Sexual positions to promote conception
Getting pregnant is not as straightforward as it may seem and some couples struggle to conceive. There are a number of ways you can try to boost fertility and increase your chances of conceiving a baby; one of these methods is to try certain sexual positions. Experts are divided over the efficacy of trying different positions; there are those who believe some positions promote conception, while others believe there is no evidence to support this belief.
Regardless, the following includes what are some of the most recommend sexual positions to promote conception, according to experts:
The Missionary position
The missionary position, which involves the man being on top of the woman, promotes conception because it allows for deep penetration; this means that the sperm is closer to the cervix when the male ejaculates. There are also various variations of this position, which can also promote conception; placing a pillow or cushion under the woman’s buttocks will raise the hips and bring the sperm even closer to the cervix when the man ejaculates and this may increase the chances of conception. The missionary position enables the sperm to flow in the right direction for conception, rather than working against gravity, which occurs when the woman is either on top or standing up.
Side by side
Lying side by side enables deep penetration and can be beneficial for couples who are overweight or suffer from back pain; this position is also more relaxing so it may benefit those who are trying for a baby and trying to have sexual intercourse as often as possible.
Penetration from behind
A man standing or kneeling behind the woman and entering from behind enables the deepest possible penetration and ensures the sperm are working with gravity and flowing towards the cervix when the man ejaculates.
Some experts recommend lying down with the hips raised for up to fifteen minutes after the man has ejaculated; this is to ensure that the sperm stay in the vagina, increasing the chances of conception.
Some experts recommend avoiding the following positions if you are trying to conceive:
Woman on top
When the woman is on top, the sperm are working against gravity and it is harder for the sperm to reach the cervix.
Standing up
If the woman is standing up, the sperm will again be working against gravity and it may ne harder for the sperm to reach the cervix once the man has ejaculated.
Getting Pregnant Guide
- Pregnancy & Birth Guide
- Getting Pregnant
- Deciding to have a baby
- Preparing for Pregnancy
- Sexual positions to promote conception
- Timing baby-making
- Products to promote conception
- Time it takes to get pregnant
- How long does it take to get pregnant?
- The quick guide to a well-planned pregnancy
- Teenage Pregnancy
- What they don’t tell you about pregnancy
- Myths about Getting Pregnant
- Choosing a Doctor or Midwife
- Rights for parents during pregnancy
- Pregnancy: Private or NHS?
- Getting Pregnant FAQ
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- Guide to Getting Pregnant
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- Guide to Giving Birth
- Guide to Pregnancy Tests
- Mother, Baby & Beyond Guide
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- Pregnancy calendar guide
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