Getting pregnant isn’t always straightforward. Find out how to prepare your body for pregnancy, learn how to improve your chance of conceiving, know when to seek medical help, and understand what treatments are available if you’re struggling to get pregnant.
If you’re planning to try for a baby, you’re probably wondering if there’s anything you need to do first.
While maintaining a healthy diet is always encouraged, US dietitian Lauren Talbert, RD, also recommends getting at least 400 mcg of folic acid every day before you conceive and in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.
Folic acid can be found in foods like green leafy vegetables, beans, and whole grains. However, it can be difficult to get enough folic acid from food alone, so it’s a good idea to add a prenatal vitamin into your routine.
Your chance of conceiving is highest in the first few months of trying, and around 8 in 10 couples conceive within six months.
Around 8 in 10 couples will conceive within a year if they have regular unprotected sex (every two to three days), and more than 9 in 10 within two years.
However, if you’re under the age of 35 and have regular periods and no obvious health problems, it’s recommended to reach out to a gynecologist or fertility specialist if you haven’t conceived after 12 months of trying.
If you’re older than 35, it’s recommended that you speak to a doctor after six months. Those over 40 trying to get pregnant are advised to consult a specialist right away.
Luckily, there are many different treatment options out there for anyone struggling to conceive.
The type of treatment you receive will depend on a number of things, and your doctor may recommend lifestyle tweaks, medications to stimulate ovulation, or even surgical procedures to address any reproductive system irregularities, such as blocked uterine tubes or endometriosis. Fertility problems can affect either partner, so both partners are usually assessed.
Treatments like assisted reproductive technology, such as in vitro fertilization, may also be recommended.
More FAQs
How long does it take to get pregnant?
Dr. Cynthia DeTata, clinical associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology, US, says most couples conceive within a year of trying. A 2010 Human Reproduction study found that 45% of couples under 35 who are having unprotected sex conceive after three cycles, 65% after six cycles, and 85% within 12 months.
What’s the earliest you can take a pregnancy test?
For the earliest accurate results, “a pregnancy test should be taken on the first day of your expected or missed period,” says Dr. Jenna Flanagan, obstetrician and gynecologist, US. “If the test is taken too early, it could be a false negative.”
When should you contact your doctor if you’re struggling to get pregnant?
If you’re under the age of 35 and you have a regular menstrual cycle and no obvious health problems, the one-year mark is usually the recommended time to book a consultation with a gynecologist or fertility specialist if you haven’t yet conceived.
However, you should seek medical help sooner if either partner has a risk factor for infertility.