Patient's question:
Is sexual activity during the first three months of pregnancy harmful to women and the fetus?Doctor's answer:
Hello:Generally speaking, sexual activity is not advisable during pregnancy, especially in the first three months and the last three months. Although some believe that sexual intercourse during pregnancy is not a major issue, in fact, many miscarriages, preterm births, premature rupture of membranes, and postpartum infections are caused by sexual activity. The main hazards of sexual activity during pregnancy include:
1. Increased risk of uterine contractions leading to miscarriage or preterm birth. There are two reasons for this:
- Mechanical stimulation during intercourse causes congestion in the external genitalia and pelvic organs. During orgasm, the perineum, vagina, and pelvic floor muscles contract rhythmically, and the uterus may also contract, increasing the risk of miscarriage or preterm birth.
- Sperm contains prostaglandins, which can stimulate uterine contractions, leading to placental separation, miscarriage, premature rupture of membranes, or preterm birth due to cervical dilation.
2. Potential for antenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum infections. This is because both male and female external genitalia are often carriers of bacteria. Sexual intercourse can easily lead to premature rupture of membranes, allowing alkaline amniotic fluid to leak and create a favorable environment for bacterial growth, resulting in uterine cavity infection. Postpartum cervical lacerations also provide an opportunity for bacteria to cause infection.
If sexual activity occurs occasionally during the second trimester of pregnancy, the following precautions should be taken:
(1) Maintain cleanliness of the genital organs—both partners should clean their external genitalia before intercourse.
(2) Exercise restraint, especially avoiding rough movements from the male partner. It is best to avoid the male-on-top sexual position.