Many women and their partners may wonder: Is sex during pregnancy really safe? Luckily, for the vast majority of women, sex right up until their due date is perfectly safe -- though it may become uncomfortable as the months pass.

In some high-risk cases, however, sexual relations during pregnancy can be risky. Many doctors recommend that women at risk for preterm labor avoid intercourse because semen contains substances that can cause the uterus to contract. Your doctor or midwife will let you know if you need to be concerned.

Pregnancy Sex May Be Risky If:

• Your practitioner has counseled against it for any reason.

• You have unexplained bleeding and a history of premature birth or labor.

• You have placenta previa, a condition where a portion of the placenta covers the cervix.

• Your water has broken.

• You are currently experiencing bleeding.

• You're in the last trimester, carrying multiples.

If you fall into one of the above risk categories, be sure to ask your doctor or midwife to clarify the length of time that intercourse should be restricted and any other specifics, such as avoiding orgasm. And always call your practitioner if you experience a discharge of bright-red blood after sex (especially if it's accompanied by fever), or any leaking fluid.