Timed intercourse

Timed intercourse is a fertility approach in which couples are advised to have intercourse during the fertile window, the days leading up to and including ovulation, to maximise the chance of conception. It may be used on its own, guided by ovulation tracking methods, or combined with ovulation induction medicines and ultrasound monitoring when a woman has irregular ovulation. Timed intercourse is usually tried before moving to procedures such as IUI or IVF, particularly in couples with no identified major fertility problem. If pregnancy does not occur after a reasonable period of timed intercourse, further fertility evaluation is generally recommended.

Also known as: intercourse timing, fertile window planning

Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.