Safe & Intimate: 28 Best Sex Positions During Pregnancy for European Parents

Pregnancy is a remarkable journey, and while you're busy choosing names and planning the nursery in your European home, intimacy with your partner might naturally evolve. As your body transforms, staying sexually connected is a beautiful way to maintain your bond. Whether you're in the early stages or approaching your due date, we’ve curated 28 comfy, fun, and bump-friendly sex positions and images to keep your relationship vibrant and stress-free!

As a note of precaution! In accordance with general European healthcare guidelines, there are certain circumstances in pregnancy where your doctor or midwife might advise against sex. These situations are best discussed with your healthcare provider to ensure it is safe to engage in intercourse. These include, but are not limited to:

• Placenta previa
• Preterm labour history or risk
• Cervical insufficiency or ruptured membranes
• Vaginal bleeding or leaking fluid

Additionally, and as always, practice safe sex. Condoms or barriers should be used if there’s a risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

1. Side-by-Side Sex (At an Angle)

The woman lies at a slight angle, with her top leg bent and resting on her partner’s body or the bed for support. The partner positions themselves slightly behind her, either lying fully on their side or propped up on one elbow, aligning hips. This position allows for penetration while ensuring the abdomen remains free from pressure, making it a favourite for all stages of pregnancy across Europe.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Place a pillow between the knees to support the hips and improve alignment.
• Use extra cushions to support the back or neck to ensure the body remains relaxed.
• The partner can prop themselves up on an elbow or use a pillow for stability and better leverage.

Precautions

• Avoid prolonged pressure on the hips or side, especially in later pregnancy.
• Move gently and slowly to avoid discomfort in the pelvis or lower back.
• Adjust the angle or leg position as needed to accommodate comfort levels.

2. Cowgirl (Woman on Top)

The partner lies on their back while the woman straddles them, facing towards them. The woman lowers herself for penetration and can use her knees or feet for support. This position gives the woman full control over the depth, angle, and speed, which is ideal during pregnancy.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Place a pillow under the partner’s hips to slightly elevate their position, reducing strain on the woman’s legs.
• If the woman feels tired, she can lean forward onto her partner’s chest for additional support.
• The partner can hold onto the woman’s hips or thighs to help stabilise her movement.

Precautions

• Avoid bouncing or fast movements, as this can strain the pelvis or thighs.
• Ensure the woman doesn’t lean too far back, as this could cause pressure on the lower back.

3. Reverse Cowgirl

The partner lies on their back while the woman straddles them, facing away. She lowers herself for penetration and uses her knees or feet to control movement. This position lets the woman experiment with different angles while keeping her abdomen free from pressure.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Place a pillow under the partner’s back or hips to create a slight elevation for easier penetration.
• The woman can lean slightly forward and rest her hands on her partner’s thighs for balance.
• Adjust the pace and movement to avoid overstraining knees or the lower back.

Precautions

• The woman needs to use leg and core strength, making this perhaps more suitable for earlier stages of pregnancy.
• Avoid leaning too far forward or backward to prevent strain on the back or hips.

4. Side-by-Side (Face-to-Face)

Both partners lie on their sides, facing each other. The woman may bend one leg slightly, creating space for entry. The partner can overlap their top leg over the woman’s hips or thighs to align better. This position allows for close eye contact and a deep emotional connection.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Use pillows under the woman’s head and neck to maintain proper alignment and comfort.
• The woman can place a pillow behind her back to prevent rolling and support her spine.
• The woman’s top leg can rest on her partner’s leg or be propped on a cushion to create more space for movement.

Precautions

• Ensure there’s no weight or pressure on the abdomen, especially in later pregnancy stages.
• The woman should avoid lying flat on her back for extended periods to maintain optimal blood flow.

5. Spooning

A classic European favourite for comfort. The woman lies on her side, and her partner lies behind her. The woman can bend her top leg forward while keeping the bottom leg straight, opening her hips for easier access. The partner positions themselves parallel and gently enters from behind.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Place a pillow between the woman’s legs for added hip support and alignment.
• The partner can prop themselves up on a pillow or elbow to adjust the angle.
• Keep movements slow and rhythmic to maintain relaxation.

Precautions

• Avoid applying direct pressure to the hips or lower back in later stages.
• Ensure the body remains properly supported to prevent strain on the pelvis.

6. Missionary (Pregnancy-Modified)

The woman lies on her back, but instead of lying flat, she is elevated. The partner positions themselves on top, supporting their weight on hands or forearms to avoid putting any pressure on the woman’s abdomen.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Use a firm yet soft wedge pillow under the woman’s shoulders to elevate her upper body, reducing strain on her back and improving circulation.
• The partner can adjust the angle by kneeling slightly or leaning forward to find the most comfortable position for both.
• Keep movements gentle and controlled, as this position is more intimate.

