I never thought I was going to be a mom. Up until my mid-thirties, I really never wanted to have kids. Before you judge me, know that I had several reasons, some selfless, some selfish.
I know many women around my age who put off having children until they were older. Many wanting to finish college and have a career first before becoming a mom. In fact, more and more women have and continue to put off marriage and/or pregnancy until they’re at least a little older.
However, once I decided I wanted to get pregnant, I was afraid that I had put it off too long or had been on birth control too long that I might not be able to conceive.
Before we were ready to try to conceive, I went to my gynecologist for not only my annual exam, but to see if he saw any problems or anything of concern. He said he saw no reason I shouldn’t be able to get pregnant, but if I had not conceived after 6-months of being off the pill, to come back in and we’d see if there was an issue.
I was fortunate and we conceived within 3 months of my stopping my birth control pills.
I know not everyone is so lucky. Are you trying to conceive?
Here are 6 tips that can help you conceive:
1. Eat Healthy
Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is good for everyone’s overall health, but especially important if you are trying to conceive. Getting your vitamins an folic acid is important and although you can take supplements, getting your nutrients from your food is the best option.
2. Kick Some Butt
Okay, I don’t mean to fight anyone here, what I mean is…. quit smoking. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, smoking makes a woman’s eggs more prone to genetic disorders, and it takes smokers longer to conceive. Besides, if you are a smoker, you probably plan on quitting when you get pregnant anyway, this will give you a head start.
3. Use the Right Lubrication
Did you know that there was a lubrication that does not impede sperm? I didn’t either, but there is. Astroglide TTC Trying to Conceive™. Like all Astroglide products, Astroglide TTC™ temporarily relieves vaginal dryness during sexual activity, but Astroglide TTC™ does more…
Astroglide TTC™ was formulated with couples trying to conceive in mind, by supporting fertility with adjusted pH levels, compatible osmolality and a consistency similar to your body’s cervical mucus, making it less likely to hinder sperm motility than traditional lubricants.
It’s a sperm-friendly lubricant.
How it works:
When trying to conceive, it is vital to provide an environment where sperm has a chance of survival. Environmental conditions are affected by pH levels, osmolality (the concentration of substances like sodium and potassium) and the consistency of egg white cervical mucus. While traditional lubricants may affect these conditions and inhibit sperm motility, studies have shown that Astroglide TTC™ is compatible with sperm, oocytes and embryos and allows sperm to move freely.
Astroglide TTC™ also contains galactose, which is found naturally in semen, as well as fructose, the main source of energy for sperm.
4. Know Your Cycle
Keep track of ovulation. Ovulation occurs about 14 days before the menstrual period is due, so keep it marked in your calendar. This way you will know when your “fertile window” is and boost your chances of conceiving.
5. Reduce Stress
Stress wreaks havoc on the body. It can physically make you sick. If you’re trying to conceive, stress will only hinder your chances. I know it’s easier said than done, but relax. Try meditation for at least 10 minutes a day or listen to your favorite music, or read a book. Exercise (which is another great way to increase your chances of conceiving) 20-30 minutes a day is a great way to de-stress, too.
6. Get Busy
Yes, I mean exactly that… be intimate with your significant other more often. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, not having sex for more than five days in a row may affect sperm count adversely. Don’t put undo stress on each other about sex, just enjoy each other and do what comes natural.
Remember it takes two, so your significant other should practice the above tips, as well.
If you’ve used Astroglide TTC™ or you do in the future, feel free to share your testimonial.
Astroglide TTC™ sponsored this blog post. The opinions and text are all mine
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