Ways to Improve Fertility

There are many couples that have problems conceiving a child. Sometimes it is due to the man, sometimes to the woman, and sometimes both. A couple having trouble conceiving often become frustrated and stressed out because no matter how much they try it still does not work. There are many things that both partners can do to assist in the process. Not everyone will still be able to conceive naturally though. These tips are by no means medically proven to work for everyone, but they might help you.

The number one improvement you can make is to quit smoking. It has been shown in a study that smoking decreased sperm counts by 17 % from non-smokers. It not only reduces the number, but can also decrease the health of the sperm. Smoking in women causes a higher infertility rate, but also the length of time before becoming pregnant increases. It has also been found that smoking during fertility treatments causes smokers to require higher doses of the medication than non-smokers. Second-hand smoke harms the fertility in women also. In another study, men who quit smoking had an increase in the amount of sperm by eight times. Quit smoking and avoid cigarette smoke and you may conceive faster.

Stress is another factor that affects fertility. It has been shown in many studies that stress-reducing techniques increase fertility. Studies have shown that many women got pregnant just from learning to relax. Infertility is very stressful, so you have to think of it as a joyful experience that takes time. You should learn how to handle stress more effectively and it might just help you become pregnant. So stop stressing out!

Nutrition is highly important also. Many couples who experience infertility do not get the adequate nutrition that their bodies need. It is important to realize that even though you feel healthy, you might not be at your peak health. In one study it was found that a whopping 79% of couples who were infertile were not getting enough antioxidants. Eat more fruits and vegetables and it might just help. Men should increase their intake of Vitamins C and E because they help increase sperm counts and helps improve the sperms ability to swim, as studies show. It has been said that high levels of mercury also have a detrimental affect on sperm; therefore eating less sea food might help increase fertility. Obesity is also a huge issue with women, as it is a leading factor in infertility in women. If you lose as little as 5% of your body weight it could increase your fertility.

In the past there were many things that were seen as folklore, but they actually do work for fertility. In a study it was found that increasing the intake of a combination of zinc, folic acid, Astacarox, and Proxeed can increase the quality and function of the sperm. Many men who increase their intake of Zinc and folic acid alone can increase the sperm count by 74%. L-carnitine and L-acetyl carnitine also help the sperm. Folic acid, vitamins E, B-6, and B-12, iron, magnesium, zinc, L-arginine, selenium, chasteberry, and green tea also help improve fertility rates in women.

Other factors can affect fertility in a detrimental way. Pesticides reduce both male and female fertility. Therefore, try to eliminate or reduce exposure to them. Getting more sleep can also help increase your fertility. In a study it was found that many women who were sleep deprived had a low amount of Leptin in their body, which plays a key role in fertility. Try to get more sleep and it might just help you conceive not only by nutrition, but also the condition of your body, and reducing stress levels. These are all simple things to do to increase your fertility. There are things you need to eliminate from your daily lives, as well as add to your daily life.

There are a few more suggestions that I can give you that might help also. Keep track of the woman's menstrual cycle each month. This will help assist doctors in determining when you are most fertile. You can also use an ovulation test or use an ovulation calculator, such as this one Ovulation Calculator. Another suggestion is to keep a basal temperature calendar. One can be found here with a proper explanation. This will help better predict when a woman is ovulating. Also you are not considered by doctors as trying to conceive unless you have intercourse three or more times a week and have been doing so for at least one year. I hope this helps along this wonderful and sometimes stressful journey.

WebMD, "Getting Pregnant: Ways to Improve Your Fertility." WebMD: (http://www.webmd.com/baby/guide/getting-pregnant-ways-to-improve-your-fertility?page=3).