Planning on conceiving this year? Your health and lifestyle can affect your ability to get pregnant, so if you and your partner have decided you want to bring a new life into this world, here are some tips to help improve your fertility and give you the best chance of making a baby.
Maintain a healthy weight
Having a body weight that’s too high or too low can affect hormone production which can decrease your chances of conceiving. If it’s too low, your body may think you are having difficulty finding enough food so it will switch off ovulation to prevent having a baby with malnutrition. If it’s too high (a BMI of 30 or more) you have a lower chance of conceiving plus you will be at increased risk of gestational diabetes, a big baby, and an increased possibility of having a caesarian section. Aim to have a healthy body weight to improve the odds of not only getting pregnant, but also maintaining a healthy pregnancy.
Chill out
Being under a lot of stress may lower your chances of pregnancy. Minimise stress as much as possible and practice stress management and relaxation techniques.
Watch what you put into your body
Drinking alcohol, having too much caffeine and smoking can all take a toll on your body and affect fertility. Reduce your alcohol and caffeine intake, and avoid smoking to help improve the likelihood of conceiving.
Avoid STDs
STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) such as gonorrhea and chlamydia are a leading cause of infertility in both men and women. Practice safe sex and get tested by your doctor if there is any chance you may have contracted an STD, as there are some that have no symptoms.
Been trying but still not pregnant?
If you have been having difficulty conceiving, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Book an appointment with your GP to discuss your options.
Image / FreeDigitalPhotos.net – David Castillo Dominici