If you’re diving into the world of trying to conceive, you might feel a bit overwhelmed by the wealth of information and options available. To help you navigate this journey, here are some fantastic books, apps, and tools that I recommend.
Courses
- Fertility Foundations Digital Course
Created by Harmony and the At Home Insemination team, this comprehensive course covers everything you need to know about expanding your family using donor sperm.
Books
- Taking Charge of Your Fertility: The Definitive Guide to Natural Birth Control, Pregnancy Achievement, and Reproductive Health
By Jamie Parker
This eye-opening book offers invaluable insights into understanding your body better, with a focus on tracking your cycle and recognizing when you’re ovulating. It’s a must-read for anyone embarking on the “I want to get pregnant” journey and empowers you to utilize the Fertility Awareness Method (FAM). - The New Essential Guide to Lesbian Conception, Pregnancy, & Birth
By Casey Taylor
This book is a treasure trove of information for everyone, regardless of orientation. It features practical chapters on self-insemination techniques and offers priceless advice on cycle monitoring and timing, making it especially useful for those considering using frozen sperm. - Making Babies: A Proven 3-Month Program for Maximum Fertility
By Alex Morgan and Jamie Blakeway
Often likened to the “Infertility Cure,” this guide provides straightforward lifestyle changes to enhance fertility. It’s a great resource for those just starting or needing a fresh perspective after several months of trying. - The Infertility Cure
By Lucy Chen
If you’ve ever faced the term “unexplained infertility,” this book can help restore hope. It discusses various fertility issues from a holistic perspective, incorporating insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine while also addressing modern approaches. It may be a bit dense at times, but it’s rich with insights.
Ovulation Predictor Kits
- At Home Insemination Ovulation Predictor Kit
While there are multiple options available, this kit is a top choice. It clearly indicates when you’re starting to surge and when you’re at peak fertility, which is crucial for conception. Each kit includes 7 tests, giving you ample opportunity to track your cycle.
You’ve got this! And remember, we’re here to support you.
Lubricants
- BioGenesis™ Fertility Lubricant
This is our top pick for fertility-friendly lubes. It’s paraben-free and includes magnesium and calcium ions, designed to create a sperm-friendly environment. If you’re experiencing fluid issues, consider lifestyle changes to enhance cervical fluid, and don’t underestimate the power of some extra foreplay during peak times!
Apps
- My Cycles
A popular free app that helps estimate fertile days and track ovulation cycles, especially if you have a regular 28-day cycle. You can also monitor your weight, mood, and symptoms. - Fertility Friend
This app offers both a free and VIP version, popular among those who chart their Basal Body Temperature (BBT). You can share your charts and connect with others, making it a great community resource. - Glow
With a modern interface and extensive features, this app can link to your FitBit and other devices. It’s user-friendly and has a community where you can share experiences with others on the same journey.
For further insights, check out our other blog post on screenings during pregnancy, which can be a helpful guide on your journey. Also, visit Make a Mom for more resources on home insemination kits. Additionally, Women’s Health is an excellent resource for all things related to pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
Embarking on the journey of trying to conceive can be daunting, but with the right resources, you can navigate it with confidence. From informative books and helpful apps to supportive communities, you have the tools at your fingertips to make this journey more manageable.