A client who is pregnant for the first time asks the doula if she and her husband can still engage in sexual intercourse during her pregnancy. She is concerned that having sex may hurt the baby and cause a miscarriage. The client is at 12 weeks' gestation. The most recent physical examination reveals normal findings. The client's history is not remarkable. Which of the following statements made by the doula is the most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The doula may inform the client that she and her husband may engage in sex as far into pregnancy as they wish and that they may need to adjust their positions during sexual intercourse. A position in which partners are side-by-side or the woman is in the superior position may be more comfortable, especially during the third trimester. There is no harm in engaging in sexual intercourse during pregnancy unless the client has a history of spontaneous miscarriage or vaginal spotting, or if she is at risk for premature rupture of membranes. Sexual intercourse should also be avoided in cases of untreated sexually transmitted diseases. She should consult her doctor or midwife to be sure there is no reason to abstain. The libido is most heightened during the second trimester. Increased sexual desire during pregnancy is due to increased blood flow to the pelvic area, increasing the sensations, and increased vaginal discharges.

A Client Who Is Pregnant for the First Time Asks