Medically Reviewed By Experts Panel
Can sex during pregnancy cause miscarriage? Having sex or experiencing an orgasm during pregnancy cannot lead to a miscarriage in most cases. The majority of miscarriages are caused by chromosomal abnormalities, which means there is a physical problem with the embryo and it cannot develop properly. In these cases, there is nothing that can be done to stop, prevent, or cause the miscarriage, including sex or orgasms.
However, in some cases, certain medical conditions or complications may increase the risk of miscarriage, and sexual activity could exacerbate these conditions. Your doctor may advise you to avoid sexual activity because it can increase the risk of bleeding and potentially lead to a miscarriage. In instances of –
- Cervical weakness – In some women, the cervix may start to open too early in pregnancy, leading to miscarriage. Sexual activity may cause the cervix to dilate further, increasing the risk of miscarriage.
- Placenta previa – This is a condition in which the placenta lies low in the uterus and covers all or part of the cervix. Having sex during pregnancy with placenta previa can cause bleeding and potentially lead to miscarriage.
- Infection – In some cases, sexual activity may introduce bacteria into the vagina, which can cause infections that increase the risk of miscarriage.
- Unexplained bleeding – If you experience unexplained bleeding during pregnancy, your healthcare provider may advise you to avoid sexual activity, as it could exacerbate the bleeding and potentially lead to miscarriage.
- High-risk pregnancy – If you have a high-risk pregnancy due to medical conditions such as pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, or a history of preterm labor or miscarriage, your healthcare provider may advise you to avoid sex or limit sexual activity to reduce the risk of complications.
It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns or questions you have about sex during pregnancy. If you experience any unusual symptoms or complications after sexual activity, such as bleeding or pain, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
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