Can You Really Choose Your Baby's Gender?

Choose Your Baby's Gender

 

Even though there are lots of arguments over just how ethical it really is to choose the gender of your baby before they're born, the very fact remains that we now have various all natural techniques you may use which will improve the probability of having a baby of a specific gender. The ethics of it are at your discretion and even though no technique is 100% accurate, there are some things that you can test that may help you improve your possibilities for having either a boy or a girl.

These types of techniques are focused around the proven fact that the sperm which carry Y chromosomes (which are essential for a boy) are quite different from the sperm which carry the X chromosome (which are essential for a girl). By simply being familiar with these kinds of differences, along with choosing the best techniques, you will be creating a natural environment in which one particular type of sperm will be able to outperform the other and arrive at the main destination first, therefore determining your baby's gender.

Why don't we have a look at what you can do.

1) The Best Diet Plan for determining you baby's gender:

Y sperm need an environment which is alkali in nature, whereas X sperm require more acid. The actual PH levels of your entire body determine how heavy the cervical discharge is in addition to whether or not the desired sperm are likely to make it through with success. In order to have a girl, you'll want to eat a diet which is abundant in calcium and magnesium. In order to have a boy, a diet abundant in potassium and sodium is essential.

2) The Best Timing for determining you baby's gender:

The timing of when you have intercourse will significantly have an effect on determining the gender of your baby. Since the Y sperm have to get through to the egg cell as fast as possible, it is very important to time intercourse on the day that you ovulate to improve your probability of having a boy. They will be in a position to reach the egg cell while they are still viable.

But in order to have a girl, you must allow the Y sperm time to die off, allowing the more resilient X sperm to move ahead. Because of this you will want to time intercourse to somewhere around two to three days just before ovulation. This provides the X sperm more than sufficient time for it to get through to the egg cell.

3) The best Position for determining you baby's gender:

The positioning you decide on with regard to intercourse may also decide the sex of your baby. Once again, we fall back to the differences between sperm. The Y sperm have got to get through to their destination in as little time as possible. Which means that they must get discharged as close to the cervix as possible, shortening the journey they need to take to the egg cell. Positions which provide for deep penetration are perfect.

For you to have a girl, you'll want to ensure it is more difficult for the Y sperm to arrive at their target in timely manner. Which means that positions whereby shallow penetration is attained are necessary. Typically the sperm is going to be deposited further away from the cervix, offering the X sperm the opportunity they need to arrive at the egg cell, as well as enabling the Y sperm to die off.

By: Michael Lepore

Easy Guide To Stay Healthy During Pregnancy

Stay Healthy During Pregnancy

 

Taking care of yourself when you are carrying a child is of the utmost importance, particularly because you are in charge of the life of a whole other person. You need to make sure that you eat well and fill your system with all of the essential vitamins and minerals that are important for your baby's health and wellbeing. You need to make sure you have a proper intake of leafy greens and other vegetables so that your unborn child gets calcium, protein, and other vitamins that are essential for growth and development of the physical body as well as the budding brain.

Also you need to make sure you drink an abundance of milk or a replacement of milk if you are allergic so that your bones are strong and your baby is strong, and fortified with the proper amount of calcium, as well. That way, you can be sure to have an influx of healthy minerals flowing into your body no matter where you are or what you are doing. Make sure that you take plenty of rest, too, and do not over exert yourself at any point of the pregnancy, particularly in the later months.

Be ready for labor. It helps to take some classes that help with breathing and labor preparation, that help you exercise while carrying the baby and help prepare you with breathing exercises and measures that will really come in handy when the painful contractions begin. It's important to take all your prenatal vitamins, too, and to have regular check ups with the doctor so that no matter what you are well advised about what kinds of things you should eat and consume as well as how to take care of yourself. Talk to your OBGYN, too, so you can choose the best birthing route for you so that when the day comes there will be no surprises as you will already have your plan.

Also, it is good to keep yourself free of stress, as worry and anxiety is not good for the baby. Take a vacation, read great books, watch movies, but whatever you do try not to be too afraid and get the support of your loved ones so that you are not too anxious about the delivery process. Think of the child you are about to bring to the world and let that be the thing that gets you through any of the difficulties of the day.

Staying healthy when you are about to have a baby is extremely important for you and for the baby so that you and your child are guaranteed a safe day of delivery. This is going to be a very special day in your life and you want to meet it at your best and in your best form, giving your baby everything you can possibly give it even before it makes its entrance into the world. You want to make sure it is healthy and has all the nutrients needed to have a healthy start at a great life, one only made possible by your love.

By: Roberto Sedycias

Points To Consider Before Getting Pregnant

Points To Consider Before Getting Pregnant  

Having a baby is a major step in anyone’s life. In an ideal world, before you even think about getting pregnant, you should both consider these points before having a baby.

Are you in a lasting, stable relationship?
Of course most single parents manage perfectly well to bring up baby. Many people would say that a child born to one happy, loving parent is better off than one born to a couple who have a strained, unhappy relationship.

So if you are a couple you should ideally have a strong, stable relationship before having a baby. When baby arrives, whatever you may think now, caring for your child will drastically reduce the amount of time you spend with your partner.

So if either of you is already a little insecure or feels unloved, this could cause real issues.

Many older people giving pregnancy tips will say to a newlywed couple (or one moving in together) spend some precious years just getting used to each other and your new relationship before thinking of starting a family.

If you already constantly argue over little things, or have blazing rows, you have to consider if this will be the right environment for a baby?

Remember those early months of sleep deprivation can fray tempers even further. A baby should NEVER be considered as glue to stick a couple together.

Are you still striving towards your goal?
While having a baby doesn’t mean the end of your dreams, career plans or personal aims in life, it will put things on hold for a while.

If you feel you still want to travel, it’s best to get your wanderlust out of your system before getting pregnant.

Do you want to further your education? Could you afford to, or spare the studying time you would need with a little one to care for?

What about your career? Are either of you in a position at work where you could slip down the ladder if you took maternity leave?

Are you the right age for getting pregnant?
If you are in your twenties then putting off getting pregnant for a few years is no big deal. Women can and often do have babies in their forties, but it is not as easy to get pregnant, or to carry a healthy baby full term as fertility declines the risks of pregnancy complications, miscarriages, and birth defects increase with age.

Are you financially ready?
Having a baby is expensive. It’s not just the one off baby item expenses (there are many pregnancy tips on websites and in magazines to help you save money). It’s the on-going cost of food, nappies, clothing, childcare, and that’s even before a child starts at school.

One of you may be a stay-at-home parent, which will of course save on child care. But will you be able to cover all the other on-going costs on one salary? Are you prepared to make the necessary financial sacrifices?

