For some couples, getting pregnant is quick and easy. For others, things are not as easy. Sometimes, problems are linked to such specific physiological issues as blocked fallopian tubes in the woman or low to no sperm count in the man -- problems that can be addressed by a fertility specialist and subsequent treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF) or insemination.
For many others, however, reasons behind their infertility are much harder to define. Standard fertility treatments can usually help, but in some cases, so can a host of other, less costly techniques -- some of which couples can try on their own. The key to success is knowing when to try -- and when it's time for more serious medical treatment. The good news: Doctors say both options can be clearly mapped out with the help of a medical fertility workup. Designed to rule out specific causes that require medical care, test results can also help you decide if any of these low-tech treatments are worth a try.
And what if you aren't anticipating a problem but just want to give your fertility a boost? Some of these low-tech methods can work for you as well. Just keep in mind that the American Society for Reproductive Medicine says if you don't get pregnant after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse -- or six months if you are a woman over 35 -- it's time to seek help from a fertility specialist.
If you would like to try the low-tech option first, here are a few simple boosters that can really help you get pregnant whenever you ready.
Fertility Booster No. 1: Eat healthy food. Among the most common causes of unexplained infertility in women is "ovulatory dysfunction" -- an umbrella term encompassing problems with ovulation. Doctors and researchers believe more and more that diet could be tied to the inability to get pregnant. Eating healthy food such as monounsaturated oils (olive oil) instead of trans fats (fried foods) is an excellent start.
Fertility Booster No. 2: Weight Control. Whether or not you eat the so-called "fertility foods," maintaining a healthy weight is another way to enhance your fertility. Studies show that having either a very low or very high BMI (body mass index) disrupts ovulation and may also affect production of important reproductive hormones.
Fertility Booster No. 3: Reduce Stress. Although links between stress and infertility have been long debated, evidence continues to mount that the two are intertwined.
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