Is Oral Sex During Pregnancy Safe?

What is Oral Sex?

Oral sex is a sexual activity in which a person uses his/her mouth, lips, or tongue for sexual contact with their partner’s genital area. It includes licking a girl’s vagina or vulva to make her sexually excited, or sucking a boy’s penis, scrotum, and nearby skin. Chances of pregnancy are very low in oral sex and give as much pleasure as intercourse.

Will Oral Sex Harm My Baby?

It is absolutely safe to have oral sex during pregnancy and it will not harm the baby. But there are few things that would always help you with this.

10 Things to Consider While Having Oral Sex During Pregnancy

Here are some things you should keep in mind before you give in to the act:

1. Never Blow Air

The most important thing your partner should know is to not blow air into the vagina. This may block a vessel (also referred to as air embolism) which can be harmful to you and the unborn baby. It is important to discuss this with your partner and there is nothing to feel awkward about. Moreover, this is rare; so don’t think too much about it, but this is something both the partners should be aware of.

2. Restrict Licking

Your partner should restrict himself to kissing and licking the clitoris and the lips around the vagina. That’s safe and gives immense pleasure as well.

3. No Oral Sex if You Are at Risk of Preterm Labor

At times it is possible to go into preterm labor due to contractions that oral sex brings in. If you are in doubt, it is better to stay away, especially towards the end of the term.

4. No Oral Sex if the Partner Has an Infection

Bacteria could enter the vagina due to oral sex; hence it is highly risky, especially, in terms of STDs or if your partner has an open cold sore. If you contract STD or herpes infection, your unborn baby is also at risk.

It could lead to miscarriage, complications during delivery, or preterm labor. However, if your partner has tested negative for STD or herpes, there is no reason to keep away from him.

5. Expect Intense Orgasm

Many women have experienced intense orgasms during pregnancy. If you experience the same, remember, you are not alone.

6.  Swallowing Semen is Safe

It is perfectly safe to swallow semen during pregnancy (provided your partner has tested negative for STD).

7. Your Vaginal Secretion Smells the Odor

One thing that you may be surprised to know is that hormonal changes during pregnancy make vaginal secretions have a stronger taste/odor. Some men may like it, others may be put off. Moreover, some women secrete more fluids than others which turns the men on.

8. Your Libido May Change

Some women may find it difficult to get in the mood or some may lose their libido. For others, it may be just the opposite. Don’t worry; it’s the hormones working and it’s absolutely normal.

9. Avoid Lying on Back

As pregnancy advances, you should not lie on your back if you are on the receiving end of oral sex. The uterus gets heavy and lying on your back may press down on the vena cava, a major vein. This could reduce your blood pressure and restrict oxygen supply to the fetus.

10. Try Alternate Positions

Try alternate positions to get in the mood. A heavy uterus is a huge put-off. You feel very uncomfortable and the pain overrides the pleasure. Try propping up with some pillows if it helps. Maybe you could even try lying down sideways.

[Read : Sex Positions to Skip When You’re Pregnant]

When to Avoid Sex During Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, extreme caution needs to be exercised with everything. When in doubt, it is always best to consult your doctor. Most people have a misconception that sex during pregnancy leads to a miscarriage. This is a myth and should be done away with.

Your fetus is safely guarded by the amniotic fluid in the uterus and the strong muscles of the uterus wall. Sexual activity will do no harm—you can rest assured of that. The only times you might want to avoid any sexual interaction with your partner are when:

• There is vaginal bleeding
• Amniotic fluid is leaking
• Cervix has opened up prematurely
• The placenta covers the cervical opening
• You’re pregnant with twins or more babies

For many pregnant women, if intercourse seems gawky and uncomfortable, then they may find the alternative oral simulation quite pleasurable. So, at an advanced stage of pregnancy, when oral sex is the only alternative you have during times when you are aroused, don’t let unnecessary thoughts dampen your spirit.

Enjoy! Pregnancy should not be a reason to restrict yourself—from anything!

[Read : How Will I Know If I Am Leaking Amniotic Fluid?]

FAQ’s

1. Can I Get Infected Through Oral Sex During Pregnancy?

Yes you can. If your partner has an STD, they can pass it to you through oral sex. If your partner has Chlamydia or other infections in their throat, they can pass it to you.

2. How Can I Stay Safe While Giving Oral Sex During My Pregnancy?

Always use a condom. Even if it is only oral sex, infections can spread. Ask your partner to wear a condom and keep yourself and the baby safe.

3. Can Oral Sex During Pregnancy Cause Preterm Labor?

No it will not. However, if you are at a risk of preterm labor or at the end of your pregnancy, risk is higher. Experiencing a strong orgasm can cause uterus to contract too much, inducing contractions.

4. Can I Perform Oral Sex When am Pregnant and Have Mouth Sores?

No, don’t. An open sore can get infected easily. Your immunity will be low when pregnant and infections may spread faster.

Read Also: Is It Safe To Have Anal Sex During Pregnancy?