Precautions

• Avoid lying completely flat on the back during the later stages of the second trimester to prevent compression of the vena cava.
• Ensure the partner is fully supporting their own weight and not putting pressure on the bump.

7. Edge of the Bed

The woman lies on her back at the edge of the bed, with hips positioned near the edge. Her thighs rest naturally on the front of her partner's thighs as they kneel or stand. The partner holds her thighs gently to control depth and angle during penetration.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Place pillows under the lower back or hips for added support and to elevate her slightly.
• Adjust the height of the bed (if possible) or use a step to reduce strain on the partner’s back.
• The woman can keep her legs bent at the knees or extend them for additional comfort.

Precautions

• Avoid lying completely flat on the back in later pregnancy; use pillows to elevate the upper body.
• Ensure the hips and back are well-supported to avoid discomfort.

8. Butterfly

The woman lies on her back with her legs lifted and placed on her partner’s shoulders. The partner kneels or stands in front, entering at a comfortable angle. This position allows for deeper penetration and is most suited for early to mid-pregnancy.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Place a cushion under the lower back or hips to provide extra pelvic support.
• The partner can lean slightly forward to create a more intimate connection.
• If holding legs on shoulders becomes tiring, the woman can rest her legs on the partner's arms instead.

Precautions

• Avoid this position in later stages of pregnancy, as lying flat for too long is not recommended.
• The partner should avoid applying too much pressure on the woman’s legs or hips.

9. Doggy Style (Sex from behind)

The woman gets on all fours, supporting herself with her hands and knees. The partner kneels behind and gently enters from the back.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Use a soft surface like a mattress or yoga mat to cushion knees and hands.
• The woman can place a pillow under her knees or elbows for extra support.

Precautions

• Ensure slow and controlled movements to avoid jarring the body.
• Adjust the position if the woman experiences any discomfort in her wrists or knees.

10. Lazy Dog

The woman lies on her stomach, with her head and upper body supported by pillows to ensure no weight is on the bump. Her knees are bent slightly, and the partner kneels behind her.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Use a large, soft pillow under the hips to elevate her slightly, making penetration easier.
• Place additional pillows under the chest and head for complete support.

Precautions

• Avoid if the woman feels any discomfort in her pelvis or lower abdomen.
• Ensure the woman is not putting any direct pressure on her stomach.

11. Mattress Hold-up

The woman kneels on all fours and rests her head and forearms completely on the mattress or a soft surface. This allows her to relax her upper body while maintaining the same general position.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Place a large pillow or cushion under the chest and head for support.
• The partner can adjust their position to control the depth and angle for maximum comfort.
• If the woman feels strain in her lower back, she can slightly adjust her hip angle.

Precautions

• Ensure the head and arms are supported to prevent tension in the neck or shoulders.
• Avoid fast movements, as the back and hips may be more sensitive.

12. Scissors

Both partners lie on their sides, with legs interlocked in a scissor-like position. The partner positions themselves to penetrate while the woman’s hips remain slightly tilted.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Place a pillow under the back or hips to support the pelvis and ensure alignment.
• Adjust the distance between partners to find the most comfortable angle.

Precautions

• Ensure there’s no strain on the inner thighs or hips.
• Avoid prolonged periods if either partner experiences lower back discomfort.

13. Cradle

The woman sits sideways on her partner’s lap, with her legs draped across their thighs and her back slightly leaning against their chest. The partner supports her back and thighs while penetration is achieved at a gentle angle. This position is perfect for a relaxed and intimate experience.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• The partner can sit on a sturdy chair or bed with plenty of cushioning.
• The woman can use a pillow behind her back for added support.
• Experiment with small adjustments to ensure the woman feels stable and secure.

Precautions

• Avoid leaning too far back, as this may strain the lower back.
• The partner should ensure they have proper support under their legs.
• Slow, gentle movements are key.

14. Side Saddle

The partner sits upright or reclines slightly, and the woman sits sideways on their lap with legs hanging off to one side. This position allows for a soft and comfortable rhythm.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Place a cushion under the partner’s back if they are reclining.
• The woman can rest her feet on the bed or floor for additional stability.
• The partner can use their hands to support the woman’s hips or back.

Precautions

• Avoid if the woman experiences discomfort in her hips or back.
• Ensure the partner is stable to avoid strain during prolonged use.
• Communicate frequently to adjust movements.

15. Shining Triangle

The woman lies on her back and lifts her hips slightly using her legs, creating a "triangle" shape. The partner kneels or stands in front, while the woman supports her weight with her arms or a pillow under her lower back.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Use a sturdy wedge pillow under the lower back to elevate hips without excessive effort.
• The partner can adjust their position to match her angle.
• If arms tire, she can use additional cushions for support.

