If you’re trying to conceive and not having much luck, you might have already been advised to make changes to your lifestyle and diet, as well as considering nutritional supplementation to support your fertility. Another topic you and your partner might be questioning is, does sexual position matter?
Does sexual position really matter for conception?
There are no published studies or conclusive scientific evidence to suggest that sexual position makes a significant difference when trying to conceive. Despite this fact, some suggest positions which allow for deep penetration may provide the best chance of conception. This theory is based on the fact that deep penetration allows the sperm to be ejaculated as close to the cervix as possible.
What are the best positions to conceive?
The best positions for this are:
- With the man on top – also known as “missionary”
- With the man from behind and the woman on all fours – also known as “doggy style”
Again, there is no evidence to prove that having sex with the woman on top or in a standing position makes conceiving less likely, but common sense tells us that gravity will be working against you.
Sperm are strong swimmers and can reach the cervix soon after ejaculation, which is why people can and do get pregnant as a result of having sex in any sexual position. However, it can take sperm up to 15 minutes to reach the cervix – this is why it has been suggested to lie down briefly after sex, even propping up your pelvis with a cushion to help sperm along the way.
Some fascinating studies have shown that the natural contractions of the uterus that occur as a result of intercourse and, especially, orgasm result in the cervix ‘dipping’ repeatedly into the pool of semen deposited at the top of the vagina. So resting on your back or even elevating your bottom on a pillow may help.
25% of all women have a retroverted or ‘tip-tilted’ uterus which results in the cervix pointing the ‘other way’. This has been shown to have no impact on fertility but it may be a cause of pain with intercourse and trying a range of different sexual positions may help with this.
These tips are just suggestions for something to try if you are struggling, they are not a must. One thing that can often plague couples who are trying to conceive is stress. If these positions aren’t for you or your partner, then we suggest you stick to what you like and make it as relaxed and fun as possible. It is more important to reduce your stress than adopt a particular position.
Other things to consider…
Choosing the right lubrication
If you are using lubricant when having sex then it is important to pick one which is geared towards fertility. Standard lubes contain ingredients like petroleum, glycerine and silicone which can negatively affect the motility of sperm. This is why we suggest that you choose a lubricant which has been designed to optimise fertility instead of a standard one meant just for sexual intercourse.
Be careful when using vaginal products
Many products can affect vaginal PH which can damage sperm, making it harder to conceive. Vaginal creams and douches can do this, and we recommend that you don’t use these products. There is some evidence to support this; a study has shown that women who used a douche once a month were 30% less likely to conceive than those who didn’t.
Get your rest!
A lack of sleep can negatively affect the libido of both men and women. A study in women concluded that “Obtaining sufficient sleep is important to the promotion of healthy sexual desire and genital response, as well as the likelihood of engaging in partnered sexual activity.” A separate study in men showed that a lack of sleep is closely associated with a higher risk of erectile dysfunction. Having sufficient sleep every night is likely to improve your sex-life. Plus, male testosterone levels, and therefore libido, peak in the early morning and so it can be a good idea to wake up early for a sex session after a good night’s sleep.
Supplement
You and your partner should consider supplementing with a product like Impryl to give you the best possible chance to conceive. This is because Impryl is made up with a variety of micronutrients designed to promote the healthy production of sperm and egg cells. Studies have shown that Impryl has significantly improved the pregnancy outcomes for sub fertile men and women.
Practice makes perfect!
Another common question couples ask is how often should you have sex when trying to get pregnant? Fertility family has already explored this question and you can learn more about how often you should have sex when trying to conceive here.
