Can you have sex during pregnancy?

Patient's question:

Can you have sex during pregnancy? If yes, what precautions should be taken?

Doctor's answer:

Hello
Can sexual activity be performed during pregnancy? Will it affect the fetus's growth and development? This is a topic that couples are very concerned about but are shy to discuss with others.
The answer is yes. But timing, degree, and technique must be carefully considered. The general principle: one, do not add burden to the pregnant woman's abdomen; two, do not give the uterus direct and strong stimulation. Reasonable sexual activity during pregnancy not only does not affect fetal growth and development but can also regulate the pregnant woman's mood.
In the early stages of pregnancy, due to morning sickness, the placenta has not yet fully formed, and the secretion of progesterone is at a low point, making it the most prone time for miscarriage. At this time, the husband should restrain himself and avoid sexual activity as much as possible.
In the second trimester, morning sickness disappears, the placenta has formed, and vaginal discharge also increases, making it a period of high libido. At this time, you can enjoy moderate sexual activity. However, do not press the abdomen, do not stimulate the nipples to induce uterine contractions. The best position for sexual intercourse is the anterior lateral position, anterior sitting position, or lateral lying position. Still, it is important to note that the penis should not be inserted too deeply, and movements should not be too vigorous.
In the late stages of pregnancy, the abdomen becomes larger, there is lower back pain, and the person tends to be lazy and have reduced libido. The frequency of sexual activity should not only be less than in the second trimester but the duration of intercourse should also not be too long. The best position is the posterior lateral position, which will not press the abdomen and can also reduce the pregnant woman's activity.
Sexual activity should be avoided in the following cases:
1. If there are signs of threatened miscarriage, such as vaginal bleeding or abdominal pain