How long can sperm survive?

[mytwolilprinces]

I have read that sperm generally survive for 3 days, but have also read elsewhere that it can be for up to 4-5 days.

Can anyone offer any clarification on this. We are currently ttc#3 and a girl (hopefully) but are in no hurry to conceive. My theory is that if the sperm can last for 4-5 days, wouldn't it increase our chances of a girl by having intercourse 4-5 days prior to ovulation. This is all based on the belief that female sperm outlive the male sperm (whether that is true or not, I'm not sure?).

If anyone knows or has experience of sperm actually being able to survive that long it would be great if you could let me know!

[Shakey]

from memory sperm can live up to 72 or 74hrs, but that is under good conditions, your right in thinking if you bd a few days early you may get a girl, but even then its still 50/50, do if you want a girl bd a couple of days before O

good luck with everything

[mytwolilprinces]

thanks, I've been doing a bit of research on the net and 3 days seems to be the general consensus (sp?) but I did come across some articles that said it could live for up to 7 days in optimum conditions, I suppose that is in a lab environment though and not in a cervix!

[nicoleE]

I have heard up to 5 days.

If you have not already get yourself a copy of Shettles' book Choosing the Sex of Your Baby. It isnt that expensive (under $20) and gives allot more information than what you will find on the Internet. Obviously his theory is what you are aiming at doing but he also has a few other hints and tips and other helpful information in the book.

I have the book as we were going to try for a boy for our 1st but we have ran into fertility problems and after 10 months of TTC I'll be happy with anything! lol (Seriously it just wasnt worth only BDing at certain times for us with expensive fertility treatment - we have to go for it whenever we can leading up to O time!!)

Good Luck!