How to get pregnant?
Becoming pregnant can feel like an incredible journey filled with anticipation, joy, and at times, a dash of frustration. It is a natural process, yet sometimes nature requires a bit of nurturing. Knowing some basic information and getting a few things in order before you start trying to conceive can help set you on the right path to successful pregnancy.
Preconception Checkup
One of the first steps you and your partner should take on your journey to parenity is to get a preconception checkup. This is an important step to maximize your chances of having a healthy pregnancy and birth.
A preconception checkup is a medical examination that both the prospective mother and father undergo to assess their overall health and readiness for pregnancy. This checkup aims to identify and address any potential health issues, lifestyle factors, or genetic disorders that could affect a pregnancy.
Remember, the goal of the preconception checkup isn't to create stress or panic, but to ensure you and your partner are physically, emotionally, and mentally prepared for pregnancy. By taking this proactive step, you're building a strong foundation for a healthy and safe pregnancy journey.
Tracking Your Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation
Tracking your menstrual cycle and ovulation is a fundamental aspect of understanding your body and the best window for conception. Every woman is unique, and while the typical menstrual cycle is 28 days, it's common for cycles to range anywhere from 21-35 days. Regular measurement and tracking can help indicate when you'll be most fertile, thus offering an optimal chance for pregnancy.
The menstrual cycle is broken down into several stages. The first day of your period is the beginning of your menstrual cycle. The cycle ends right before the next menstrual period.
1. Menstruation - This is the stage when your uterus sheds its lining, resulting in a period which typically lasts between 3-7 days.
2. The Follicular Phase - This phase also begins on the first day of your period, overlapping with menstruation. During this time, the ovaries are preparing an egg to be released.
3. Ovulation - The release of the egg, known as ovulation, usually happens between days 12 and 16 of your cycle. The egg is only viable for 24 hours after its release.
4. The Luteal Phase - After ovulation, the body prepares for possible pregnancy by increasing progesterone production which can last between 12 and 16 days, typically 14 days in most women.
By understanding the stages of your menstrual cycle, you can get a clearer picture of your fertility window -- the time when you are most likely to conceive.
How to Track Ovulation
There are several methods you can use to determine the time of ovulation, which include:
1. Calendar tracking: Record the length of your menstrual cycles for several months to get an average cycle length. You can then predict ovulation by subtracting 14 days from the length of your cycle.
2. Basal body temperature tracking: This involves measuring your body temperature every morning before getting out of bed. A slight increase in temperature can indicate that ovulation has occurred.
3. Ovulation predictor kits: These kits are similar to pregnancy tests; they test your urine for luteinizing hormone, which surges right before ovulation.
4. Tracking cervical mucus: Your body produces more cervical mucus in the days leading up to ovulation. It can be clear, stretchy, and resemble raw egg whites, signaling that you’re in your fertile window.
By becoming familiar with your menstrual cycle and understanding how ovulation works, you can identify the best time to have sex to increase your chances of getting pregnant. Remember that every woman’s cycle is different, and ovulation can be affected by numerous factors, including stress, illness, and disruption of normal routines. It's essential to listen to your body and seek advice from a healthcare professional if you're having difficulties understanding your menstrual cycle or ovulation.
Frequent Sex During Your Fertile Window
During your menstrual cycle, only a small window of time is ideal for fertilization. This window, referred to as the fertile window, is the most significant time when sexual activity can lead to conception.
The fertile window typically starts five days before ovulation and continues until the day ovulation occurs. These days are when a woman is most fertile and when sexual intercourse is more likely to result in conception.
To increase the chances of getting pregnant, frequent sex during your fertile window is advised. Although pregnancy can occur as a result of one instance of sex within this time frame, having sex everyday or every other day can drastically improve these odds. This is because sperm can live for up to five days inside the female reproductive system, continually waiting for the egg, while an egg lives for 12-24 hours.
