28 Best Pregnancy Sex Positions: A Safe & Intimate Guide for Aussie Couples

Expecting a little one is a proper adventure, isn't it? While you're busy debating baby names and setting up the nursery, it’s completely normal for your relationship and intimacy to feel a bit different. As your body goes through those amazing transformations, staying connected with your partner is so important. Whether you’ve just had your first Medicare-covered scan or you're counting down the days until your Paid Parental Leave kicks in, we’ve put together 28 comfy, fun, and bump-friendly sex positions to keep the spark alive without any stress!

A quick heads-up before we dive in! Every pregnancy is unique, and sometimes your Midwife or GP might recommend taking a break from the horizontal folk dance. It’s always best to have a chat with your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:

• Placenta previa (where the placenta is low)
• A history or risk of preterm labour
• Cervical insufficiency or ruptured membranes
• Any unexplained vaginal bleeding or leaking fluid

And of course, keep practicing safe sex. If you're with a new partner or in a situation where there’s a risk of STIs, grab a condom. Safe is always sexy, especially when there's a bub on the way!

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

In this position, the woman lies at a gentle angle, resting her top leg on her partner or a couple of pillows for support. The man positions himself slightly behind, allowing for comfortable penetration without any pressure on the growing bump. It’s a winner for all stages of pregnancy because it’s so low-effort and relaxing.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Pop a pillow between your knees to help with hip alignment—your pelvis will thank you!
• Use extra cushions to support your neck or back so you can fully relax.
• The man can prop himself up on an elbow to find the best angle and depth.

Precautions

• Try not to stay in one spot for too long if you start feeling any hip pressure.
• Keep movements slow and steady to avoid any lower back twinges.

Aussie Mum Tip: If it’s a typical scorching Queensland or Perth afternoon, make sure the fan is on—skin-to-skin contact can get a bit sticky in the heat!

2. Cowgirl (Woman on Top)

This is a classic for a reason! The man lies back while the woman straddles him. The best part? You are in the driver's seat. You control the depth, the speed, and the angle, which is brilliant as your bump starts to get bigger and you need to find that "just right" spot.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Place a pillow under your partner’s hips to give you a bit more height and reduce leg strain.
• If you're feeling a bit weary (first trimester fatigue is real!), lean forward onto your partner’s chest.

Precautions

• Avoid any vigorous bouncing; your pelvic joints are a bit looser during pregnancy thanks to the hormone relaxin.

3. Reverse Cowgirl

Similar to the standard cowgirl, but you face away from your partner. This is excellent for keeping all pressure off your abdomen and lets you experiment with different angles. It’s quite a workout for the legs, though!

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Your partner can prop themselves up with pillows for a better view and easier connection.
• Lean forward and rest your hands on your partner’s shins or the mattress for better balance.

Precautions

• This one takes a bit of core and leg strength, so it might be easier in the earlier months before the "heavy" third trimester sets in.

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

Both of you lie on your sides facing each other. It’s incredibly intimate—perfect for those days when you just want to feel close and have a cuddle while you’re at it. One leg can be bent to make space for your partner to enter comfortably.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Pillows are your best friend here—tuck one behind your back so you don't roll over.
• Rest your top leg on a cushion or on your partner’s hip to create more room.

Precautions

• As you get further along, ensure there's no direct weight on the bump.

Aussie Mum Tip: This is the perfect "lazy Sunday morning" position after you've had your first coffee (or decaf!) of the day.

5. Spooning

The ultimate pregnancy favourite! You lie on your side (left side is often best for circulation) and your partner spoons you from behind. This completely avoids any pressure on your stomach and allows for very gentle, rhythmic movement.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• That pregnancy pillow you bought? Use it! Putting it between your legs keeps your hips aligned perfectly.
• Keep the pace slow and enjoy the closeness.

6. Missionary (Pregnancy-Modified)

While the standard "flat on your back" missionary isn't great after the first trimester, you can still enjoy it with a few tweaks. Use pillows to prop up your upper body so you aren't lying flat, and have your partner support their own weight on their hands or elbows.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Use a firm wedge pillow under your shoulders to keep your upper body elevated.
• The man can kneel slightly further back to ensure the bump has plenty of space.

