There's no magic number of attempts to guarantee pregnancy. Success depends on several factors, including timing and the health of both partners. However, research offers helpful guidance.
Optimal Frequency for Conception
Most sources recommend having sex regularly, ideally every other day or even daily, especially around the time of ovulation. This increases the chances of sperm being present when the egg is released. The specific time frame for optimal intercourse is generally considered the six days leading up to and including ovulation.
- Daily or Every Other Day: Several sources, including ACOG and MedicineNet, suggest this frequency during the fertile window. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/the-latest/trying-to-get-pregnant-heres-when-to-have-sex https://www.medicinenet.com/how_many_attempts_does_it_take_to_get_pregnant/article.htm
- Every Two to Three Days: Other sources, like American Pregnancy Association and BabyCenter, suggest a slightly less frequent approach. https://americanpregnancy.org/getting-pregnant/how-to-get-pregnant/ https://www.babycenter.com/getting-pregnant/how-to-get-pregnant/can-having-too-much-sex-affect-our-chances-of-conception_6145
Time Frame and Success Rates
It's important to understand that even with frequent intercourse during the fertile window, pregnancy isn't guaranteed.
- Within One Year: Most healthy couples having regular unprotected sex conceive within a year. https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/trying-for-a-baby/how-long-it-takes-to-get-pregnant/ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/how-to-get-pregnant/art-20047611
- Three Cycles: A significant percentage (45%) of younger couples (under 35) conceive within three menstrual cycles. https://flo.health/getting-pregnant/trying-to-conceive/fertility/how-long-does-it-take-to-get-pregnant
The key is regular intercourse around ovulation, not a specific number of attempts.
