Sexual behavior and response in relation to complications of pregnancy.

A detailed written questionnaire survey of 155 puerperas is reviewed. Sexual and obstetric data were examined for possible associations leading to premature or low-birth-weight infants. Among 25 patients delivering premature infants (16 with babies weighing less than 2,500 grams), no significant association could be made between coitus, orgasm, and/or other sexual experiences and the proximity to the onset of labor. Orgasmic patients appeared to have a consistently lower percentage of early deliveries. No particular method of sexual gratification was unique except that masturbation was consistently associated with a lower risk of prematurity throughout various stages of gestation. Speculations are advanced to explain these observations. Sexual activity appears to be safe throughout pregnancy in almost all patients. Ruptured membranes on admission may be associated with recent sexual stimulation without orgasm.