Yet, the important aspect is not to make this process feel like a chore. A couple should enjoy the process without feeling like they are on a strict timetable. Turning the intercourse into a stressful task might have negative effects, both on your relationship and your chances of conceiving.
Remember, each person and couple is unique – what works for some may not work for others. Being intimate with your partner frequently throughout your menstrual cycle, not just during your fertile window, could help keep the intimacy and love alive while striving for pregnancy. Moreover, you might be miscalculating your fertile window. So, having regular sex ensures you're not missing out on potential other fertile days.
Despite popular misconceptions, most positions are acceptable when trying for a baby as the most important aspect is semen being deposited close to the cervix. There is no evidence to suggest that certain sex positions result in higher conception rates.
Lay down and Relax after Sex
You might have heard the advice often from older women: "Lie down and relax for a while after sex". It may seem like another piece of old wives' tale, but there is some truth to it. Laying down after sex could increase your chances of getting pregnant. Let's dive into why and how.
The premise associated with laying down after intercourse is reasonably straightforward—it allows gravity to potentially help the sperm travel towards the egg, optimizing the chance of fertilization. If you stand up immediately after intercourse, gravity can make it harder for the sperm to travel upwards towards the egg. However, if you lay down and relax for some time after sex, you give the sperm another advantage in its arduous journey to the egg.
Now, this does not mean you need to stay in bed all day. Simply remain laying down for about 10-15 minutes after intercourse. Utilize this time to relax, catch your breath and foster a deeper emotional connection with your partner.
Using a Fertility-Friendly Lubricant
One factor that gets easily overlooked but is crucial to pay attention to is your choice of sexual lubricant. While this seems an insignificant matter, it can, in fact, significantly impact your chances of conception.
Most couples use lubricants for comfort during intercourse. However, some lubricants, specifically those that are oil-based or have spermicidal agents, can negatively affect the mobility and lifespan of sperm cells. It's necessary to remember that the medium in which sperm travel plays a vital role in successful fertilization.
Certain lubricants have the potential to create an inhospitable environment for sperm, making it hard for them to reach the egg. Therefore, it's of utmost importance to make sure you're using a lubricant that is 'sperm-friendly,' also known as fertility-friendly.
Reduce Stress
Stress can have a significant impact on a couple's ability to conceive. And when you're trying to get pregnant, the process can itself create additional stress, turning conception into an agonizing cycle. It's important to take active steps to manage and reduce your stress levels to improve your chances of getting pregnant.
Various research studies have linked high stress levels to decreased fertility in both women and men. Prolonged exposure to stress can lead to hormonal imbalances in women and impact sperm quality and production in men, thereby hindering the possibility of successful pregnancy. If you're trying to conceive, making lifestyle changes that promote relaxation and decrease stress can boost your chances.
Here are some practical ways to de-stress and create a calm environment ideal for conception:
Regular Exercise:
Consistent physical activity is one of the best stress-relievers. Not only does it help to release endorphins, the feel-good hormones but also it helps in maintaining a healthy weight. Activities like Yoga and Pilates incorporate deep-breathing exercises, which can regulate your body's hormonal balance and prepare for successful conception.
Mindfulness and Meditation:
Mindful practices like meditation and deep-breathing exercises can set a peaceful mental environment, reducing anxiety and stress levels. These techniques can be particularly helpful if you're feeling frustrated or impatient about getting pregnant.
Quality Sleep:
Lack of sleep can exacerbate stress and affect your hormonal balance. Ensuring you get at least seven to eight hours of good quality sleep will keep your body's natural rhythm intact and lower your stress levels.
Seek Support:
The journey to conceive can sometimes feel lonely and overwhelming. Don't hesitate to lean on your support network or join a support group for prospective parents. Connecting with others going through the same experience can provide invaluable emotional support.
