Some women get pregnant even without wanting to, while for others it is not easy to get pregnant and, sometimes, this experience can even be very frustrating. It may take up to a year for a healthy couple to conceive a baby, and sometimes even longer. Fortunately, there are several methods that can increase fertility and increase the chances of getting pregnant.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Trying to Conceive
Step 1. Have sex before, during and after the most fertile days
Once you find out you are ovulating, have sex regularly! You are more likely to get pregnant if you have daily intercourse before, during and after your monthly fertility period. However, if you don't have the option, schedule them 2-3 days before, during and after ovulation.
If you need a lubricant, make sure it's water-based and specially designed to help with conception
advise: create a relaxing environment, do not be too demanding with your partner and consider this moment as an opportunity to be together instead of stressing yourself at the idea that you have to have a baby.
Step 2. Continue taking basal temperature
It will help you to have a more complete picture of the progress of the menstrual cycle by allowing you to identify, if necessary, the most fertile days of the next cycle. Absence of menstruation and a high temperature beyond the expected term could also indicate that you are pregnant.
If the temperature remains high for 14 consecutive days after ovulation, the chances of pregnancy are very good
Step 3. Pay attention to the symptoms of fertilization
Some women experience implantation bleeding, which usually resembles mild spotting as the embryo lurks in the uterus wall. They typically occur 6-12 days after conception. It is an absolutely normal phenomenon and there is nothing to worry about, but do not hesitate to contact the gynecologist if in doubt.
You may also suffer from minor cramps, headaches, nausea, mood swings, breast pain, back pain that accompanies implantation bleeding
Step 4. Take a pregnancy test if you are not having your period
Once the ovulation period is over, the waiting begins. Wait for the next period - if it doesn't come, take a pregnancy test. These devices are 97% accurate, but can still indicate a false negative if done too early. If the result is negative and you still have pregnancy symptoms, repeat it after 1 week.
Keep in mind that most women don't get pregnant right away. Out of 100 couples who try to conceive each month, only 15 or 20 succeed. However, in 95% of cases, pregnancy occurs within two years
Part 2 of 4: Identify the Days You Are Most Fertile
Step 1. Calculate the cycle using a smartphone application or calendar.
Knowing your menstrual cycle is the best way to identify the most fertile days. Download an ovulation app to your phone or use a calendar to track your menstrual flow and write down the following information:
- The first day of the cycle: it is the beginning of the cycle, so you should indicate this on the calendar with the digit "1". Number the rest of the days until the last day of your period, which is the date you expect your next period.
- The daily basal temperature.
- Changes in the cervical mucus.
- Tests for ovulation prediction that are positive.
- The days you have sex.
- The last day of the cycle.
Step 2. Measure your basal temperature
Your body temperature rises slightly during ovulation, so it can tell you when you are fertile. Keep a thermometer by your bed and check it in the morning as soon as you wake up. Measure it around the same time every day to get a better idea. Then write it down. If you detect an increase between 0.2 ° C and 0.5 ° C for more than 24 hours, you are probably ovulating!
Fertility peaks 2-3 days first that your basal temperature rises, so if you notice the temperature spikes follow this pattern month after month, you can predict the best time to conceive.
advise: buy a basal thermometer. Do not use the normal one because it does not detect small thermal variations.
Step 3. Keep track of the cervical mucus
If the vaginal secretions are white in color and have an elastic consistency, such as egg white, you are most likely fertile. So, have sex every day, for 3-5 consecutive days from the time you notice this change in the consistency of the cervical mucus. Once it becomes duller until it disappears, you will be less likely to conceive.
You can check the consistency of the cervical mucus when you dry yourself after urinating or by introducing a clean finger into the vagina
Step 4. Use an ovulation prediction kit
You can buy it at a pharmacy or on the Internet. Eject some urine on the end of the strip or immerse it in a container containing your own urine, then wait a few minutes before checking the results. Typically, the test is positive if 2 lines of the same color appear or if the second is darker than the control line. If you bought a digital test, the screen will tell you if you are ovulating.
- As the expense may increase over time, test on the days you suspect you are ovulating. Typically those with test strips are cheaper.
- The ovulation prediction kit is not necessary to identify the most fertile days, but you need it especially when you are not sure and want confirmation.
Part 3 of 4: Preparing the Body for Pregnancy
Step 1. Get a gynecological check-up
Even if you have never experienced infertility problems, it would be advisable to undergo a gynecological examination before having a child in the yard. Some pre-existing conditions can worsen considerably following a conception. Your gynecologist will perform a pelvic ultrasound and prescribe blood tests for you. Some ailments to discard before getting pregnant include:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome, which could interfere with ovulation.
- Endometriosis, which typically inhibits fertility.
- Diabetes: if you keep it under control before conception, you can avoid the onset of congenital malformations commonly associated with this disease.
- Thyroid disorders: Like diabetes, they do not threaten pregnancy if diagnosed and monitored.
