If you’re trying for a baby, you’ll no doubt be reading up on as much information, tips and advice as possible to ensure you conceive successfully. You might have heard rumours that post-coital headstands will help or old wives’ tales of eating certain foods – none of which are true. So here’s our quick tips for getting pregnant, to help you along the right path.
First and foremost, check your lifestyle. Cut out the alcohol, stop smoking and reduce your caffeine intake. Avoid raw or undercooked meat, raw eggs and soft cheeses. We also advise you start taking 400 micrograms of folic acid every day to decrease the risk of neural-tube defects, such as Spina Bifida, once you do conceive.
Next, get to know your menstrual cycle. Ovulation happens around 14 days before the first day of your next period, so have sex regularly from about four days before you ovulate. Sperm can live for several days inside the body so making love before ovulation happens, gives it time to travel up the Fallopian tubes.
What about your weight? Being overweight or obese can affect your chances of conception as well as the health of your baby should you conceive. The chances of you conceiving are significantly reduced if you are overweight, so follow a sensible diet and exercise plan. It’s vital you visit your GP before embarking on any weight loss plan so make sure you book yourself an appointment.
Finally, relax and be patient! It can take some time before you get pregnant and worrying or stressing about it won’t help. Remember to enjoy this part of the process. It’s supposed to be fun after all. And being relaxed is the best plan of attack.
Tags: Conception, Fertility, Ovulation, Pregnant, Tips