Precautions

• Avoid if she feels strain in her pelvis.
• The elevation should be moderate to avoid discomfort.
• Not recommended for late pregnancy due to potential pressure on the lower abdomen.

16. Bridge Pose

The woman lies on her back with knees bent and feet flat. She lifts her hips into a bridge position. A pillow or wedge can be placed under the hips for added support if holding the position is challenging.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Use a firm pillow or yoga block under the hips to maintain the position without muscle strain.
• The woman can rest her arms flat for additional stability.

Precautions

• Avoid if experiencing discomfort in the lower back.
• In later pregnancy, ensure the upper body is slightly elevated rather than lying completely flat.

17. Kneeling Hug

Kneel and face each other. The woman places her hands on her partner’s shoulders or wraps her arms around their neck for balance. This position is great for intimacy and allows for slow, gentle movements.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Use a soft surface, such as a padded mat or bed, to avoid pressure on the knees.
• Place a pillow under the woman’s knees if she feels strain.
• The partner can lean slightly to adjust the alignment.

Precautions

• This position requires balance, so ensure stability.
• Avoid if either partner has knee or joint pain.

18. Oral Sex

One partner provides oral stimulation. For the pregnant partner, this can be done in a lying position (with proper support) or while seated in a comfortable chair. The receiving partner’s body should be supported to prevent strain.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• The woman can lie on her side or with her back slightly elevated using pillows.
• She can sit in a reclined position on a chair or bed with legs slightly apart.

Precautions

• Crucial: Avoid blowing air into the vagina, as it can lead to a rare but serious condition called an air embolism.
• Ensure both partners are comfortable with the arrangement.

19. Lotus

The partner sits cross-legged on a bed, and the woman straddles them, facing them. In the reverse variation, she sits with her back to them, leaning slightly forward for support.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Sit on a soft surface or use cushions to reduce pressure on the legs.
• The woman can place her feet flat on the bed for better stability.

Precautions

• Ensure the woman is not leaning too far, as this can strain the lower back.
• Adjust the pace and depth to her comfort level.

20. Mutual Masturbation

Both partners use their hands to stimulate each other simultaneously. This allows for intimate exploration without penetration, making it a safe and low-pressure option throughout the pregnancy journey.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Sit or lie on a soft surface like a sofa to avoid strain.
• Use pillows to support the woman’s back or sides.

Precautions

• Ensure nails are trimmed and smooth to avoid discomfort.
• Open communication is key to ensuring both partners are enjoying the experience.

21. Anal Sex

This position involves penetration through the anus. The woman can lie on her side or kneel on all fours. Generous use of a high-quality, water-based lubricant is essential.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Ensure both partners are relaxed and communicate openly.
• Use a sufficient amount of lubricant to reduce friction.
• The partner should start with slow and gentle movements.

Precautions

• Always use a fresh condom if switching between anal and vaginal penetration to avoid introducing bacteria.
• Do not proceed if the woman experiences any pain.
• This position is not recommended if she has haemorrhoids, which are common during pregnancy.

22. Chair Sex

The partner sits comfortably on a sturdy chair with legs slightly apart. The woman straddles them, facing them, and lowers herself. She can rest her feet flat on the floor if the chair is low enough for stability.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• The woman can hold the partner’s shoulders for balance.
• Add a pillow to the seat for extra comfort.

Precautions

• Ensure the chair is stable on a non-slip surface.
• Stop if there’s discomfort in the back or legs.

23. Chair Reverse

The woman kneels on a chair, facing the backrest, and holds onto it for support. The partner kneels or stands behind. This position reduces abdominal pressure.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Use a cushioned chair or add a pillow to the seat for the woman’s knees.
• The woman can rest her chest or head on the backrest for relaxation.

Precautions

• Ensure the chair is stable and placed on a non-slippery surface (like a rug).
• Avoid if the woman feels unstable while kneeling.

24. Love Seat Potato

Perfect for a cosy evening in a flat. The woman kneels on a sofa, facing the backrest with her knees apart. The partner kneels behind, ensuring their knees are cushioned on the sofa or a pillow.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Place pillows on the sofa backrest for her to lean on, ensuring her chest is supported.
• The partner can kneel on a folded blanket or cushion to protect their knees.

Precautions

• Ensure the sofa is stable and doesn’t slide on wooden floors.
• Avoid if she experiences discomfort in her knees.

25. Lap Top

The woman sits on her partner’s lap, facing away from them. She can hold onto their knees for support while controlling the rhythm. The partner should sit on a chair or sofa with good back support.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Use a cushioned seat for the partner.
• The woman can lean slightly forward to reduce strain on her lower back.

Precautions

• Ensure the seat is stable.
• This position requires some leg strength, so it’s best suited for mid-pregnancy.

