Every woman’s experiences during pregnancy are different including how she feels about sex. For some, desire fades during pregnancy. Other women feel more deeply connected to their sexuality and more aroused when they’re pregnant.

During pregnancy, it’s normal for sexual desire to come and go as your body changes. You may feel self-conscious as your belly grows. Or you may feel sexier with larger, fuller breasts.

Sex will not harm the baby at any stage during a typical, uncomplicated pregnancy. The baby is protected by strong uterus muscles, amniotic fluid, and a mucus plug that develops around the cervix.

Some people believe that sexual activity or orgasms might damage the baby, increase the chances of a miscarriage, or induce early labor. However, in a healthy pregnancy, none of these are true.

Sex during pregnancy can have some benefits for a pregnant woman and her partner. Possible benefits include :

• Better orgasms – Increased blood flow to the genitals could mean an increased number of more powerful orgasms for pregnant women.

• Keeping fit –Sex burns calories and can help to keep both partners fit.

• Bonding between partners – Some couples find that sexual activity during pregnancy brings them closer together.

• A boost to the immune system – A study found that sex increases IgA which is an antibody that helps keep colds and other infections at bay.

• Increased happiness – Orgasms release endorphins that can help mother and baby feel happy and relaxed.

During the later stages of pregnancy, people should choose positions that do not put pressure on the pregnant belly, such as the missionary position. If a woman lies on her back, the weight of the baby might put extra pressure on her internal organs or major arteries.

A pregnant woman might feel more comfortable in positions where she can control the depth and speed of penetration. Comfortable positions may include the pregnant woman being on top of her partner, side-by-side spooning, or sitting at the edge of the bed.

Breast stimulation, female orgasms and certain hormones in semen called prostaglandins can cause uterine contractions.

Your health care provider might recommend avoiding sex if :

• You have unexplained vaginal bleeding
• You’re leaking amniotic fluid
• Your cervix begins to open prematurely
• Your placenta partly or completely covers your cervical opening
• You have a history of preterm labor or premature birth

Sex during pregnancy poses no risk to the mother or baby. Some positions might become more or less comfortable as the pregnancy progresses. A woman may experience changes in her desire for sex during and after pregnancy. Speaking openly and honestly with sexual partners can help people to continue to have a healthy sex life throughout pregnancy.