Natural conception is a goal for many women and their partners. For some, this can be a difficult feat where to others it is so easy. Supporting your fertility (and that of your partner’s) for natural conception as well as medical conception methods (ie, IUI, IVF, or ICSI) can seem daunting.

Here are some ways that can help.

When structural abnormalities have been ruled out and hormones are in check, what else can you do? Here are my top five recommendations:

1.  Know your cycle. Track your period to know the approximate time frame of your most fertile window. Most couples I treat have issues conceiving because the timing of intimacy is off. This also includes knowing what your ovulation symptoms may be such as increased cervical mucus. If you have an irregular cycle, talk to your naturopathic doctor to assess ways on how you can achieve regularity.

 2. Eat healthy well balanced meals and remove processed foods in an 80:20 ratio. Life is full of social events, gatherings, and parties. Don’t limit your happiness for fear of not conceiving. Balanced mental health has a significant impact on conception!

3. Take a good quality prenatal vitamin that contains folic acid in the form of methyltetrahydrofolate as well as supplements that support egg health. Talk to your naturopathic doctor about which one is best suited for your needs. Also, male partners can benefit from supplements that support sperm production and health. It takes two to tango, so don’t leave him out! 

4.  Physical Medicine: I recommend and use Traditional Chinese Medicine acupuncture to help regulate menstrual cycles as well as boost fertility and egg health during ovulation. It also acts to reduce stress, which is a bonus!

5.  Movement. Exercise doesn’t have to be vigorous workouts at the gym. It can look like a 30 minute walk with your partner every day. Movement means circulation, which means nutrients brought to and waste products taken away from your reproductive system. Movement also helps to maintain a healthy weight and supports mental health well being.