Infertility is the inability to conceive a child despite frequent, unprotected sexual intercourse for one year. Fertility problems affect approximately 15% of couples. Various factors can interfere with fertility in both men and women.

Couples can improve their chances of conceiving by making lifestyle changes to increase fertility. In this article, we share some methods to increase fertility during sex for couples.

1. Determine the Most Fertile Period

Timing is an essential factor when trying to conceive. A couple can increase their chances of getting pregnant by determining the most fertile period. The most fertile period is usually around the time of ovulation.

Ovulation occurs when an egg is released from the ovary and when it is ready to be fertilized by sperm.

For women with a regular menstrual cycle, ovulation usually occurs mid-cycle, approximately 14 days after the first day of the last menstrual period. However, the fertile period isn’t limited to the day of ovulation only.

Sperm can survive for up to five days in the woman’s reproductive system, so having sex in the days before ovulation can also increase the chances of conception. There are several ovulation tracking methods, including ovulation predictor kits, basal body temperature monitoring, and cervical mucus tracking.

2. Maintain a Healthy Body Weight

Body weight plays a crucial role in fertility for both men and women. Being overweight or underweight can cause hormonal imbalances that can affect fertility. Overweight women tend to have higher levels of estrogen, which can interfere with ovulation.

Being underweight can lead to irregular menstrual cycles or even stop ovulation altogether.

Couples should aim to maintain a healthy body weight by following a balanced diet and exercising regularly. A diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources can promote fertility.

On the other hand, a diet high in saturated fats, trans fats, and processed foods can decrease fertility.

3. Avoid Smoking

Cigarette smoking can cause various health problems, including fertility issues. Smoking can damage the fallopian tubes, reduce the number and quality of eggs, and increase the risk of miscarriage.

In men, smoking can reduce sperm count and motility, leading to decreased fertility. Couples who smoke should quit smoking to improve their chances of conceiving and have a healthy baby.

4. Reduce Alcohol and Caffeine Intake

Excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption can affect fertility in both men and women. Drinking alcohol in moderation is generally safe, but excessive drinking can reduce testosterone levels in men and menstrual cycle regularity in women.

Caffeine can also interfere with ovulation and reduce fertility. Couples should limit their alcohol and caffeine intake or avoid them altogether.

5. Have Sex Regularly

Having regular intercourse is crucial for achieving pregnancy. For the best chances, couples should have sex every other day during the fertile period.

Having sex too often can reduce sperm count and quality, while having sex too infrequently can lower the chances of sperm and egg meeting.

6. Avoid Lubricants

Some lubricants can be detrimental to sperm. Lubricants can change the pH of the vagina and interfere with sperm motility. Couples should avoid using lubricants that aren’t fertility-friendly, such as petroleum jelly or glycerin-based products.

Instead, couples can use fertility-friendly lubricants, such as Pre-Seed, that won’t harm sperm and are pH-balanced.

7. Reduce Stress Levels

Stress can affect fertility in both men and women. Stress can cause hormonal imbalances, reducing the chances of ovulation in women or sperm production in men.

Couples should find ways to reduce stress levels, such as exercising, meditating, or doing relaxing activities together.

8. Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep is crucial for overall health and wellbeing. Lack of sleep can cause hormonal imbalances, reduce libido, and affect reproductive health. Couples should aim to get seven to eight hours of sleep every night to improve fertility.

9. Address Medical Issues

Medical issues can interfere with fertility in both men and women. Medical conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis, and low sperm count can prevent conception.

Couples who have been trying to conceive for over a year and haven’t had success should consult a healthcare provider to rule out any medical issues that may be preventing conception.

10. Consider Fertility Treatments

For couples who have been trying to conceive without success, fertility treatments may be an option. Fertility treatments include medications, intrauterine insemination (IUI), and in-vitro fertilization (IVF).

These treatments can increase the chances of conceiving and having a healthy pregnancy. Couples should consult a fertility specialist to explore their options.