Enhancing Your Chances: Improving Fertility

When planning to start a family, it’s important to understand the nuances of conception. Healthy, heterosexual couples in their 20s to early 30s who engage in regular, unprotected intercourse have a 25% to 30% chance of becoming pregnant within a given month according to the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists.

Reproductive endocrinologist Lucky Sekhon emphasizes several factors influencing these odds, including medical history, genetics, hormone balance, timing, and even chance. She likens the process of trying to conceive to a game of chance, stating, “Trying to get pregnant is like playing a slot machine. You can pull the lever by timing your attempts around ovulation, but whether things line up and you hit the jackpot are not in your control.” Despite the element of chance, you can take steps to improve fertility.

Fertility-friendly lifestyle changes are essential. Both men and women can enhance their chances with these practical steps:

• Engage in regular exercise.
• Avoid substances that can hinder fertility, such as cannabis, nicotine, and alcohol.
• Maintain a balanced diet.
• Manage stress effectively.
• Aim for a healthy weight.
• Get sufficient sleep.
• Keep track of ovulation cycles.

While you can make adjustments, achieving successful conception involves patience and perseverance. Implementing these changes can help align with your fertility goals.

For more detailed insights, explore this topic further by listening to a 26-minute episode by Life Kit reporter Andee Tagle. The episode offers expert advice and can be streamed on platforms such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

For any questions or comments, contact the team via voicemail at 202-216-9823 or email [email protected]. Stay connected and receive updates by signing up for the newsletter and follow their Instagram at @nprlifekit.