What steps can help me improve my chances of conceiving?

Question

Hello doctor,

My partner and I are hoping to conceive soon. Could you please let me know what steps you recommend to improve our chances, such as any check-ups, vitamins, or timing advice?

Kindly advise.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I usually recommend a preconception health check for both partners when preparing to conceive. This may include a general physical exam, review of medical history, and some basic blood tests (such as hemoglobin, thyroid, blood sugar, and infection screening).

For women, starting Folic acid (vitamin B9) supplementation at a dose of five milligrams daily at least three months before conception is important to reduce the risk of birth defects. Maintaining a balanced diet, healthy weight, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking or alcohol also improves fertility.

For men, lifestyle factors are equally important; adequate sleep, limiting alcohol, avoiding tobacco, and maintaining a healthy weight can help optimize sperm health.

In terms of timing, trying to have intercourse every two to three days during the fertile window (the four to five days leading up to ovulation and the day of ovulation itself) maximizes chances.

Tracking cycles, using ovulation kits, or monitoring cervical mucus can help identify this window more accurately. If conception has not occurred after a year of trying (or six months if the woman is over 35), or if there are known health issues, an earlier fertility evaluation would be advised. Focusing on healthy living and starting Folic acid (vitamin B9) is the key first step.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.