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Peri-implantation Abstinence and Placental Health
Sponsor: Universiti Sains Malaysia
Summary
This study examined whether avoiding sexual intercourse during the time when a fertilized egg may attach to the uterus affects placental development and pregnancy outcomes. Couples who were trying to conceive naturally were assigned by chance to one of two groups. Couples in the abstinence group were asked to avoid sexual intercourse for 14 days after ovulation. Couples in the no-restriction group continued their usual sexual activity without a study-imposed restriction. Participants were followed to determine whether pregnancy occurred and, when applicable, through pregnancy and delivery. During pregnancy, ultrasound was used to assess blood flow between the pregnant participant, placenta, and fetus. After delivery, available placentas were examined for tissue changes, blood-vessel development, and markers of oxidative stress, which reflects the balance between potentially damaging oxidants and the body's antioxidant defenses. Pregnancy and birth outcomes were also recorded. The study was designed to improve understanding of whether sexual activity around the time of implantation may be associated with placental development and pregnancy outcomes.
Official title: Effects of Peri-Implantation Sexual Abstinence on Placentation and Its Outcomes
Key Details
Gender
FEMALE
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
94
Start Date
2021-10-01
Completion Date
2025-10-10
Last Updated
2026-09-25
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Conditions
Interventions
Couples were instructed to avoid sexual intercourse for 14 days after ovulation during each study cycle, covering the expected peri-implantation period.
Couples assigned to the intervention were instructed to avoid vaginal sexual intercourse for 14 consecutive days after ovulation during each study cycle. Ovulation timing was identified using the method specified in the study protocol. The restriction covered the expected peri-implantation period. After the 14-day abstinence period, no further study-imposed restriction on sexual activity was applied
Locations (1)
Hospital USM
Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia