How To Get Pregnant
Starting your journey to parenthood can feel unfamiliar, especially if you’re more accustomed to contraception than conception. Rest assured, we’re here to offer gentle guidance and support as you navigate starting a family.
Tips for conception
& starting your family
Starting the journey to parenthood may seem simple, but it often presents unexpected challenges, causing confusion and emotional strain for some.
If you’ve been trying to conceive without success, know that you’re not alone. Various underlying causes, including medically diagnosed conditions like endometriosis or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), as well as lifestyle factors, can affect fertility.
It’s essential to recognise that fertility involves both partners, and challenges in conceiving can also stem from medically diagnosed male factor infertility (MFI). Compassionate medical guidance can offer comfort and hope. Here are some initial steps to consider.
Important steps when planning for a baby
Start by building a trusted relationship with a GP for a pre-pregnancy health assessment, addressing any concerns. Your doctor will offer tailored advice based on your family planning goals, age, and medical history.
Empower yourself with knowledge and confidence by openly discussing your concerns and aspirations.
First steps your GP may likely discuss with you will be:
- Medical history and general check-up: Your doctor will conduct a thorough examination and inquire about your health history, including family medical background and any fertility issues. This information helps guide your journey to conception.
- Blood tests: During your appointments, you’ll undergo blood tests to assess your health and fertility. These tests include checks for haemoglobin, vitamin D3, thyroid hormones, and AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) levels, providing insights into egg reserves. Additionally, your immunity against medically diagnosed diseases like German measles and chickenpox will be evaluated, ensuring you’re ready to proceed confidently.
- Sperm tests: If you’ve had difficulty conceiving, consider sperm testing to assess motility, morphology, and volume. It’s important both partners undergo testing to navigate the fertility journey together.
- Specialist Referral: Your doctor will offer personalised guidance on nutrition and exercise to optimise your chances of conception and support your baby’s health.
- Supplements: Prenatal vitamins containing essentials like folate and iodine to bridge nutrient gaps in your diet may be recommended by your doctor and support your baby’s wellbeing before and during pregnancy.
- Specialist referral: Your doctor may refer you to a specialist for personalised care if you or your partner have any preexisting medical conditions that may impact pregnancy.
- Medications: Your doctor will review your medications to prioritise your health and well-being.
- Genetic counselling: If you or your partner are at risk of genetic disorders, your doctor may refer you to a genetic counsellor for specific support.
Single mother by choice and
same-sex relationships
For single mothers by choice or in same-sex relationships where one partner can carry a child, Australia offers tailored support. Clinics nationwide provide assistance for sperm donation and IVF for your unique situation. Take the time to research and find a provider who respects your needs and aspirations.
When To Seek Help
If you’ve been trying to conceive without success, it’s normal to feel discouraged. Experts generally advise waiting a year if you’re under 35 and six months if you’re over 35 before seeking help. However, the decision is personal and depends on your circumstances. Trust your instincts and seek support when ready, considering age’s impact on fertility.
Getting The Timing Right
Conceiving relies on precise timing, which can be frustrating over time. Understanding your ovulation cycle is crucial for pregnancy chances.
Typically, ovulation happens around day 14 of the cycle, triggered by rising luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, releasing an egg into the fallopian tube.
Sperm can survive for up to five days, while the egg remains viable for 12–24 hours. Aim for intercourse before ovulation to increase the chances, but be kind to yourself and avoid undue pressure.
Some women feel ovulation as a palpable sensation called Mittelschmerz, while others don’t notice physical changes. You can track ovulation through methods like basal body temperature monitoring, looking for a slight temperature increase (around 0.3°C) during ovulation, or observing changes in cervical mucus for an egg white consistency.
The most accurate approach is using an ovulation tracker, like our Prognosis Ovulation Kit. It detects LH levels in urine, clearly indicating ovulation is likely to occur within 24 to 36 hours. This tool helps time intercourse effectively, easing the stress of conception.
Navigating this information can feel overwhelming, but each step brings you closer to your goal. Our Prognosis range is here to support you.