Gynaecology & Fertility Centre

13 Fertility New Year’s Resolutions for 2019
The basic principles of fertility are well known, however other small changes in a couple’s daily life can increase their chances of conception.
Follow these 13 tips for a healthier, happier and more fertile 2019!

Tips for women planning a pregnancy.
Go to the dentist, get a check-up, prenatal tests, do your annual Pap smear test, check your blood pressure, etc.
If you are over 35, do a mammogram as well.

Limit your consumption of unsaturated fatty acids, widely found in pastries, cakes, chips, etc. and associated with a higher risk of infertility (ovulation problems and endometriosis).

Folic acid for both!
It has long been established that women should take folic acid when trying to conceive or during pregnancy to prevent certain birth defects.
However, there is evidence that folic acid reduces the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in sperm with positive effects on male fertility as well.

Get a fertility check-up.
If you are trying to get pregnant, a fertility evaluation (e.g. measurement of AMH levels, salpingography, semen analysis) can provide insight on your family planning goals.

Laugh – it’s good for you!
The lower your stress levels, the better your chances of conception. Laughter releases endorphins and reduces stress hormones, such as adrenaline, cortisol, dopamine, etc.

Have sex in the morning, not at night.
Research testifies to the fact that sperm density is higher in the morning.

Quit smoking.
The British Medical Association announced that smokers’ fertility may be 10 – 40 % lower. Also, up to 13 % of infertility may be due to tobacco use.

Limit alcohol.
Alcohol is associated with reduced fertility and its consumption is advised with moderation (less than 4 units / week).
Avoid it altogether during pregnancy.

Healthy weight and exercise play an important role in fertility.
Weight gain may lead to ovulation problems and infertility. Even a 15 % decrease in body mass index (BMI) can be beneficial to one’s fertility.

Men should be cautious when using laptops and mobile phones or taking hot baths and cycling.
The heat released from laptops can affect sperm motility and cause DNA damage when placed on his lap. The emissions of cell phones placed in the front pockets of trousers may also cause sperm damage. Prolonged cycling and hot baths may overheat the testes and reduce sperm count.

Rest.
When you don’t get enough sleep, the side effects can be detrimental for your general health.
Sleep deprivation also has negative effects on female fertility. At least 7 hours of sleep are necessary.

Healthy eating habits low in carbohydrates.
Avoid skipping breakfast, eating an unhealthy lunch or a late dinner.
Also, too many carbohydrates can lead to the production of hormones that disrupt ovulation, particularly in women with polycystic ovaries.

Consult your doctor about any medications you are taking.
Some medicines may interfere with fertility and hinder conception. The same applies to your husband.

It is important to be well informed regarding fertility when wanting to start a family.
Talk with your doctor and communicate with your partner.

A range of services is available at the Gynaecology & Fertility Centre, including fertility programmes, psychological support services and holistic approaches to boost fertility.