When it comes to fertility, various lifestyle factors can play a significant role in your ability to conceive. Research shows that about 84% of couples are able to conceive naturally within a year, provided they engage in regular unprotected intimacy every two to three days. However, around one in seven couples face challenges in this area, affecting roughly 3.5 million individuals in the UK (NHS, 2017). Thankfully, small adjustments to your daily habits can improve your chances of conception. Here are five natural lifestyle changes worth considering.
1. Manage Stress Levels
Excessive stress can disrupt your hormonal balance, which is crucial during the conception phase. High cortisol levels, often linked to stress, can lead to various physical and mental health issues. To mitigate stress, assess your priorities and identify stressors. If you can’t eliminate them completely, find healthy coping mechanisms to help lower your stress levels.
2. Prioritize Quality Time Together
It’s essential to ensure that the pressure to conceive doesn’t negatively impact your relationship. Regular intimacy is important, but remember that sperm needs 2 to 3 days to rejuvenate, so allow time for relaxation and connection outside of trying to get pregnant.
3. Embrace a Nutritious Diet
Opt for a balanced diet rich in whole, minimally processed foods. Incorporating fresh, organic options into your meals helps your body absorb essential nutrients and antioxidants that can enhance fertility. Additionally, reducing pesticide exposure can positively affect your reproductive health.
4. Get Active, but Don’t Overdo It
Moderate exercise can be beneficial for fertility, while excessive vigorous workouts might hinder your chances. Many people experience mood boosts, better sleep, and increased libido through regular exercise. It also helps balance hormones and releases the feel-good hormone, serotonin. Remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle often involves moving your body.
5. Keep an Eye on Your Weight
Being overweight or obese can disrupt hormonal balance and lead to fertility issues, including ovulation problems. It’s important for both partners to support each other in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, as these issues can affect everyone. Consider consulting with a healthcare professional to determine a healthy weight range for you.
At Bloom Fertility, we’re here to assist you with any fertility questions you may have, whether you’re starting your journey or looking to try again. For further insights on fertility treatments and lifestyle advice, feel free to explore our resources or reach out to our team.
In addition, if you’re curious about how factors like tongue tie may affect infants, check out this informative blog post. For those interested in home insemination, this site offers great kits to get you started. And for a comprehensive understanding of IVF, you can visit Healthline’s resource.
In summary, making these five lifestyle changes—reducing stress, prioritizing time together, maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in moderate exercise, and keeping a healthy weight—can significantly enhance your fertility journey.