Debra Aspinall is an experienced journalist and the editor and leading writer for the Emma’s Diary website, one of the UKs foremost pregnancy and baby websites. Debra writes on pregnancy related topics such as getting pregnant, pregnancy tips, pregnancy complications, having a baby and etc. She also writes on women’s health and beauty issues and contributes travel articles to glossy magazines in London and the Home Counties

 By:DEBRA ASPINALL

Healthy Pregnancy

     Healthy Pregnancy Is What Every Pregnant    
                Woman Wants. Tips On How To  

Have A Healthy Pregnancy.
 
Below regular pregnancy circumstances, about 25% of woman are going to miscarry, or lose their baby, within the first twelve weeks of pregnancy. Read on to see what you can do to prevent this happening to you and have a healthy pregnancy.

Getting a healthy pregnancy begins with getting ready your body for this outstanding cycle of being pregnant effectively just before you become with child. A faulty egg or sperm has a big part to play in the main reason why so quite a few females miscarry. Defective eggs or sperms are a steer result of inadequate vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants in the body type.

Healthy pregnancy preparation can lower your calculated risk of innate abnormalities, miscarriages and going into labor beginning. Being pregnant is far more than a physical procedure which occurs to a woman. It has an outstanding mental, emotional, spiritual and energetic side to it. In buy to have a wholesome pregnancy you need to embrace being pregnant from a natural body, mind, and alcoholic drink perspective.

Eat healthy and balanced:

If you possess simply found out you are expecting and want to have a healthy pregnancy after that you have to begin with consuming quite more healthy. Be really conscious to make sure you include berries and vegetables and high protein meals into your diet plan and eating 3 diets a day. Being pregnant does not call for which you eat for two, but achieves require which you are very conscious regarding the high quality of fruit you eat, building certain the super food you eat for fashion the child is of top notch and nutritious.

Arrange your prenatal appointment:

Having a healthy being pregnant additionally contains earlier prenatal care. As quickly as you comprehend you are pregnant, arrange the appointment with your medical professional or midwife.

Begin multivitamins and minerals:

As soon as you understand you are with child start out leading a multivitamin plus an extra folic acid (400 micrograms) till you get hold of the rx for the prenatal nutritional vitamins. Many multivitamins and prenatal vitamins do not consist of all the minerals that are required on a every day basis to grow optimum health. Additionally add a great high quality mineral to your pre natal nutritional vitamins. Vitamins and minerals are the fundamentals for a healthy being pregnant.

Avert dehydration:

Getting a healthy pregnancy demands which you decrease the chance of dehydration. Drink at least 8 to ten glasses of h2o each day. A dehydrated body can result in pregnancy complications. Pregnancy calls for added water consumption as by the time you are thirty 4 weeks pregnant the blood quantity can have elevated by forty percent.

Start exercising:
Healthy pregnancy calls for which you adjust the body to all the vital changes which are needed to become a fashion="shade: burgandy;">nutritious baby. Physical exercise will help rise the body stamina. If your are not used to doing exercises, then begin doing a touch of walking also if it is for 10 minutes everyday. If you physical exercise regularly carry on the exercise plan as long as you do not become breathless. Lack of breath of air reduces the o2 supply to your baby and is not favorable to a healthy pregnancy.

By: Irvine George Pecsek

The Best Stretch Mark Cream When Pregnant Includes Safe But Effective Ingredients

How To Clear The Stretch Marks -Home Remedy

    Stretch marks are a severe problem for women, especially during and after pregnancy. Many think that the purple-colored marks will be gone with the passing of time, but many are disappointed when they only fade. Because of that issue, it is best to know what things a woman can do so as not to have these stretch marks form on her skin at all. There are many creams on the market to prevent stretch marks, but the effectiveness of the cream will depend largely upon the ingredients it contains. If you want to use only the best pregnancy cream for stretch marks prevention, then understand what these important and effective ingredients are:

Tocopherol - Because of its attribute that enhances the elasticity of the skin, Vitamin E, otherwise known as tocopherol, is effective in addressing stretchmarks.. The more elastic your skin, the more it can stretch without the tearing of tissue that causes stretchmarks. Vitamin E is one of the best nature-based ingredients there is that benefits the skin and gives it a healthy appearance.

Vitamin D - Vitamin D is another natural substance which performs many health functions inside the body, one of which is maintaining healthy skin. It can provide important nourishment to skin that allows it to repair itself. In addition, Vitamin D can help prevent stretchmarks and has been shown to minimize the appearance of existing stretch marks.

Aloe Vera - From the aloe plant, it is possible to extract some liquid or juice from its leaves, which is commonly called Aloe Vera. This plant is truly amazing. It can serve as an alternative medicine by soothing the redness and inflammation of the skin. This ability also applies to stretchmarks, and the use of Aloe Vera during pregnancy can reduce the appearance of stretchmarks you already have as well as prevent new ones from developing.

Shea Butter comes from the Shea tree, usually found in Africa. It is a fatty extract that is whitish or yellowish in appearance. It is one of the best possible moisturizers for the skin and can promote and improve elasticity, preventing the damage that causes stretch marks.

Cocoa Butter - Cocoa Butter is the edible fat portion extracted from the cocoa bean. Another name for cocoa butter is theobroma oil. One of the popular products manufactured from cocoa butter is chocolate. One of the recommended stretch mark creams during pregnancy uses the sweetly-scented cocoa butter as its main ingredient. You can keep your skin free from stretchmarks, supple and moist because cocoa butter is a very good emollient.

Citrus Seed Extract - The seeds, pulp and white membranes of the grapefruit is the origin of this ingredient which is also called citrus seed extract. It has antioxidant properties which benefits a woman while pregnant by keeping the skin healthy and preventing the appearance of stretch marks.

Squalene Oil - Squalene oil is commonly derived from shark liver or from a variety of plant sources including olives, amaranth, and more. It is characterized as non-greasy and is readily absorbed by the skin giving it more moisture. It is regarded as one of the important ingredients in making effective stretch mark cream for pregnant women today.

By: Mary Suits

How To Conceive A Girl Naturally - 6 Ways

How To Conceive A Girl Naturally - 6 Ways

    There are some skeptics that claim parents cannot do anything to change the sex of their future child. But there are a lot of interesting ways on how couples can improve their chances of conceiving a girl.

Some couples say that they have conceived a girl by trying certain sexual positions and planning the time when they will make love. But whether these things are true or not, it does not stop people from trying them out.

Pursuing the Right Diet

Since an acidic cervix is friendly to female-sperm, mothers that want to give birth to a daughter should eat food that increases the pH level in their body. The Y-sperm cannot tolerate this kind of environment so they cannot live a long time.

Fruits like orange, lemon and grapefruit should be included in the diet of every female. They also increase their immunity from different viral diseases. Calcium-rich food like egg and milk are an integral part in their daily meal plan.

The Myth of the Lunar Calendar

This option was first used 700 years ago by the Chinese people. Females from different parts of the imperial society, from the Empress to slaves, rely on this method to determine the sex of their baby.

For women that want to conceive a baby girl, they should inform their partners that doing it in months like January and May improves their percentage.

