Childbirth/Intercourse

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Expert: - 3/12/2009


Question
QUESTION: Hello:

I hope that you can answer my question. It is not directly related to childbirth. I could not find another expert that I thought could answer my question in the other categories.

Q: When a couple is having intercourse, is it common or possible for the penis to come in contact with the cervix?

I thank you for your reply and answer.

ANSWER: Kenneth,

Yes, it's extremely common since the cervix is only about 5 inches from the vaginal opening.


Best,
Catherine

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hello Catherine:

I want to thank you for your answer.

I do have a follow-up question: I assume this contact with the cervix is not painful or uncomfortable for the women/girl?

I thank you for your reply.

Answer
Kenneth,

The answer is: it varies.  

In the majority of cases, it either isn't noticeable or doesn't cause discomfort.  However, there are some instances when women find it uncomfortable or painful.

Some positions cause deeper penetration which can lead to more cervical contact and discomfort than others, so it's a very individualized situation.  


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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