Precautions

• Avoid lying flat on your back once you hit the second trimester to keep your blood flowing properly to the bub.

7. Edge of the Bed

Sit or lie at the very edge of the bed with your feet on the floor or resting on your partner as they stand or kneel. This gives you great support and allows for easy eye contact and intimacy without the struggle of moving around too much on the mattress.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Prop yourself up with pillows behind your back against the headboard or wall.
• Adjust the height by having your partner stand or kneel on a cushion.

8. Butterfly

In this position, you lie on your back (propped up!) with your legs lifted and resting on your partner’s shoulders. It’s quite an intimate, deep position, but it’s best saved for the earlier stages of pregnancy when you still feel relatively nimble.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• A cushion under your lower back can help align your pelvis.
• If resting your legs on their shoulders is too much, try resting them on their arms instead.

9. Doggy Style (Sex from behind)

On all fours, your bump hangs naturally, which can actually relieve some back pressure. Your partner enters from behind. It’s a very popular choice as it feels very "secure" for the baby.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Use a soft rug or a yoga mat under your knees so you don't get "carpet burn" or sore joints.
• Place a pillow under your chest if you want to lower your upper body.

10. Lazy Dog

This is a flatter version of doggy style. You lie on your front, but supported by a mountain of pillows so there’s absolutely no pressure on your stomach. It’s very relaxed and great for those tired evenings.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• Pile the pillows high under your chest and hips to create a "hollow" for your bump.

11. Mattress Hold-up

Kneeling on the bed but leaning your upper body entirely onto the mattress or a pile of pillows. It's like doggy style but much more supported for your back and shoulders.

How to Make it More Comfortable

• This is perfect for when you're feeling a bit of pelvic heaviness.

12. Scissors

Lying on your sides with your legs interlocked. It’s shallow penetration, which can be very comfortable if deep thrusting starts to feel a bit too much as the bub grows.

13. Cradle

Sit sideways on your partner’s lap. You can lean your back against their chest. It’s very romantic and allows for lots of kissing and whispering baby plans!

14. Side Saddle

Similar to the cradle, but you are sitting upright or reclining slightly. Your partner can support your back, making you feel safe and secure.

15. Shining Triangle

This is for the mums who want to stay active! You use your legs to bridge your hips up. It’s great for control, but maybe a bit much for the final weeks of pregnancy.

16. Bridge Pose

Similar to the triangle but more stable. Using a yoga block or a firm pillow under your hips can make this feel much more sustainable.

17. Kneeling Hug

Both of you kneel and face each other. It’s incredibly intimate and allows for slow, gentle movements. Just make sure your knees are on something soft!

18. Oral Sex

When you’re just not in the mood for the full "workout" of intercourse, oral sex is a fantastic way to stay connected. Just remember to stay propped up so you're not flat on your back.

Precautions

• Crucial: Never have your partner blow air into the vagina. It can cause an air embolism, which is a rare but very serious medical emergency during pregnancy.

19. Lotus

Partner sits cross-legged, you sit on their lap. It’s all about the eye contact and slow, deep connection. Very grounding.

20. Mutual Masturbation

Sometimes you just want to get to the finish line without the acrobatics. Doing this together is a lovely way to keep the intimacy without the physical strain.

21. Anal Sex

If this is something you already enjoy, it’s generally safe during pregnancy. However, many Aussie mums find they get haemorrhoids during pregnancy due to the extra pressure—if that’s you, give this one a miss as it’ll be more "ouch" than "oh!"

22. Chair Sex

Straddle your partner on a sturdy chair. It keeps you upright and gives you great control over the pace.

23. Chair Reverse

Kneel on the chair facing the backrest. This is a very secure way to do doggy style while having something solid to hold onto.

24. Love Seat Potato

Kneeling on the sofa, leaning over the back or armrest. Sofas are often firmer than beds, which can feel much more supportive as you get heavier.

25. Lap Top

Facing away from your partner while sitting on their lap. This allows you to lean forward and completely relax your core muscles.

26. Stand & Deliver

Standing while leaning against a wall or counter. It’s great for a "quickie" when you don't want to get all the pillows out!

