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Do we need to lie down or keep legs raised after intercourse to help conception?

Meera4h ago

My mother-in-law insists I lie with my legs up for half an hour. I feel silly doing it every time. Does it make any difference?

1 answer

Jyoti B.

2h ago

This is one of the most common pieces of advice, and the honest answer is that there's no good evidence it improves natural conception. Healthy sperm start swimming into the cervix within minutes of ejaculation, and the fluid that comes out afterwards is mostly seminal fluid, not the sperm that matter. Raising your legs doesn't change how gravity works inside the uterus in any meaningful way. Resting for a few minutes is harmless, and if it feels relaxing or reassuring, there's no reason to stop. But you don't need to stay still for long, and there's no need to worry if you get up to use the washroom. Urinating after intercourse is actually helpful for preventing urinary infections. What makes a bigger difference is having intercourse regularly, every one to two days around your fertile window, and making sure both partners get a basic evaluation if it's taking longer than expected. If you've been trying for a year (or six months if you're 35 or older), it's time to see a doctor rather than adjusting positions.

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