It’s a very common concern among Future Parents.
Can a pregnant woman have sex and will sex during pregnancy hurt the baby?
It’s definitely not a silly question. With a basic understanding of anatomy, one knows that during intercourse the penis is very close to the womb where a baby is growing, and sex is not always a gentle act. Thankfully nature has many safeguards so that pregnant people can continue to enjoy an active sex life. Not only can pregnant people continue to have sex, sex can be beneficial!How is the baby protected?
During pregnancy, a baby grows inside the uterus. The uterus is a strong, thick muscle. So strong it does much of the work when the baby is being born. This muscle helps to protect the baby when the pregnant person has sexual intercourse. Inside the uterus, the baby grows inside the amniotic sac. The amniotic sac is a two-layered tissue that is connected to the placenta. The placenta grows into the uterus. Inside the amniotic sac, the baby develops in the amniotic fluid. Imagine something floating within a full water balloon. When hitting the outside of the balloon, whatever is inside is well protected by the balloon itself and the water. So, the amniotic sac full of water (amniotic fluid) with the baby safely inside, grows within the thick muscle of the uterus. The baby is then further protected by additional tissue in the vagina including the cervix. The cervix is the opening to the womb, deep within the vagina. During pregnancy, the cervix is long and tightly closed. The opening is sealed with thick mucous to keep bacteria out. During sex, the penis does not go past the vagina and cannot come into contact with the baby.
When would it be a bad idea For a Surrogate to have sex during pregnancy?
If your surrogate is healthy and in a monogamous relationship with a partner that is free from STDs, she should be able to have sex without concern until her water breaks or her doctor advises otherwise. It will be important to abstain from sex or at least use a condom if her partner has an STD or she is not in a monogamous relationship because some STDs can impact your baby. If your surrogate experiences signs of early labor before your baby is fully grown, her doctor may tell her to avoid sex and orgasm (sometimes referred to as pelvic rest). Your surrogate will want to speak with her doctor if sex causes pain or discomfort, bleeding or has signs of preterm labor.How can sex be beneficial during pregnancy?
Your Surrogate will experience many benefits from sex during her pregnancy. If she is in a committed relationship continuing to share the intimacy of sex with her partner will be healthy for their relationship. Surrogacy can be challenging for the partner and it is helpful to keep as much normalcy as possible.Sex is beneficial for pregnant Gestational Surrogates because it:
- Burns calories! Sex is a great way for your surrogate to stay active and fit. She’ll be better able to manage her weight gain and her fitness level can be a strong asset throughout pregnancy and labor.
- Lowers blood pressure. Sex has been shown to lower blood pressure which is great for your Surrogates health. High Blood Pressure during pregnancy is linked to complications such as preeclampsia.
- Improves sleep! Your Surrogate may sleep better after sex, meaning she will be healthier and so will your baby!
- Might increase immunity! One study found that sex increases levels of IgA, an antibody that helps prevent colds and infections.
- Produces happy hormones! Happy mom equals happy baby and orgasm boosts endorphins!
- Improves pelvic floor strength. Sex helps to strengthen your Surrogates pelvic floor muscles making childbirth easier for her and your baby. Her improved pelvic floor condition will also reduce her recovery time.