Bleeding or spotting after sex during pregnancy can be scary. However this is unlikely to hurt your baby. The baby is lies in the uterus which is above the vaginal cavity. The uterus is sealed by the mucus plug and surrounded by a warm amniotic fluid in the amniotic sac.
What causes bleeding after sex during pregnancy ?
Bleeding after sex during pregnancy may be as a result of increased blood circulation to the cervical and vaginal areas.There are numerous blood vessels around the softened cervix. The blood vessels are increased during pregnancy and these may rapture and cause blood loss after sex. Bleeding can occur if sex is vigorous than normal. Occasional bleeding or spotting after sex during the second and third trimester is common. However, there is no cause for concern if the bleeding is light and not accompanied by cramps.
Sex during pregnancy is unlikely to cause a miscarriage. However, if you have suffered a previous miscarriage, your health care provider may advise you to avoid sex during the first trimester .Contact your doctor if you don’t know what is happening.
How to reduce your chances of bleeding after sex during pregnancy.
You can avoid bleeding after sex during pregnancy by trying different sex positions that put less pressure on the uterus. These include the woman on top and the spooning method. You can also get intimate with your partner in other ways such as kissing, cuddling or sensual massages. You need to talk to your partner about your preferences and needs in a loving manner.
When should I call my doctor ?
Call your doctor if you experience the following
- bleeding is accompanied by intense cramping or lower abdominal pain
- profuse bleeding with or without pain
- vaginal discharge that contain tissues
- fainting or dizziness
- fever of greater than 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit with or without chills
- uterine contractions
Content Sources
Sex during pregnancy. March of Dimes. http://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/sex-during-pregnancy.aspx.Accessed February 26, 2015.
Sex during pregnancy. What is ok, what is not. Mayo Foundation. http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/sex-during-pregnancy/art-20045318. Accessed February 26, 2015