Pregnancy is a time of incredible change for your body, and your sex life may need to adapt as well. As your belly grows, finding comfortable positions for intimacy with your partner can require a bit of creativity. Let’s explore a few recommended sex positions that keep both comfort and connection in mind during pregnancy.

Is Sex Safe During Pregnancy?

In most cases, sex is perfectly safe throughout pregnancy. However, it’s always important to consult your healthcare provider, especially if you have any high-risk conditions, such as placenta previa, preterm labor, or vaginal bleeding.

If given the green light, remember that intimacy is not just about physical pleasure—it’s also a great way to maintain closeness and emotional connection with your partner.

Tips for Comfort During Pregnancy

• Use pillows for added support and comfort.
• Go slow and communicate with your partner about what feels good and what doesn’t.
• Experiment with different positions as your body changes.

Best Pregnancy Sex Positions

1. Spooning

Spooning is one of the most comfortable and intimate positions during pregnancy, especially in the later trimesters. In this position, both partners lie on their sides, with the pregnant partner’s back against their partner’s front. This position takes the weight off your belly and can be very soothing.

2. Side-by-Side Facing

Similar to spooning but with both partners facing each other, this position allows for closeness and eye contact. Lying on your side is gentle on your back and bump while still allowing for deep connection.

3. Woman on Top

This position gives the pregnant partner control over depth and pace, making it easier to find a comfortable rhythm. Whether sitting up or leaning forward on your partner’s chest, this position keeps pressure off your belly.

4. Edge of the Bed

In this position, the pregnant partner lies on their back near the edge of the bed, with their feet on the floor or supported by a pillow. The partner can stand or kneel in front. To avoid lying flat on your back in the later stages of pregnancy (which can compress the vena cava and reduce blood flow), use a pillow to prop yourself at a slight incline.

5. Reverse Cowgirl

In this variation of the “woman on top” position, the pregnant partner faces away from their partner. This position also allows for control over movement and depth, which is especially important as pregnancy progresses.

6. Modified Missionary

If you’re still comfortable lying on your back, the missionary position can be adapted with some modifications. Placing a pillow under your hips to tilt your body or having your partner support themselves with their arms can take the pressure off your belly. This position works well in the first and second trimesters, but it may become uncomfortable later on.

Adjusting for Each Trimester

• First Trimester: You might not notice many physical limitations in the early months, so most positions will still work. However, you might experience increased breast tenderness or nausea, which could affect your desire for intimacy.
• Second Trimester: As your belly begins to grow, you might find yourself more sensitive to pressure on your abdomen. Positions that don’t press on your belly, such as side-by-side or woman on top, may feel more comfortable.
• Third Trimester: In the final months, side-lying positions like spooning or those that involve upright postures can offer the most comfort. Avoid positions that involve lying flat on your back for extended periods.

Communicating with Your Partner

Open communication with your partner is key to maintaining a healthy sexual relationship during pregnancy. Let your partner know if something doesn’t feel comfortable or if you need to try a different position. Remember, intimacy is about enjoying each other’s company, so take it slow, laugh together, and focus on what feels good for both of you.