About This Article
Zoom Baby has provided pregnancy, ovulation and fertility tests and guidance for over 20 years. This article covers the timing and frequency of sex, positions, what to do afterwards and when to seek fertility advice.
Published: 19 December 2023 | Last Updated: 29 September 2026 | By: Anthony Cunningham
Trying to conceive a baby can be an exciting yet stressful time. Knowing when and how often to have sex, which positions work best, and what to do afterwards are common questions for couples attempting to get pregnant. This guide covers the key points to maximise your chances of conceiving.
Contents
- When Is the Best Time?
- How Often Should You Have Sex?
- Does Sex Position Matter?
- What Should You Do After Sex?
- Keeping Your Sex Life Fun
- Managing Stress While Trying to Conceive
- When to Seek Help
When Is the Best Time?
Your most fertile days are the four or five leading up to ovulation, when your egg is released, as well as the day itself. This is the prime time to have sex if you want to get pregnant. But knowing exactly when you will ovulate can be tricky if your menstrual cycle length varies.
On average, ovulation occurs around 14 days before the start of your next period. So if your cycle runs between 24 and 30 days, you will likely ovulate sometime between cycle days 10 and 16. There are home ovulation test kits available to detect the hormone surge before ovulation each month. Tracking other ovulation signs like cervical mucus can also help pinpoint your best conception days.
Once an egg is released, it only lives for 12-24 hours. But sperm can survive for several days inside the female reproductive tract. Having sex in the days leading up to ovulation ensures sperm will be there ready and waiting when the egg appears.
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If you want to track your cycle, Zoom Baby ovulation test strips detect the LH surge that occurs before ovulation. They can help you identify when to have sex, although regular sex throughout the month is also an option.
How Often Should You Have Sex?
You may think having sex multiple times per day gives you the best odds of getting pregnant. There is no need to do so: regular sex gives sperm a good chance of being present when you ovulate.
The NHS recommends having sex every 2 to 3 days throughout the month. If you are tracking ovulation, having sex every 1 to 2 days during your fertile window is also reasonable. Choose a frequency that feels comfortable for you both.
Does Sex Position Matter?
Good news: you do not have to stick solely to man on top or other gravity-defying positions when trying for a baby. There is no evidence that one sex position is better than another for conception.
Some believe man on top allows sperm to be deposited closest to the cervix. However, there is no evidence that changing position improves your chances of conceiving. Some semen leaking out afterwards is normal and does not mean you need to change position.
So enjoy the full repertoire of sex positions without worrying about impacting your chances. Finding those that allow maximum comfort and pleasure will make the baby-making process more enjoyable.
What Should You Do After Sex?
Some people advise lying still after sex with your hips elevated on a pillow. There is no evidence that this improves your chances of pregnancy.
Do whatever feels most comfortable for you.
Avoid douching, as this can disturb the vagina’s natural balance and increase the risk of infection. You do not need to avoid an ordinary bath after sex to keep sperm in place.
Keeping Your Sex Life Fun
Attempting to conceive over several cycles understandably takes the excitement out of sex when planned on schedule. Making conscious effort to keep your intimate times together fun can make the experience more fulfilling.
Introducing sex toys, activities like sensual massage, roleplay scenarios and experimenting with fantasy can all ignite passion. Use lots of foreplay so you become fully aroused. Lubricant can help too but be sure to choose a sperm-friendly variety.
Managing Stress While Trying to Conceive
The process of trying for a baby can become stressful and disheartening when month after month goes by without success. Looking after your mental health is as important as tracking cycles and timing intercourse.
Make time for self-care through activities like yoga, meditation, or meeting friends. Talk openly with your partner about how you are both feeling. Consider seeing a counsellor who specialises in fertility issues if anxiety or low moods persist.
When to Seek Help
See your GP if you have not conceived after a year of regular unprotected sex. Seek advice sooner if the person trying to become pregnant is aged 36 or over, or if either partner has another reason to be concerned about fertility. Common investigations include semen analysis and tests to check ovulation.
Underlying health conditions, obstructed fallopian tubes, or poor sperm motility are issues that can often be treated. In other cases, assisted conception techniques like IVF may be recommended.
Don’t hesitate to consult your GP if you have any concerns about your fertility or need support on your path to parenthood.
Trying for a baby can be stressful. But knowing the facts around conception sex, like the best timing, positions and practices, will help maximise your chances of success. Most importantly, keep communicating and supporting each other through the highs and lows. Maintaining intimacy, reducing stress, and seeking help when needed will give you the best foundation to create new life together.
About the Author
Anthony Cunningham, BA (Hons), MA, is a UK-based fertility testing expert and editor with over 20 years’ experience running Zoom Baby, a trusted source for accurate pregnancy, ovulation and fertility tests and testing guidance. He creates clear, evidence-based articles using NHS guidance, professional fertility resources, and conception planning best practices. Where possible, content is reviewed by fertility specialists and healthcare professionals to enhance accuracy and reliability, helping readers make informed testing decisions.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have concerns about your health or symptoms, speak to your GP or another qualified healthcare professional. In an emergency, seek urgent medical help.
