Are you trying to conceive but having difficulty getting pregnant? You are not alone. Infertility affects about 10-15% of couples in the United States. However, there are natural ways to boost your fertility and increase your chances of conception.
In this article, we will discuss ten natural tips for improving your fertility.
1. Maintain a healthy weight
Being overweight or underweight can interfere with your hormonal balance and decrease your fertility. Women with a body mass index (BMI) over 30 and women with a BMI under 18.5 may have difficulty getting pregnant.
To increase your fertility, try to maintain a healthy weight by eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly.
2. Eat a well-balanced diet
A well-balanced diet can increase your fertility by providing your body with all the nutrients it needs. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods, sugar, and trans fats.
You may also want to consider adding fertility-boosting foods to your diet, such as leafy greens, nuts and seeds, and antioxidant-rich fruits.
3. Manage stress
Stress can interfere with ovulation and decrease your chances of getting pregnant. Try to manage stress through relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation.
Make time for self-care and prioritize activities that make you happy and relaxed.
4. Exercise regularly
Regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress, and improve your overall health. However, excessive exercise can interfere with ovulation and decrease your fertility.
Aim for moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, jogging, or cycling, for 30 minutes to an hour, five times a week.
5. Quit smoking
Smoking can decrease your fertility by damaging your eggs and causing hormonal imbalances. Quit smoking to improve your chances of getting pregnant and reduce the risk of miscarriage or pregnancy complications.
6. Limit alcohol consumption
Excessive alcohol consumption can interfere with ovulation and decrease your fertility. Limit alcohol consumption to one or two drinks a week or avoid alcohol entirely during your fertile period.
7. Get enough sleep
Lack of sleep can interfere with ovulation and decrease your fertility. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep a night. Establish a regular sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine to improve the quality of your sleep.
8. Keep track of ovulation
Knowing when you ovulate is crucial for getting pregnant. Keep track of your ovulation by monitoring your basal body temperature, using ovulation predictor kits, or tracking your menstrual cycle.
Have sex during your fertile window, which is the five days before ovulation and the day of ovulation.
9. Use natural lubricants
Some lubricants can interfere with sperm motility and decrease your chances of getting pregnant. Use natural lubricants, such as coconut oil or canola oil, if you need additional lubrication during sex.
10. Seek medical help if necessary
If you have been trying to conceive for more than a year without success, seek medical help. A fertility specialist can perform tests to diagnose the cause of your infertility and recommend appropriate treatment.