I see many couples who are not having sex during pregnancy. Many just feel that it is awkward, for others it’s uncomfortable or even painful and some have fears of miscarriage, early labour or infection.

Apart from this, a woman’s desire will vary during pregnancy – from much higher than before conception to basically non-existing. This is influenced by the changing hormones as well as practical aspects like nausea, fatigue and just not feeling sexy.

So, if you feel up to it, rest assured that sex during pregnancy is generally safe, except if…

There is any chance that you might pick up a sexually transmitted infection

Condom use is recommended during pregnancy because it has such devastating effects if you do pick up an STI while you are pregnant. You might think that it is highly unlikely and that having a baby together means that he will be faithful forever. There are just too many cases where the opposite has been proven – how many celebrities do you know where the guy went looking for greener pastures while his misses was knocked up?

READ MORE: How To Cope If You’ve Suffered A Miscarriage

The complications of STIs during pregnancy are: miscarriage or preterm labour, still births and congenital sexually transmitted infections in the baby like HIV, syphilis, Chlamydia, Herpes, etc.

There is a chance that you might go into preterm labour

This is usually the case when you have had preterm labour in the past or if you are having twins. Theoretically, stimulation of the nipples and cervix can release the right hormones to put you into early labour.

READ MORE: 11 Nipple Facts You Need To Read

The evidence is not very convincing, but it is still recommended that doctors should advise these patients against sex during the last part of their pregnancy.

You have placenta previa

Your gynaecologist will tell you if this is the case. It’s a condition where the placenta is situated right at the opening of the womb, just above the cervix. Sex could result in life-threatening bleeding and should be avoided.

If you are not sure, check with your gynaecologist!

Looking for more info on pregnancy? This is the #1 risk of taking paracetamol when you’re pregnant.