How long after egg retrieval can i have intercourse

Many clinics will tell women to refrain from having intercourse after the embryo transfer for up to 48 hours to 2 weeks. This was originally advised because it was thought that the introduction of infection and uterine contractions caused by an orgasm would have a negative impact on implantation and possibly harm the embryo.

There is, however, there is no scientific evidence to prove this is true. Providing you’re sensible, having sex after your embryo transfer will not have any adverse effects on your embryo and it is impossible for it to simple “fall out”.

It is important to abstain if you’re uncomfortable or experiencing discomfort. Some patients do not want to have intercourse after an egg retrieval if they’re feeling sore or bloated from the procedure.

So is it safe to have intercourse after your embryo transfer? The short answer is yes, it is perfectly safe providing you are sensible and you’re not feeling uncomfortable. Your embryo cannot be harmed or “fall out” and studies have shown that there are no adverse effects if you decide to have sex after your embryo transfer.

In fact, there is evidence that seminal fluid contains several growth factors that can help implantation. IVF is a stressful and emotional journey, so it is also very important for couples who are undergoing treatment to maintain their intimacy and not feel concerned that by doing so, there will be a negative impact on their embryo.

If you have any concerns on what you can or cannot do following an embryo transfer, consult your fertility specialist or visit the clinic to talk about it.

FAQs for Female Patients Undergoing Treatment

Is it safe to have intercourse during treatment, and when can I resume intercourse in early pregnancy?

Whether intercourse is safe during treatment depends on the type of treatment. It is typically safe during timed intercourse or IUI cycles, unless you are at risk of high response (multiples).

As the ovaries enlarge in response to stimulation medications during egg freezing and IVF cycles, intercourse should be avoided. Intercourse will not negatively affect the quality of eggs or embryos, but the ovaries can be sensitive and at risk of twisting (torsion).  It is safe to resume intercourse after your menses return, 10-14 days after egg retrieval.

In pregnancy, intercourse has not been shown to cause miscarriage. However, bleeding and spotting with any kind of vaginal penetration is common as the cervix is more sensitive during pregnancy. If this causes anxiety, it may be better avoid intercourse in the early weeks of pregnancy.  Pain after orgasm is also normal in the first trimester, as the uterus contracts. 

What pain relievers are safe to use during treatment? 

Acetominophen (Tylenol) is the safest option for pain during all treatment cycles. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen should be avoided prior to egg retrieval. 

When should I avoid strenuous and rigorous exercise?

In general, we recommend that patients take it easy during ovarian stimulation for IVF or egg freezing, until you get your period after retrieval (usually 1-2 weeks later). Walking, taking the stairs and using light hand weights are fine, but avoid exercise more rigorous than that. You’re more prone to dehydration during stimulation, and the ovaries are enlarged, so it is best to be cautious.

In general, exercise is fine during frozen transfer cycles and IUI cycles until the actual transfer or IUI – after that point, you should act as though you are pregnant. In pregnancy, we recommend keeping an average heart rate below 140 – or stated another way, you should be able to speak in full sentences while exercising (i.e. not exercising to the point of breathlessness).

I use various herbs and supplements: Are they safe?

Herbs may be safe, but they are not regulated by the FDA (so dosing and contaminants are not evaluated). Herbs could interfere with fertility medications or cause blood thinning (which is not ideal if you’re having an egg retrieval or other invasive procedures). So, in general, we recommend avoiding herbs during fertility treatment and pregnancy.

Please check with your doctor regarding specific vitamin or mineral supplements, and avoid very large doses of any vitamins or minerals (i.e. well over the daily recommended value).

Is it OK to consume alcohol during treatment?

We recommend three alcohol-containing drinks or less per week before conception, and none after ovulation/IUI or embryo transfer. We recommend avoiding alcohol during ovarian stimulation (IVF or egg freezing) because it is dehydrating and may interfere with liver metabolism.

Is it OK to consume caffeine during treatment?

Caffeine is fine up to 200 mg per day for women, which is roughly two cups of coffee (some brands maybe have more caffeine per cup). Tea has about 50 mg/cup. Men can try to stick to 3 cups/day or less (though evidence for male caffeine intake is less clear). There is no evidence that caffeine in moderation has a negative effect on treatment outcomes or pregnancy.

Can I go swimming? Are hot tubs and saunas safe? 

Relaxing in the pool is safe during stimulation, however vigorous aquatic exercise should be avoided. Hot tubs and saunas use should be avoided as you may experience lightheadedness or dizziness.

Is it OK to use marijuana for recreational or medical purposes during treatment? 

Studies looking at marijuana use when trying to achieve pregnancy are limited and conflicting. Women trying to conceive should exercise caution with cannabis use until more definitive evidence is available.

Is Botox safe in treatment?

There are limited studies looking at Botox treatment prior to pregnancy. If you are undergoing fertility preservation treatments such as egg freezing or embryo freezing it is safe to receive Botox during your cycle. If you are planning for an embryo transfer or intrauterine insemination (IUI) it would be better to avoid Botox treatment.

Can I dye my hair during treatment? 

Yes it is safe to dye your hair during a treatment cycle as well as in pregnancy.

Are probiotics safe to take during pregnancy?

Yes, probiotics are safe to take during pregnancy.

FAQs for Male Patients Undergoing Treatment

Is it OK to use marijuana for recreational or medical purposes during treatment? 

No. There is data that marijuana may have negative effects on sperm.

How long should the abstinence period be for IUI, IVF, ICSI and sperm freezing?

There is no evidence to recommend a minimum abstinence period, but abstinence longer than one week is probably not ideal.

Prior to semen analysis, abstinence of two to seven days is standard.

How long after IVF can I have intercourse?

How long does it take to heal from an egg retrieval?

Can you get pregnant after an egg retrieval?