Are relations in first trimester permissible?

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March 18, 2009

Question

Shalom uVracha,
I found out a few days ago via a blood test that i am pregnant (first time).
Is it permissible to have relations at all during the first trimester? I heard that the Talmud doesn't view it positively–that it is not good for mother and baby. Is the Talmud referring to a spiritual or physical negative effect? If physical, has medical research proved differently?
Also, if the woman desires to have relations during her first trimester, how can this be "bad" for her?
Looking forward to your response.
Many thanks.

Answer

B'sha'ah tovah!

Relations are fully permitted throughout pregnancy. Mitzvat onah – the husband's obligation to his wife to have relations at regular intervals is not waived during pregnancy unless she agrees.

There is a Talmudic statement to the effect that relations in the first trimester are difficult for mother and baby. It is not clear what is meant by this statement, except that the statement does not have halachic force. If there is no medical contraindication (and generally, there is not) and if the woman desires relations, they are fully permissible during the first trimester.