Sex during pregnancy raises many questions for expecting couples. For most expecting moms, sex during pregnancy is a safe and encouraged experience. The issue more often is desire and this can be a concern for both partners.

In the first trimester, moms-to-be are often nauseous and the thought of shaking it up between the sheets may be the furthest thing from her minds.

In their second trimester, moms-to-be are often more energetic due to their increased blood volume and in some cases, increased sexual desire. Some women’s sex drive during the second trimester is exceptional which can please many husbands!

There are many husbands, however, who feel funny about having sex during pregnancy. They often think they may hurt the baby or they are just uncomfortable with the idea in general. It is extremely important that expecting couples communicate their concerns and apprehensions while also expressing their love. Misunderstandings can occur during this vulnerable time when hormones and emotions (on both sides) are running high and desires often conflict.

Here are a few of the questions and concerns I hear most often from expecting moms:

Will sex during pregnancy will hurt my baby?

Babies are very well protected in their amniotic sac and will feel nothing but movement and perhaps be lulled to sleep by it.

Will sex induce labor?

The act of intercourse itself has not been shown to start labor. In some cases where threatened preterm labor is a concern, doctors may tell their patients to refrain from sexual activity as a precaution. Sperm, however, contain prostaglandin - a hormone found to stimulate cervical softening and perhaps begin labor in a woman who is “ready to go.”

I’ve heard that sex in the first trimester increases the chances of a miscarriage.

There is no evidence to support this claim. Although 1/3 of pregnancies are lost to miscarriage, the most common causes are chromosomal in nature. Some women who have had previous miscarriages may feel more comfortable not engaging in sexual activity but most caregivers would agree this is not necessary.

Sex during pregnancy is a healthy and important way for couples to stay connected. The fact is, life is about to change. For first-time parents in particular, the changes they experience as a couple and then as parents can be intense to say the least. The new rage these days is “babymoons” where expecting couples go on a second honeymoon to strengthen their bond before the baby arrives.

Staying connected during your pregnancy and after it is of the utmost importance. Talk to your partner. Remember how much fun you had getting pregnant? Celebrate that fun throughout your entire pregnancy.

For more information, check out my book Sex and Relationships. It contains expert advice from myself and leading healthcare providers as well as stories from couples.

Written by: Andrea Page