A Quick Guide to Oral Sex While Pregnant

Your pregnancy hormones have got you in the mood, but your burgeoning bump is making things a little, erm, awkward?! Or despite all your research (read: frantic googling) your partner still doesn’t believe they won’t be “poking the baby”?! Well, maybe oral sex while pregnant might be just what you — and your partner — need!

Pregnancy can do all sorts of things to your preferences when it comes to the bedroom, so open conversations with your partner about what you feel like doing is super important.

You might find penetrative sex just plain uncomfortable during pregnancy, but it doesn’t mean you have to pack your sexy away and become a nun for the whole nine months.

It might just be that you haven't found the right position that works for your new pregnant body.

But we get it if you’re feeling a little apprehensive.

After all, the list of pregnancy Dos and Don’ts is pretty long!

So, can you have oral sex while pregnant, and what should you know about it?

In this article: 📝

Is oral sex during pregnancy bad?

Uh, no! Oral sex during pregnancy can be oh so good!

The main concern when it comes to any kind of sex including oral sex, when pregnant, is the risk of STIs. There is the possibility that an infection could be passed on to the fetus in utero, or during childbirth, which can be harmful. [1]

So, when is it not safe to have oral sex?

If you are in a monogamous relationship, you and your partner need to be clear of any STIs before engaging in oral sex when pregnant. STIs, including HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and herpes, can be dangerous to both you and your baby and can be passed by giving or receiving oral sex. [2]

Oral sex is also not recommended if you or your partner has Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), especially during pregnancy. Extra care should also be taken if you have new or multiple partners, or if you’re unsure of your partner’s sexual health. In this situation, using a condom or dental dam (a thin piece of latex that covers the clitoris, labia, and vagina) is a good idea. [3]

Is it OK to have an orgasm during pregnancy?

Most definitely! In fact, orgasms can feel even more intense when you’re pregnant due to all the extra blood flowing to your pelvic region. Awesome!

On the downside, it might actually get trickier to climax as you get later into the third trimester, as your growing baby will restrict the usual contractions. [4]

When should you stop having sex while pregnant?

Sex during pregnancy is generally safe, but your doctor may recommend avoiding sexual intercourse in any of the following scenarios:

• Your waters have broken
• You have unexplained vaginal bleeding or pelvic/abdominal pain
• You have placenta previa — a condition where your placenta fully, or partially, covers the cervix
• You have early cervical dilation
• You have a history of premature birth or preterm labor.

But, in some of these cases, it’s possible to still enjoy oral sex, so double-check with your doctor.

What happens if you swallow sperm while pregnant?

Nothing! Giving a pregnant blow job will cause no harm to you or your baby, so go for it if you’re in the mood. Or, if you’re facing mild nausea or gag reflex sensitivity, it’s alright to give it a break, too.

Is there anything your partner shouldn’t do?

Your partner should avoid blowing air into your vagina, either intentionally or accidentally, with a heavy breath. This can cause venous air embolism, where there’s an air bubble formed, which can block a blood vessel and cause damage. [5]

It’s very rare, but it’s worth knowing!

Keeping intimacy alive while you’re expecting

Pregnancy changes a lot — your body, your energy levels, even your sex drive — but it doesn’t have to put intimacy on pause. If oral sex feels good, safe, and comfortable for you, there’s no reason it can’t stay part of your bedroom routine. The key is open communication, listening to your body, and checking in with your doctor if you’re unsure about anything.

At the end of the day, intimacy during pregnancy isn’t about sticking to one “right” script — it’s about finding new ways to connect, laugh, and feel close to your partner while your body does the incredible work of growing a baby.