While stress is an inevitable part of life, managing it effectively is the key. Remember, the journey to conception is a marathon, not a sprint. Therefore, ensure self-care by incorporating stress management techniques into your everyday routine. Not only will this improve your chances of expanding your family, but it will also enhance your overall mental and physical health.
Healthy Lifestyle
Apart from the role genetic factors play, many lifestyle components can increase your chances of conceiving. Here are some things both you and your future co-parent should consider about your lifestyle habits.
Physical Health:
First and foremost, a balanced diet and regular exercise regime is crucial for both partners. Why? For women, exercise fosters a robust reproductive system and prepares your body for the challenges of carrying a child. For men, studies have shown that physical fitness is linked with increased sperm count and motility.
A balanced diet is just as important. Eating nutrient-rich foods will help keep your body functioning at its best. Specific nutrients like folic acid, iron, calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids are all essential for a healthy pregnancy.
Moreover, maintain a healthy weight is also significant. Obesity has been linked with infertility and higher risk during pregnancy in women. For men, excess weight can negatively affect sperm count and quality.
Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol:
Tobacco use in any form is a no-go for would-be parents. In women, smoking intersects with the potential of getting pregnant and creates risks for an ectopic pregnancy. For men, smoking can lead to reduced sperm quality. Similarly, excessive alcohol consumption reduces fertility in women and men alike.
Avoid Caffeine:
While a little bit of coffee doesn't necessarily harm, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Some studies suggest high caffeine consumption can complicate a woman's ability to conceive, so consider cutting back or avoiding coffee and other caffeine-based products.
Check Your Medication:
Some prescription and over-the-counter medications can potentially hinder fertility. If you're taking any long-term medication, it's advisable to talk to your doctor and assess if these might be negatively impacting your fertility.
Stay Hydrated:
It's a basic but vital point: upkeep your water intake. Good hydration helps maintain optimal levels of cervical fluid, which aids in transporting the sperm to the egg.
Also, for men, getting enough fluids maintain healthy semen production.
When to Get Professional Help
Starting a family and having a baby is a joyful experience that many couples look forward to. Yet, there may arise a few challenges along the road to parenthood. Some couples conceive quickly, while others might take longer. However, if you’ve been consistently trying to get pregnant for a year with no success (or six months if you are over 35), it’s time to seek medical advice. Here are some situations which may indicate that it's time to get help:
Age:
If you’re a woman over the age of 35, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider about your plan to become pregnant. Because fertility naturally tends to decline with age, it might be more challenging for you to successfully conceive. Your healthcare provider can offer you guidance on how to enhance your fertility and discuss any potential risks you might face during pregnancy.
Irregular menstruation:
If your periods are irregular or completely absent, this could be an indication of potential fertility problems. To understand the root cause, you should turn to medical professionals who can provide appropriate analysis and solutions.
Pre-existing medical conditions:
Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases, genital infections or sexually transmitted diseases can hinder conception efforts. If you or your partner are living with such conditions, consult with your healthcare provider about how these health issues can be managed in order to optimize your fertility.
History of miscarriages:
A history of two or more consecutive miscarriages is another sign that it could be time to seek professional help. There may be an underlying medical issue that needs to be addressed or managed in order to sustain a healthy pregnancy.
Family medical history:
If you or your partner have a family history of fertility issues, it might be necessary to consult with a professional. Certain genetic factors and conditions can be passed through generations and could contribute to your difficulties with getting pregnant.
If you find yourself in any of these scenarios, don't be discouraged from seeking help. Remember, seeking help from a fertility specialist isn't an admission of failure, but instead a proactive step towards your journey to parenthood. Fortunately, there are many fertility tests and treatments available today that can assist you in diagnosing and overcoming fertility obstacles.
Conclusion
It's important to remember that getting pregnant doesn’t always happen quickly or easily, even for couples without fertility issues. Be patient with yourself and your partner and try to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. After all, the goal is to create a loving environment into which you’ll welcome your new baby, and that includes being kind and understanding towards yourself during this process.