In a physiological pregnancy, free from risk factors and health problems, sex generally presents no contraindications. On the contrary, a good sexual rapport between the expectant parents helps improve the overall wellbeing of the couple and, indirectly, of the unborn child. The second trimester of pregnancy is, for many couples, a particularly happy period for sex during pregnancy: nausea and chronic fatigue are typically a thing of the past, the bump is still relatively small, and the expectant mother may find herself experiencing a peak in sexual desire.

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Sex during pregnancy: when to avoid it

If the pregnancy is high-risk — for example, due to placental abruption or shortening of the cervix — it would be better to abstain from full sexual intercourse. The same applies in cases of placenta praevia, when there is a risk of premature labour, or, at least during the first trimester, if there have been previous miscarriages. In the final months of pregnancy, sex may also be contraindicated in the case of a twin pregnancy, because the prostaglandins contained in seminal fluid can contribute to the early induction of labour. In any case, it is good practice to consult a gynaecologist or midwife with any doubts or concerns.

Sex during pregnancy: the benefits

At a complex and delicate time such as the expectation of a child, with all the changes it brings both physically and psychologically, a fulfilling sexual relationship can help strengthen the bond between the expectant parents. From a strictly physiological standpoint, sex during pregnancy can also serve as a kind of exercise for the uterine walls, as well as improving the health of the pelvic floor and blood flow to the placenta (and therefore to the foetus).

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Sex during pregnancy: challenges and advantages

It is possible that an expectant mother may feel uncomfortable experiencing sexual intercourse with peace of mind — for example, because she fears causing harm to the baby, or because she struggles to accept the changes in her own body. The minor physical discomforts that are physiologically present in almost all pregnancies (breast tenderness, nausea, digestive issues) can also act as more or less temporary deterrents, as can the new hormonal balance the pregnant woman finds herself navigating. Conversely, it can happen that it is the expectant father who struggles somewhat with the changes in his partner's body, or who is concerned about the health of the foetus. Opening up to one's partner and seeking advice and reassurance from a midwife or gynaecologist is essential, in these cases, to experiencing sex during pregnancy with peace of mind. On the other hand, many women report an increase in libido and in the intensity of orgasms during pregnancy, which can therefore become a particularly satisfying period in the couple's erotic life.

Sex during pregnancy: positions

The growing bump, as well as any breast tenderness, can make certain positions uncomfortable, so pregnancy can become the ideal time to experiment and discover a new dynamic. From the third trimester onwards, when the size of the uterus starts to become significant, many couples find the "spoon" position comfortable, with both partners lying on their sides and the expectant father embracing his partner from behind. An alternative is the position with the woman sitting on top of her partner, so as not to put pressure on the bump or the breasts. Alternatives to penetration, meanwhile, are ideal during periods when one or both partners do not find the idea of full intercourse appealing. The important thing, as always, is to respect each other and to always listen to the signals coming from one's own body.