Knowledge | Supporting Fertility: Simple Ways to Improve the Chances of Conception
Experts share simple ways to support fertility for couples hoping to conceive who are not yet ready for fertility treatment.
Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is an important factor in supporting fertility. A Harvard School of Public Health study found that certain "fertility foods" may improve the likelihood of conception. These include more monounsaturated fats, such as olive oil; more plant protein, such as beans; less animal protein, such as red meat; more high-fiber, low-glycemic-index foods, such as whole grains, vegetables, and fruit; and fewer refined carbohydrates and sugars. Moderate consumption of full-fat dairy products, such as ice cream, whole milk, and cheese, may also support fertility.
Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight is also important for fertility. Research suggests that a body mass index (BMI) that is too low or too high can affect ovulation and the secretion of key reproductive hormones. For women who are overweight, weight loss can improve ovulatory function and may increase the likelihood of conception. For women who are underweight, gaining weight can help maintain normal menstrual cycles and improve the likelihood of conception.
Stress Reduction
Although the relationship between stress and infertility remains debated, growing evidence suggests a close association. A study by Harvard's Mind/Body Institute found significantly higher conception rates among women receiving stress-management therapy. Experts suggest reducing stress through activities such as listening to music, yoga, massage, journaling, and gardening.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine therapy, is thought to help support fertility. Although most studies have involved women receiving fertility treatment, some experts believe acupuncture may also help couples trying to conceive naturally.
Identifying Ovulation
Having intercourse at the right time can improve the likelihood of conception. An egg survives for only 24 to 36 hours after ovulation, while sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days. Intercourse is therefore recommended beginning 3 to 4 days before ovulation and continuing through 24 hours after ovulation.
Other Methods
Fertility aids and test kits, such as ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) and fertility monitors, can help couples identify the best time to conceive. Newer fertility aids such as Conceivex and Fertell may also be tried; they not only predict ovulation but may help sperm and egg come together.
Overall, these simple approaches may help couples improve their chances of conception. If pregnancy does not occur after trying them, consult a fertility specialist promptly.
Knowledge | Supporting Fertility: Simple Ways to Improve the Chances of Conception
Knowledge | Supporting Fertility: Simple Ways to Improve the Chances of Conception
Experts share simple ways to support fertility for couples hoping to conceive who are not yet ready for fertility treatment.
Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is an important factor in supporting fertility. A Harvard School of Public Health study found that certain "fertility foods" may improve the likelihood of conception. These include more monounsaturated fats, such as olive oil; more plant protein, such as beans; less animal protein, such as red meat; more high-fiber, low-glycemic-index foods, such as whole grains, vegetables, and fruit; and fewer refined carbohydrates and sugars. Moderate consumption of full-fat dairy products, such as ice cream, whole milk, and cheese, may also support fertility.
Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight is also important for fertility. Research suggests that a body mass index (BMI) that is too low or too high can affect ovulation and the secretion of key reproductive hormones. For women who are overweight, weight loss can improve ovulatory function and may increase the likelihood of conception. For women who are underweight, gaining weight can help maintain normal menstrual cycles and improve the likelihood of conception.
Stress Reduction
Although the relationship between stress and infertility remains debated, growing evidence suggests a close association. A study by Harvard's Mind/Body Institute found significantly higher conception rates among women receiving stress-management therapy. Experts suggest reducing stress through activities such as listening to music, yoga, massage, journaling, and gardening.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine therapy, is thought to help support fertility. Although most studies have involved women receiving fertility treatment, some experts believe acupuncture may also help couples trying to conceive naturally.
Identifying Ovulation
Having intercourse at the right time can improve the likelihood of conception. An egg survives for only 24 to 36 hours after ovulation, while sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days. Intercourse is therefore recommended beginning 3 to 4 days before ovulation and continuing through 24 hours after ovulation.
Other Methods
Fertility aids and test kits, such as ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) and fertility monitors, can help couples identify the best time to conceive. Newer fertility aids such as Conceivex and Fertell may also be tried; they not only predict ovulation but may help sperm and egg come together.
Overall, these simple approaches may help couples improve their chances of conception. If pregnancy does not occur after trying them, consult a fertility specialist promptly.
Story source:
Collected online