Gynaecologists have confirmed that, aside from issues related to a woman’s reproductive health or non-viable sperm, sexual positions do not influence conception.

Claims suggesting that certain sexual positions can facilitate faster conception have been debunked by maternal health experts, who find no scientific support for such assertions.

Research has indicated that positions like missionary, doggy style, and spooning are believed by some to enhance conception rates. Proponents argue that these positions allow the penis to be closer to the cervix, thereby facilitating sperm access to the fallopian tubes. However, gynaecologists assert that as long as healthy sperm reaches the vagina and can swim to the cervix, conception can occur regardless of the position used. They also noted that sexual position is only a consideration when it comes to sex selection.

Professor Ernest Orji, an Obstetrics and Gynaecology expert at Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife, emphasized that there is no evidence to support the idea that one position is more effective than another for conception. “There is no sexual position that will prevent a woman from getting pregnant. Sometimes, a man can even ejaculate on the woman’s thigh, and she can still conceive. As long as sperm enters the vagina, pregnancy is possible,” he explained.

He further clarified that as long as the sperm and the woman’s reproductive system are normal, the position during intercourse does not affect the chances of pregnancy. “The cervix can be introverted, but sperm can move freely. Unless the cervix is blocked, no position enhances the likelihood of conception,” he added.

Dr. Stanley Egbogu, a Consultant Gynaecologist, echoed these sentiments, stating that sexual position is only relevant in the context of sex or gender selection. He remarked, “When there’s difficulty in conceiving, we don’t consider the position. It doesn’t matter.”

Dr. Egbogu also pointed out that even methods like withdrawal can lead to pregnancy due to the presence of sperm in pre-ejaculatory fluid. “No sexual position can effectively prevent pregnancy,” he asserted. “Whether it’s missionary, lateral, or doggy style, quality sperm and eggs are what matter for conception.”

He stressed that those wishing to avoid pregnancy should rely on established family planning methods rather than focusing on sexual positions. “We have guidelines for family planning, including emergency contraception, condoms, oral contraceptives, and more,” he noted. “Withdrawal is a method of family planning, but it has a high failure rate. Ultimately, no sexual position serves as a reliable method for preventing pregnancy.”