26. Stand & Deliver

The woman stands with her back facing her partner. She lifts one leg and places it on a chair or the bed for support. This keeps the abdomen free from pressure.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Choose a surface that is stable and at the right height to rest the leg comfortably.
• The woman can lean slightly forward onto a wall to reduce strain on her back.

Precautions

• Ensure the supporting surface won’t slip.
• Avoid if she feels unbalanced.

27. Counter Intuitive

Commonly tried on a sturdy kitchen counter or flat surface. The woman sits with legs slightly apart, while the partner stands in front. This keeps the abdomen free from pressure.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Ensure the counter height aligns comfortably with the partner’s hips.
• Place a folded towel for the woman to sit on to reduce pressure on the tailbone.

Precautions

• Safety is critical; ensure the surface is sturdy.
• Avoid if experiencing any discomfort in the back or hips.

28. Stand-Up

The woman stands while her partner positions themselves behind. She may lean slightly forward or rest her hands on a stable surface like a counter for support.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Leaning onto a stable surface reduces strain on back and legs.
• The partner should support the woman’s hips to help her maintain balance.

Precautions

• Ensure both partners have good balance to avoid falls.
• Avoid in very late pregnancy as it may strain the legs.

A Closer Look at Pregnancy Sex Positions at Different Pregnancy Stages

Sex Positions for All Pregnancy Stages

Sex Positions for Early to Mid-Pregnancy

Sex Positions for Mid to Late Pregnancy

What Are the Best Pregnancy Sex Positions?

During pregnancy, comfort is paramount. European mothers often find that positions minimising pressure on the belly and promoting circulation are the most enjoyable. Ideal choices include:

• Doggy Style (Sex from behind)
• Cowgirl (Partner on top)
• Spooning
• Reverse Cowgirl
• Seated Pregnancy Sex
• Side-by-Side Sex

10 Sex Positions During Pregnancy to Avoid

While staying active is great, some positions are generally unsuitable due to safety concerns or discomfort in later stages:

Are There Any Risks Associated with Sex in Pregnancy?

For most, sex during pregnancy is completely safe. However, certain conditions require caution:

• If your midwife or consultant has recommended pelvic rest due to placenta previa or preterm labour risk, avoid vaginal intercourse.
• Light spotting after sex can happen due to increased cervical sensitivity. However, if you experience consistent bleeding or sharp pain, contact your local maternity unit immediately.
• Using a condom is crucial if there is any risk of STIs, as they can impact both Mum and baby.
• Pregnancy hormones can lead to vaginal dryness. Using a safe lubricant can improve comfort.

Tips for a Sound Sleep During Pregnancy After Sex

After intimacy, relaxation is key for a restful night in your flat or home. Here are some tips:

• Use a pregnancy pillow. The Momcozy U-Shaped Cooling Fabric Pregnancy Pillow provides full-body support, relieving pressure on the belly and hips. Its cooling fabric is perfect for regulating temperature.
• Sleeping on your side, particularly the left, promotes better circulation.
• Elevating your legs with a pregnancy pillow can reduce lower back pressure and swelling.
• Practice deep breathing to calm the nervous system after activity.
• Drink water throughout the day, but avoid large amounts right before bed to limit night-time bathroom trips.
• Keep the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.

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FAQs

Is it necessary to use a condom during sex while pregnant?

You don't need a condom to prevent pregnancy, but it remains the best protection against STIs, which is important for the health of both you and your baby.

Can you get pregnant again during pregnancy?

Normally, no. Hormonal changes stop ovulation. While "superfetation" is theoretically possible in extremely rare medical cases, it is not a practical concern for expecting couples.

Will penetration hurt the baby?

No, your baby is well-protected within the uterus and cushioned by amniotic fluid. As long as you are comfortable, the baby is safe.

Can pregnancy sex cause a miscarriage?

No, sex does not cause miscarriage in healthy, low-risk pregnancies. Miscarriages are typically due to chromosomal issues or other medical factors.

What if I spot or bleed after sex?

Spotting is quite common because the cervix is more sensitive. However, if the bleeding persists or is accompanied by pain, seek advice from your midwife or doctor.

Can I use different positions to influence the baby’s sex?

No, sex positions have no influence on the baby's gender, which is determined at conception. If you're looking for a bit of fun, you might try a Chinese Gender Predictor for entertainment, but it isn't based on science.

When can I start having sex after giving birth?

Most women are advised to wait until their 6-week postnatal check, but it depends on how your body is healing. Always listen to your own comfort and consult your doctor.

What if I’m not interested in sex during pregnancy?

It’s entirely normal for your libido to change due to hormones and physical changes. Communicate with your partner and explore other ways to stay close and connected.

The Bottom Line

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to intimacy during these months. Take your time, communicate openly with your partner, and experiment with what feels best for you. Whether it’s trying new positions or simply finding alternative ways to connect, the goal is to enjoy each other’s company safely. Your body, your rules!