There are 3 basic ways to get pregnant:
- IVF is short for “In Vitro Fertilization” where the sperm and egg are introduced in a petri dish to initiate fertilization. Once fertilized, the egg is implanted inside the woman’s uterus through a controlled medical procedure.
- IUI means “Intra-uterine Insemination” wherein sperm is implanted using a catheter into a female at the time that indicates a woman is fertile with eggs. The success rate of this method is lower since the readiness of the woman’s body to keep the sperm alive leaves much to nature, anyway.
- IBF is the most popular, most fun getting-pregnant activity. It is short for “In Bed Fertilization”, a method that is used to give about 95% of successful pregnancies. The success rate is lower than IVF and IUI, though, for those having difficulty achieving pregnancy.
2 common factors that play important roles in successful conception are the quality of the sperm and the physical readiness of the female.
- The male factor has to do with quality of sperm ejaculated, which should:
- Have a sperm count more than 20 million per ml per ejaculation
- Have correct sperm shape
- Be motile (moving)
- Females must take into account the following:
- Age
- Menstrual Cycle
- Understanding ovulation. The most fertile days of the menstrual cycle are usually the day of ovulation and the days before and after ovulation.
- Medical conditions as tubular problems, endometriosis, and even thyroid problems
Physical health of the male and female also play an important role in the pregnancy success rate. This would also include the diet as it prepares the body for pregnancy. Some reports found that high-protein, low-carb diet may boost fertility. Examples of these fertility boosting foods are: lean meats; nuts and seeds; baked potatoes; lentils and black beans, and; calcium
Observe a healthy lifestyle: Quit smoking. Cut down on caffeine and alcohol. Keep a healthy weight. Don’t over-exercise. Engage in stress-relieving activities as meditation and yoga.
Supplements can also contribute to increasing your chances of conception:
- Vitamin E is an antioxidant and may improve sperm motility and egg quality
- Zinc, ginseng, and Flaxseed oil may stimulate male fertility and reduce impotence
- Vitamin C improves fertility by strengthening the immune system
- Folic acid aids to prevent the defects in the neural tube
- L-Arginine is an amino acid that may also be helpful in boosting fertility. It is of course a rule of thumb that you consult your doctor before proceeding. A closer professional relationship with your doctor will enable you to make proper decisions about your body and your health.