Fertility: what you can do and when to see a doctor

Difficulty conceiving can be stressful, and promises of natural solutions are often too strong. Herbs such as maca and vitex and acupuncture have no proof that they guarantee pregnancy. This text is general information and does not replace medical advice.

What you can do now

1. Have regular unprotected sex, roughly every two to three days.
2. Do not smoke and limit alcohol, and avoid alcohol once pregnant.
3. Keep a moderate body weight and be active several times a week.
4. Sleep enough and find ways to relax, because stress burdens both partners.
5. Before conceiving, talk to a doctor about folic acid. NIH ODS states 400 mcg a day for people who could become pregnant.

Your partner is part of the plan

Fertility problems can affect one or both partners, so the habits apply to both. Stopping smoking, drinking less alcohol and a moderate weight matter for men too. Prepare for the appointment together: note how long you have been trying, what your cycles are like, which medicines you take and whether you have had infections or operations. Agree how you will support each other, because trying can be emotionally hard.

Herbal supplements

Maca, vitex and similar preparations can affect hormones. Do not take them without talking to a doctor, especially with medicines, medical conditions, or if you are pregnant or planning to be.

When to see a doctor

The NHS advises seeing a doctor if you have not conceived after a year of regular trying, and sooner if the woman is 36 or older or you have a known problem. It is best for both partners to attend.

Sources: NHS NIH ODS.