When it comes to fertility treatments, many couples wonder if they can maintain their intimate life. Dr. Sarah Thompson, a fertility specialist, has a straightforward approach: “Pay attention to your body.” She assures that engaging in sexual activity is generally safe during treatment cycles, although some women on injectable medications for IUI or IVF might experience discomfort due to enlarged ovaries. As long as it’s not painful, intimacy can continue during the pre-egg retrieval phase.
When to Hold Off on Intercourse
There are a couple of key moments when avoiding sexual activity is recommended. The first is when a man is asked to provide a semen sample for analysis or for procedures like IUI or IVF. In these cases, abstaining from ejaculation for two to three days before the sample collection is ideal for ensuring a high-quality sample. Dr. Thompson cautions against extended abstinence, as too long a wait may lead to dead sperm cells and potential complications.
The second time to refrain from intercourse is after an embryo transfer in IVF, where a “pelvic rest” period of five days to two weeks is typically advised. This allows the embryo the best chance to implant into the uterine lining. Most patients can resume sexual activity about a week after the transfer, but it’s always best to confirm with your medical team.
IUI and Intimacy
For couples undergoing IUI, the guidelines are a bit more relaxed since implantation occurs about a week later. In fact, Dr. Thompson suggests that having intercourse the evening after the insemination could enhance the chances of fertilization by supplementing the sperm introduced during the procedure.
It’s also normal for patients to experience light bleeding after intercourse due to the sensitive nature of the female reproductive system. If bleeding is accompanied by pain, it’s advisable to avoid sexual activity.
Keeping the Romance Alive
Dr. Thompson emphasizes the importance of maintaining intimacy throughout the fertility journey. “Going through infertility is already stressful; couples shouldn’t sacrifice their connection.” She encourages patients to explore ways to enjoy each other’s company and have fun during treatment.
For more tips on fostering intimacy while trying to conceive, check out ideas from experts like those at Make a Mom and consider reading about related topics such as nipple vasospasm to keep the conversation going. Another useful resource is WomensHealth.gov, an excellent guide for pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, while there are certain times during fertility treatments when sexual activity may need to be limited, maintaining intimacy and open communication with your partner and medical team can help ease the stress of the process.