Can Oral Sex In The First Trimester Cause A Miscarriage? Science Separates Truth From Myth

Ahh, hormones. They really know how to mix things up. Everyone knows that sometimes the best part of the book is the prologue, and it's the same with sex — sometimes, it's all about foreplay. But is that safe during early pregnancy? Can oral sex in the first trimester cause a miscarriage? The risk of miscarrying has a tendency to kill the mood, and you can't have that.

Thankfully, provided your OB-GYN or midwife has given the all clear on sexual activity for you and your partner, sex, including oral and anal sex, is a safe and healthy activity that you can continue through the duration of your pregnancy, according to the March of Dimes. However, there are some risks with oral sex and side effects of sex and orgasm that shouldn't be overlooked.

The body undergoes some really extreme changes during pregnancy. The change most pertinent to this conversation is the increase in blood volume that occurs with pregnancy. This brings the capillaries closer to the surface of the vagina and clitoris — they are extra sensitive and filled with blood. This not only increases sensitivity to the area, but increases the risk of tearing, according to the Mayo Clinic. That means that just a little extra friction can cause spotting or light bleeding, which is completely normal, and not a worry provided it's light and fleeting.

Oral sex also has one more risk not often discussed: death. Wait, what? Yes, you read that right, and it's just as serious as that. You see, those capillaries that are close to the surface are more likely to open during oral sex when you're pregnant than when you're not, so it's extremely important that your partner doesn't blow in or around your vagina during oral sex, because you're at greater risk of developing what is called an air embolism. That is a bubble of air in your bloodstream that can travel to your heart and kill you, according to the Mayo Clinic. While this is very, very rare, it can happen, so just be cautious.

But, can oral sex in the first trimester cause a miscarriage? It's not likely, as it is deemed a safe exercise for pregnant moms. Sex and orgasms cause complex reactions in the body, but they're not dangerous. According to the March of Dimes, when you achieve orgasm during pregnancy, you may feel cramping afterward. This cramping is completely normal, and not cause for concern unless they become truly painful and long lasting. But overall, oral sex is a safe activity.

If you're still concerned about engaging in oral sex with your partner, talk to your provider. They can ease any worry you may have and answer any questions.