27. Counter Intuitive

Sit on the kitchen counter while your partner stands. This is perfect for those later stages when you're feeling a bit less mobile but still want to play.

28. Stand-Up

Both standing, with you leaning forward. It’s deep and intimate, and you can hold onto something solid for balance.

A Closer Look at Pregnancy Sex Positions at Different Pregnancy Stages

Sex Positions for All Pregnancy Stages

These positions are the reliable "all-rounders" that work from the moment you see that positive test until you're packing your hospital bag.

Sex Positions for Early to Mid-Pregnancy

When you've still got a bit of that second-trimester energy (the "honeymoon phase" of pregnancy!), you might feel like being a bit more adventurous.

Sex Positions for Mid to Late Pregnancy

As the "bub-to-be" takes up more room, it’s all about stability and keeping the pressure off.

What Are the Best Pregnancy Sex Positions?

If you're looking for the "Gold Medal" winners of pregnancy intimacy, these are the ones most Aussie couples swear by for comfort and safety:

• Spooning (The undisputed king of comfort)
• Cowgirl (For when you want to take charge)
• Doggy Style (Best for back relief)
• Side-by-Side (For pure intimacy)

10 Sex Positions During Pregnancy to Avoid

While staying active is great, some positions are better left until after the "6-week check-up." Here’s what to generally skip for now:

Are There Any Risks Associated with Sex in Pregnancy?

For most of us, sex is perfectly safe. Bub is well-protected in their amniotic sac. However, keep these points in mind:

• Medicare & Consultations: If your Midwife or GP mentions "pelvic rest," take it seriously. It’s usually for things like placenta previa.
• Spotting: Light spotting after sex can happen (the cervix is very sensitive!). But if it's bright red or heavy, call your doctor or your hospital's maternity triage line immediately.
• Comfort First: If it hurts, stop. Your body is doing a lot of work, and it’s okay if things need to be slower or different.

Tips for a Sound Sleep During Pregnancy After Sex

After the fun is done, you want a decent night's sleep before the morning "nappy talk" begins. Here’s how to settle in:

• Use a dedicated pillow: The Momcozy U-Shaped Cooling Fabric Pregnancy Pillow is a lifesaver for Aussie summers. It supports your back and bump while keeping you from overheating.
• Side Sleep: Stick to your left side to help the kidneys flush out waste and keep blood flowing to the placenta.
• Hydrate (Smartly): Have a glass of water after sex, but don't gulp down a litre or you'll be up every 20 minutes for a "loo break."
• Sun Safety & Rest: If you've had a big day out at the beach or a BBQ, make sure you've cooled down before bed. A cool shower can help lower your core temp.

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FAQs

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

You can't get "double pregnant," but condoms are still vital for STI protection. If you're in a new relationship, keep using them to protect yourself and the bub from infections that could cause complications.

Can I get pregnant again during pregnancy?

In almost every case, no. Your body shuts down ovulation. There's a incredibly rare thing called "superfetation," but honestly, you're more likely to win the Oz Lotto than have that happen!

Will penetration hurt the baby?

Not at all. Your baby is cushioned by amniotic fluid and a very strong uterus. The "plug" at the cervix also keeps things sealed off. They have no idea what's going on—they're just enjoying the rocking motion!

Can sex cause a miscarriage?

In a healthy pregnancy, no. Miscarriages are usually due to chromosomal issues, not because you were intimate with your partner.

What if I'm not interested in sex?

Totally normal, Mum! Between the nausea, the fatigue, and the "nappy brain," sex might be the last thing on your mind. Just talk to your partner—cuddles and a foot rub go a long way too.

When can I start having sex after giving birth?

The general advice is to wait until your 6-week check-up. Your body needs time to heal, especially if you had stitches or a C-section. Listen to your body and your GP.

The Bottom Line

There’s no "right" way to do things during these nine months. Some weeks you'll feel like a goddess, and others you'll feel like a tired potato. The key is communication. Whether you're trying out position #27 or just sharing a tub of Vegemite on toast in bed, staying connected is what matters. You’ve got this, Mum!