You've been yearning for the day when you look at that test strip and can shout, "Hooray! I'm pregnant!" Some women can get pregnant easily, while others have to keep working at it. If you're serious about having a baby, here are a few tips that may help up your fertility rate:
1. Keep your weight in check
Being too thin or overweight create fertility challenges. According to William Gibbons, director for the division of reproductive endocrinology and infertility at Baylor College of Medicine, "weight before getting pregnant is often an overlooked factor in fertility. Keeping a healthy weight can help with conception." Stay at a healthy rate to improve your chances of getting pregnant.
2. Avoid tobacco and alcohol
Smoking tobacco or marijuana can cause infertility, so abstain. Studies also show how drinking alcohol increases the risk of birth defects and may contribute to infertility. Both tobacco and alcohol can negatively affect fertility in you and your partner.
3. Pay attention to your ovulation cycle
Did you know that an egg lives about 12-24 hours after being released? That's a short life span. You need to act during that window of opportunity. This is usually about 14 days after the first day of your last period, if your cycle is around 28 days long.
4. Keep an eye on your age
When trying to conceive, age somewhat matters. The twenties and early thirties are your most fertile years. Too many women wait until they're nearly 40 and then think they can quickly get pregnant. At 30, the chance of conceiving each month is about 20%. At 40 it's around 5%.
5. Eat healthy
Studies show that some foods help a woman be more fertile while others curtail it. The link above from Dr. Walter Willett (professor of nutrition and epidemiology at the Harvard School of Public Health) provides helpful and specific information about what you should be eating.
6. Exercise, but not excessively
Exercise gets your blood flowing and stimulates good overall health. However, studies show that women who are obsessed with exercising may limit their chances of becoming pregnant. Too much of anything is harmful to our bodies, which leads us to that well-known saying, moderation in all things.
7. Relax
Being overly stressed about not being about to get pregnant can be a big culprit in hindering conception. A few ways to relax include yoga, getting a massage and spending fun time with family and friends. Make time to get outside. Breathe in the beauty of the world that surrounds you, even if it is just in your neighborhood or a nearby park.
8. Say your prayers
Pouring your heart out to God is relieving and comforting. Ask Him to help you in your quest to have a baby. He cares for you. Be sure to thank Him for what you already have. A grateful heart opens the door to more blessings.
9. Be happy
Enjoy the good in your life. Look for it. Remember, happiness is a choice. Notice what you already have and enjoy your blessings. Consider starting each day with a deliberate thought about one thing you truly enjoy about your life. That will set the stage for a day full of noticing the good and being happy with what life has already given you.
Remember to consult your doctor before making changes to your diet and lifestyle, and remember to be patient. Hopefully soon, you and your spouse will be welcoming home your own bundle of joy.
