The claim

「Sex during pregnancy hurts the baby」

Q: Sex during pregnancy hurts the baby

Myth — Most sexual activity is safe in a healthy pregnancy — the amniotic sac and the strong muscles of the uterus protect the fetus. Mild cramping or spotting afterwards is normal; heavy bleeding or severe persistent pain warrants a call to your doctor. Abstinence is advised only for placenta previa, unexplained bleeding, cervical insufficiency or signs of preterm labour.

Verdict

Myth

Most sexual activity is safe in a healthy pregnancy — the amniotic sac and the strong muscles of the uterus protect the fetus. Mild cramping or spotting afterwards is normal; heavy bleeding or severe persistent pain warrants a call to your doctor. Abstinence is advised only for placenta previa, unexplained bleeding, cervical insufficiency or signs of preterm labour.

Sources

ACOG · American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2021/02). Is it safe to have sex during pregnancy?. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/ask-acog/is-it-safe-to-have-sex-during-pregnancy
Direct source · Academic institution / professional society · checked 2026-08-02

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「Sex during pregnancy hurts the baby」

Verdict

Sources

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Further reading