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Coitus and antepartum haemorrhage
British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
|July 1, 1981
Summary
Recent sexual activity (coitus) is linked to an increased risk of antepartum haemorrhage, a bleeding complication during pregnancy. This risk escalates with the frequency of coitus, independent of other known risk factors.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Reproductive Health
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Antepartum haemorrhage poses significant risks to maternal and fetal well-being.
- Understanding modifiable risk factors for antepartum bleeding is crucial for preventative strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between sexual intercourse (coitus) and the occurrence of antepartum haemorrhage.
- To determine if the frequency of coitus correlates with the incidence of pregnancy bleeding.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal study design was employed.
- Data were collected from a large cohort of 56,568 pregnancies.
- Statistical analysis examined the relationship between coitus and antepartum bleeding, controlling for confounding variables.
Main Results:
- A higher frequency of antepartum haemorrhage was observed in pregnancies with recent coitus (30/1000 births) compared to those without (19/1000 births).
- The incidence of bleeding demonstrated a positive correlation with the frequency of coitus.
- This association remained significant even after adjusting for factors like smoking, hypertension, maternal age, and placenta praevia.
Conclusions:
- Recent and frequent coitus is an independent risk factor for antepartum haemorrhage.
- These findings suggest a potential need for counseling regarding sexual activity in late pregnancy, particularly in high-risk individuals.