If you’ve been trying to conceive for a while, you might be feeling slightly unnerved or disheartened by the fact that it’s taking longer than you expected. However, don’t lose hope – the process of conceiving is different for everyone, and there are some things you can do that may improve your fertility levels (and thus, your chances of conceiving).
You might look for fertility acupuncture in Melbourne, for example, or speak to a dietitian about lifestyle choices you can make to be healthier. Read on for more information.
1. Understand your body and menstrual cycle
If you’re trying to conceive, it’s important that you have a good understanding of your menstrual cycle and what is happening in your body each month. This way, you’ll be able to pinpoint your ovulation date (the time when you’re most fertile). You can track your menstrual cycle using a fertility app or by logging your period dates and other relevant information in a notebook.
There are also some physical signs you can look out for that may indicate ovulation, such as changes in cervical mucus or a rise in body temperature. If you’re not sure about any of this, don’t hesitate to speak to your GP or a fertility specialist.
2. Get a fertility checkup
If you’ve been trying to conceive for 12 months or more (or six months if you’re over the age of 35), it’s a good idea to visit your GP or a fertility specialist for a checkup. They will be able to assess your overall health and perform some tests to see if there are any underlying medical conditions that could be affecting your fertility.
If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to bring them up during your appointment. Remember, there’s no shame in seeking help with this – fertility specialists are there to assist you in any way they can.
3. Make healthy lifestyle choices
Making some simple lifestyle changes can go a long way in improving your fertility. Eating a healthy, balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight are both important, as is exercising regularly (but not excessively).
You should also avoid smoking and excessive drinking, as these can have a negative impact on fertility. If you need help making these changes, don’t hesitate to speak to a dietitian or your GP. Making these changes will not only improve your fertility levels, but they’ll also benefit your overall health – so it’s a win-win situation!
4. Reduce stress levels
It’s no secret that stress can have a negative impact on our health, but did you know that it can also affect fertility? Stress can interfere with the hormones needed for ovulation, so if you’re trying to conceive, it’s important to do what you can to reduce your stress levels.
There are many different ways to de-stress, so find what works for you and make it a part of your daily routine. Some people find that exercise is a great way to relieve stress, while others prefer relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation.
5. Use natural methods to improve fertility
There are many different natural methods that can be used to improve fertility. For example, acupuncture is a popular treatment option, as it’s been shown to improve both egg quality and ovarian function.
Herbal medicine can also be used to improve fertility, with traditional Chinese herbs often prescribed for this purpose. If you’re interested in trying natural methods to improve your fertility, be sure to speak to a qualified practitioner.