Prenatal care should include discussions of sexuality and sexual activity d
uring pregnancy. These discussions should be based on evidence in the medic
al literature rather than on personal opinion, but many obstetric textbooks
contain little information on sexuality during pregnancy. Most studies hav
e concluded that sexual intercourse is not a risk factor for a normal pregn
ancy. Genital, non-genital, oral, manual, anal or other sexual activity can
be practiced. There are few data on which to base recommendations for pati
ents with complicated pregnancies. Pregnancy is not a period of reduced sex
ual risk. Obstetricians should advise patients at risk for sexually transmi
tted diseases to use condoms. About 16 cases of life-threatening air insuff
lation due to oral-genital contact have been reported. Sexual activity may
help stabilize a relationship during pregnancy and beyond delivery. In a ph
ase of multiple modification, sexual activity facilitates a positive body i
mage and acceptance of the pregnancy and pregnancy-associated changes. Sexu
al activity may help counteract mutual estrangement. A good sexual relation
ship does not necessarily mean active sexual activity or a certain frequenc
y of sexual activity. Expectant parents should be encouraged to maintain ad
equate individual sexuality during pregnancy and beyond.