A healthy sexual routine improves your conception chances and also deepens the bond with your partner. Therefore, it is critical to keep your sex life healthy, balanced, and supportive during this phase.
Understand Your Fertile Window
The fertile window is the ideal time in your menstrual cycle when your chances of getting pregnant are highest. You can expect this brief window around the day of your ovulation and the five days before it occurs.You can recognise this window by:
- Tracking your menstrual cycle.
- Monitoring changes in cervical mucus.
- Using ovulation predictor kits.
- Paying attention to physical signs, like mild pain or increased libido.
Avoid Over-Scheduling Intimacy
You may want to schedule sex around ovulation with precision when your focus is a successful pregnancy. Although timing is essential, it can make intercourse feel like a daunting task. This can lead to stress, performance anxiety, and emotional distance that may severely affect your chances.Practising a relaxed approach will help you achieve your goal more effectively. You can take this time to enjoy with your partner and treat sex as a way to express closeness rather than a step in a process. This emotional connection supports your mental and reproductive health.
Maintain Good Hygiene
The reputation of good sexual health relies on your and your partner’s hygiene. Be mindful of the following ways to maintain your hygiene.- Wash your hands and genitals before and after intercourse.
- Avoid using harsh soaps or scented products around the genital area.
- Wear breathable cotton underwear.
- Remove wet or sweaty clothes to avoid infections.
Limit Use of Lubricants
Many commercial lubricants contain ingredients that can slow down sperm or damage their quality. Always choose a fertility-friendly lubricant that is labelled as sperm-safe if you need extra moisture.You can also discuss suitable alternatives with your doctor. Although natural options like canola or mineral oil are recommended, it is best to consult a specialist to determine the option that works best for your body.
Avoid Harmful Habits
The following habits can significantly impact both male and female fertility, so it is advisable to avoid them.- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Recreational drugs
- High caffeine intake
- Obesity or extreme underweight
Communicate Openly With Your Partner
Trying to get pregnant with a wide range of emotions in your journey can make you feel hopeful one day and discouraged the next. Open communication with your partner will help you overcome them and even maintain intimacy and trust.You can both share your feelings, discuss expectations, and listen to each other’s concerns. Remember that your emotional well-being is deeply connected to your physical health.
Stay Physically Active
A regular and moderate exercise routine can support your hormone balance, weight management, and mood. It also helps boost your libido and overall energy levels. However, be cautious with the workouts if you already weigh within the normal range.High-impact exercises or excessive training can disrupt the menstrual cycle, including ovulation. Walking, swimming, yoga, and light strength training are good options. Also, be sure to get enough sleep to allow your body to recover.
Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Stress affects your reproductive hormones, delays ovulation and also reduces interest in intimacy. However, there are several ways to manage anxiety that can support both your relationship and your fertility.You can practise the following as a way to cope with the stress.
- Deep breathing or meditation
- Gentle exercise or stretching
- Journaling your thoughts
- Spending time outdoors
- Talking to a counsellor or support group
Visit a Healthcare Expert When Needed
A pre-conception check-up before you seek medical assistance can ensure that both you and your partner are healthy and ready for pregnancy. Your doctor may check for:- Hormone levels
- Ovulation patterns
- Semen analysis for your partner
- Any underlying health conditions
Keep Sexual Health in Focus
Do not ignore any signs of discomfort, pain during intercourse, or sudden changes in your sexual desire and seek medical help immediately. You may experience them because of infections, hormonal imbalances, or emotional stress. You can even reach out to a gynaecologist, urologist, or therapist who specialises in reproductive or sexual health when needed.After all, sexual health is not only about frequency or function, but also about comfort, consent, and emotional safety.
Healthy sexual habits are not just about timing or frequency when you are trying to conceive. It is about nurturing your relationship, taking care of your body, and creating a positive environment for conception.
You and your partner have the best chance to welcome a new life when you focus on connection, communication, and self-care. Remember, every journey is different, so always move forward with patience and hope.
FAQs on Healthy Sexual Habits While Trying to Conceive
- How often should we have sex while trying to conceive?
You can have sex every two days during your fertile window for the increased chances of fertilisation with a healthy sperm during ovulation. It also eliminates the stress and takes away the pressure. - Can sexual position affectthe chances of getting pregnant?
There is no evidence that sexual positions improve your chances of getting pregnant. However, you must know that some positions allow deeper penetration, which helps sperm reach the cervix easily.
- Is it normal to feel stressed or less interested in sex while trying to conceive?
It is common to experience a range of emotions when trying to conceive. You can seek guidance from a counsellor or fertility expert if stress is affecting your sexual health and relationship.
