Fact - For a couple trying to conceive, the role of orgasm is clearly defined for a man. Orgasm in a man is required for ejaculation; and ejaculation is necessary for depositing sperms in the female genital tract for conception. However, a woman having an orgasm is ‘not a must’ to get pregnant. Women do get pregnant even if they do not have an orgasm.

Although experts believe that the uterine contractions during orgasm may better propel sperm into the cervix, female orgasm has no clearly defined role in conception. Read further to know more about how a female orgasm and conception.

Previously, there were some theories about female orgasm linking its requirement to conception. The poleaxe theory and the up-suck theory.

  • According to the poleaxe theory orgasms are mechanisms to tire women out forcing them to lie down, making it easier for the sperms to reach their destination. 
  • According to the hypothesis of the up-suck theory, the contractions of the uterus induced by orgasm help "suck up" the semen that gets deposited near the cervix and move the sperm through the uterus and fallopian tubes. However, there is not much evidence in support of this hypothesis as well.

Numerous studies have proven both the theories to be inconclusive, as it isn't clear whether or not lying down after sex can help you get pregnant; and the sperms ability to swim through the genital tract seems to be unaffected by uterine contractions. 

Take Home Message: An orgasm in a woman may or may not be necessary for her to get pregnant. But, orgasms do cause a surge of oxytocin that helps relieve stress and help the woman relax during sex. Relaxation may contribute to better chances of conceiving. On the contrary, if sex is completely fixated on the desire for orgasm linking it to the desire to get pregnant, sex may feel pressured adding frustration to your baby-making.

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