Trying to conceive
Aside from medical and technological advances which can help increase a woman’s fertility, there are some natural methods to doing so which can be less abrasive. In order to be able to conceive, a woman must produce a fertilizable egg once every month and a man must produce sperm strong enough to reach the egg and penetrate it. The most natural way to increase chances of conceiving is following the woman’s menstrual cycle. Having sex when the woman is ovulating can greatly improve fertility. Monitoring the basal body temperature can be a good way to keep track of ovulation . The basal body temperature, or BBT, is the body’s core temperature and rises slightly during ovulation. Fertility charts and monitors can be good aids in determining this crucial time period for a woman. Ovulation usually occurs about 14 days following the menstrual cycle. The exact term of ovulation will vary within the cycle because of delays such as stress, sickness, diet, or working out. Sexual positions such as man on top missionary and spooning are also great ways to increase fertility naturally. Diet can also have a major affect on fertility. It has been shown that foods such as Vitamin C, D, A, and antioxidants can greatly improve the chances of conceiving. However, foods such as alcohol, caffeine, and foods containing xenoestrogens can greatly reduce the chances of conceiving. A good exercise regime and herbs such as Chasteberry and Dong Quai are known for their positive affects on fertility.
Current guidance (today's medical sources): Conception is most likely around ovulation, which in a typical cycle occurs roughly midway between periods, though cycles vary. Tracking the fertile window — for example with cycle dates, ovulation predictor kits, or basal body temperature — can help with timing. Health authorities generally advise people who could become pregnant to take about 400 micrograms of folic acid daily before and in early pregnancy, to avoid smoking and alcohol, and to reach a healthy weight where possible. Many couples conceive within a year. It is commonly suggested to seek advice if pregnancy has not occurred after about a year of trying, or after six months if the person is over thirty-five, or sooner if there are known fertility concerns. There is no good scientific evidence that particular sexual positions improve the chance of conceiving.
Contact your healthcare provider promptly about heavy vaginal bleeding, severe or persistent abdominal pain, a high fever, severe or sudden headache, vision changes, or fainting. Seek urgent care if you are worried — these can be signs that need medical attention.
Sources: CDC — Folic Acid; NHS — Trying to get pregnant; ACOG — Evaluating Infertility. Informational only. See our sources & medical-review policy.
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Open the week-by-week guide →Informational only — not medical advice. Pregnancy Week to Week is a general educational reference. It is not a substitute for professional medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. Every pregnancy is different: always consult your doctor, midwife, or other qualified healthcare provider about your own pregnancy, and never disregard or delay professional advice because of something you read here. In an emergency, contact your maternity unit or local emergency number immediately.