For those who have been trying to conceive but have not had any luck, you are not alone. Infertility struggles affect many couples around the globe, and the reasons for infertility are varied.
It is not an easy journey, dealing with infertility struggles, but know that there is hope. There are ways to boost your fertility chances and improve your odds of conceiving a baby. Naturally, the process may take time and dedication, but it can pay off in the long run.
1. Check for underlying medical conditions
The first step to take when trying to get pregnant is to see your doctor for a preconception checkup. You can also get a comprehensive health assessment to help identify any genetic factors that might impact your fertility.
Both partners should attend, as infertility problems can arise from various health issues affecting either partner. Early detection of underlying medical conditions such as thyroid disorders, STDs, hepatitis, can help prevent further deterioration of your reproductive health.
2. Proper nutrition
Your diet may be something to consider when trying to increase your chances of pregnancy. Eating a healthy and balanced diet is essential, both for fertility and overall wellbeing.
Get plenty of fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, calcium and vitamin D. These nutrients support hormone health, ovulatory function, and improve sperm quality. Also, remember to stay within a healthy weight range, both overweight and underweight can negatively affect fertility.
3. Try acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medicine practice, which involves the insertion of needles into specific points in the body. The needles stimulate the body’s energy flow and promote overall health and wellbeing.
Acupuncture treatment has been found to increase blood flow to the reproductive organs and promote the release of hormones that aid in ovulation. It also helps to reduce stress levels, which is essential in preventing miscarriages.
4. Exercise regularly
Regular exercise has numerous benefits, including improving fertility. Physical activity aids in weight management, stress reduction and balances hormone levels.
However, excessive exercise can be harmful to your reproductive health, so it is crucial to stick to moderate exercise routines such as yoga, swimming or brisk walking.
5. Quit smoking, alcohol and drugs
Smoking, alcohol and drug use, including marijuana, have been found to impact fertility in both women and men. These substances impair sperm quality, reduce egg production and make hormone regulation difficult.
Quitting or reducing the use of these products has been shown to improve fertility success rates quickly.
6. Manage stress levels
High levels of stress can lead to fertility problems. Elevated levels of stress increase the production of cortisol, which inhibits the production of reproductive hormones.
Stress can also affect your menstrual cycle, ovulation and is linked to an increased risk of miscarriage. It is essential to manage stress levels, through stress reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation and having a supportive partner, friend or family around.
7. Time intercourse
Knowing your fertile window is essential when trying to conceive. The menstrual cycle varies for every woman; however, most women ovulate between the 12th and 16th day of their menstrual cycle.
Having regular intercourse during this time can increase your odds of conception. Using an ovulation predictor kit can also help you identify your fertile days accurately.
8. Seek fertility treatments
When natural methods fail to work, fertility treatments may be considered to increase your odds of having a baby.
These treatments range from fertility pills to surgical interventions to assisted reproductive technologies such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), in-vitro fertilization(IVF) and surrogacy.
9. Practice self-love and care
It is essential to tune into your body as you navigate the ups and downs of fertility struggles. Self-love and care can play a vital role in improving your overall wellbeing.
It can be helpful to take a break from worrying about getting pregnant and engage in activities you enjoy, be it a hobby or spending time outdoors. Sometimes disconnecting and getting plenty of rest, can do wonders for your mind and body.
10. Seek support
The infertility journey is not an easy one, and it is essential to have support. You are not alone. There are several support groups, online forums and organizations dedicated to helping couples struggling with infertility.
It is crucial to seek assistance and talk to someone about what you are going through. Sometimes a simple conversation can go a long way in reducing stress levels and improving your mental health.