Many couples stop having sex after conceiving, fearing it might hurt the baby. But in most cases, it's completely safe.
Can new sperm damage an already fertilized egg?
No. The egg undergoes significant changes when it becomes fertilized. Once fertilized, new sperm can not penetrate the egg.
Orgasm affects the uterus. Can it interfere with embryo implantation?
The contraction of the walls of the uterus during orgasm cannot interfere with attachment.
Can sex and orgasm provoke a miscarriage?
Sexual activity is not the cause of early pregnancy loss [1]. And an orgasm is even useful. During the contraction of the uterus, oxygen intensively saturates the pelvic organs, which means that the embryo gets more of it. In addition, during orgasm, pleasure hormones — oxytocin, prolactin and a group of substances called endorphins — are released once. These relax and calm the expectant mother.
Does sperm somehow affect hormones and the state of the genital tract during pregnancy? Do I need to protect myself with a condom?
Semen contains hormones and prostaglandins that can cause uterine contractions, but they are too small to affect the course of pregnancy. Sperm has no positive or negative effect on hormones or the condition of the genital tract. The only exception is if your partner has a venereal infection. Therefore, if you are not sure about your partner's health, then, of course, you should use a condom.
What if I don’t want to have sex?
Your body is changing, so if you experience a little discomfort during intercourse, change your position or take a break for a while. During pregnancy, sexual desire is like a pendulum: your desire for sex may increase at times and also descrease from your normal libido.
Often the first trimester is uncomfortable — nausea, mood swings, and discomfort in the lower abdomen. Naturally, in this state, you may not want to have sex. At a later date, a decrease in libido may be associated with an increase in prolactin levels [2].
Are there any real reasons to avoid having sex in the first trimester?
There is no evidence that the risks of complications increase with sex [3]. However, it is best to avoid sexual contact and consult a doctor in the following cases:
the presence of a venereal infection in one of the partners;
exacerbation of chronic diseases;
painful sensations in the lower abdomen and lower back;
bloody discharge from the genital tract;
a history of miscarriages ;
cervical insufficiency (pathological condition).
