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Should an IVF treatment pair engage in sexual activity?

The protocol-based process of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) involves a clear hierarchy of steps, beginning with ovarian stimulation and concluding with embryo transfer. Every step has a predetermined pace, and doctors provide patients with a variety of instructions to ensure the success of IVF. The timing of sexual activity is also covered in the word of advice.

Generally speaking, having sex while going through an IVF cycle is not dangerous. Many women who use injectable reproductive drugs develop enlarged ovaries, which can be painful during sexual activity.

A woman would probably not wish to engage in sex during the ovarian stimulation stage of the process because this is when they are most likely to feel uncomfortable due to swollen ovaries. The libido will be at its lowest during this time due to hormonal imbalance and vaginal dryness brought on by the ovaries-stimulating medicine. However, in order to ensure that there is enough semen for carrying out the lab culture of the embryos, men must abstain from ejaculation for at least two days prior to the egg retrieval.

It is best to avoid having sex right after egg retrieval because this is the time when the danger of infection is greatest. Additionally, it is likely that the woman won't be up to it because she will be exhausted after the recent unpleasant and intrusive treatment.

Sex before embryo transfer

Sexual activity is permitted during the stimulation phase of an IVF cycle as long as the pair is utilising a barrier method of contraception, such as a condom. In the event of unexpected ovulation, protected intercourse is advised to prevent the potential of becoming pregnant.

Post-Embryo Transfer Sex

After the embryo transfer, patients are frequently instructed to refrain from sexual activity as well because it is thought that an orgasm can prevent the embryo from implanting properly in the uterus. Pelvic rest is advised from 5 to 7 days after embryo transfer. This is to guarantee that a pregnancy test can be administered accurately. The embryo has the best chance of implanting into the uterine wall during pelvic rest. One to two weeks after the embryo transfer, the majority of patients are able to resume regular sexual activity.

If the woman becomes pregnant after a successful IVF procedure, she can engage in sexual activity safely if they desire. If there are difficulties or symptoms like spotting or cramping, it is best to be cautious.

The woman loses their libido during the IVF cycle for a variety of reasons. Women often refrain from having sex while undergoing therapy because they feel emotionally unhappy, helpless, and sometimes even physically violated in addition to the physical reasons that have previously been mentioned. If she needs to go through many IVF rounds, which is what happens when success does not occur on the first try, the emotional burden increases.

When a woman undergoes IVF treatment, she becomes emotionally vulnerable, and intercourse becomes a mechanical rather than a natural experience. The male, on the other hand, feels excluded because he is not physically involved in the procedure and receives no sexual gratification from his partner. While receiving IVF therapy, one could say that having sex is more like a structured kind of pleasure and that stress keeps building. Sexual activity is also constrained by timing rather than being an impulsive, enjoyable action.

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