“Can we have sex the night before embryo transfer?” This is one of the most common questions patients undergoing IVF treatments have.
IVF is a complex and intricate procedure that must be done with care and precision. Every step of the procedure is important, as a small error in one step can decrease the success rate of the IVF cycle.
Regarding sexual intercourse the night before embryo transfer, several researchers have worked on it and come to different conclusions.
In this article, let’s discuss what doctors say about intercourse before embryo transfer and its possible benefits and disadvantages on IVF success rates.
Sex Night Before Embryo Transfer
Embryo transfer is the final and one of the most important steps of IVF. This is when the embryo gets implanted in the uterine lining, resulting in pregnancy.
The impact of sex the night before embryo transfer is inconclusive. Several studies have been conducted on this subject. While some say it is beneficial to have sex, some studies suggest couples abstain from intercourse during IVF treatment.
Is Having Sex Before Embryo Transfer Affecting Fertility Treatment?
Engaging in sexual activity before an embryo transfer is a common concern for couples undergoing fertility treatments like In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Research and clinical experience suggest that sexual intercourse prior to the procedure does not adversely affect the outcome of fertility treatments.
Pros
Hormonal Benefits
Sexual activity can lead to the release of hormones and substances such as oxytocin and semen components, which might enhance the uterine environment, making it more conducive to embryo implantation.
Emotional Support
Maintaining intimacy through sexual activity can provide significant emotional support, helping couples cope with the stress associated with fertility treatments. This emotional connection is vital for mental health and well-being during such a challenging period.
Stress Reduction
Engaging in sexual relations has been shown to reduce stress levels, which is beneficial since high stress can negatively impact fertility treatment outcomes.
Benefits of having Sex Night Before Embryo Transfer
Some studies show that women who have sexual relations the night before embryo transfer have a higher embryo implantation and development rate than those who do not.
1. The seminal plasma assists implantation and embryo development
It has been shown that the seminal plasma in the semen has signaling agents that interact with the uterus and may impact uterine receptivity and improve implantation and normal embryo development.
This is mainly attributed to certain substances in the plasma that induce an immune response that tolerates the foreign object (embryo) that enters the body.
2. Helps improve the relationship between the couple
The physical and emotional stress during IVF can cause a rift between the couples. Having sexual relations before embryo transfer can improve their bond and support for each other.
Disadvantages of having Sex Night Before Embryo Transfer
While some studies show positive results, some show that intercourse before embryo transfer is disadvantageous for the overall success of the cycle. Below are some of those disadvantages.
1. It may cause infections
Sexual intercourse before embryo transfer may cause reproductive tract infections that affect the implantation rate. It is also best to wait some days after embryo transfer before engaging in sexual intercourse.
This is because the cervical mucus barrier will have been damaged due to the insertion of the catheter during embryo transfer. Having intercourse during this period can increase the chances of infections.
2. It may induce uterine contractions
Sexual intercourse or orgasms stimulates the uterine myometrium responsible for uterine contractions. This contraction can affect embryo implantation.
It is okay to have sex after about a week of embryo transfer because the embryo might have settled in the uterus. Doctors usually suggest this to be on the safer side.
3. May cause ovarian torsion
Following ovarian stimulation, the ovaries will grow larger in size due to the growth of many follicles. Having sex during this period is not advisable.
4. Risk of multiple pregnancies
Though rare, having sexual intercourse may increase the risk of multiple pregnancies in some women.
It is advisable to avoid intercourse the night before an embryo transfer. If you are experiencing any of the issues mentioned above, please do not panic. Reach out to your local fertility clinic and consult with a specialist. It is easily curable, and you can confidently proceed to the next set of treatments with this in mind.
5. Possible guilt if the cycle fails
In case the IVF cycle fails, the couple will be guilty of having intercourse during the cycle. This can impact them emotionally and cause a rift in their relationship. It is better to be safe and avoid possible complications during the treatments.
Conclusion
There is no concrete evidence to prove the relationship between sexual intercourse and its effects on embryo transfer. While some doctors may suggest you abstain from sex the night before embryo transfer, some may encourage it.
1) Is it possible to have sexual intercourse during an IVF pregnancy?
While it is best to stay safe and abstain from sexual intercourse, you can have sex during an IVF treatment. Just be safe and use a contraceptive while doing it.
2) Is it advisable to have sex after an embryo transfer?
It is best to avoid having sex for up to two weeks after the embryo transfer. Some couples disregard these rules to have sex or simply achieve an orgasm sooner. The uterine contractions that occur as a result of the female orgasm may prevent the embryo from implanting.
3) Is sexual intercourse possible after AI?
Yes, there is no reason not to have sexual intercourse following artificial insemination (AI), as long as it is done during a natural cycle.
However, if the AI was performed during a stimulated cycle, some variations in partner sperm or donor sperm should be established.
4) Is it possible to have sexual intercourse after embryo transfer, or do I have to rest?
Yes, you can have sexual intercourse after embryo transfer. But, it is best to rest during the first two weeks so as to give your body and the embryo time to settle and relax.
