Your menstruation cycle plays a significant role in your ability to become pregnant. Cycles shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 are considered irregular, as are cycles that vary by several days each month. While a gynecologist can help you determine the underlying cause of menstruation irregularities, the right information can also help you improve your chance of fertility. 

How Irregular Periods Can Affect Ovulation

Predicting ovulation is key to figuring out the time when you're most fertile, which means you'll have the best chance of conceiving. When your cycle is irregular, it's naturally a lot more difficult to determine when you're ovulating, which usually occurs about 12 to 14 days after the first day of the last menstruation. This is especially true for cycles that fluctuate by five or more days each month, as fluctuations can leave you guessing when it comes to your most fertile period. 

Signs That You're Ovulating

When your period is unpredictable and you're trying to get pregnant, it helps to know the signs of ovulation. Ovulation affects your basal body temperature, which is the lowest temperature your body will achieve when you're at rest. Taking your temperature every morning can clue you into your ovulation cycle, as your body temp will naturally rise when you're ovulating. You can also monitor vaginal discharge, which becomes more plentiful and thicker as you get closer to ovulating. 

How to Increase Your Chance of Pregnancy

In addition to monitoring temperature and bodily changes, you can also increase your chance of pregnancy by making healthy choices. Focus on eating a nutritious diet and getting moderate exercise to maintain a reasonable weight. Keep in mind that being excessively under or overweight makes it more difficult to become pregnant. Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption, both of which are associated with higher rates of infertility. Stress can also negatively impact your menstrual cycle, so look for ways to relax, like reading, yoga, or walks with your loved ones. 

The gynecologists at Advanced OB-GYN Services proudly assist patients in St. Peters and Bridgeton, MO at all phases of their lives. Dr. Joseph Hazan, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. and the rest of his caring staff can help determine the cause of irregular cycles, which is the first step to correcting medical issues linked to infertility. They also provide gynecological exams, prenatal care, and treatment for menopause symptoms. Call (636) 928-1800 to schedule an exam with this trusted gynecologist. You can also learn more about their services by visiting the website.