Can You (and Should You) Orgasm While Pregnant?

Let’s be real—we don’t talk about the female orgasm enough at the best of times.

Pop pregnancy into the mix, and the discussion can go totally underground.

The pregnant orgasm raises all sorts of questions about how good your body is at multitasking.

Building a baby is a serious job.

But, is there room to have some fun? Is it safe to orgasm while pregnant?

Are there times when it could even be beneficial?

And would there be a time to exercise caution?

Let’s have the conversation.

In this article: 📝

Is having an orgasm bad when pregnant?

Nope, it can actually be pretty darn good. 😏

Many mamas-to-be worry that orgasms during pregnancy might harm their babies. It’s totally normal to want to be extra cautious at this time.

But you may be (very) pleased to know that, unless you have been advised by your doctor to avoid sex, you’re generally good to go.

As this study tells us, if you have a low-risk pregnancy, there are no significant links between orgasms and complications like preterm labor.

The good news is that not only are orgasms generally safe while pregnant, but they may also come (pun absolutely intended) with some major benefits.

Orgasms can help lower stress levels, connect you to your partner, and explore your changing body.

And if you’re worried that a penis or sex toy might be able to get to your growing baby, it’s really not possible.

Your baby is so well protected in there—swimming in amniotic fluid and safely tucked into your uterus.

Beyond this, the cervix and mucus plug create a barrier between the uterus and the outside world.

Yep, it’s a state-of-the-art security system.

Can an orgasm cause a miscarriage?

The short answer is: no.

There does not appear to be a genuine link between pregnant orgasms and the risk of miscarriage.

While orgasms during pregnancy might bring on mild uterine contractions and cramps after sex, these are generally not cause for concern.

There’s so much happening in your body right now to make it more sensitive than usual.

The combination of hormone surges and increased blood flow to the general pelvic area can cause your body to respond with some twitches.

The bottom line? Post-orgasm contractions may feel alarming—but they are usually nothing to worry about.

That said, if you’re worried about how your body is responding, check in with your healthcare practitioner.

You know your body best.

Are there benefits to orgasming while pregnant?

Orgasms can be a real gift when you’re pregnant (and during all phases of life).

They can help you get a good night’s sleep, relieve some of the aches and pains associated with pregnancy, and have a positive impact on your mental health.

What’s more, you may just enjoy them more than ever before.

During pregnancy, your body is on fire in a whole other way.

There’s an increase in blood volume (by almost 50%), and it’s moving more rapidly in the direction of your sexual organs.

Added to that, as this recent study explores, orgasms in early pregnancy may be particularly enticing as those pregnancy hormones soar.

Your breasts and your general pelvic area may feel as though the slightest touch sets them off—meaning that the heights of ecstasy may just be that much more attainable.

And if you feel like some well-earned solo self-care time, check out our tips for pregnant masturbation. 🥵

Is it safe to have an orgasm in third-trimester pregnancies?

Not only is it safe, but there are also some reported benefits to orgasms later in your pregnancy.

This research proposes that there is a chance orgasm in the later months may actually prevent preterm delivery in some pregnancies.

And then there’s the wonderful world of the birthgasm or orgasmic birth (yes, it’s a thing).

It has to do with what is affectionately known as the “love hormone,” oxytocin.

This hormone is super present during labor and delivery and helps you bring your baby into the world safely.

This surge of pleasure can, in some instances, turn to orgasmic feelings.

It seems childbirth is not only about pain.

And whether you’re alone or with a partner, toys can add some fun to the mix.

Head here for our top five to use while pregnant.

Just make sure you keep ‘em clean and don’t share them to avoid the risk of infection.

So in what instances should you be more careful?

Are there any risks to orgasming while pregnant?

In some instances, your doctor may advise you to abstain for now.

If you are at risk for preterm labor or have placenta previa or other pregnancy complications, you might have to wait a little while.

If you notice bleeding during or after sex, talk to your doctor right away.

While some light spotting can be normal, there are instances where substantial bleeding during pregnancy can be a sign that something else is up.

If you’re orgasming with a partner during your pregnancy, it’s best to be more careful than ever.

STIs can be seriously harmful to both you and your baby. Syphilis, for example, can infect your baby in the womb. Gonorrhea can be passed through the birth canal.

Another important thing to consider? Once your water breaks, you are also at increased risk of infection, so it would be best to steer clear at this point.

Importantly, you do whatever you feel is right for you. If you’re not in the mood, you’re not in the mood.

Pregnancy symptoms such as fatigue and nausea can leave you feeling like an orgasm is the last thing you want at the moment.

Only do what you want to do—not only when you’re pregnant, but as a general rule for life.

Listen to your body. It’s pretty good at telling you what it wants.

Connecting to others during your pregnancy can really help shed light on the many mysteries that can surround this time.

And that includes sharing tried-and-tested pregnancy sex tips.

Join us on Peanut.

You don’t have to do this alone.

More about Sex & Pregnancy:

🌶 A Quick Guide to Oral Sex While Pregnant

🌶 Can You Have Sex While Pregnant?

🌶 Pregnant Dating: 7 Tips for a Great Experience

🌶 What is Sexercise? Work Out Your Way to Better Sex

🌶 Nipple Orgasm: How and Why