Combining Romance with Pregnancy

There are some first-time mothers that believed that making love in a relax environment helped them conceive their baby girl. Supporters said this can reduce the stress factor and make it easier for parents to achieve their goal.

A woman's fertility cycle should also be considered when planning a romantic evening. Indulging in the activity days before experiencing ovulation can increase the chances of the X-chromosome sperm.

Stopping Orgasm

The orgasm that a woman experience during intercourse affects the sex of their future child. Advocates believed that during the process, a female releases a chemical that pushes the alkaline in their system. Since this situation favors males, it is important that a female try to avoid it.

It may be difficult but their husband can help with this challenge by not ejaculating inside the vagina during sex. Avoiding orgasm may be challenging for some people but it is one way to conceive a girl.

Conception Roulette

The conception method created by Dr. Landrum Shettles states that timing plays an important part in female fertility. He claims that the "boy sperm moves quicker than the "girl sperm". But it is tougher and can stay in womb for a long time compared with the Y-sperm.

Based on this belief, a mother is likely to achieve their goal of a female baby if they engage in sex a few days before ovulation. They should also avoid sleeping with their partners after their cycle for at least four days.

Last Option
Anyone that is desperate to have a daughter should try paying the 20,000 dollars price tag for the artificial insemination method. Although this option requires external interference, it guarantees that a XX-sperm will fertilize the egg.

The doctor creates an embryo in the laboratory after getting samples from the father and the mother. This is a controversial choice since there are some clinics that dispose the specimen carelessly if it does not have the X-chromosome requirement.

By: Isaac Jordan     

Some Tips for Getting Pregnant

Some Tips for Getting Pregnant
 

Having a baby seems like it should be so easy… A woman's body has been naturally engineered to do this very thing. However, millions of women face the heartache of not being able to get pregnant quickly. If you are one of those women who have struggled and need help on how to get pregnant fast, here are some tips for getting pregnant:

First, determine your ovulation schedule. The typical woman can count fourteen days after the first day of her period to figure out when her ovaries release an egg. In instances when a woman can't track ovulation, an over the counter ovulation prediction kit helps. Taking your temperature daily will also determine ovulation. A woman's temperature will change when she is ovulating. Take your temperature first thing every morning, before getting out of bed. A change in temperature will indicate ovulation.

After that, the simple thing to do is just start having sex. While sex everyday might be your first instinct, many experts agree having sex every other day still increases your chances at pregnancy. Be sure to have sex the day before your determined ovulation. Immediately after having sex, abstain from using the bathroom or getting up. While lying down after sex does not guarantee a pregnancy, it can help sperm reach the cervix. Lie down on your back for 10 to 15 minutes after intercourse. Most of all, enjoy your love life! Stress can make it hard to conceive and sex is a great stress-reliever!

Healthy lifestyle habits will also increase your chances of getting pregnant. Exercise, a sensible diet, no smoking…all of these seem like no-brainers. But, with the busy world we live in, a lot of our own health needs can fall to the wayside. Make sure you are taking care of your body so it can take care of a baby once you do get pregnant. Also be sure to take folic acid or even prenatal vitamins (with your doctor's okay). These will help take care of your future pregnancy.

Statistically, 85% of women get pregnant within the first year of trying. If you are still having problems, be sure to see your doctor. It is important to remember to relax and know you are doing all you can to have your baby. While you may be ready NOW, any amount of time is worth it to hold that little miracle in your arms.


By: Jian Han

5 Things You Can Do to Get Pregnant Faster

Get Pregnant Faster

Congratulations on deciding to plan for a new baby. To increase your chances of becoming pregnant quickly and naturally, try these five things today.

1. Start a preconception journal. To boost your probability of conceiving, you need some essential pieces of information about your unique fertility. Use your journal to track your periods, including when they start, how long they last, and how many days pass between cycles. Also keep a record of the days you think you are ovulating and the times you and your partner make love. This important information will be valuable for your doctor or midwife should you have trouble conceiving quickly.

2. Make an appointment with your OBgyn - Don't wait until you see positive on a pregnancy test to call your doctor. A pre pregnancy visit can increase your chances of pregnancy by allowing your health care provider to test you for possible conception concerns before they arise. She can also answer questions you may have about trying to get pregnant and suggest prenatal vitamins and a diet plan that may help you get pregnant faster.

3. Drink enough water. Your body makes cervical mucus each cycle that protects sperm and moves them through your cervix to the awaiting egg. If you are chronically dehydrated, your body may stop making cervical mucus and your ability to get pregnant may be decreased. To raise your odds of conception, drink plent of water to so that your natural reproductive system can perform optimally.

4 Don't smoke and eat right. If you are a smoker, now is the time to quit. Cigarettes impair your body's ability to metabolize estrogen, which is very important hormone for conception. And if you get pregnant and continue to smoke, the poisons you ingest could harm your developing baby.

If you are under or over weight, you can increase your chances of getting pregnant by maintaining a healthy weight for your age and body type. Weight and fertility are definitely related. Being over weight or under weight also effects the delicate balance of estrogen in your system which may make it harder for you to get pregnant.

5. Make love! Well that's obvious, right? Unfortunately, many hopeful parents-to-be aren't having enough intercourse at the right times to conceive a baby naturally and quickly. Once you have ovulated, the timeframe for conception is only a number of hours, probably no more then 24. If you are waiting to make love until ovulation, it may be too late! Sperm can live and remain potent in your fallopian tubes for 3 to 5 days. To increase your chances of getting pregnant, your egg should be released to already waiting sperm. Have sexual intercourse daily (or at every other day) in the four to five days leading up to ovulation and one to two days after as well. If you aren't sure when you are ovulating, learn more about your signs of fertility or consider using an ovulation detector kit.

Try these five things today for healthy head start towards getting pregnant with the baby of your dreams naturally and quickly. Best wishes for a happy and healthy 9 months!

By: Kate Kate

Infertility Treatments And Complications

 Infertility Treatments

 Infertility has become a major problem among many people. Infertility clinics are now becoming an important industry. Here are some of the infertility treatments offered:

1. Fertility Drugs

Fertility drugs are used to treat female infertility by addressing ovulation disorders. These medications work like natural hormones to promote ovulation. Here are some common medicines used to treat infertility in women:

• Clomiphene citrate (Clomid): This oral medicine brings about ovulation by causing the pituitary gland to produce more FSH and LH. It is recommended for women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

• Human menopausal gonadotropin or hMG (Repronex, Pergonal), Follicle-stimulating hormone or FSH (Gonal-F, Follistim): These medicines are similar in effect to Clomid except that they stimulate the ovaries directly and not the pituitary gland. They are also injected and not taken orally.



• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (Gn-RH) analog: Women who don't ovulate regularly or who ovulate prematurely are usually given this medicine. These medicines are usually injected.

• Metformin (Glucophage): Doctors use this medicine for women who have insulin resistance or PCOS. This medicine is taken orally to trigger ovulation.

