Trying to get pregnant for the first time can be very stressful. Research shows that 85% of couples get pregnant within one year of trying. A recent study in the journal Fertility and Sterility suggests the following strategies might help you and your partner conceive more quickly.
1. Plan ahead. Women generally become less fertile after age 35 and men
after age 45. Although it might take longer, pregnancy is still an option.
Talk with your doctor and weigh the pros and cons of waiting.
2. Step on the scale. Women on both ends of the scale (underweight or obese)
have a much more difficult time conceiving than women of normal weight. It’s
important for both women and men to eat a balanced diet and focus on
weight issues before trying to conceive.
3. Kick the habit. Quitting smoking can protect the fertility of both men and
women. If you’re finding it hard to quit, smoking cessation classes at
White River Medical Center might help.
4. Limit alcohol. Excessive drinking may affect the quality and quantity of sperm
and has been linked to higher miscarriage rates. Both women and men who
are trying to have a baby should keep alcohol to a mini¬mum—one daily
drink for women, two for men—or abstain completely.
5. Curb those coffee and tea breaks. Women who drink seven or more cups of
caffeinated coffee or tea daily have more difficulty getting pregnant than
those who drink fewer cups or none. According to this study, and the bulk of
other studies, low to moderate caffeine intake does not affect fer¬tility. The
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health
advises women who are thinking about becoming pregnant to limit caffeine.
6. Check your meds. Some medications may keep you or your partner from
getting pregnant. Men who take medicine for ulcers, psoriasis or high blood
pressure might be at higher risk for fertility problems.
Visit your OB/GYN for a complete checkup before you plan to conceive.
by Meriden Glasgow, M.D., Obstetrics/Gynecology
Posted: December, 17 2009