By Dr. Moses Abe MBBS, MRPCI, FRCOG, FRANZCOG. Gynaecologist and Monash IVF Clinician.
Infertility is traditionally defined as being unable to become pregnant after trying for 12 months
However, you may wish to seek medical advice early if you are:
above 35 years of age,
in a same-sex relationship, or
known with certain conditions that may affect fertility such as endometriosis.
The following five tips will help you improve your chances of getting pregnant.
Tip 1: Genetics
Some fertility issues may be genetic. Endometriosis, for example, is one condition that can cause infertility in women. If you have a family history of endometriosis, consult your fertility specialist to see if you have an increased risk of developing the condition.
Tip 2: A healthy diet
A healthy diet is essential for couples trying to conceive. A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is important for both male and female fertility.
It is also important to limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and fatty foods.
Antioxidants and phytonutrients are important for fertility because they help protect the cells in your body from damage. Antioxidants can also help improve fertility by helping to reduce inflammation.
It is also important to include vitamins and minerals in your diet. Some vitamins and minerals that are important for fertility include folic acid, vitamin C, zinc, and iron. However, please check with your doctor before self-prescribing.
Avoid alcohol and smoking, both of which affect the fertility of men and women.
Tip 3: Physical Activities
Physical activity can help improve fertility. A study published in the “Journal of Reproductive Medicine” found that women who exercised regularly had a 42% lower risk of experiencing infertility problems.
In addition, regular exercise has been linked with a decreased risk of obesity and other chronic diseases, which can also affect fertility.
Exercise has been shown to improve sperm quality and increase the number of eggs that are produced in the ovaries. It also helps reduce stress. Other good stress management techniques for couples trying to conceive include meditation and yoga.
Tip 4: Avoid toxins
Many toxins such as pesticides and chemicals can harm the male and female reproductive systems. These toxins can come from environmental and dietary sources. It is important to be aware of and avoid exposure to these toxins if you are trying to conceive.
Prolonged and significant exposure to heavy metals such as mercury in certain fish and excessive exposure to heat could negatively impact male fertility.
Tip 5: Age
Delaying pregnancy until later in life may reduce the chances that you’ll be able to conceive. From the age of 35-40, your age affects the quantity and quality of your eggs. Everyone is different, this is just a guide. If you have difficulty conceiving it is important for you to the help and advice of your doctor.
Following these five fertility tips will help you improve your chances of getting pregnant. If you don’t feel like you’re making any progress, be sure to consult with a doctor.
For individualised fertility check-ups and assessments contact us through our email or call
0352214000
Photo Credit: Camylla Battani
Australian born journalist Lee-Anne Carter is an editor, storyteller-writer, creative director and trend forecaster who for nearly nine years was Swarovski’s Head of Global Trend Intelligence, Marketing and Communications, based in Austria. Now based in Marrakesh, Morocco, she has launched the Creative Soul agency, specialising in creative direction, trend analysis, consumer insights and consultancy.