• Bromocriptine (Parlodel): Women with irregular ovulation cycles caused by high levels of prolactin, the hormone that stimulates milk production in new mothers, are given this medicine.

• Follicle-stimulating hormone (Bravelle). FSH stimulates the maturation of egg follicles in the ovaries.

• Aromatase inhibitors. These are usually used on cancer patients and sometimes prescribed for women with ovulation problems.

2. Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is also often called artificial insemination. Using this method, the woman is injected with sperm. IUI is effective in cases of mild male infertility, women with insufficient cervical mucus and couples with unexplained infertility.

3. Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

Many babies have been born as a result of ART. Assisted reproductive technology (ART) works by extracting eggs from a woman's body and then mixing them with sperm to make embryos. The embryos are then put back in the woman's body. The most common method of ART is In vitro fertilization (IVF). It is often used when a woman's Fallopian tubes are blocked or when a man produces too few sperm.

Complications of infertility treatments:

• Unfortunately, fertility drugs increase a woman's chance of having multiples. This can cause problems during pregnancy and increase the risk of having premature babies.

• Another complication includes OHSS (Ovarian hyper-stimulation syndrome). This can be very painful and may need to be treated.

• Bleeding in the mother or birth defects in the baby

Natural Treatment For Infertility

Because of the complications involved, natural remedies are viewed as superior as they are safer and also more effective. Most importantly, natural ways help improve general health of the parents and as a result, babies conceived through natural methods are healthier. It is possible to conceive naturally without drugs, over the counters and without risky surgery or side effects. For information on natural cures for infertility, including the use of nutrition, exercise, yoga, Chinese medicine and acupuncture, please go to http://PregnancyMiracleSecretSystem.Com


Article By: Su May Wee

Natural Infertility Treatments

Infertility Solutions (Getting Pregnant )

You’ve received your fertility evaluation from your fertility specialist and now know the reason you’ve been having trouble getting pregnant. Happily, your condition is treatable. Your next step is to choose an infertility treatment plan. Choosing a plan depends on:

• the cause of your infertility
• your age 
• your overall heath 
• your lifestyle, including your ability to pay for infertility treatments 

Medical Infertility Treatments

Happily, a number of infertility treatments are available to you. The three best known medical infertility treatments are: 

• fertility drug therapy
• surgery to repair damage to or remove abnormalities from reproductive organs
• assisted reproductive technologies such as artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization

Medical infertility treatments, even with their risks, have helped millions of women get pregnant and deliver healthy babies. But you might prefer a more natural infertility treatment. Happily, once again, you have options.

Natural Conception

You probably learned about natural conception and rhythm in your high school health or biology class. The latest research shows that the optimum time to get pregnant is the day of ovulation. The second best time is three or four days before menstruation, with frequent intercourse. 

Along with following the natural cycles of your body, you need to maintain a healthy lifestyle as part of your natural infertility treatment. That means exercise (of course) and taking in the things that boost fertility and avoiding the things that increase the risk of infertility. 

Doctors recommend you avoid:
• tobacco
• alcohol
• caffeine, especially coffee, but even that found in cola and chocolate (sorry) 
• xenoestrogens, chemicals found in pesticides that show up on fruits and veggies (go organic)

Doctors recommend you increase your intake of:

• leafy green vegetables, legumes, chicken liver, and others sources of folic acid
• Brazil nuts, cod, tuna, and other foods that contain the trace mineral selenium
• oysters, toasted wheat germ, sesame seeds, and other foods that contain zinc
• salmon, halibut, walnuts, and other sources of omega-3, one of the essential fatty acids

You can also get these nutrients from supplements. But before taking any supplements-or any of the so-called fertility herbs such as Vitex agnus-castus-check with your doctor or pharmacist for any possible harmful drug interactions, especially if you’ve ever taken birth-control pills or fertility drugs.

Massage 

Energy bodywork as an infertility treatment has a number of advantages: it’s noninvasive and drug free; it has no side effects; and it usually feels good. Who can turn down a nice massage? Besides the feel-good effect, bodywork as an infertility treatment works. Massage: 

• helps to stimulate growth of reproductive hormones
• increase blood flow to reproductive organs
• decrease stress 
• contribute to a healthy pregnancy by boosting the immune system and strengthening muscles for childbirth

Reiki, reflexology, and the Wurn Technique are used as fertility massage. The Wurn Technique, in particular, has proven very effective as an infertility treatment. This procedure works by breaking down adhesions (scar tissue) that interfere with the normal functioning of the reproductive organs. 

Acupuncture

A mainstay of Chinese medicine, acupuncture has been used for centuries as an infertility treatment. According to the principles of Chinese medicine, acupuncture needles are inserted in specific points in your body to help stimulate blood flow to the reproductive organs and restore hormonal balance. As a natural infertility treatment, acupuncture is often teamed up with herbal medicines in capsule of tea form. (Go for the capsule; the tea usually tastes terrible.)

Article By: Larry Wurn

Fertility Treatment is an option for couples trying to have a baby

 Modern methods of Fertility Treatment

Having a baby could be one of the most important events in a couple's life. They might be yearning for a baby, but fate seems to have turned a blind eye to their wishes and that's when they turn to outside help. Infertility is when a woman is unable to conceive. The problems lie with either one of the spouses or both of them. The most common infertility problem in women is blocked fallopian tubes. And in men, the most common problem could be the lack of enough sperms. Infertility is diagnosed at a fertility clinic whether the couples have to undergo a series of tests and one to one meetings with their doctor.

Choosing a fertility clinic is a major concern. The proximity of the clinic, success ratio and rates charged there are the major factors that determine the choice. There are different methods to treat infertility and the doctor will advise them on the various techniques, including the chances of success for each. The couples have to weigh the pros and cons of each option before deciding to go ahead with the treatment.

Women's health is a major concern when couples decide to go ahead with fertility treatment. Normally, the chances of getting pregnant reduce as the woman ages. If a woman is not able to conceive even after having unprotected intercourse for more than a year, then she or her partner could be infertile. Only further tests can confirm whether that is true. The type of treatment chosen for an older woman will depend on a lot on women's health.

People have to go for different kinds of fertility treatments to get their reproductive system working in the right order. First, the fertility clinic will give some drugs to make sure the reproductive cycle for the women and the sperm count for men are balanced. Next, the clinic will simultaneously start on other treatments depending upon the severity of the problem. Artificial insemination is the most common form of treatment. Sperms from the partner will be placed in the woman's uterus and it will be observed closely. However, this treatment will not work if the woman has blocked fallopian tubes, ovarian cysts, fibroids, endometriosis or any other genetic effect. In certain cases, surgery is the only option where the blocked fallopian tubes are repaired or cleared. It could be an extensive surgery or a simple one.

In Vitro Fertilization is done for women with blocked fallopian tubes. The eggs that are fertilized with the help of fertility drugs are taken from the ovaries and copulated in a dish at the laboratory. The end result will be an embryo. Once the embryos are ready to be placed inside the uterus, the doctor will save a few embryos for another cycle if the first doesn't work. This treatment will take about 4-6 weeks to see results.

