What To Know About Sexuality During Pregnancy (FAQ)

September 4, 2026:

What To Know About Sexuality During Pregnancy (FAQ)

4. How can I talk about these changes with my partner?

During pregnancy, your relationship with your body and your partner evolve. For couples, this can be an invitation to get creative and find new ways to meet your sexual desires and needs. Perinatal sexuality education research emphasizes the importance of flexibility, communication, and exploring new forms of intimacy during pregnancy (Polomeno, 2000). Consider reflecting and discussing the following questions with your partner:

What feels good now? Which types of touch bring comfort or excitement?

Erogenous zones, or sensitive, pleasurable areas change over time, especially during pregnancy. Changes in skin elasticity can make the areas that used to turn you on less sensitive, while making other areas more sensitive. If your partner is pregnant, ask for feedback to learn what feels good and what doesn’t.

What level of activity feels comfortable?

Take your energy and comfort level into consideration day by day. Some days, the goal may shift from orgasm to mutual pleasure, closeness, and comfort to open up more possibilities for expressing intimacy. Sensual or erotic massage can be an option for satisfying a need for touch if one partner does not have the energy for a full sexual encounter.

Who can initiate during pregnancy?

Beyond sex, this includes who can initiate touch, undressing, etc. It can also mean being able to give pleasure without expecting anything in return.

5. Could sex harm the baby?

If you’re worried that having sex could hurt your pregnancy, you are not alone! These fears are valid and worth discussing with your health care provider. According to the National Health Service (2023), sex is safe for most pregnancies unless a medical provider advises otherwise. However, if your doctor has advised limiting sexual activity, it is helpful to ask for specific details on what activities are safe and which should be avoided based on your health. Oftentimes, recommendations vary widely. Sometimes doctors recommend avoiding intercourse specifically. In other cases, they may suggest avoiding any activity that could lead to orgasm to avoid any uterine contractions.

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