Phil Kieran: I have IBS and am worried it might be more difficult to conceive

Conception takes both partners and fertility issues are spread between men and women

Dr Phil Kieran: "Try to have unprotected sex about every two days around the middle of the menstrual cycle. Don’t get hung up on trying to predict ovulation as this is unreliable and adds stress — and ideally you want to have had sex the day before ovulation so the tests are often a bit late anyway."

My partner and I are planning to have a child. I have IBS, which can be exhausting, and I am worried it might make it difficult to conceive. What can I do to improve my chances?

Trying to get pregnant can be a really difficult time for a lot of couples. I am heartened to hear that you are thinking about it before you start trying to conceive and I would encourage everyone to have a look at their overall health before conceiving.