Starting point

BECOMING a mum can be one of the happiest times in a woman’s life, but trying for a baby?

It’s possibly the most stressful.

More than a quarter of couples have problems conceiving that last more than a year. Our experts have the answers to some of the big questions on fertility.

What age can I conceive until?

Your fertility bubble won’t burst when your body clock hits 35. Although fertility peaks between the ages of 20 to 32, you can still conceive successfully in your mid-30s and beyond.

“Women are able to bear children for nearly 35 years — from puberty to menopause,” says fertility expert Dr Geetha Venkat. “This is followed by a gradual decline in fertility, which becomes significant from the age of 38. Beyond the age of 42 it becomes a rather rapid decline.”

For a quick way to check how your own fertility is progressing, ask your mum what age she went through menopause. A recent Danish study found a link between the age mothers experienced menopause and the ovarian reserves of their daughters.

What effect does lifestyle have on fertility?

Studies show that male and female fertility improves when lifestyle changes are made over a three-month timeframe.

“A woman is twice as likely to get pregnant if she doesn’t smoke compared to a woman who does, and smoking is linked to 5,000 miscarriages per year,” says women’s health expert Dr Marilyn Glenville.

“Drinking four cups of coffee or any caffeinated drink a day makes it 26% less likely that a woman will conceive, while drinking only two cups of coffee a day is associated with a 25% risk of miscarriage. Alcohol also makes it more difficult to get pregnant.”

Is there a sex position that’s best for conceiving?

Keep it simple. The missionary position is the golden ticket to successful baby-making, say the experts. Although this theory isn’t based on clinical research it’s thought that the closer sperm is to the cervix, the higher its chances of meeting an egg. Just remember to stay put after the deed is done.

“If you’re trying to conceive, try to avoid standing up immediately after sex,” says Dr Venkat, “as some seminal fluid containing sperm may leak out.”

How important is a healthy diet?

Putting the right food on your plate is crucial for conception.

“The best place to start is to add in extra nutrients by increasing vegetables and fruit, especially leafy green vegetables,” says natural fertility consultant Sarah Leather. “Then increase the good quality fats such as avocados, coconut oil, nuts and seeds. Decreasing processed food, especially sugar and white flour is very important.

“Some treats are fine but make sure they are made from good fats, such as oat cookies or organic chocolate. Poor quality fats can impede your fertility by disrupting your delicate hormone balance.”

How can I tell if I’m ovulating?

Recognising and monitoring ovulation signs is an important part of any fertility plan as it helps you pinpoint the best times to have sex in order to conceive. Charting your basal body temperature (BBT) is key to understanding whether you’re ovulating or not. Your BBT normally averages 37C but after ovulation rises between 0.5 and 1 degree until menstruation begins. You may also experience a sharp or dull ache on the lower abdomen, increased libido and tender breasts. Watching out for cervical mucus is also critical.

“As ovulation approaches your vagina will probably feel more lubricated and wet,” says Dr Glenville. “The mucus from your vagina increases in quantity and becomes clearer and stretchy. This is fertile mucus. Every month your cervix also changes position and you can feel these changes yourself.

“After emptying your bladder and washing your hands, place your index finger in your vagina until you feel your cervix. Closer to ovulation, oestrogen levels rise and the cervix moves higher in the vaginal canal, making it harder to reach. It also begins to soften and open, like parting lips, making it easier for sperm to enter.”

How soon should I start trying after stopping the Pill?

You might want to get straight into baby-making mode after giving up the Pill, but you may need to correct some nutritional deficiencies first. “First off, it’s important to make sure that your periods start as soon as possible and to check that you’re ovulating,” says Dr Glenville.

“My advice is to come off the Pill at least three months before you want to conceive as this contraception can deplete your body of important nutrients including magnesium, vitamins B1, B2, B6 and E, folic acid (crucial in preventing spina bifida) and zinc (the most important nutrient for fertility).”

How often should you have sex while trying to conceive?

It sounds obvious: the more you have sex the more likely you are to conceive, right? Well lots of sex might increase your chances, but timing is key. You’re most likely to fall pregnant during ovulation, which happens around 14 days after the first day of your last period.

“Around the time of ovulation, couples should have sex every day — the day of ovulation and the following two days,” says Dr Venkat.

Three top fertility supplements

Give your body a helping hand with these supplements:

* NHP Fertility Support For Women, €32 for 60 capsules

This powerful multivitamin and mineral supplement contains optimum levels of the most important nutrients for successful conception.

* Vitabiotics Pregnacare his & her Conception, €6.32 for 30 tablets

This daily comprehensive formula is specifically designed to support both men and women trying for a baby.

* BioCare Ante-Natal Forte, €15.95

This multivitamin formula contains added antioxidants and is suitable before and during pregnancy.

* See your health care practitioner for specific advice.