COMIC: Trying for a child? These way of life habits might increase your fertility odds : NPR

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So you are making an attempt for a child. Congratulations!

By now, you in all probability know that it is not all the time straightforward to get pregnant. Healthy, heterosexual {couples} of their 20s to early 30s having common, unprotected intercourse have a 25% to 30% likelihood of getting pregnant in any given month, according to the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists.

Many components issue into these odds, says reproductive endocrinologist Lucky Sekhon. That consists of medical historical past, genetics, hormone stability, timing and simply pure luck.

“Trying to get pregnant is like playing a slot machine,” she says. “You can pull the lever by timing your attempts around ovulation, but whether things line up and you hit the jackpot are not in your control.”

However, there are some way of life modifications each women and men could make that may assist increase your odds. That means making decisions that assist fertility, not hinder it — like getting common train or slicing out hashish, nicotine and alcohol.

Here are seven evidence-backed ways in which might enhance fertility. For a deeper dive on this matter, hearken to our 26-minute episode hosted by Life Kit reporter Andee Tagle.

So you've started down the baby-making road.

Trying to get pregnant is like playing a slot machine, says Lucky Sekhon, a reproductive endocrinologist.

Making fertility-friendly lifestyle choices is a good idea, says Sekhon.

Eat foods that stabilize blood sugar.

Aim for 150 minutes of cardiovascular exercise a week.

Women, take prenatal vitamins.

Men, take it easy on your testicles.

Avoid drugs and alcohol.

Consider environmental factors.

Avoid stressful situations (if you can help it).

For a deeper dive on this matter, hearken to our 26-minute episode hosted by Life Kit reporter Andee Tagle.

This comedian was reported and written by Andee Tagle and illustrated by LA Johnson.

This comedian was edited by Malaka Gharib and CJ Riculan. The producer for the audio episode is Sylvie Douglis. We’d love to listen to from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823, or e mail us at [email protected].

Listen to Life Kit on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and join our newsletter. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit.




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