Can a virgin become pregnant?

Yes. If the sperms are deposited near the vulva, they may pass through the small hole of an intact hymen and may travel up through the full length of the vagina and uterus and meet the ovum resulting in a pregnancy.

Is sex safe during pregnancy?

Usually, a healthy woman can safely indulge in sexual activity during pregnancy. However, coitus should be avoided if there is pain and/or bleeding at any stage. If the woman has aborted in the first three months in the past, coitus during the first trimester should be avoided. In the second trimester coitus is contraindicated if the woman has a history of ‘habitual abortion’ because the cervical Os or the mouth of the uterus is ‘incompetent’ to hold the foetus. In the last trimester i.e. from the seventh month to labour, one may safely indulge in sexual activity till the day of delivery by altering the position so as to ensure that the direct weight does not fall on the foetus.

It must be understood that whenever, because of any reason, intercourse is forbidden during pregnancy, the woman must avoid reaching orgasm by any other means including masturbation. The contractions of the uterus following masturbation are far more intense as compared to normal sexual intercourse.

An obstetrician may be consulted regarding the indulgence in sexual activity during pregnancy, as each case needs to be evaluated individually about any possible contraindication or modification to be made.