1. Have Regular S*x
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To increase your chances of getting pregnant, it is vital that you regularly 'do it' during your fertile window. This period is usually the day your ovulation period begins, and 5 days prior, and is when the egg is most likely to be fertilized by the sperm.
2. Track Your Ovulation
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There are several methods to track ovulation, including a predictor kit which can detect a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) in your urine which usually occurs 24-48 hours before ovulation. The other method is basal body temperature tracking which involves taking your temperature every morning before getting out of bed to detect the small rise in temperature that occurs after ovulation.
3. Maintain A Healthy Weight
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Being underweight or overweight can make it difficult to conceive. If you are overweight, excess body fat can disrupt hormone levels, and if you are underweight, your body may not be producing enough hormones to support ovulation. Both factors can impact your chances of conceiving.
4. Eat A Balanced Diet
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A balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can improve fertility. research has shown that women who eat a Mediterranean-style diet that includes lots of fruits, vegetables, fish, and whole grains may have a higher chance of getting pregnant. On the other hand, a diet that is high in processed foods and saturated fats may decrease fertility.
5. Avoid Smoking
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Smoking, along with alcohol and drugs, can all decrease fertility, and increase the risk of miscarriage. Smoking can damage eggs and sperm, while alcohol and drugs can interfere with ovulation and sperm production. Abusing substances like these ones create an uninhabitable home for your fetus, so cut these things out so your baby wants to stick around!
6. Reduce Stress Levels
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High levels of stress can interfere with ovulation and make it more difficult to conceive. Try relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to de-stress. It is important to exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and spend time with loved ones to help reduce stress.
7. Maximise Your Sleep
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Getting enough sleep is important for regulating hormones and improving fertility. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night and establish a regular sleep routine. A lack of sleep can disrupt your hormone balance, and if stress is disrupting your sleep, it can interfere with ovulation, and decrease your libido.
8. Avoid Lubricants
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Some lubricants can interfere with sperm movement and make it more difficult to conceive. While lubricants provide extra comfort, certain types can negatively affect the quality of sperm, which can lead to reduced fertility. You can try natural alternatives like coconut oil, or try out a fertility-friendly lubricant instead.
9. Position It Right
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The position you use during intercourse can influence how sperm moves inside the female reproductive system, and therefore the likelihood of conception. certain positions can help sperm travel more easily to the cervix and travel towards the egg while others will penetrate less, decreasing your chances!
10. Consider Fertility Supplements
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Some supplements such as folic acid, zinc, and vitamin D may improve fertility. Folic acid, for example, can help prevent birth defects and increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy. Vitamin D can also help regulate ovulation in women; however, it is always important to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements.
11. Try Different Timings
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Timing is key when it comes to conception. Have s*x in the days leading up to ovulation, and on the day of ovulation itself. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to 5 days, so these days can be really important to increase your chances.
12. Avoid Hot Tubs & Saunas
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Exposure to high temperatures can decrease sperm production in men and interfere with ovulation in women! Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and hot baths when trying to conceive. Exposure to high high temperatures for a prolonged period of time can reduce sperm count and mobility, which reduces your chances of conceiving.
13. Stay Hydrated
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Drinking plenty of water can help improve fertility by increasing cervical mucus production and helping sperm travel more easily. Cervical mucus is necessary for the sperm to reach the egg, and dehydration can reduce its production. Drinking plenty of water could also flush out any toxins from the body, which can help fertility.
14. Get STI Checked!
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STIs such as Chlamydia and Gonorrhea can cause infertility if left untreated. Get tested and treated for any STIs before trying to conceive. Untreated STIs can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, which can cause scarring of the fallopian tubes, leading to infertility.
15. Watch Out For Toxins
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Exposure to pesticides, chemicals, and other environmental toxins can interfere with fertility. Use natural cleaning products, avoid pesticides and herbicides, and limit exposure to plastics and other synthetic materials. If you're at a loss, this could be something to consider!
