When you are trying to conceive, it’s important to remember that the majority of couples do not get pregnant right away. Your chances of conceiving each cycle you try are 25-30% for those 35 or younger; 8-15% for those 35-39 years old; 5% for those 40-42 years old; and 1-2% for those at age 43.
Struggling to conceive can be frustrating and overwhelming, but there are some things you can do to increase your chances of getting pregnant. Continue reading for our list of 6 changes you can incorporate into your life to potentially help increase your chances of getting pregnant.
1. Maintaining A Healthy Weight
Studies have found that being overweight, obese, or underweight can affect women’s ability to conceive. Being overweight/underweight can cause hormonal imbalances, issues with ovulation, menstrual disorders, and can cause difficulties with assisted reproduction. To have the best chance at conceiving, it is best to be at a healthy weight for your height and body type. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider to determine your ideal weight and advise you on the steps you should take to achieve it.
2. Quitting Smoking
According to research, smoking cigarettes harms overall health and directly reduces fertility. Smoking and exposure to cigarette smoke may harm the reproductive system, can negatively affect hormone production, and can damage the DNA in sperm. Furthermore, smoking increases the risk of birth defects and ectopic pregnancy. Speak with your healthcare provider to help create a smoking cessation plan that is right for you.
3. Reducing Alcohol and Caffeine Intake
While studies on caffeine intake’s effect on fertility and ability to conceive have shown mixed results, to be on the safe side it is recommended that women trying to conceive limit their caffeine consumption to 200 mg per day, the equivalent to approximately 2 cups of coffee. Alcohol is recommended to be avoided entirely when trying to conceive and during pregnancy.
4. Managing Stress
Studies have found that stress can affect fertility and reduce the likelihood of becoming pregnant, with one study finding that pregnancy was less likely to occur during months when couples felt tense or unhappy, and more likely to occur during months when couples reported feeling relaxed. Trying to conceive can be stressful in itself, so it’s important to find a way to manage stress that works for you or to seek out professional help to improve your mental health.
5. Timing Intercourse During Ovulation
If you are trying to conceive, start tracking your menstrual cycle to determine when you are ovulating and time intercourse during this fertile window. Cycle tracking can involve tracking the duration of your menstrual cycle, symptoms, and measuring basal body temperature.
6. Seeking Guidance from A Fertility Specialist
If you are planning to become pregnant, it is recommended to book a preconception visit with a fertility specialist to assess your fertility health, get an STI screening, ensure any pre-existing health conditions are under control, discuss genetic disorders, and overall receive an overview of your health.
Remember, everyone’s journey is different, but taking steps towards a healthy lifestyle can make a big difference in your fertility.