When you're ready to start a family, you are ready now. It can be frustrating to see women get pregnant when they aren’t even trying, only for you to try desperately for years to no avail. Whether you’ve been trying for years or just got started, there are a few things you can do to increase the odds.
Note: These techniques are not 100% effective, but they may increase the chances of conception.
1. Relax
Stress can do horrible things to the body, including block conception. The more relaxed you are, the more likely you are to conceive. If you are having trouble relaxing, you can try some yoga classes or breathing exercises. Once you are pregnant, you’re only a few short months away from being a frazzled pair of parents. Enjoy the alone time with your partner.
2. Track Your Cycle
Keeping track of your menstrual cycle will help you determine which days of the month you are the most fertile. Knowing when you are ovulating is half the battle. Have sex as much as possible during that time to increase your chances of getting pregnant.
3. Have Sex However You Want
Yes, missionary position is reputed to be the most effective for conception. But there’s no real proof. In extremely rare instances, the cervix can be a little different than normal. Positioning might make a difference only then. Additionally, participating in intercourse while you are standing up or sitting down can make sperm flow the wrong way. In general, the important thing is to have fun and have an orgasm.
4. Raise Your Hips During Sex
That said, raising your pelvis will help sperm go toward the cervix instead of away from it. Stick a pillow under your butt to help raise and tilt your hips.
5. Stay Horizontal
There’s no need to stick your legs in the air, but you also shouldn’t jump straight out of bed. Give everything about 15 minutes to settle in before you shower, pee, or start running laps around the house.
6. Embrace the Big O
Having an orgasm induces a state in the female body to better accept sperm. If you can have an orgasm with, just before, or shortly after your partner ejaculates, you will be more likely to conceive.
7. Make Love in the Morning
Studies show most men’s sperm levels are actually highest in the morning. Use this to your advantage and make love in the mornings on the days you are ovulating.
8. Be Good to Your Body
When you are trying to get pregnant, you should follow a healthy diet and avoid all alcohol and drugs. While these things might not necessarily help you conceive, it is good for the impending baby to have a nice, toxin free uterus to set up house in.
9. Eat Fertility Foods
A healthy overall diet is important, but certain foods may actually help your body be more receptive to conception. A few simple modifications may be quite helpful.
10. Talk to Your OB/GYN
It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor when you’re ready to start conceiving. They can give you tips, and make sure your body is healthy and ready for conception. Any medical conditions need to be dealt with beforehand to give the mother and baby their best shots at a successful pregnancy.
