Have you been trying to get pregnant for a few months now without success? If you find yourself starting to worry and wonder what is going on: relax! Many women and couples go through this moment of doubt and questioning before taking the step towards an assisted reproduction clinic.
Let us tell you what you should do if you aren't able to get pregnant, and the steps you can follow before going to a specialized clinic.
1. Go over how long you have been trying for
The general rule is:
- If you are under 35 years old, it is recommended to try for more than 12 months, and if this is unsuccessful, go for a consultation.
- If you are over 35 years old, this time period is reduced to 6 months.
Waiting for to long can waste valuable time, especially if, for your age, your ovarian reserve level starts to decrease.
2. Know your menstrual cycle
Knowing how your cycles work is fundamental:
- Are they regular cycles?
- Do you ovulate every month?
- Are your cycles painful or do you experience irregular bleeding?
You can use ovulation tests, the cervical mucus method, or even fertility apps to find out when you're ovulating and which are your most fertile days.
3. Review your daily habits
It is not an absolute determining factor, but having a healthy lifestyle can help improve your fertility capacity:
- Maintain a healthy weight (not too high nor too low).
- Avoid smoking, alcohol and cut down on caffeine.
- Do moderate and constant exercise.
- Sleep well and look after your emotional wellbeing.
All of these can influence ovulation and oocyte quality.
4. Take care of your diet
A balanced diet, rich in fruit, vegetables, protein, healthy fats and iron are all favorable for fertility. It is also recommended to:
- Start taking folic acid at least 3 months before conception.
- Avoid ultra-processed foods, added sugars and unhealthy fats.
Good nutrition improves no only your possibility to get pregnant, but also the health for a future baby.
5. Book a first appointment with your local GP or gynecology
If after a few months of trying to great pregnant you are still unsuccessful, you could start with going for a basic consultations with your local doctor. They could help you by:
- Going over your menstrual cycle history
- Check to see if everything is within the norm
- Letting you know if the time has arrived to speak to a fertility expert
A conversation with a doctor without undergoing invasive tests can be the first step in making decisions.
6. Go over your medical history and medication
Some treatments can affect ovulation or implantation. If you have taken birth control methods recently, have thyroid problems, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or other medical conditions, make sure you have it controlled by your specialist.
7. Note down any symptoms or irregularities which you may notice
Keep an eye on your body. Write down details such as:
- Irregular cycles
- Unusual bleeding
- Intense menstrual pain
- Hormonal changes (acne, body hair, hair falling out)
You shouldn't try to auto-diagnose your condition, but these points could help a lot if you decide to go down the route of a fertility clinic.
8. Speak to your partner and make sure you both are involved
If you have a couple, fertility is a matter for both of you. Some basic recommendations are:
- Have sexual relations throughout the most fertile time of the month
- Avoid using lubricants which are not compatible with fertility.
- Make sure your partner also leads a healthy lifestyle.
Although the specific masculine tests are carried out in clinics, it is important that both of you feel involved from the very beginning.
9. Manage stress and expectations
Anxiety can alter your menstrual cycle and affect fertility. Try the following:
- Yoga or meditation
- Walks in the fresh air
- Avoid excess information
- Psychological help if needed
Remember, it is normal to feel pressure, but it is also very important to look after your emotion help.
10. Get informed and plan out the next steps
If you decide to get in touch with a clinic, make sure you are ready:
- Look for a clinic with experience, personalized care and tailored treatment
- Prepare a list of questions or doubts you may have
- Take with you a list of your cycles and habits
Here at IGIN, we support you from the very first consultation, all of which are free of charge. Our medical team with guide you with empathy and clarity to find the best solution, step by step.
If you do not get pregnant, you are not alone and you aren't failing. There are many things that you can do before going to a clinic, from improving your habits to keeping an eye on your cycle and consulting your doctor. And if you do need help, IGIN is here for you: book your free, and zero-obligation appointment now.