New Year, New Beginnings! The 101 on Getting Pregnant

As we step into a brand new year, it's the perfect moment to embrace fresh starts - including the exciting possibility of starting or growing your family. On today's episode of the She Found Motherhood podcast, Dr. Sarah sits down with infertility specialist Dr. Beth Taylor to chat all things how to get pregnant. Here’s a friendly, easy-to-digest roundup of their conversation to support you on your path to parenthood.

Understanding Fertility

Many of us grew up learning mainly how not to get pregnant - which means when it's time to actually try, things can feel a bit mysterious. If you’re thinking about conceiving, it helps to know what fertility really looks like. For females, a regular monthly cycle is a good sign, but the uterus and fallopian tubes also need to be in good working order. For males, the general rule of thumb is: no history of testicular infections or surgeries usually equals good fertility.

Timing and Methods

Tracking your cycle is a great place to start, and apps like Flo can make it feel almost fun. Ovulation predictor strips can help you nail down your most fertile days - often around day 14 for those with a typical cycle. But if strips stress you out, don’t worry. Keeping things simple works too: aim for intercourse every other day around your expected ovulation window (think days 10, 12, 14, and 16). And for both partners, now’s a good time to dial up the healthy habits and tone down the alcohol and extreme workouts.

When to Seek Help

If you’ve been trying for 9 to 12 months (or 6 months if you’re over 35) with no luck, it’s perfectly reasonable to check in with a healthcare provider. Tests usually include a look at sperm health, uterine and tubal function, and ovarian reserves. A helpful test for females, Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), offers a snapshot of egg count - something worth chatting about with your clinician.

Supporting Conception

Some supplements can give egg quality a boost - Coenzyme Q10 is a popular one with promising research behind it. If you’re the type who likes digging deeper, the book It Starts With An Egg is packed with helpful, evidence-informed recommendations. And a quick PSA for the guys: skip the hot tubs and saunas for now. Heat and sperm do not mix well.

Emotional and Professional Support

Trying to conceive is a hopeful, exciting chapter - but it can also be an emotional rollercoaster. Reaching out for support early can make a world of difference, especially since many basic treatments are covered by health plans. Remember: the support you surround yourself with matters just as much as the steps you take.

Whether you’re just starting to think about pregnancy or you’re looking for more guidance, know this: fertility is something you don’t have to figure out alone. Take the steps that feel right for you, keep communication open, and tune into the full podcast episode for more detailed tips. You’ve got support every step of the way.

Find Dr. Taylor: @bethtaylormd | @olivefertility | And check our our FREE Preparing for Pregnancy Guide.

Pregnancy to Parenthood Masterclass: www.shefoundhealth.ca/masterclass

*This episode is a re-release. Original release date: July 28, 2021.