How To Be Pregnant

So many couples (married or not) spend a good part of their lives trying not to get pregnant, that when it comes time to start a family, they don't conceive of infertility as being a potential problem. But, for 6.1 million Americans, or 10 percent of the reproductive age population, infertility is a very real problem.

Typically, about one-third of infertility can be attributed to a problem with the woman's fertility, one-third to the man's, and the remaining one-third to a combination of both, or unknown factors. It is important for a couple to remain open minded and to be compassionate with their partner if it is determined that they are the "problem", considering the fact that females are more sensitive about this issue than the later.

So how do you get pregnant?

Conceiving a baby remains one of the most sought after events in many couples' lives. For some, getting pregnant happens relatively easily, but for others, conception remains elusive — surprisingly, couples only have a 20% chance of getting pregnant each cycle. You may find that the "magic" of creating a life may require a little more "business" than you anticipated. The key to conceiving is proper timing, and achieving that timing requires attention to detail and tracking the changes your body undergoes each menstrual cycle.

• Know Your Menstrual Cycle

The first step in getting pregnant is knowing your menstrual cycle. Each woman's cycle is different, but the average ranges from 28 to 32 days. If you have a typical cycle, ovulation will take place approximately 11 to 21 days after the first day of menstruating. Women who have shorter cycles will typically ovulate earlier, and women who have longer cycles will ovulate later. Start tracking your periods on a calendar by noting the first day of your period and counting the days until the first day of your next period.

• Maximize your Fertility

In simple words, Have sex regularly, specially during the days leading up to ovulation If you consistently have sex two or three times a week, you're almost certain to hit a fertile period at some point.
It's is also important to Maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, eat healthy foods and keep stress under control. The same good habits will serve you and your baby well during pregnancy.

• Be Cautious
  

For as much as possible, Don't Smoke. Tobacco changes the cervical mucus, which may keep sperm from reaching the egg. Smoking may also increase the risk of miscarriage and deprive your developing baby of oxygen and nutrients. Don't Drink. Drinking can, (and will) jeopardize both your health, and that of your baby. And to top it all, "Never" take medications without your doctor's approval. Certain medications — even those available without a prescription — can make it difficult to conceive. Others may not be safe once you're pregnant.

Follow these steps and, who knows?, you might find yourself registering for diapers and baby booties soon!

More about pregnancy here.