When it comes to family planning, there's so much to consider, such as your finances, living situation, and educational opportunities. Then, of course, there's the issue of getting pregnant, which can be frustrating all on its own. To facilitate the process and encourage better chances of conception, here's what you need to know. 

How to Increase the Chances of Getting Pregnant

1. Manage Stress

It's no secret that stress is physically detrimental in many ways, and getting pregnant is no exception. The more relaxed you are, the better your chances; this is true of your partner as well. While it's easier said than done, during this time, reevaluate your projects and responsibilities to pare them down to the essentials. If you aren't already doing so, try meditation, journaling, and minimizing caffeine intake. Furthermore, try to exercise regularly, get at least seven hours of sleep each night, and eat a nutrient-rich and -diverse diet with plenty of leafy greens and vegetables.

2. Know Your Cycle

Given the average 28-day menstrual cycle, most women are only fertile for about five to six days. This is known as the "fertile window" and happens in the few days leading up to, as well as the day of, ovulation. While tracking your period and counting the days can help you determine when you're ovulating, knowing your basal body temperature and the consistency of your cervical fluid ensures more accuracy. Basal body temperature is your body's temperature at rest, and it tends to rise a little bit after ovulation. As for cervical mucus, a thin and slippery consistency indicates higher chances of fertility. 

3. Book a Preconception Checkup

Before you start trying for a baby, book a preconception checkup with your OB-GYN. During this appointment, they'll go over everything you need to know about family planning and pregnancy in depth and how it relates to your specific situation and medical history. They'll also determine which prenatal vitamins you should take, especially those with folic acid, which is proven to help prevent many birth defects like spina bifida. 

If you need a caring OB-GYN for your preconception checkup, contact Greece OB-GYN, LLP. For 60 years, they've provided family planning and women's wellness services for those throughout the Greater Rochester, NY, region. They've recently brought Dr. Zoila Velastegui onto their team, and she's taking new patients! As a whole, their team is known for their compassion and comprehensive care. They treat their patients like family and ensure your needs are accommodated; they even offer evening hours to help with this. You can learn about all their OB-GYN services on their website, but if you have questions, call (585) 225-6680.