If you're ready to start a family right now, the last thing you want to deal with is struggling to fall pregnant. Sadly, while having children is one of the most beautiful life experiences a person can have, not everyone can conceive a child easily. Unfortunately, age and other health factors can impede your chances or speed of falling pregnant. Naturally, this can leave you feeling like falling pregnant has suddenly become a gamble where the odds aren't in your favor! However, in many cases, there are things you can do or 'not do' to improve your chances of conceiving.
Today's Piper Finn post looks at the little things you can do to swing the pregnancy odds back in your favor.
Tips for Falling Pregnant
Maintain a healthy weight:
You may find it hard to conceive a child if you're overweight or underweight. Why? Because being overweight or underweight causes hormonal imbalances, which can affect your ovulation cycle. According to an article by the American Heart Association, a healthy adult's BMI (Body Mass Index) between 18.5 and 25 indicates a normal weight. Eating a balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise can help to maintain a healthy weight.
Track your ovulation:
Tracking your ovulation is critical if you want to increase your chances of falling pregnant. A basal body temperature chart or ovulation kit can help track your ovulation cycle because sexual intercourse, when you're at your most fertile, can boost your chances of getting pregnant. Many mobile apps can also help you track your cycle and help predict when you are ovulating. Take a peek at our favorite pre-pregnancy apps listed below.
Increase your nutrient intake:
You need to ensure that your body gets all the essential nutrients needed to support a healthy pregnancy. Take a prenatal vitamin containing folic acid, iron, and calcium. Additionally, consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein to provide your body with the nutrition it needs. Below is a list of foods that can help to boost your nutrient intake.
Folate and Folic Acid Foods
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Swiss Chard
- Kale
- Oranges and Strawberries
- Beans & Nuts
- Fortified Cereals
Calcium Rich Foods
- Kale & Broccoli
- Cheese
- Yogurt
- Milk
Iron and Protein Rich Foods
- Spinach
- Lean Protein – Turkey, chicken, beef
- Black Beans
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Nuts & Seeds
- Grass-fed beef
- Seafood - Salmon, anchovies, sardines and herrings
Fiber Rich Foods
Beans and Legumes – Lentils, lima beans, split peas, chickpeas
Whole grains – oats, quinoa, bulgur and wheat bread
For a full list of nutrient-dense foods ideal for pre and post-pregnancy, check out this 'What to Expect' article; it includes some great nutrient-rich recipe ideas!
Maintain good overall health:
This is the what 'not to do' part. As you know, good overall health can increase your fertility. Quitting smoking, reducing caffeine intake, avoiding alcohol, and reducing stress levels can all help to support your overall health and increase your chances of falling pregnant. So ditch the bad habits and start making time for a new healthier you!
Don't rush it:
Finally, it's important to remember that falling pregnant takes time for some couples. Don't be discouraged if you don't conceive a child immediately. Give yourself time, be patient, and continue to follow the above tips.
Final Thoughts
While many believe there must be a secret to falling pregnant, the answer is surprisingly simple. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, the key to increasing your chances of falling pregnant is quite literally in your hands; the rest will follow naturally. Remember to stay positive, believe in yourself, and don't give up on your dream of becoming a parent because soon you'll be scouring the web for parenting tips!
