Fertility refers to your natural ability to conceive a baby. While most healthy couples achieve pregnancy within 6–12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse and respect to these factors, individual factors can speed up or delay the timeline. Fertility varies from person to person.
Key Signs of Healthy Fertility
- Regular Menstrual Cycles
- A cycle length of 24–35 days usually means there is consistent ovulation.
- Consistent timing (varying by no more than 7–9 days month to month) suggests your hormones are balanced.
- Cervical Mucus Changes
- During your fertile window, mucus becomes clear, slippery, and stretchy like a raw egg white.
- These changes help sperm survive and navigate toward the egg.
- Ovulation Pain (Mittelschmerz)
- Some women experience a mild cramp around mid-cycle.
- These cramps can last from a few minutes to a couple of days.
- Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Rise
- After ovulation, your BBT typically rises by 0.3–0.5°F due to progesterone.
- Tracking the time and day when you are ovulated can help to predict best time to conceive in future.
When to Start Tracking Your Cycle
- After Age 30: Fertility begins to decline more noticeably after age 30.
- Trying to conceive for more than 6 Months: For women under 35, consider professional advice if pregnancy hasn’t occurred after six months of regular, unprotected intercourse.
- Over 35: Seek medical advice after 3 months of trying, as age-related fertility decline rapidly.
“Utilize some apps or a simple paper chart to log BBT, cervical mucus, and cycle length. These data not only empower you but can provide invaluable insight to your doctor.”
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
- Irregular or Absent Periods: Missing cycles or intervals shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days can signal ovulatory issues.
- Painful Periods or Heavy Bleeding: Could indicate endometriosis, fibroids, or other uterine conditions.
- PCOS Symptoms: Irregular cycles, excess hair growth, acne, and weight gain may point to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
- Pain During Intercourse: May be a sign of pelvic inflammatory disease or structural issues.
When to Consult a Fertility Specialist (Doctor)
- Duration of Trying:
- Age Under 35: try to conceive for 12 months
- Age Over 35: try to conceive for 6 months
- Existing Health Conditions:
- Known irregularities (e.g., PCOS, endometriosis)
- History of pelvic infections or surgeries
- Male Partner Concerns:
- Low sperm count or motility issues
- Previous vasectomy or injury
A fertility evaluation typically involves:
- Hormone Testing: Check levels of FSH, LH, thyroid hormones, and prolactin.
- Ovulation Assessment: Blood tests or ultrasound monitoring.
- Semen Analysis: Evaluates sperm health and volume.
- Imaging: Hysterosalpingography (HSG) to examine the uterus and fallopian tubes.
Boosting Your Fertility Naturally
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Both underweight and overweight can disrupt ovulation.
- Balanced Diet: Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables.
- Stress Management: Chronic stress can impair hormonal balance, so it’s a good idea to consider meditation, yoga, or counselling.
- Limit Toxins: Minimize alcohol, quit smoking, and avoid excessive caffeine.
If you have any doubts or question regarding Fertility, IVF or your reproduction health, Shubhashree IVF Clinic in Kathmandu, Nepal is always at your service.
