Can You Have Sex During IVF? [What to Know by Stage]

If you're going through IVF, chances are you've already been told a lot about what not to do. No hot baths. No supplements without approval. No intense workouts. So it’s only natural to ask: Can I have sex during IVF?

The answer is: it depends on the phase you’re in—and your body’s individual response to treatment.

At fertie, we believe that informed choices lead to empowered experiences. Whether you’re wondering about safety, intimacy, or just trying to keep things feeling “normal,” here’s what you need to know.

Sex Before IVF Starts: Usually Fine

Before stimulation begins (i.e., before hormone injections), having sex is typically safe and totally fine—as long as:

• You’re not already at risk of ovarian cysts or overstimulation

• Your doctor hasn’t advised against it due to a medical concern

This is often a great time to connect physically and emotionally before treatment starts.

During Stimulation: Caution Is Key

Once you begin hormone injections to stimulate your ovaries, things start to change:

• Your ovaries are growing rapidly and may become enlarged and tender

• Sex can be uncomfortable, and in some cases, risky

Most clinics recommend avoiding penetrative sex during stimulation, especially once follicles begin to mature.

Why?

• There’s a small but real risk of ovarian torsion, where the ovary twists due to its increased size—this is rare, but serious

• Your ovaries are delicate during this time, and too much movement or pressure can cause pain

That said, intimacy doesn’t have to stop. Many couples explore other ways to feel close—like touch, massage, or simply slowing down together.

After Egg Retrieval: Give It a Minute

You’ll likely feel sore after egg collection. Most people need a few days to recover:

• Mild cramping, bloating, or spotting is common

• Your ovaries are still enlarged, so sex is usually not recommended for at least 5–7 days

Your clinic may give you a specific timeline based on how many follicles were retrieved and how you're feeling physically.

After Embryo Transfer: Follow Your Clinic’s Advice

This is the stage with the most mixed guidance:

• Some clinics recommend avoiding sex entirely during the two-week wait to avoid uterine contractions that could disrupt implantation

• Others say it’s okay after a few days if there are no complications

Every clinic has its own protocol, so always ask your doctor or nurse what’s recommended for your situation.

If you’ve had frozen embryo transfer (FET) or natural cycle IVF, your timeline and restrictions may be different—so always double-check.

Final Thoughts

Can you have sex during IVF? The short answer: sometimes yes, sometimes no—and it depends on the stage and how your body is responding.

More importantly, intimacy during IVF isn’t just about physical connection. It’s about communication, tenderness, and finding ways to stay close through a process that can sometimes feel clinical or emotionally distant.

👉 Inside our Fertility 101 course, we break down the full IVF timeline—including physical prep, emotional support, and how to navigate tricky moments like this with clarity and care.

Because IVF isn’t just about protocols—it’s about people. And you deserve to feel supported, seen, and informed every step of the way.

You don’t have to figure this alone

Inside fertie, you’ll get:

• Expert-led courses to make informed decisions

• Private support from women on the same path

• Exclusive partner clinic perks & discounts

Disclaimer: Prices and treatment protocols vary by clinic and individual. Always consult with your fertility specialist for accurate, up-to-date pricing and guidance tailored to your situation.