Getting ready for fertility treatment is a decision made by both the couples and they have to reach a decision on far they are ready to go. Once the treatment is started there is no choice, but to go forward with the complete treatment in order to see positive results. Often couples have to go through stressful moments when they wait to see if the treatment has worked. It could be uncomfortable and could make the couple high strung. Relationships could go from bad to worse, but the couples should realise that the success of the treatment will depend on each person's physical health, luck and mutual understanding.


Article By: Francesca Knap

The Wonderful Benefits of Pre- and Postnatal Massage

Kegel Exercises Video for Women during Pregnancy: Stronger Vaginal Muscles 

Women go through many marvelous changes during pregnancy, both physically and emotionally. The physical changes can sometimes become overwhelming especially during the first and last trimester. However, the pressures and strains may continue even after childbirth. Interestingly, studies show that physiotherapy or physical therapy is beneficial in the relief of muscular and skeletal pains, the prevention of urinary incontinence, and the strengthening of the body. A physiotherapy program includes exercises which are designed to treat problems related to obstetrics, pre natal massage and post natal massage, and professional advice on health care.

Benefits of Physiotherapy During and After Pregnancy

Carrying the weight of your baby for nine months is definitely not easy. A lot of pregnant women complain that they frequently experience back pains, neck pains, and pelvic pains. Urinary leakage is also a common problem not only during pregnancy but even after giving birth. Your physiotherapist will guide you through a series of pelvic floor muscle exercises and core stability training to prevent and treat these concerns during and following pregnancy.
Pre-natal massage and pelvic floor exercises are great for developing muscle strength and endurance which are essential especially if you will have a normal delivery. In addition, new mothers are often eager to get back in shape and lose all those extra pounds they gained. Post natal massage and pelvic floor exercises are recommended if you would like to achieve fitness effectively.

Seek the Help of the Experts

If you are pregnant, you will need to take extra care of your body to make sure that your baby would be healthy and strong. It is important to seek the advice and assistance of a health care professional before attempting to participate in any exercise program.
Who can help you? A certified physiotherapist who has acquired a degree in physical therapy and has completed extensive training can devise and deliver a safe and specialized program to meet the exact needs of an individual.

What Can You Expect from Your Physiotherapist?

Every woman’s body is unique and therefore needs special attention. Your physiotherapist would thoroughly study your medical history and health condition before making any recommendation. Your strength, flexibility and balance would also be assessed in order to know which exercises are suitable and safe for you.

The specific details of the program should be clearly explained as well as the purpose and the benefits of each step. You should feel comfortable and relaxed in the environment where you will be provided treatment.

Generally, the pre-natal and post-natal treatment, each focuses on different concerns. For instance, the pre-natal program is designed to prevent musculoskeletal pains, prevent or treat incontinence and prepare a woman for labor. The program often includes advice on relaxation, breathing techniques, pre-natal massage and positions for labor.
Meanwhile, the post-natal program is designed to treat musculoskeletal pains, post-natal abdominal problems, and incontinence and involves post-natal massage and exercise routines.

New moms are also given advice on how to properly breast-feed and carry a baby. Last but not the least, each woman is guided well on how she can achieve and maintain fitness.

Article By: Lara Reynolds

How to Diet Well After Delivering Your Baby

 
How to diet after having a baby? This is a question that most moms ask after delivering their baby. At first, you probably don’t realize about your body changes. You are full of happiness when your loved one comes into this world but soon thereafter, you find that you have gained some pounds. You realize that your tummy is mushy and you find stretch marks here and there.

Most moms experience this weight gain so you don’t need to worry about it. Your pre-pregnancy body can be restored as long as you practice a proper diet. With the right food choices of the right portions, it will be easier to lose those extra pounds. Below are some tips on how to diet after pregnancy to help you regain your body shape:
 
1. Know the right time to start dieting. After pregnancy, it is not recommended to start dieting too soon. Give your body time to recover from labor so that your diet program will run successfully. You need to wait until after your six-week postpartum checkup before you are ready to start a diet. How about dieting for breastfeeding moms? They are not recommended to go on any diet to lose weight until their baby is at least two months old. This is because early dieting will have an impact on their milk supply during the first months.
If you start a diet too soon, it can make you feel more fatigued and can postpone your recovery. It would be better to give more time for your body to recover and you will be excited to know how many pounds you lose naturally.

2. Know the limit. When losing weight after pregnancy, you need to be realistic about it. Remember that you probably will not be able to gain a body shape exactly like before the pregnancy. Most women find permanent changes after pregnancy such as larger waistline, softer belly and wider hips.

3. Combine your diet with exercise. Weight loss pills can be a shortcut to lose weight but they are not the best way to shed the pounds. To achieve the desired weight, it is important to do some exercises to lose fat instead of muscle. You can start exercising about six weeks after pregnancy and eight weeks if you had a cesarean. A little exercise such as walking around the neighborhood will help you burn the fat.

4. Try to avoid a restrictive diet. Instead, you should practice your diet program slowly especially if you are breastfeeding. Its aim is to ensure that your baby always obtains the right amount of milk supply. Generally, women need at least 1,200 calories a day and most women even need about 1,500 up to 2,200 calories a day to keep up the energy. Nursing moms need at least 1,800 calories a day but generally, they will need about 2,000 to 2,700 calories to nourish themselves and their baby.
There is another risk if you undertake an unusually rapid weight loss program. It can cause the release of toxins from your fat reserves into your bloodstream and into the milk supply. It is safe to lose about 1.5 pounds a week since it won’t affect your milk supply. This weight loss can be achieved by cutting out about 500 calories a day from your present diet.

5. Be selective about your food intake and drinks. In losing weight, you need to be selective in foods and drinks that you consume. Low-fat milk, whole wheat bread, fruits and raw vegetables are great choices to succeed your diet program. If you get bored consuming the same fruits and vegetables every day, you can make smoothies or vegetable salsas over chicken or fish.
Fats have more calories than carbohydrates or proteins. That means that reducing fat from your diet is a good way to cut calories. To limit your calorie intake, you can consume fat-free dairy products, boiled or baked foods, and reduce eating too many sweets. However, fats are also important nutrients so make sure that you don’t eliminate them entirely from your daily diet. However, total elimination of fats can cause you to feel hungry all of the time and thus consume more calories from increased carbohydrate consumption, especially between-meal snacks. To fulfill your fat needs, choose the "good" fats rather than the "bad" ones. Good fats are contained in avocados, nuts and seeds, olive oil, salmon, etc. Meanwhile, bad fats can be found in snacks and fried foods.

6. Watch your water intake. It is recommended that you take about eight glasses of fluids a day but make sure that your beverages do not contain calories like soda, sweetened coffee or juices. When thirsty, drink water. These simple steps will help answer your questions on how to diet after pregnancy.

