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says that timing is everything when it comes to sex during IVF. She explains that intimacy is generally fine before the IVF cycle officially begins. "Let's clear it once and for all. Short answer: yes, but time is key here. Intimacy is okay in the initial parts of your treatment, that is, before your IVF treatment. However, once your ovaries start getting a little bigger because of the stimulation, your doctor will ask you to avoid all that bed wrestling of yours in order to prevent ovarian torture."

The expert further adds, “And after an embryo transfer, most clinics advise pelvic rest for the next couple of weeks. Although the IVF journey may feel very medical and scheduled, your intimacy doesn't need to vanish entirely. Just confirm with your fertility specialist what's safe and when."

In simple terms, having sex is usually fine before your IVF cycle officially starts. But as the treatment progresses, especially after ovarian stimulation and embryo transfer, doctors often recommend avoiding sex to protect your health and improve your chances of success.

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During IVF, your ovaries are stimulated to produce more eggs. This can make them larger and more sensitive. Sex during this time can sometimes cause pain, discomfort, or even complications like ovarian torsion (twisting of the ovary). That’s why most doctors will tell you to avoid sex after stimulation begins.

After the embryo transfer, the advice is even clearer: most clinics recommend pelvic rest. This means no sex, no heavy lifting, and no intense exercise for at least two weeks. The goal is to give the embryo the best chance to implant and grow.

A study published in the journal Fertility and Sterility found that sexual activity during certain stages of IVF could increase the risk of complications, especially after egg retrieval and embryo transfer. The study highlights the importance of following your doctor’s advice and being cautious during the most sensitive phases of treatment. 

IVF can feel very clinical and scheduled, but that doesn’t mean intimacy has to disappear. Saloni Patil encourages couples to talk openly with their fertility specialist about what’s safe and when. Emotional closeness and gentle affection can help reduce stress and keep your bond strong during this challenging time.

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Sex during IVF is not a complete no-go, but timing is everything. It’s usually fine before treatment starts, but once ovarian stimulation begins and after embryo transfer, it’s best to follow your doctor’s advice and take a break. Always check with your fertility specialist for personalised guidance.