Step 2. Achieve your ideal weight before getting pregnant
According to some studies, clinically obese women have greater difficulties in conceiving and may even develop further complications during pregnancy. However, being underweight can also impair your ability to get pregnant. So, consult your gynecologist to find out what your ideal weight is and try to lose weight or put on a few pounds before trying to have a baby.
Clinically underweight women (who have a BMI below 18.5) can suffer from amenorrhea (no menstruation) and, as a result, have many problems with conceiving
Step 3. Take prenatal vitamins
If you start taking them before you get pregnant, you will have the nutrients needed for the embryo to grow in your system. For example, taking folic acid supplements before trying to conceive can decrease the risk of developing spina bifida and other neural tube defects. Ask your gynecologist to prescribe them or choose them yourself.
Folic acid supplements have also been shown to have a positive effect on fertility, so start taking them every day before setting up a baby
Step 4. Follow a diet of unprocessed foods to promote fertility
A healthy diet helps improve fertility and the chances of conception. Choose a diet rich in lean protein sources, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Here are some excellent options:
- Lean protein sources: Skinless chicken breast, lean ground beef, tofu and beans.
- Whole grains: brown rice, wholemeal pasta, wholemeal bread and oat flakes.
- Fruits: apples, oranges, grapes, blueberries, strawberries and melon.
- Vegetables: Broccoli, peppers, tomatoes, spinach, carrots, cabbage and kale.
Step 5. Encourage your partner to eat foods that promote sperm health
Men should take a multivitamin containing vitamins E and C, eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and avoid excessive intake of alcohol, caffeine, fat and sugar.
Additionally, they should make sure they are getting enough selenium (55 mcg per day) as this antioxidant appears to increase fertility especially in males
Step 6. Stop smoking
Smoking not only hurts the fetus, but more than anything else it reduces the chances of conception. Giving up smoking during pregnancy is very stressful, so save yourself some torment by quitting earlier.
Remember that secondhand smoke can also negatively affect your chances of getting pregnant. So, avoid being in contact with smokers in order to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke
advise: it is important that the partner does not smoke too! Male subjects who smoke regularly have a reduced and even more damaged sperm count.
Step 7. Do not drink alcohol to increase the chances of conception
Even 1 drink a day can affect fertility. In order not to waste any opportunities to get pregnant, absolutely avoid alcohol. If you indulge in one from time to time during your attempts to have a baby, make sure you don't go over 1 drink. If you consume more than 2, the woman's fertility decreases significantly.
The partner should also limit the intake of alcohol because it can decrease the sperm count and alter the quality of the sperm
Step 8. Limit your caffeine intake to no more than 200 mg per day
This dose includes the caffeine and theine contained in foods and beverages, such as chocolate, coffee, tea and cola. Women who consume more than 720ml of caffeinated beverages every day are less likely to get pregnant than those who drink up to 2.
- 240ml of coffee contains around 100mg of caffeine, so avoid drinking more than 480ml per day.
- Tea and cola contain less theine and caffeine, respectively, but these substances can accumulate in the body if consumed in excessive quantities. Therefore, do not consume more than 2 drinks per day to avoid exceeding the daily limit.
Step 9. Do not use contraceptive methods
Once you are physically ready for conception, stop using any methods or devices that help prevent pregnancy. If you are taking the birth control pill it may take 2-3 months before you start to ovulate normally and be fertilized. However, if you used a simple barrier contraceptive you could get pregnant immediately.
If you have an intrauterine device (IUD), consult your gynecologist to remove it and regain the ability to conceive
Step 10. See a reproductive doctor or sex therapist if necessary
If couple sex becomes problematic, you may find it difficult to conceive a baby. A specialist doctor or sexologist can help you overcome these difficulties.
Avoid infertility problems from ruining your relationship. The pressures of wanting to have a child, as well as invasive and emotionally stressful fertility treatments, can lead to sexual dysfunction and make conception even more difficult
Part 4 of 4: Seeking Infertility Treatment
Step 1. Set a deadline for seeing a doctor, considering your age, health condition, and the time since you decided to try to get pregnant
It's hard to be patient when trying to have a baby, but give yourself some time. Setting a deadline to see a doctor can ease your anxiety and prepare you for the next step. That's when you should seek medical attention.
- Healthy couples under 30 who have regular sex (twice a week) should be able to conceive within 12 months (plus the time needed to physiologically adjust to stopping contraceptives).
- If you are over 30, see your gynecologist after 6 months of trying. Women over the age of 30 and those in perimenopause may have difficulty getting pregnant due to the natural decline in fertility that occurs with advancing age. However, in most cases it is still possible to have a baby, but it can take longer, more control of sexual intercourse, and some lifestyle changes.
- See a gynecologist who specializes in infertility problems right away. If you have endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease, have undergone cancer or endometriosis treatment, have had an abortion in the past, or are over 35, make an appointment with a reproductive specialist as soon as you decide you want a baby..
Step 2. Undergo the most common tests for infertility problems
Illness, stress, excessive exercise, and medications can impair fertilization. Some medicines can even inhibit or hinder conception. Provide your gynecologist with a list of everything you consume, complete with any particular medications, herbs, supplements, drinks, or foods, so that they can evaluate any items that interfere with your reproductive capacity.
