In Jainism, the answer depends on who you are:

1. For monks and nuns (sadhu–sadhvi)

- No, they cannot have sex. - They take the great vow of complete brahmacharya – total celibacy in thought, speech and body. - Any sexual activity or deliberate sexual thoughts are a serious violation of their vows.

1. For lay Jains (householders – shravak/shravika)

- Yes, but with strict limits. - Sex is seen as a form of sense‑pleasure that increases attachment and passions, so it is allowed only in a controlled and dharmic way: - Only within marriage. - Only with one’s own spouse (no premarital or extramarital sex). - With restraint and responsibility, not for wild indulgence. - With ahimsa (non‑violence), respect and mutual consent – no force, manipulation or harm. - For laypeople, brahmacharya is a small vow (anuvrat): being faithful to one spouse, avoiding other sexual contacts, and gradually reducing passion and dependence on sex.

1. Spiritual ideal

- The highest ideal in Jain Dharma is complete celibacy, because sex is closely tied to raag (attachment) and kashaya (passions), which bind karma. - So even for householders, the guidance is: - Use sex responsibly in grihasth (family) life. - Over time, reduce it and observe celibate days (like upvas/poshad, Paryushan, etc.). - Move gradually toward greater self‑control.

So in simple words:

• Monks/nuns – no sex at all.
• Ordinary Jains – sex only with your married partner, with restraint, respect, and as a step toward higher brahmacharya.

You can read more here