As an OBGYN, I have seen so many women over the years struggle when it comes to navigating fertility. Factors affecting fertility include age, lifestyle, underlying health conditions, and genetics. I’m here to talk all things fertility and infertility and am sharing my top tips that you and your partner can do to optimize your fertility!
First and foremost, my biggest piece of advice is to go see your OBGYN for a Preconception Visit. I cover all the details on why it’s so important in this YouTube video!
So let’s discuss how you can increase your fertility:
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption, and managing stress can all positively impact fertility. If you are actively trying to conceive I recommend stopping all alcohol consumption.
Understand ovulation
Tracking menstrual cycles and identifying ovulation can help maximize the chances of conception. Tools such as ovulation predictor kits or fertility tracking apps can assist in determining the most fertile days of the menstrual cycle.
Address underlying health conditions
Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or diseases affecting the thyroid can affect fertility. Seeking treatment and management from healthcare professionals can help improve your chances of conception.
Manage timing and frequency of intercourse
Having regular, unprotected intercourse during the fertile window (around ovulation) can increase the likelihood of conception. However, excessive stress or pressure can negatively impact fertility, so maintaining a relaxed approach is important.
Seek medical evaluation
As I mentioned above—this one is SO IMPORTANT! If conception does not occur after a year of trying (or six months for women over 35), consulting your OBGYN for evaluation is recommended. Fertility tests for both partners can help identify any underlying issues that may be affecting fertility.
Explore fertility treatments
Depending on the cause of infertility, various fertility treatments such as ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination (IUI), or in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be options. These treatments should be discussed with a fertility specialist (these doctors are called Reproductive Endocrinologists and Infertility doctors—REI), who can provide guidance based on individual circumstances.
Consider emotional support
Facing challenges with fertility can be emotionally taxing for couples. Seeking support from loved ones, joining support groups, or seeking counseling can help cope with the emotional aspects of infertility. I believe in the importance of community. Get plugged in somewhere, whether it’s online or in person—forming your own little community is so important!
Navigating fertility challenges requires patience, communication, and support from healthcare professionals and loved ones. It’s essential for couples to work together and explore all available options while prioritizing their emotional well-being throughout the process.