- Check for sexually transmitted infections. Some infections can decrease the ability to conceive, while others can cause lifelong infertility if left untreated.
- It may happen that some have a (removable) barrier that does not allow sperm to reach the egg, or suffer from physical conditions that compromise the menstrual cycle, such as polycystic ovary syndrome.
Step 3. Consider doing more in-depth tests to identify any causes of infertility
If the doctor has not detected any disease, consider the spermiogram and a correct assessment of the couple's fertility status.
- The man should undergo a semen analysis to check the quality and quantity of semen released during ejaculation. A blood test to assess hormone levels and an ultrasound to monitor the ejaculation process or any obstruction of the ejaculatory ducts are also helpful.
- Female fertility tests include tests for thyroid, pituitary and other hormone values both during ovulation and during the menstrual cycle. Hysterosalpingography, laparoscopy and pelvic ultrasound are more accurate investigations that allow to detect disorders, obstructions and lesions affecting the uterus, endometrium and fallopian tubes. It is also possible to measure the ovarian reserve and carry out genetic tests related to infertility problems.
Step 4. See an endocrinologist who specializes in infertility problems or go to an assisted reproduction center
Your gynecologist may recommend one of these options to ensure you have access to all the necessary investigations and care for having a child. An endocrinologist who specializes in infertility issues can undergo special tests, diagnose and treat conditions that can affect your ability to get pregnant. Find one near you and make an appointment.
- Write down a series of questions before your appointment. Review the list with your partner to make sure you haven't overlooked any aspect. Write down any concerns about the costs, side effects, and effectiveness of the treatments.
- During the first visit, do not expect a medical check-up and do not think about starting the treatment immediately: it is only for asking questions and knowing your needs.
- Don't feel tied to a particular center after just one appointment - visit several and be open to evaluating other establishments until you find the right one.
Step 5. Learn about intrauterine insemination (IUI)
It consists in collecting a semen sample from the partner or donor, in preparing the seminal fluid in such a way as to select and concentrate the motile spermatozoa in a sufficient volume and, finally, in releasing the sperm thus treated inside the uterus through a very thin catheter. Typically this procedure is done 1 day after the hormone increase following ovulation and can be performed on an outpatient basis, without pain or surgery. It is possible to undergo intrauterine insemination for 6 months before trying other therapies. Here are the cases where it might be useful:
- Endometriosis
- Infertility due to unknown causes
- Allergy to semen
- Male infertility
Step 6. Consider using in vitro fertilization (IVF) to get pregnant
In the panorama of assisted fertilization technologies, IVF is considered the most effective and common method for having a child.
- It consists in taking the mature eggs from the body of the expectant mother (or a donor) and fertilizing them in the laboratory with the sperm of the partner (or of a donor). Once fertilized, they are reinserted into the uterus in order to initiate implantation of the embryo.
- Each course of treatment can last a minimum of 2 weeks. In the case of health insurance, companies typically cover the payment of a limited number of cycles, but sometimes not even one.
- There is a likelihood that this procedure will not be effective in women who suffer from endometriosis, do not yet have children and use frozen embryos. Since the success rate is less than 5%, it is often recommended for those over 40 to use donated eggs.
Step 7. Learn about medications and other fertility treatments
In some cases, drugs are enough to increase reproductive hormones and conceive naturally. In others, other procedures are suggested, such as Gametes Intra-Fallopian Transfer (GIFT) or surrogacy.
Clomid (clomiphene) is a drug used to induce ovulation. It is often combined with other treatments, such as intrauterine insemination. It stimulates the ovaries to produce eggs, increasing the chances of getting pregnant
Step 8. Seek support when you are under treatment
Infertility can have a negative impact on mental health. You may feel anxious, depressed and isolated, but remember that you are not alone! Take care of yourself and seek support on your journey. Keep in touch with sympathetic friends and family and join a support group, be it real or virtual. You could also consider consulting a psychotherapist to talk about your state of mind during treatment.
Infertility can also affect your relationship. Find time to have fun with your partner and preserve your bond
Are you starting a process of examinations and treatments against infertility?
Consult your gynecologist to find out what you can do to naturally increase your reproductive capacity, increase your partner's sperm count and relax so that therapy is more effective.
Advice
- The use of briefs does not decrease the sperm count which, however, can decrease due to certain habits, such as taking a hot bath, using the hot tub, wearing tight sports clothes, using the bicycle for long periods and keeping the laptop on the pelvic area for too long.
- Obesity of both partners negatively affects conception. To have more chances and lead a healthy pregnancy, it is best to reach an optimal weight first.
Warnings
- Wanting to get pregnant at all costs can cause stress and compromise physical and emotional intimacy with your partner.
- Becoming a parent is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. Make sure you are both ready to have a baby.
- Before you stop using a contraceptive method, make sure you don't have sexually transmitted diseases and infections.
