Intercourse during pregnancy: It is important to have an open and honest communication with your partner when it comes to sexual desires and concerns. Intercourse during pregnancy is one topic that raises a lot of curiosity. As such, it is important to separate the facts from myths, which is what Dr Manvi Verma, cosmetic gynecologist and female sexologist at Motherhood Hospital Kharghar attempts to do here. According to the doctor, having intercourse during pregnancy is often a topic of debate, with some believing it can impact the unborn baby’s health or even cause a miscarriage. It is, therefore, important to raise awareness among couples.
“The stigma surrounding intercourse during pregnancy often arises due to taboos, misconceptions, and a lack of open communication between couples. Unfortunately, many people hesitate to engage in intimacy due to fears of harming the baby, triggering premature labor or causing complications,” says the doctor, adding that the myths associated with the topic can make one feel uncomfortable, and prevent them from discussing their concerns openly.
“Debunking certain stigmas requires normalising conversations about sexual health during pregnancy and cultivating an environment where couples feel safe and supported,” Dr Verma says.
Busting Myths Related To Intercourse During Pregnancy
Here are some important things the doctor wants you to know:
Myth 1: Intercourse during pregnancy is dangerous for the baby.
Fact: In most normal pregnancies, sex is safe and can be enjoyable. Benefits of sex during pregnancy include intimacy and bonding, reduced stress and anxiety, and pain relief. Follow the guidelines given by the expert.
Myth 2: Pregnancy decreases sexual desire for all women.
Fact: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to a fluctuating libido. While some women experience a decreased sex drive due to fatigue or nausea, others report an increase in sexual desire. It varies from person-to-person.
Myth 3: Sex during pregnancy increases the risk of infections.
Fact: While hormonal changes make pregnant women more susceptible to infections, maintaining hygiene, using protection, and ensuring both partners are in good health can prevent any risks.
Myth 4: Sex during pregnancy can cause miscarriage or premature labor.
Fact: While there may be exceptions, in most cases, sex during pregnancy is not a risk factor for miscarriage or premature labor. Conditions, where caution is advised, include the history of preterm labor, placenta previa, or cervical insufficiency. One should consult an expert and clear all their doubts.
Myth 5: Certain sex positions should be avoided during pregnancy.
Fact: Most positions are safe, but as the pregnancy progresses, some positions may become more comfortable than others. Tips for comfortable sex during pregnancy include experimenting with different positions, opting for pillows for support, and listening to the signs given by the body.
Myth 6: Orgasm during pregnancy can harm the baby.
Fact: Orgasm is a natural bodily function and is not harmful for the baby. Orgasms during pregnancy can help with relaxation, pain relief, and improved mood.
Myth 7: You must wait several months after childbirth to resume intimacy.
Fact: While healing varies, most doctors recommend waiting about six weeks postpartum to allow the body to recover. Women should listen to their bodies and discuss concerns with their healthcare provider.
The doctor concludes by saying that it is the need of the hour to encourage open communication with sexual health experts, and discuss concerns surrounding having sex during pregnancy which, by the way, can be a positive and enjoyable experience if one can learn to embrace all sorts of changes that occur during pregnancy.
