By the time you reach 38 weeks, you are officially considered "full term." Your hospital bag is likely packed, the nursery is ready, and you are probably feeling a mix of intense anticipation and physical discomfort. Amidst the backaches and Braxton Hicks contractions, many couples wonder:
In a low-risk pregnancy, having sex at 38 weeks is perfectly safe. Your baby is well-protected by the amniotic sac and the strong muscles of the uterus. Additionally, the mucus plug at the cervix acts as a barrier against infection.
Semen contains hormone-like substances called prostaglandins, which are used in medical gels to help ripen (soften and thin) the cervix.