16. Consider Acupuncture
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Acupuncture is a form, of traditional Chinese medication that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. Acupuncture may improve fertility by reducing stress! While there is no conclusive evidence that it can directly increase the chances of getting pregnant, some studies have shown that it may be helpful in improving fertility.
17. Exercise Regularly
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Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight and improve fertility. However, excessive exercise can have the opposite effect, so it is important to find a balance that works for you. Regular exercise can improve blood flow to the reproductive system, and can be a massive stress reliever as high stress levels can reduce fertility.
18. Practice Good Hygiene
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Practicing good hygiene can reduce the risk of infections that can affect fertility. This includes washing your hands regularly, and using condoms to avoid STIs. Good hygiene also helps maintain a healthy vaginal environment; your vagina has a delicate balance of bacteria, so avoid using any harsh soaps that could impact that.
19. Reduce Caffeine Intake
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While moderate caffeine intake is generally safe, excessive caffeine consumption can negatively impact fertility. Caffeine provides a short spurt of energy, followed by a huge dip which can negatively impact your mood, energy levels, and sleeping patterns. Try and avoid it if you are trying to conceive... as hard as it will be!
20. Check Your Medication
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Some medications, such as antidepressants, can negatively impact fertility. Talk to your healthcare provider about any medications you are currently taking, and it could turn out that they are having an impact on your fertility. This is something a doctor can tell you, you should not try and figure this out on your own.
21. Avoid Exposure To Radiation
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Exposure to radiation, such as from X-rays, could negatively impact fertility. If you need to have any X-rays, make sure you let your healthcare provider know you are trying to conceive. Radiation has the potential to damage the DNA in the reproductive cells, so if you are trying to conceive, it could lower your chances. There are alternative imaging methods that may be safer for reproductive health.
22. Underlying Medical Conditions?
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Medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and thyroid disorders can all negatively impact fertility. Seeking treatment for these conditions could improve your chances of getting pregnant. These conditions may have gone undetected, so chat to your healthcare providers and they will provide guidance.
23. Consider Fertility Treatments
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If you have been trying to conceive for some time without success, fertility treatments such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI) may be an option. IVF and IUI are two different types of assisted reproductive technologies used to help individuals or couples conceive.
24. Seek Support
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Trying to conceive can be a stressful and emotional process, and the more stressed and emotional you are, the more difficult it could be to conceive. Seeking support from friends, family, or a support group can help you manage stress and stay positive. Remember, you are NEVER alone!
25. Monitor Your Menstrual Cycle
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Tracking your menstrual cycle can help you determine when you are most fertile and allows you to time intercourse accordingly. There are a variety of methods available for tracking your cycle, including basal body temperature tracking, ovulation predictor kits, or even apps on your phone where you can input information of your symptoms and previous periods.
26. Consider Genetic Testing
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If you have a family history of genetic disorders or are concerned about genetic issues that could impact fertility, you may want to consider genetic testing. This can help identify any potential issues early on, and provide guidance on treatment options.
27. Consider Your Age
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Age can play a significant role in fertility. We've all come across the term 'biological clock' as after a certain age, your reproductive system isn't as effective as if you were younger. If you're over 35, you may want to talk to your healthcare provider about any additional steps you can take to improve your chances of getting pregnant.
28. Have Patience
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It is important to remember that getting pregnant can take time. It is perfectly normal for it to take several months, or even up to a year, to conceive. Remember, all good things take time, so don't be disheartened if it doesn't happen immediately. Be patient and keep trying, and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
29. Consider Going To The Doctor's Office
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If you have been trying to conceive for several months without success, consider seeing a doctor to determine if there are any underlying fertility issues. Don't be disheartened if you decide to see a doctor, they are happy to help and you DEFINITELY will not be the only one.
30. Stay Positive
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Trying to conceive can be stressful, but staying positive can help. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family, and practice self-care activities such as journaling, meditation, or hobbies that bring you joy. As we have already established, stress can interfere with ovulation, so keeping positive is vital!