Article By: Rendi Elifas

Getting Pregnant Woes: Reasons And How To Deal

Are you one of those women who feel so useless because you cannot get pregnant? Have you tried for so long and still cannot complete the whole term of a pregnancy? Getting pregnant may seem easy for some, the reason why birth control is a big industry but millions of women are struggling to have a baby.

Why I Can't Get Pregnant

There are many reasons why getting pregnant is not easy. There are biological reasons, lifestyles and medical problems that could contribute to your situation. Age is the most common reason why some women do not get pregnant easily.Women who are above 35 and men above 40 are least likely to get pregnant. The reason for this is that as we age, the egg and sperm lose their "quality" for fertilization.With this age, women ovulate less.Sperm count also lessen and mortality decreases with age.

Sometimes, even couples who seem healthy and young find it hard to conceive due to the kind of lifestyles they have. Couples who want to get pregnant must stop unhealthy habits like smoking and alcohol.Smoking and alcohol can lessen sperm count and will affect a woman's egg's health.Vices like these can also lower energy levels which can affect a couple's sex life. Weight can also be a hindrance to pregnancy.Being overweight and underweight will not only affect the sperm and egg count but it will make the body unfit to carry a pregnancy which is often the cause of miscarriages.

The Medical Reasons Behind "Why I Can't Get Pregnant?"

A not so simple case of not getting pregnant is when it is due to medical problems. Irregular ovulation among women is the most common medical blockage for pregnancies.While more complex situations are those with blocked fallopian tubes,thyroid problems and those with undetected diabetes. Complications from STD also prevent one from getting pregnant.You can always work this out with your doctor.Treatments can range from minimizing stress and taking supplements to more advanced fertility treatments.

Stop Crying About "Why I Can't Get Pregnant"

Frustrations and dismay are totally understandable but too much worrying about it can make your problem worse. However,if you become too obsessed with it, putting pressure on yourself – the less likely you will get pregnant. Stress is also a big factor in why it is hard to get pregnant and if you let yourself enter emotional and mental stress, you will definitely have a hard time getting pregnant.

Seek medical treatments, change your lifestyle and just let nature do its work. It takes 6 months to years of trying to finally get pregnant.Though there are many options available to have kids, having your own and giving birth to them is still a priceless form of happiness.There are many stories of couples who stopped trying but ended up getting pregnant.Relax and just wait for the right moment to grow a wonderful gift inside you.

Article By: Jeremy Cunniff

Combating Morning Sickness

  The most common problem during pregnancy which affects all expecting mothers is morning sickness. Generally it starts between the 4th and 6th week of conception and lasts until the 14th to 16th week. Some mothers may even experience morning sickness all across their pregnancy. This induces mild nausea or vomiting.

Why does it happen?

To a large extent the cause of morning sickness is attributed to the drastic hormonal changes that take place inside the body. However, an actual cause is yet to be established. Some of the possible causes of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy are mostly related to hormonal releases.

HCG hormone causes nausea: During pregnancy a high amount of the human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) hormone is released in the system. This stimulates the maternal ovaries to secrete estrogen, which in turn causes nausea.

Progesterone relaxes muscles: During pregnancy an increase in the levels of progesterone relaxes the muscles in the uterus to facilitate babies’ growth and birth. However, it may also relax the muscles of the stomach and the intestine, leading to excess gastric acids causing gastro-esophageal reflux (regurgitation of stomach acid causing heartburn). A low blood sugar level (hypoglycemia) that occurs due to the placental drainage of energy is also seen as a possible cause of nausea, though it is not confirmed yet.

Hypersensitive smell sensation: This is one of the most common uneasiness experienced by many expecting mothers. The increased sensitivity to odours can over stimulate the digestive system and trigger the release of gastric acids which can also result in nausea.

Increasing levels of Bilirubin: The increase in the levels of Bilirubin (an enzyme found in liver) can also cause nausea.

How can you prevent it?
All remedies aim at reducing the symptoms of nausea to a certain extent.

Carbohydrate rich snacks: You should eat carbohydrate rich snacks like biscuits, toast etc early in the morning. Eating small carbohydrate rich snack - fruits and vegetables that are high in water content, like tomatoes, grapes, watermelon, spinach, and lettuce are also helpful. Include lemon and ginger to the mix and it helps further.

Avoid empty stomach: This causes the levels of gastric juices to rise and can lead to nausea. If the nausea is high, then avoid food items that are rich in fat as well as highly seasoned and flavoured food.

Increase liquid intake: Since your vomiting leads to a decrease in the fluid level of the body, make sure that you complement the situation with lots of water as well as fluids like fresh fruit and vegetable juices, buttermilk, and coconut water.





If your nausea remains out of control for long, then consult your doctor. But remember, there is nothing to worry about. It is one of the most common symptoms that show up during pregnancy and about 50-70% of all pregnant mothers go through this phase.

Digestive Discomfort Constipation During Your Pregnancy

   As you begin your third week of pregnancy, you are likely to go through bouts of constipation. Don’t worry, this is one of the most common symptom that appears in an expecting mother. The reasons for constipation in pregnancy can mainly be attributed to various physiological changes taking place in the mother’s body. The other reasons are also associated to an altered lifestyle patterns.

Some of them are as discussed below:

Delayed digestion: As a high level of progesterone hormone is released in the body during pregnancy, it affects the gastro-intestinal activity and slows down the process of digestion and excretion, leading to constipation. The growing uterus also exerts pressure on the intestine that further makes the system sluggish, thus contributing to constipation.

Growing demands of water: As the baby in the womb develops, her own need of water arises.  To fulfill the demands of the baby, fluids from the mother’s body are passed on to the baby, creating fluid deficiency in mothers.  One of the functions of water in the body is to soften the stool. This lack of fluid can make stool harder and more difficult to eliminate.

Improper diet: During the first trimester of pregnancy, expecting mothers tend to lack proper and balanced diet since they may lose taste of certain food or due to morning sickness. This may also cause constipation.

Inactive lifestyle: Another reason for pregnancy-related-constipation is that many mothers start leading a sluggish lifestyle. They stop doing much work and become sedentary.  This not only makes you constipated but also reduces the chances of normal delivery.

Stress: Stress and tension are also some factors that contribute to constipation. It is highly advisable to avoid such situations during pregnancy.

Iron supplements: During this period, chances are that your doctor is going to prescribe you iron supplements. These make you prone to constipation. Moreover, you are more susceptible to constipation if you had this problem during the pre-pregnancy days.

Remedial steps to prevent constipation.

Stay hydrated: Drinking lots of water and increasing your fluid intake can help make your bowel movements more frequent and less hard to pass. Be sure to get 8-10 glasses (up to 2 litres) of water every day. You are going to have fewer problems with constipation. Try to start your day with a glass or two of warm water. Always keep your body well hydrated, as during pregnancy, you need to fulfill yours and your baby’s fluid requirements. Apart from water, other fluids like fruit and vegetable juices, especially, buttermilk, soups, coconut water, nimbu paani, aam ka panna , kokum sherbet etc. are helpful in preventing you from getting constipated.

