Pregnancy comes with a mountain of questions, and for many couples, intimacy is high on the list. Fears that sex could harm the baby or trigger complications often lead some to stop completely. But medical advice suggests that for most healthy pregnancies, this isn't necessary.
According to Halimat Jimoh, a seasoned nurse and midwife, the developing baby is usually well-protected inside the uterus by amniotic fluid and strong uterine muscles. "Pregnancy itself isn't a reason to stop having sex; it's pregnancy complications or medical concerns that may make avoiding sex necessary," she told PT Health Watch.
So, when exactly should couples hit the pause button? Ms. Jimoh points to specific medical red flags. These include unexplained vaginal bleeding, issues with the placenta like placenta previa, leaking amniotic fluid, certain cervical conditions, and concerns about preterm labour. If any of these are present, a healthcare provider's advice is paramount.
But what about oral sex? Many assume it's a risk-free alternative. Ms. Jimoh clarifies that while generally safe in an uncomplicated pregnancy, there are still things to watch out for. A crucial warning is for partners not to blow air directly into the vagina. This might sound strange, but it's linked to a rare but potentially fatal condition called air embolism, where an air bubble blocks blood flow.
And here's a big one: oral sex doesn't mean you're safe from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Infections like herpes, gonorrhoea, syphilis, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis can still be passed on through oral contact. The risk increases if either partner has sores or cuts around their mouth, genitals, or anus. So, no vaginal penetration doesn't automatically equal no risk.
This is particularly worrying because STIs during pregnancy can have serious consequences beyond the mother. Ms. Jimoh stresses that pregnancy doesn't offer any protection against contracting STIs. If an infection is picked up, it can affect the mother and, depending on the germ, the developing baby too.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimated that about 8 million adults between 15 and 49 years old caught syphilis in 2022. If left untreated during pregnancy, syphilis can lead to devastating outcomes in 50% to 80% of cases. We're talking stillbirth, newborn death, premature birth, low birth weight, and congenital syphilis – where the baby is born with the infection.
The WHO also emphasizes that early testing and treatment during pregnancy can prevent these dire results. Pregnant women shouldn't wait until after delivery if they suspect an STI. "Many STIs can be treated or effectively managed, and early testing, diagnosis and appropriate treatment during pregnancy can help protect both the mother and baby," Ms. Jimoh advised.
Another infection that needs serious attention is genital herpes. The risk of passing it to a baby during childbirth is a major concern. This is especially true if a woman develops herpes for the first time late in her pregnancy, as she might not have built up enough antibodies to protect the newborn. The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that the risk of transmission in such cases is between 30% and 50%. For women with recurring herpes infections, this risk drops to less than 1%.
Ultimately, the key takeaway is that every pregnancy is different. What's safe for one woman might not be for another. Open communication with your healthcare provider is crucial to navigate intimacy safely throughout pregnancy.