What should we do if we are considering trying to conceive?
If you’re trying to conceive, it’s important to be well-informed and prepared before starting the journey toward pregnancy. Becoming pregnant is a stage that brings not only excitement and expectations, but also challenges that require good health and careful planning.
Getting ready in advance not only increases your chances of success but also helps prevent potential complications and ensures the well-being of both the future mother and the baby.
In this blog, we’ll explore the key steps to take before you start trying to conceive:
Essential Tips Before Trying to Conceive: Your Preconception Checklist
Preparing for pregnancy requires more than just the desire to become a parent — it’s about ensuring your health and lifestyle support the best chances of success.
Preconception Consultation with Your Gynecologist
Before trying to conceive, it’s highly recommended to schedule a preconception appointment with your gynecologist. During this visit, your current health, medical history, and family health background will be evaluated. Your lifestyle habits and any medications that could affect your fertility or the fetus will also be reviewed.
Address Risk Factors as a Couple
Trying to conceive is a shared journey. It’s essential to identify harmful habits—such as poor diet, smoking, or substance use—that might negatively impact fertility in either partner.
Obesity and Fertility
Obesity is a well-known barrier when trying to conceive. Women with a body mass index (BMI) over 28 tend to have a lower chance of conceiving. Additionally, overweight men often produce sperm of poorer quality compared to those with a healthy BMI.
Avoid Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drugs
These substances significantly reduce the chances of achieving a healthy pregnancy and increase the risks of miscarriage, birth defects, and other complications.
Take Vitamins and Folic Acid
Most gynecologists recommend taking prenatal vitamins and folic acid before trying to conceive. These supplements support essential nutrient intake, contributing to a healthy pregnancy and reducing the risk of birth defects.
Follow a Balanced Diet
Eating a varied, balanced diet promotes overall health and reproductive wellness. Avoid processed foods, excessive sugar, and caffeine, which have been linked to reduced fertility in several studies.
Maintain Regular Sexual Activity
The most important factor when trying to conceive is maintaining regular sexual intercourse — at least 2 to 3 times per week, especially in the days leading up to ovulation. This increases the chance of sperm being present in the fallopian tubes at the time the egg is released.
Fertility Isn’t About Miracles — It’s About Everyday Habits
At URE Centro Gutenberg, we believe there’s no miracle cure for infertility. However, small daily lifestyle changes can improve your overall health and significantly boost your chances when trying to conceive.
Age and Fertility: The Most Important Factor
A woman’s fertility peaks between ages 20 and 30, begins to decline by 35, and drops sharply thereafter. On average, couples have a 20–23% chance of conceiving per menstrual cycle. The earlier you begin trying to conceive, the better the odds.
Additionally, age also affects egg quality, increasing the risk of chromosomal abnormalities and potential pregnancy complications. Seeking professional advice early can help couples explore options such as assisted reproduction, egg freezing, or fertility preservation, offering greater control over family planning and improving the chances of a healthy pregnancy in the future.
When to See a Fertility Specialist
If you’ve been trying to conceive for 12 months without success, it may be time to consult a fertility specialist. If you’re over 35, don’t wait longer than six months. Early intervention is key.
Remember, age is one of the most critical factors affecting a woman’s ability to get pregnant.
Contact Us for a Free Initial Consultation
Have questions or concerns about fertility? Contact our team today! We offer a free initial consultation, either online or in person, with one of our fertility specialists. During this session, you’ll receive personalised guidance, treatment options, and compassionate support.