Add fibre to diet: Fibre has an important role to play in the body. It helps in giving bulk to your stool and thus, ease elimination. The natural sources of fibre are found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and pulses. These help your bowel movements loosen up and stay regular. Include as much fibre as possible, increasing them gradually in your diet.  Eat a balanced diet which is rich in fibre and support it by enough intake of fluids.

Exercise: It is known to stimulate the intestinal muscles thus facilitating digestion and alleviating constipation. Include exercise in your daily regime with the advice of your doctor. Exercising also helps you maintain good health and improves chances of normal delivery. You can safely include swimming and walking as your normal routine, unless advised adversely.

Avoid stress: Stay away from stress and tension as much as possible. Try out some relaxation means, like meditation. These not only make you relieved but are also beneficial for the baby’s growth.

Including these tips in your diet and lifestyle can help you avoid the discomfort of constipation. Follow them along with advice from your doctor to help your body maintain a healthy digestive system.

Top 10 signs of pregnancy

1. Food cravings
2. Darkening of your areolas
3. Implantation bleeding or cramping
4. Frequent urination
5. Fatigue
6. Tender, swollen breasts
7. Altered sense of taste
8. Morning sickness
9. A missed period
10. A positive home pregnancy test

If you're extremely tuned in to your body's rhythms, you may begin to suspect you're pregnant soon after conception. But most women won't experience any early pregnancy symptoms until the fertilized egg attaches itself to the uterine wall, several days after conception. Others may notice no signs of pregnancy for weeks and begin to wonder "Am I pregnant?" only when they miss a period. Below is a list of some of the first signs of impending motherhood. You may experience all, some, or none of these symptoms of pregnancy:

1. Food cravings.

Yes, it's a cliche, but food cravings sometimes can be a sign of pregnancy. Don't rely on them as a sure symptom (it may be all in your head, or even a sign that your body is low on a particular nutrient), but if cravings are accompanied by some of the other symptoms on this list, start counting the days from your last period.

2. Darkening of your areolas.

If the skin around your nipples gets darker, you may have successfully conceived, though this may also signal a hormonal imbalance unrelated to pregnancy or be a leftover effect from a previous pregnancy.

3. Implantation bleeding or cramping.

About eight days after ovulation, you may experience implantation spotting, a slight staining of a pink or brown colour, as well as some cramping. This is caused by the egg burrowing into the endometrial lining. You might also see some spotting around the time you expect your period.

4. Frequent urination.

Once the embryo implants and begins producing the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), you may find yourself going to the bathroom more often.

5. Fatigue.

Feeling tired? No, make that exhausted. High levels of the hormone progesterone can make you feel as if you've run a marathon when all you've done is put in a day at the office. Fatigue is a hallmark of early pregnancy, though probably not a surefire symptom on its own.

6. Tender, swollen breasts.

If you're pregnant, your breasts will probably become increasingly tender to the touch, similar to the way they feel before your period, only more so. Once your body grows accustomed to the hormone surge, the pain will subside.

7. Altered sense of taste.

You may notice that your sense of taste changes. Some women say they have a metallic taste in their mouth, others that they cannot stand the taste of coffee, tea, or a food they usually like.

8. Morning sickness.

If you're lucky, morning sickness won't hit you until a few weeks after conception. (A lucky few escape it altogether.) But as early as a couple of days following conception, you may begin feeling nauseated and queasy. And not just in the morning, either -- pregnancy-related nausea can be a problem morning, noon, or night.

9. A missed period.

If you're usually pretty regular and your period is late, it's worth trying a pregnancy test. A missed period is the surest sign of pregnancy in a woman of childbearing age who usually has regular periods.

And finally...

10. A positive home pregnancy test.

If you've waited to test until at least the first day of a missed period and a blue line appears in the home pregnancy test window, you're most likely to be in the family way.

Make an appointment with your doctor to confirm the good news, and head on over to our pregnancy area. Congratulations!

Home Pregnancy Test To Confirm Your Pregnancy At Home! Is It Works?

The home pregnancy test is very easy to perform. 
    
 It provides accurate as well as fast results. You can make use of the home pregnancy test kit immediately the day after your missed menstrual period.

Remember that all pregnancy tests are done to identify the presence of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), which is produced by the pregnant woman after gestation (conception).Home Pregnancy Test

The kits for home pregnancy test are available at all drug stores. The kit may be in the form of strip or card. Velocit and Pregcolour are the most popular test kits for pregnancy confirmation. Check the expiry date on the kit before buying it. Remember that the kit can be used only once.
The key to have accurate results with test kit is to read and follow the instructions carefully, which comes with the kit. The instructions may include the purpose of the kit and the method of using it.

The home pregnancy test kit uses urine sample to help confirm your pregnancy. The test results are 99% accurate when used properly. Perform the test only with sample of first morning urine (FMU). Before using the kit, it is essential to wash your hands with hot water using soap.

The test kit should be stored in a cool place and used at room temperature only. Always remove the pack just before using. The result takes three to five minutes. Never look at the results after ten minutes.

For pregnancy test card, remove the card from the pack and place it on a flat surface. Now, take some sample of urine in dropper that comes along with the kit and put 2-3 drops of urine on the test window (provided).

The urine drops will pass towards the result window through blotting tissue, as it connects the test window with the result window. The blotting tissue contains a chemical for detecting the HCG.

Wait for a moment and observe the result window. If the result window displays one colored (red color) band on “c”, pregnancy result is negative. If it displays two colored bands parallel on “C” and “T”, the result is positive.

Positive result indicates that your pregnancy is confirmed. No bands on the result window indicate to perform the test again with a new kit.

On the other hand, for home pregnancy test using pregnancy strip, collect the urine sample in a container and immerse the strip in the urine sample for 3-5 seconds.

Now, remove the strip and put it flat. The results will be negative if it displays one colored band and positive if two-colored band appears. 

When is the best time to have sex if we're trying to conceive?

 When is the best time to have sex if we're trying to conceive? 

  Timing is everything. Sperm can live for two to three days, but the egg is around for only 12 to 24 hours. To increase the likelihood of conception, it's important to have intercourse more than once around the time of ovulation. A good approach is to have sex one to two days before ovulation and again on the day you ovulate. That way, there's more likely to be a healthy supply of sperm waiting in the fallopian tube when an egg is released.

Of course, exactly when a woman ovulates isn't altogether clear. It all depends on the length of your menstrual cycle. A woman typically ovulates about 14 days before her next period — not mid-cycle, as is commonly held. If you have a 28-day cycle, which is the average, then you would ovulate halfway through your cycle. But if you have a 35-day cycle, you would ovulate around day 21, not day 17.

