Timed Intercourse: Optimizing Your Chances of Conception

Did you know that it is only possible to get pregnant approximately 6 days out of the month? This is because sperm can live in the uterus for up to 5 days, while an egg that has ovulated only survives around 24 hours. This brief window is why timing intercourse while trying to conceive is so important!

What is Timed Intercourse?

Timed intercourse is exactly what it sounds like – strategically timing sex to coincide with ovulation. For those not undergoing fertility treatments, this usually means having sex 4-5 days before expected ovulation and up to one day after ovulation. The goal is to ensure that sperm are present and ready when the egg is released, maximizing the chances of fertilization.

What if You Don’t Have Regular Cycles?

If your menstrual cycles are irregular or unpredictable, there’s a good chance you’re experiencing issues with ovulation. In these cases, ovulation induction medications like Clomid or Letrozole are often used to stimulate ovulation. Typically, patients will start these medications around cycle day 3 of their menstrual period.

During this time, you’ll be monitored with ultrasounds to track the development of the growing follicle (where the egg grows). Once your follicle reaches the right size, you’ll take a trigger shot to induce ovulation. Since ovulation typically occurs 36-40 hours after the trigger shot, you’ll be instructed to have intercourse during this window, along with 1-2 additional times, to maximize your chances of fertilization.

When is Timed Intercourse Recommended?

Timed intercourse is an excellent, low-cost, non-invasive first-line treatment for couples dealing with anovulatory infertility (when a woman doesn’t ovulate regularly). However, its success depends largely on the absence of male factor infertility, such as low sperm count, motility, or morphology. That’s why it’s crucial to have a semen analysis done before deciding on timed intercourse as your treatment plan.

Final Thoughts

While timed intercourse can be an effective way to increase your chances of conception, it's essential to understand the factors at play, including ovulation patterns and male fertility health. If you're struggling with irregular cycles or have concerns about ovulation, consulting with a fertility specialist can provide tailored guidance on how to proceed.

*This content is intended solely for educational purposes and is not to be construed as medical advice. For personalized recommendations concerning your specific healthcare needs, kindly consult with your healthcare provider.