In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R’ Avraham

In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R' Avraham

Relations during pregnancy
05/01/2006

Question

Your website is a wonderful resource. Thank you.
I'm in my second trimester of a normal, healthy pregnancy (my first) and my husband is reluctant to have relations purely for spiritual reasons. He is more on the observant side than I am, and I'm not versed in Halacha, and hope you can clarify – is there a halachic reason to abstain from relations during pregnancy? Is there a halachic law that urges a husband to comfort his wife especially during pregnancy?
Many thanks for your response.

Answer

Relations are fully permitted during pregnancy. The husband's obligation to his wife to have relations at regular intervals (e.g., a minimum of once a week on leil Shabbat), onah, is not waived during pregnancy without the wife's consent. In fact, the Talmud even mentions that relations from the second trimester on have a positive effect on the baby. (Note that this statement in itself does not constitute an obligation.)
Perhaps you should have an open discussion with your husband, to clarify and address his concerns about relations during pregnancy. Other positions for vaginal intercourse are permitted and might ease discomfort. It is also worth noting that you are likely to be in niddah for approximately two months after childbirth. You may wish to contact your physician so that you can reassure your husband on a medical level as well.

Accessibility Toolbar

Welcome to Our New Site!

We’re still in the process of bringing over our full archive of Q&As. Stay with us as we continue to update all our content and features.
Thank you for your patience, and please feel free to share feedback or let us know if you’re looking for something specific.