4 Ways IVF Impacts Sexual Health, According to IVF Expert

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) has transformed the lives of couples struggling with fertility, offering them the chance to become parents. While the medical success of IVF is widely recognised, its effect on sexual health is more complex. The process can influence intimacy, desire, and physical comfort in both the short and long term.

This article is authored by Dr Puneet Rana Arora, Gynaecologist & IVF Expert, CIFAR, Gurugram

Psychological Effect: Stress and Reduced Libido

The emotional weight of IVF often plays a direct role in sexual health. Anxiety, tension, and treatment-related mood swings can alter libido and sexual function. As hormone injections take their toll, couples may feel exhausted and less inclined towards intimacy. For many, sex becomes overshadowed by pressure, lowering both desire and satisfaction.

Physical Impact: Short-Term Discomfort

IVF involves several procedures that can affect the body physically. Interventions such as egg collection or embryo transfer may leave women experiencing soreness and fatigue. A known side effect, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), can cause bloating, pain, and discomfort during intercourse. Hormonal changes may also result in vaginal dryness, making sex painful in the short run.

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Relationship Dynamics: From Passion to Pressure

Beyond physical effects, IVF can shift the dynamics within a relationship. For some couples, the focus on conception transforms intimacy into a task rather than an act of connection. Sex can lose its spontaneity during IVF treatment, which sometimes strains emotional closeness between partners. Over time, this medicalisation of sex can compromise pleasure.

Long-Term Impact: Gradual Recovery

Most individuals find that sexual difficulties are temporary. Once IVF treatment concludes and the stress surrounding conception eases, many couples report an improvement in intimacy. However, for some women, challenges such as reduced lubrication or lingering discomfort may continue. With the right medical and emotional support, these issues can be managed, helping couples rebuild a fulfilling sexual relationship.

IVF is a powerful tool for overcoming fertility struggles, but its impact on sexual health cannot be ignored. By recognising the psychological, physical, and relational challenges involved, couples can approach treatment with awareness and seek timely guidance to protect their intimacy.

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