Some women are very aware of when they ovulate. Other women don't notice any changes at all. If you're thinking about getting pregnant, try to track your cycle for a couple of months. Some subtle signs of ovulation include:

        Breast tenderness

        Slight feelings of discomfort in your middle abdomen

        Increased vaginal discharge that takes on a wetter, egg-white-type quality

  
    A slight increase (about 0.4 to 1 degree Fahrenheit) in basal body temperature, or BBT, which you can detect by taking your temperature each morning before you get out of bed, two days after you ovulate. You can get a good sense of your cycle if you chart your BBT for a few months.

If my periods are irregular, will it be harder for me to get pregnant?
    Most women have about 12 periods a year, but some skip months or don't get a period at all. Stress, heavy exercise, dramatic weight loss or gain — all of these can cause interruptions in your period. The more irregular your period is, the more difficult it is to predict ovulation. You can figure out the days you're most likely to be fertile by tracking when you ovulate each month.

Say your cycle is 28 days one month, 21 days the next month, and 32 days the following month. Keep a record of your menstrual cycles for several months. Then subtract 17 from your shortest cycle and 11 from your longest cycle. The days in between the two are the ones you're most likely to be fertile. If your cycles are irregular and more than 35 days apart or longer, you should consider seeing a fertility specialist to check for other causes of an irregular cycle, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), ovarian dysfunction, thyroid disorder, excessive weight loss or an elevated prolactin level.

Can't we just try and see what happens?

   Of course, you don't have to plot basal body temperature or keep complicated logs if you don't want to. You don't even need to have an orgasm to get pregnant. Try having sex at least twice a week, and the law of averages probably will prevail.

HOW WILL I GET PREGNANT

  How to get pregnant fast
 
  Maybe you're just really eager to get pregnant, or maybe you want your baby's birth to happen at a specific time. Here are six tricks to make it more likely that you'll conceive soon after you start trying.

(You'll dramatically reduce the risk of certain birth defects if you begin taking folic acid at least one month before you start trying to conceive. Find out what else you can do ahead of time to give your baby a healthy start.)

Trick #1: Figure out when you ovulate

The biggest secret to getting pregnant faster is knowing when you ovulate (release an egg from your ovary). Think of the egg as a bull's-eye and the sperm as arrows. One of the arrows has to hit the bull's-eye in order for you to get pregnant.

Since most women release an egg once each menstrual cycle, there are only a few days out of each cycle when sex can actually lead to pregnancy. Knowing when you ovulate means that you and your partner can identify the bull's-eye and then aim for it, instead of just shooting a bunch of arrows and hoping the target happens to be there.

You can figure out when you ovulate using a few different methods. Our article about predicting ovulation walks you through them.

If you notice that you have irregular periods over the course of several months, pinpointing ovulation could be difficult. Ask your doctor for advice.

Trick #2: Get busy at the right time

Once you know when your egg will be released from your ovary, you can plan to have sex during your most fertile days: from three days before ovulation through the day of ovulation. (Starting a little sooner can't hurt; some women have gotten pregnant from sex that happened six days before they ovulated.)

You have a range of days for baby-making sex because sperm can survive for five to six days in your body. (Your egg survives for only about a day.) That means if you have sex on Monday, sperm can survive in your fallopian tubes, waiting for an egg to float by, until around Thursday – or maybe even as late as Sunday.

If you're not sure when your fertile period will be, here's an easy rule of thumb: Hit the sheets every other day. Having sex this often means you'll have healthy sperm waiting in your fallopian tubes every day, ready to spring into action whenever your egg gets released.

(If you want to have sex more often than every other day, that's fine. It won't help you conceive faster, but it won't hurt, either.)

Another tip: If you and your partner are waiting to have sex until your most fertile time, make sure you haven't gone through too long of a dry spell beforehand. Your partner should ejaculate at least once in the days before your most fertile period. If he doesn't, there could be a buildup of dead sperm in his semen when it's go time, and dead sperm can't get you pregnant.

Trick #3: Lie down on the job
For a long time, no one really knew whether lying on your back after sex (to prevent sperm from leaking out) would help boost the chances that a sperm would successfully reach and fertilize your egg.

Now there's reason to believe that staying horizontal can help. In 2009, researchers in Amsterdam found that women who lay flat for 15 minutes after being artificially inseminated (that is, a doctor inserted sperm into their uterus) were 50 percent more likely to get pregnant than women who got up right away after the procedure.

While we can't be sure that the same is true for intercourse, this study suggests that staying put for a bit after sex could help your partner's sperm along. In any case, it doesn't hurt to try.

Trick #4: Enjoy the process

If you're in a rush to get pregnant, you might find yourself feeling anxious about it. While that's totally normal, you actually have a better shot at conceiving if you aren't stressed out. The hypothalamus – the gland in the brain that regulates the hormones of ovulation – doesn't function as well when you're stressed, which means you may ovulate later than usual or not at all that cycle.

So do whatever you can to enjoy the process of getting pregnant. Having fun with your sex life (instead of a "must conceive now," Type-A approach) will actually boost your chances of success. And if you're looking to keep things spicy, good news: No single sex position is more effective for baby-making than another.

Trick #5: Set the stage for super sperm
Sperm have their best shot at fertilizing an egg when they're healthy, strong, and plentiful. Several things can help your partner get his sperm supply in fighting shape:

    Cut back on alcohol (studies show that drinking daily can reduce testosterone levels and sperm counts and raise the number of abnormal sperm)
    Nix tobacco and recreational drugs (these can cause poor sperm function)
    Eat enough of certain key nutrients – like zinc, folic acid, calcium, and vitamins C and D – that help create plentiful, strong, wiggly sperm
    Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and hot baths, since heat kills sperm (testicles function best at 94 to 96 degrees Fahrenheit, a couple of degrees cooler than normal body temperature)

The sooner your partner can make these changes, the better: Sperm take a while to develop, so the improvements he makes today will yield better sperm specimens about three months from now.

Trick #6: Get your body ready
You're more likely to have a successful pregnancy if your body is up for the task. To find out whether you're in baby-making shape – and to learn what changes may help – schedule a preconception checkup with a doctor or midwife. You may not be able to get an appointment right away or resolve any health issues immediately, but taking these steps as soon as possible will help you conceive faster in the long run.

In the meantime, cut out the alcohol, recreational drugs, and smoking if you can, since these things interfere with fertility. (Not to mention being harmful to a fetus.) Think about cutting back on caffeine, too: Having more than the equivalent of a daily cup or two of coffee has been linked with a lower chance of conceiving.
How long to try before seeking help

If you're going to get pregnant naturally, it's very likely to happen within the first three months. About 6 out of 10 couples have conceived by then.

After that, how long you should keep trying before you seek help from a fertility specialist depends in large part on your age. Fertility declines as you get older, so if you're over 40, get help from an expert right away. If you're 35 to 40, talk to a specialist after you've tried for six months with no luck. And if you're under 35, it's probably fine to keep trying for a year before seeking assistance.

Of course, if you have reason to suspect a fertility problem in yourself or your partner, go ahead and make an appointment – there's no reason to wait.

Article by : Emily Bloch