Many women and men worry about having sex during a pregnancy, but is it really such a big deal?

According to the majority of health professionals, sex during pregnancy is not only allowed, it is encouraged among low risk pregnancies. That being said, there are a few situations you should be aware of and avoid if you wish to partake in sex during pregnancy (If you have ANY concerns, always check with your health care professional first):

• If your water has already broken.
• If you or your partner are infected with any type of STD (Sexually Transmitted Disease).
• If you have a history of premature labor or births.
• If you have a history or threats of miscarriage.
• If you experience any unexplained vaginal bleeding, discharges or cramping.
• If you have placenta previa or a low-lying placenta.
• If you have an incompetant or dialated cervix.
• If you experience any leakage of amniotic fluid.

While a woman's sex drive may fluctuate during pregnancy (Especially during the first trimester!), many women partake in sexual activity through all stages of their pregnancy. It is important that you communicate with your partner about your sexual desires or lack thereof. Both partners should feel comfortable with the situation as women will be more exhausted, tender and experience hormonal fluctuations during their pregnancy.

One of the biggest things you will need to experiment with are positions. With an enlarged belly, missionary position sex becomes quite a bit more difficult to perform. Aside from positions such as woman on top, spooning and hands & knees, you may also want to investigate different types of sexual furniture that can assist you in eliminating awkward positioning.

Many men are worried that they will hurt the baby during intercourse, but there is no chance of his penis hitting the fetus. Not only is the baby protected by the amniotic sac, but the cervix now has a thick mucus plug that seals it against infection. You may experience some spotting caused by increased blood supply and higher circulation. You should consult your physician if this happens to rule out any other serious causes.

You shouldn't worry too much about going into labor from having sex, unless you are overdue. The contractions you may get during sexual activity are quite different from those associated with being in labor. In a low risk pregnancy, you should have no issues having sex or masturbating. Your health care professional may suggest abstaining from intercourse during the final weeks of pregnancy, though this is generally just a safety precaution.

Some woman also enjoy anal sex and want to know if this is safe during their pregnancy. While you should have no issues with anal pleasure, you should avoid any type of anal play, including intercourse, if you are suffering from hemorrhoids or or inflammation around your anus.

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