9 Pregnancy-Safe Sex Positions That Support Intimacy, Comfort, and Pleasure

Pregnancy is a time of significant transformation — physically, emotionally, and relationally. And that includes your sex life. As your body changes, so do your preferences, energy levels, and comfort zones. But that doesn’t mean sex has to be off the table —with a bit of creativity, it can become even more satisfying, connective, and tender.

Whether you’re navigating nausea, fatigue, a growing belly, or just the emotional shifts that come with pregnancy, the key to enjoyable sex is mutual respect, communication, and comfort. Here are nine bump-friendly positions designed to work with your body, not against it.

1.  Propped-Up Doggy

Kneel on the floor and lean forward, supporting your weight on the edge of the bed. Your partner kneels behind you, and you can add a pillow under your knees for extra cushioning.

Why it works: This “doggy style” variation avoids putting pressure on your belly and uterus, while giving you control over the depth and angle of penetration. Elevating your upper body can also help alleviate indigestion.

2.  Supported Spooning

Lie on your side with your partner behind you in a spooning position. Use pillows between your legs and under your belly for support.

Why it works: This gentle, cozy position is ideal when you’re tired, sore, or just craving closeness. The sideways angle reduces strain on your body, making for an emotionally intimate experience.

3.  In the Hot Seat

Have your partner sit upright in a sturdy chair or at the headboard of the bed. You straddle their lap, facing away or toward them — whatever feels best.

Why it works: This position provides ample room for your belly and allows you to control the pace. It also fosters closeness, with your partner’s arms around you, supporting you from behind or in front.

4.  Pillow Princess (a.k.a. The Throne)

Create a supportive “nest” of pillows: place one under your pelvis to lift your hips, another behind your back to recline, and a third around you for side support.

Why it works: This position is excellent during the later trimesters when lying flat becomes uncomfortable. It offers the ability to receive stimulation (manual or oral) without straining your back or abdomen.

5.  Missionary With a Twist

A classic missionary position can become challenging later in pregnancy. Instead, lie slightly on your side and support yourself with a pillow under your back or hip. Your partner can kneel between your legs or lie sideways, propped on one arm.

Why it works: This variation maintains the closeness of face-to-face intimacy while avoiding direct pressure on your bump.

6.  On the Edge

Scoot down to the edge of the bed and prop yourself up with pillows. Your partner can either stand or kneel on the floor to penetrate you or stimulate you with hands or toys.

Why it works: Ideal for when you want easy access and a break from full-body contact. You can also switch roles and take turns.

7.  Saddle Up

Being on top puts you in control of depth, angle, and rhythm. Use your arms or thighs to support yourself, or just sit still and enjoy.

Why it works: Great for avoiding belly pressure and adjusting to your comfort level, if pelvic pain is an issue, opt for gentle rocking or stillness instead of bouncing.

8. Face-to-Face Cuddling + Clitoral Stimulation

Lie facing each other or have your partner lie slightly behind you while you stimulate yourself with hands or a toy, or have they do it for you.

Why it works: This approach focuses on intimacy, eye contact, and emotional closeness. Perfect for when you don’t want deep penetration but still want shared pleasure.

9.  No-Sex Sex

Sometimes, intimacy has nothing to do with penetration. Try showering together, kissing slowly, giving each other massages, spooning, brushing each other’s hair, or exploring each other’s bodies with no expectations.

Why it works: Pregnancy can make desire fluctuate, and that’s okay. Exploring different forms of touch can strengthen your bond and reduce anxiety.

Why Sex During Pregnancy Can Be Good for You

Far from being taboo or dangerous, consensual sex during a healthy pregnancy can offer several benefits:

• Physical Well-Being: Orgasms release oxytocin, the “love hormone,” which helps lower cortisol (the stress hormone), improves sleep, and enhances your mood. Source: Mayo Clinic
   
• Emotional Intimacy: Sexual closeness helps you and your partner feel connected during a transitional time, reinforcing affection and partnership. Source: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
   
• Pelvic Floor Health: Gentle sexual activity can help maintain pelvic floor tone and blood circulation in the genital area.
   
• Body Confidence: Maintaining a sensual connection helps many women feel beautiful, powerful, and seen — even during body changes.
   
• Labor Readiness: Some studies suggest that orgasm and semen (which contains prostaglandins) may help soften the cervix as labor approaches, though this should always be discussed with your doctor first.

A Final Thought

Pregnancy doesn’t mean your sexuality takes a back seat. It’s an opportunity to deepen your connection, explore new sensations, and find comfort in each other’s arms. Whether you’re having passionate sex, gentle touch, or just lying together quietly, what matters most is how you feel — safe, respected, and loved.

Remember: Every pregnancy is unique. If you have any complications, placenta previa, or are at risk of preterm labor, always consult with your healthcare provider before having sex.

Be curious, go slow, and keep the conversation open. This season of your life can bring some of the most potent and tender moments of intimacy.

Pregnancy is not a reason to give up physical activity, but it is important to follow certain guidelines. In particular, some types of exercises should be avoided. In our regular column “Do It Right,” fitness coach Anna Tykhonenko shares advice on training during pregnancy. Learn more about which workouts should be excluded and what can replace them in the article “Which Exercises Should Be Avoided During Pregnancy and What to Replace Them With: Explained by a Fitness Coach”.