8 Ways to Boost Your Odds of Getting Pregnant
Becoming pregnant and bringing new life into the world is the most thrilling and life-changing event for most women. Once a couple has decided that they are ready to conceive, it is easy for them to want pregnancy to happen right away, but it is important to note that it usually takes an average of six months to achieve conception. A few important strategies can help couples boost their odds on embarking on the journey to parenthood.
Have a Checkup
Scheduling a check-up is the first place to start before becoming pregnant, because any health issues that could potentially impede conception can be resolved.
Monitor Ovulation
Women who are attempting pregnancy will conceive more quickly if they can spot the signs of ovulation. Cervical mucous becomes thin and slippery when women are most fertile, or ovulation kits can be purchased that alert couples of the best fertile times.
Optimal love-making
Couples need to be sure that they are engaging in love-making at the right times. Tips for coordinating love-making include:
Engaging in love-making every other day
Keeping the hips elevated after love-making to retain semen
Men avoiding tight clothes to maximize sperm count
Avoiding daily love-making which decreases sperm count
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Both obesity and low body fat can decrease fertility. Maintaining a healthy weight promotes regular ovulation.
Stop Smoking
Research has shown that smoking impairs estrogen levels and ovulation. In addition, it’s a habit that needs to be eliminated to optimize a healthy pregnancy.
Reduce Stress
It sounds simple, but increased levels of stress can interfere with achieving pregnancy. A few of the following tips can help couples relax and increase the chances of conception:
Take a quiet stroll.
Listen to soothing music.
Go on a relaxing vacation during ovulation.
Have a glass of wine
Limit Alcohol Intake
Studies have shown than women who consume two or more alcoholic drinks per day have an increased risk of infertility.
Cut Back on the Caffeine
Drinking five or more cups of coffee a day, 500mg of caffeine, has been linked to decreased fertility.
