fertility
Lifestyle factors
Lifestyle choices can affect the ability to conceive, says Dr October. Some of the most important factors include:
• Having intercourse outside the fertile window only
• Smoking or vaping
• Excessive alcohol use
• Being significantly over- or underweight
• Excessive exercise with low body fat and abnormal or absent periods
• Poorly controlled chronic conditions such as diabetes
What can you do to help?
“ Couples can take proactive steps while trying to conceive to avoid delaying necessary medical support,” says Dr October. These include:
• Keeping track of menstrual cycles using flow apps
• Watching for signs of ovulation such as thick cervical mucus, or using urine ovulation kits
• Seeking medical advice earlier if menstrual cycles are consistently irregular
• Starting a prenatal vitamin containing folic acid before conception
• Limiting alcohol intake
• Avoiding smoking, vaping, and recreational drugs
• Managing chronic conditions like diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, or thyroid disease
• For the male partner, addressing testicular issues, stopping smoking, and limiting alcohol use
“ Lastly, remember that conception can take time,” concludes Dr October.“ Think of it as a marathon, not a sprint. Enjoy the journey together and avoid putting pressure on yourself or your partner.” �
22 www. babysandbeyond. co. za