How to get pregnant: a 101 to conceive quickly
Hey there future mamas and papas!
Wondering how to get pregnant? Many of us spend a lot of our life trying not to fall pregnant, and then when the time comes that we are ready for a baby – falling pregnant does not always happening instantaneously like we may have expected. So how can you increase your chances of conceiving? Well, you’re in the right place because I’ve got some top tips for you on how to get pregnant.
First things first, let’s talk about the basics. To get pregnant, you need to have sex during your fertile window – which is when you’re most likely to conceive. This is usually around the time of ovulation, when one of your ovaries releases an egg into your fallopian tube. Sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so having sex a few days before ovulation can also increase your chances of getting pregnant.
So, here are some tips to help you boost your fertility and get pregnant faster:
1. Know your menstrual cycle
Understanding your menstrual cycle is key to knowing when you’re most likely to ovulate. Most women have a 28-day cycle, but it can range from 21 to 35 days. You can use an ovulation calculator or app to help you figure out when you’re most fertile.
2. Have sex regularly
This might feel like an obvious when you want to know how to get pregnant. The more you have sex, the more chances you have of getting pregnant. Aim to have sex every two to three days throughout your cycle, but especially during your fertile window.
3. Maintain a healthy weight
Being underweight or overweight can affect your fertility. Aim for a healthy BMI (between 18.5 and 24.9) and try to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly. The Royal College of Midwives says that maintaining a healthy weight before conception:
‘impacts on the chances of conceiving naturally, having a good pregnancy and delivery, as well as affecting the health of children in their later life.’
4. Quit smoking
Smoking can reduce your fertility and harm your unborn baby, so it’s best to quit smoking before you start trying to conceive.
5. Cut down on alcohol and caffeine
Drinking too much alcohol and caffeine can also reduce your fertility, so it’s best to cut down or quit altogether.
6. Take folic acid supplements
Taking folic acid before and during pregnancy can help reduce the risk of neural tube defects in your baby. The NHS recommends taking a daily 400mcg folic acid supplement until the 12th week of pregnancy.
7. Reduce stress
Stress can affect your fertility, so try to reduce stress as much as possible. Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation or breathing exercises can be helpful.
8. Know when to see your GP
If you’re having trouble getting pregnant, it’s a good idea to see your GP or a fertility specialist for a check-up. They can help identify any underlying health conditions that may be affecting your fertility.
Remember, getting pregnant can take time and it’s important to be patient. If you’ve been trying for over a year (or over six months if you’re over 35), it’s a good idea to see your GP for advice.
Good luck, and happy baby-making!
