a good idea to let your provider know if there is excessive post-sex bleeding.
Myth: Different positions will influence the sex of the baby
Once sperm has fertilized the egg, the sex has been decided. If the sperm that fertilizes the egg carries an X chromosome, Baby will be a girl. If the sperm carries a Y chromosome, Baby will be a boy. There has not been any proven effect of sex influence based on sexual positioning before or after conception.
Myth: Pregnancy and sex are mutually exclusive
Being pregnant does not at all mean you can’t have sex. You can absolutely still have solo or partnered fun and express your love physically. You may find it is even more enjoyable than before! Just stop if you feel any discomfort.
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Sources
- Mayo Clinic Staff. “Sex during pregnancy: What’s OK, what’s not.” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, 7/31/2015. Web.
- W Back. “Sex during pregnancy.” March of Dimes. March of Dimes, 6/15/2015. Web.
- Mehmet Oz, Michael Roizen. “The Best Sex Positions for Pregnant Women.” FitPregnancy. FitPregnancy, n.d. Web.
