Now that you are ready to get pregnant, it is likely you want to conceive as soon as possible. Here are several tips from our IVF specialist to increase your chances of conception.

1. Consider preconception health screening

Speak to your doctor about your preconception health. Your doctor will review your medical history, medications and vaccinations to see if there are any areas that may affect pregnancy. If you have an underlying medical condition, it is good to have them under control so you can become pregnant safely.

2. Record your cycle & monitor for ovulation

Knowing when you’re ovulating and timing sex during these days can greatly help with conceiving. Normally in a 28-day cycle, ovulation happens at day 14. There are ways to test for ovulation such as by using an ovulation test-kit. These kits can be bought at the pharmacy and are easy to use. You can also note on the change in cervical mucus consistency—clear and sticky mucus means a fertile window.

3. Have sex regularly near time of ovulation

The less often you have sex, the less likely you are to get pregnant. While this rings true, knowing when to have sex is equally important. Every woman has a fertile window which spans for six days—about 5 days before ovulation and the day of ovulation itself. Having sex regularly during this period is encouraged.

4. Best position to get pregnant

There is no evidence on the best position to get pregnant. However, the best position is the one which is most conducive for you and spouse to have frequent sex. Therefore, it is really up to the couple’s preference.

5. Maintain healthy weight & take prenatal vitamins

Women who are overweight tend to have menstrual irregularities and ovulation problems. Hence, maintaining a healthy weight helps to avoid these reproductive disturbances. Another way to prepare for pregnancy is to take folic acid 400 micrograms every day before you get pregnant. This helps to prevent major birth defects on the baby.

6. Lifestyle changes

You are encouraged to stop smoking and consuming alcohol completely when trying to conceive (also applicable to your spouse). Smoking is associated with poorer reproductive outcomes. Similarly, alcohol is not safe at any levels during pregnancy. Caffeine intake should be reduced to about 200mg a day, which translates to no more than a cup of coffee.

When to see a doctor

If you have been trying to conceive and yet to be successful after 6 months, it is advisable to see a fertility doctor. The doctor will evaluate you and your spouse’s fertility through a series of tests.

Find out more on how fertility is screened.