Chances of Getting Pregnant With Woman On Top: The Science
You may have heard that certain sex positions increase the chances of pregnancy, but is this true? Ichhori investigates medically supported methods for couples to increase their chances of conception in this article.
If you're trying to conceive, you're probably wondering what sex position is best for getting pregnant.
The woman-on-top position has frequently been recommended as a successful method of conceiving because you can control the depth of penetration to ensure that the cervix (the opening of your womb) is right up against the penis during ejaculation.
However, are the chances of getting pregnant with a woman on top greater than with other sex positions? We asked a gynecologist to explain the research.
Chances of getting pregnant with the woman on top: Orgasms, pregnancy, and position
We all want more pleasurable sex, and being on top may be one of the best positions for achieving orgasm because you have more control over the level of stimulation and pace.
According to one study conducted by the University College Cork, having an orgasm increases the chances of becoming pregnant by up to 15%. So, what's the reasoning behind this? It is believed that when the hormone oxytocin is released during orgasm, it stimulates muscles in the uterus, transporting sperm to its proper location.
According to Dr. Anna Targonskaya, MD, Obstetrician-Gynaecologist and Medical Advisor at Flo. Health, "there is no evidence that the woman-on-top position is the best position to conceive."
Another common misconception is that having a woman on top may discourage sperm from traveling upstream. So, is it possible to get pregnant while on top, or does gravity work against you? The truth is that sperm enters the uterus within seconds of ejaculation, where they can fertilize an egg, regardless of position.
"Sperm has been found within the walls of the reproductive system after only one minute and within the uterine tubes after only five minutes," Dr. Targonskaya says. "A couple has a chance to conceive as long as sperm reaches the vagina, regardless of position."
Chances of getting pregnant with the woman on top: Can certain sex positions increase the chance of conception?
Let's face it: switching sex positions may reignite passion in the bedroom, but will it increase your chances of getting pregnant? One study published in the Journal of Sex and Marital Therapy used MRI scans to determine whether the missionary position or the doggy style actually brings sperm closer to the cervix. Yes, the tip of the penis does reach the cervix in both positions, according to the researchers, though the rear-entry position is deeper.
However, there is currently no scientific evidence to suggest that these positions will increase your chances of conceiving. “Sex positions don’t increase the chances of getting pregnant,” says Dr. Targonskaya. "Sex should not be viewed as a job done to get pregnant." Instead, it should be enjoyable, enjoyable, and relaxing."
In fact, a recent report by the Committee on Endocrine Gynecology of the Brazilian Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics Associations found that sex positions do not increase conception rates. The same study discovered that postcoital urban legends such as lying on your back after sex and increased chances of pregnancy are unfounded.
Chances of getting pregnant with the woman on top: How can you increase your chance of conceiving?
Here are some scientifically proven methods for couples to improve their chances of conception:
Have sex on your fertile days
The best time to conceive is during your cycle's most fertile period. These are the days leading up to ovulation, which is the release of a mature egg from one of your ovaries into your uterine tube. Furthermore, if sperm is present at the time of ovulation, the egg has a chance of being fertilized.
The day of ovulation is your most fertile day. Because sperm can live inside your body for up to five days before the egg is released, having sex up to five days before the egg is released can also result in pregnancy.
So, how do you know when you're ovulating? If you have a regular 28-day menstrual cycle, ovulation usually occurs about 14 days before the start of your next period. However, for the majority of us who have regular cycles that are longer or shorter than this, ovulation occurs between days 10 and 16.
"It's best to schedule sex around ovulation," Dr. Targonskayaadvises. "For most people, there are six days when you can get pregnant — five days before ovulation and on the day of ovulation itself, when the chances of pregnancy are highest."
You can use a period tracker, such as Flo, to help you determine your fertile window. You may be able to detect ovulation symptoms a few days before ovulation if you are in tune with your body. Vaginal discharge will become clearer and stretchier, similar to raw egg whites. Mild pelvic or abdominal pain, as well as breast tenderness, are also possible.
Have sex more often, if you want to
"As long as you're in the mood," says Dr. Targonskaya, "try to have sex every day or every other day during your fertile window to increase your chances of pregnancy."
You may have heard that ejaculating every day reduces sperm counts. However, there is little evidence to support this claim. In fact, one study published in Fertility and Sterility discovered the inverse: men with low sperm count who ejaculated daily had higher than normal sperm concentration and motility (sperm movement).
Make healthy lifestyle changes
A healthy lifestyle may increase your chances of having a baby. The following are some healthy habits to adopt as a couple to improve your overall health while trying to conceive:
One study conducted by the University of Queensland discovered that making lifestyle changes in the months preceding pregnancy, such as becoming more active, quitting smoking, and eating well, can lead to fewer complications at birth.
Use the right lube
The lubricant has been found to reduce sperm motility, making it more difficult for it to reach the egg. Choose a sperm-friendly lubricant if you're trying to conceive. Dr. Targonskayarecommends lubricants based on mineral oil, canola oil, or hydroxyethyl cellulose (K-Y is one brand to look for).
Chances of getting pregnant with the woman on top: When to seek help if you are struggling to conceive
"If you're a healthy person — under the age of 35 — and have regular sex without contraception, doctors usually advise waiting at least a year before seeking professional advice if there are no obvious fertility problems," Dr. Targonskayaexplains. "After six months of trying to conceive, if you're 35 or older, you can schedule an appointment with your health care provider."
Schedule a medical appointment if you've been diagnosed with or suspect you have a condition like endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome. According to a review published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, you may be able to seek fertility services earlier than one year.
If you have any concerns about your fertility, you should consult with your doctor or a health care professional. They can refer you to a fertility specialist if necessary, who can run some simple tests to figure out what's wrong.
Some medical conditions and symptoms can increase your chances of becoming infertile. If you're under the age of 35 and you or your partner have experienced any of the following conditions or symptoms, make an appointment to be sure:
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
Chances of getting pregnant with the woman on top: The takeaway
If you're trying to conceive, you might be wondering if certain sex positions can help you. In a nutshell, no. There is little scientific evidence to suggest that any sex position, including woman-on-top, increases your chances of conceiving.
The good news is that any position that allows sperm to enter the vagina can result in pregnancy. It doesn't matter who is on top; what matters is that you find the sex position that makes you the most comfortable.