Childbirth/Cervix

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Question
Hello:

I understand that during intercourse it is common for the penis to contact the women's cervix. Is it possible to penetrate the opening of the cervix during intercourse? Would this be painful for the female if it occurred?

I thank you for your reply.

Answer
Kenneth,

It is not possible for the penis to penetrate through the entire cervix during intercourse.  

The cervix has both an outer and inner opening.  After a woman has had a child, it's common for the outer opening to be slightly (a few centimeters or less) open.

However, the inner opening that leads into the uterus is closed and could not be penetrated during intercourse.

A woman may feel some discomfort if too much pressure is put on the cervix, but this can often be eliminated by using different positions which don't allow for full penetration.


Best,
Catherine

Childbirth

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Catherine Beier MS CBE

Expertise

I can provide evidence-based information and current research findings concerning childbirth and pregnancy. My specializations include natural childbirth, pregnancy and birth interventions, fetal positioning, labor induction, choosing a care provider, midwives, homebirth, unassisted birth, natural pain relief, medications in pregnancy and birth, informed consent, understanding the risks and benefits of childbirth choices, doulas, waterbirth, childbirth methods, childbirth education classes, cesarean section, and VBAC.

Experience

I have been a childbirth educator, mother, author, public speaker, researcher, and birth advocate for the past 9 years. I am also the author of Giving Birth Naturally, a site dedicated to natural childbirth and pregnancy information. I publish evidence-based articles on pregnancy, childbirth, newborn care, and post-partum care. I'm also a mother of three children, two daughters and one son all born naturally. To learn more about what normal birth looks like, view the natural childbirth video of my son being born at home unassisted.

Publications
My book, Birth Outside the Box, was published in 2007.

Education/Credentials
I hold a Master's degree in communication disorders with an emphasis in child development. I am also an independent childbirth educator.

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