Fertility: Practical Steps When You’re Trying to Conceive

Trying to get pregnant can feel confusing and emotional. Some people expect it to happen fast, but fertility often needs planning and small changes. This page gives clear, practical steps you can use now—what to check, when to see a specialist, and how partners can support each other.

Quick checks and when to see a doctor

If you’re under 35 and haven’t conceived after 12 months of regular, unprotected sex, talk with your doctor. If you’re 35 or older, ask for help after 6 months. If you have obvious issues like irregular periods, known pelvic disease, prior cancer treatment, or very low sperm count history, reach out sooner.

Basic tests are straightforward: ovulation tracking (calendar, OPKs), a semen analysis for the male partner, and blood tests for hormones like AMH and FSH for the person with ovaries. Your doctor might order an ultrasound or an HSG (a simple X-ray of the fallopian tubes) if pregnancy isn’t happening as expected.

Practical lifestyle moves that help

Small changes can make a real difference. Stop smoking. Cut back on alcohol. Aim for a healthy weight—both underweight and obesity can affect fertility. Move regularly but avoid extreme exercise. Manage stress with simple habits: short walks, sleep routines, and time together that isn’t just about timing intercourse.

Timing matters, but not as much as people think. The fertile window is about 5 days before ovulation plus the day of ovulation. Using ovulation predictor kits or tracking basal body temperature helps narrow that window. For people with irregular cycles, your clinic can suggest testing and tailored timing strategies.

Pay attention to medications and supplements. Some prescription drugs and over-the-counter products can lower fertility or harm early pregnancy. Always check with your provider before starting or stopping meds. If you’re considering fertility drugs, get clear guidance from a specialist—dosage and monitoring matter.

Emotional and relationship care gets missed a lot. Infertility is a shared challenge. Couples therapy or support groups can help keep communication healthy and reduce blame. If one partner feels alone or overwhelmed, therapy can rebuild teamwork and reduce anxiety.

When lifestyle changes and simple treatments don’t work, fertility clinics offer next steps like ovulation induction, IUI (intrauterine insemination), and IVF (in vitro fertilization). Each option has success rates, costs, and emotional impacts. Ask for a clear plan: likely timeline, success chances for your age and diagnosis, side effects, and out-of-pocket costs.

Budget and logistics matter. Check insurance, clinic success rates, and available financial help or low-cost programs. Some clinics offer package pricing or refund options—get those details before you commit.

Finally, keep records. Track cycles, tests, meds, and questions. Bring those notes to appointments so you get direct answers. If you want more on relationship support, see our article on couples therapy for infertility—practical tips for staying close while you try.

Fertility care is rarely one-size-fits-all. Use this as a starting plan, ask clear questions at each visit, and get help early when things aren’t moving. You don’t have to do it alone.