Released on: 17 September 2024
NCT(National Childbirth Trust) reports that soaring numbers of expectant parents are all asking the same question.
‘Can we have sex during pregnancy’ has been found to be a burning question for expectant parents in the months leading up to childbirth, according to website data from NCT (National Childbirth Trust).
The charity, which offers information and support in pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood, says tens of thousands of expectant parents are asking this question every single month – according to the almost 200,000 visits to its specialist page on the subject this year alone.
This makes it the most popular resource page on the NCT website, even trumping pages on how to perform perineal massage, what you should know about bleeding after birth, and how to gently stop breastfeeding.
As expectant parents navigate the complexities of pregnancy, questions about safety, comfort, and maintaining intimacy have become more pressing than ever – and are clearly a top priority for many.
An NCT practitioner confirms that for most people it's perfectly safe to have sex, including penetrative sex or masturbation, during pregnancy.
One of the top concerns for parents is whether having sex could hurt the baby. NCT reassures parents that penetrative sex can’t go beyond the cervix, so the baby won't feel it and it is well-protected from infection by the mucus plug and amniotic sac.
Fleur Parker, an NCT Practitioner and antenatal educator said, “Many people approach sex during pregnancy with caution and may experience changes in their sex drive and sex life as a pregnancy progresses.
“But the most important thing to note is that sex during pregnancy is generally safe and will not harm your baby.
“While an orgasm might occasionally trigger Braxton Hicks contractions later on in pregnancy, it’s nothing to worry about and lying down and relaxing can help them go away.
“In fact, you might find that you experience more intense orgasms during pregnancy, thanks to increased blood flow and heightened sensitivity.
“Comfort during sex becomes crucial as your body changes, and you might find you prefer positions that reduce pressure on the abdomen. And if you don't feel like having penetrative sex, there are other ways to be intimate. You can cuddle, kiss, give or receive massages or masturbate.” Fleur also emphasised that it’s entirely normal for libido to fluctuate during pregnancy.
“Whether due to nausea, exhaustion, or simply not feeling up to it, it's common to have less sex during pregnancy and after your baby is born. Talking about how you’re feeling can help people feel connected”, she said, “but no one should be pressured or forced to do something sexual that they don’t want to.”
While having sex during pregnancy is generally safe, NCT highlights that healthcare providers may recommend avoiding penetrative sex for certain reasons. These include:
- Heavy bleeding during the pregnancy
- If the waters have broken, as this can increase the risk of infection
- Placenta praevia or problems with the cervix
- Previous early labours
- Being in the late stages of pregnancy with twins or multiples
It’s also important to remember that pregnancy doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), she warns. NCT advises that if there’s any risk of exposure, getting tested and using protection can ensure that everyone, including the baby, remain healthy.
Fleur Parker added: “With record numbers turning to NCT for trusted information, it’s clear that sex during pregnancy is a hot topic, and something that is very important for expectant parents. During this time, it’s important to listen to your body, explore what feels comfortable, and keep the lines of communication open.”
For NCT’s information on sex during pregnancy, which contains answers to many other questions expectant people are asking, visit their website.
NCT’s various courses help parents to explore their relationships in addition to their physical and emotional wellbeing, with changing relationships and sex after birth both covered in NCT Antenatal Courses. To find out more, or to book, visit the courses page here.
