This feature was originally published in April 2024 in Woman’s Own magazine, which is also owned by Future Publishing.

Faced with a rare condition, Jenna Greenaway’s husband had to battle to become a dad. She tells us her story...

"When trying to start a family, infertility is a frightening prospect. So often, it’s considered to be a ‘woman’s issue’- and with a seemingly endless list of factors affecting women’s reproductive systems from hormones to ovarian cysts, it’s an understandable assumption. But when my husband Shaun and I had trouble conceiving, we discovered that in our case, those assumptions couldn’t be further from the truth.

"I met Shaun, then 26, at policing school in 2008. In the same class, we found ourselves in a tight-knit group of friends, and it wasn’t until we left the following year that we confessed our feelings and started a relationship. Married in 2013, we were in no rush to have children, our free time outside of our police careers taken up with travelling, going to gigs, snowboarding and cycling. I loved being the fun auntie to my sister’s children, happy to just enjoy our newly-married life. But four years on, we finally felt ready to start a family of our own.

"In 2017, it felt like everyone around us was having children. But after months of trying, we still weren’t getting any closer to becoming parents. Almost a year into trying in December 2017, we decided to go to our GP for fertility tests. Shaun already had a sneaking suspicion that our fertility problems were down to him - he’d suffered from mumps just after finishing university in his early 20s, and had heard that it can impact men’s ability to have children. Sure enough, my tests came back clear and after weeks of waiting, in January 2018 Shaun was finally called by his GP receptionist while at work and given a diagnosis of azoospermia. It was only when Shaun got home and started googling azoospermia that the seriousness of the diagnosis dawned on us - he had no sperm whatsoever.

"At first, I was shocked. Azoospermia wasn’t a condition either of us had ever heard of, an issue we didn’t even know was a possibility. Shaun was devastated, and even said he would understand if I wanted to leave him for someone else. I told him to stop being ridiculous, that I loved him, and we’d find a way through. But inside, I was full of questions and worries. I’d watched all my friends and siblings conceive and start their families happily. Why couldn’t we have what they all had?

"Still, we didn’t completely lose hope. Shaun’s doctors explained that there were further tests that could be done to determine the cause of his azoospermia, and possibly even increase his sperm production.

"In March 2019, Shaun underwent a varicocele embolisation in an attempt to restrict blood flow to his testes and help him produce sperm. As testes need to be around two degrees cooler than body temperature for sperm production, the hope was that less blood flow to the area would lower the temperature. The procedure involved inserting a coil into his groin to restrict his veins, accessed via an artery in his neck.

"Despite being told the procedure only had a 30% chance of success, we pinned all our hopes on it. After a nervous three-month wait to discover if the embolisation had worked, we got the news we were dreading - it was unsuccessful. In the weeks following, seeing mums pushing their prams in town would make me feel numb. But as tough as it was, I never blamed Shaun or resented him, I just felt incredible sympathy. Hiding each visit to the clinic behind dentist's appointments, he couldn’t bring himself to tell his friends at work. I hated that he felt embarrassed and ashamed.

"Shaun decided to try one last procedure in August 2019, a Microscopic Testicular Sperm Extraction, or MicroTESE. The painful operation involved a urologist examining the inside of Shaun’s testicles under a microscope. Sadly, after two hours under the knife, still no sperm could be found. Even though I was upset, this time, I’d already anticipated the outcome. Shaun and I had discussed using donor sperm to conceive well before he went for the MicroTESE, and it looked like now, that was our only option aside from adoption.

"I offered to use donor eggs instead of my own, to make it more fair on Shaun. From conversations we’d had, I knew that his inability to pass on his genetics was a source of grief and I wanted him to feel as though we were in this together. But Shaun insisted that we should use my healthy eggs with the donor sperm, so that our children would still be genetically related to me.

"The first big step was to choose a suitable sperm donor. We wanted someone with similar traits to both of us, but decided not to find out many details about our potential donor. Beyond his physical features, we didn’t want to have any preconceived ideas about our future children’s personalities. After narrowing down our search to six people we chose a donor, and in December 2019, I underwent the egg retrieval process. Held up by COVID-19 lockdowns, I finally had two healthy embryos implanted into my uterus in May 2020. That July, we discovered the embryo transfer had been a success, I was pregnant. But even though we felt excited, it was too early to shout about my pregnancy from the rooftops.

"At my scan in August, we got to see our two healthy babies growing inside me for the first time. Finally being pregnant after all our heartbreak was surreal. In the meantime, Shaun read self-help books and listened to podcasts to help him better come to terms with his infertility. As my pregnancy progressed, Shaun finally decided to share our journey with those outside our immediate family. Discovering his work friends responded sympathetically, I was relieved, and sensed a weight had been lifted from him.

"As our due date crept up, Shaun worked with the charity Fertility Matters at Work, and started a social media support group called Knackered Knackers to share his experiences. Knowing how isolating an infertility diagnosis can be for men, Shaun didn’t want others like him to have nowhere to turn. Not only did his friends think it was a brilliant idea, but Shaun connected with other men with azoospermia, too.

"In February 2021, our twins Ray and Evelyn were born. After such a long journey, holding our two precious children was a priceless feeling. Immediately, Shaun had the most incredible bond with the babies. Now, the twins are three, and thriving. For us, genetics aren’t important. Shaun was meant to be their dad, and the twins were born to be his children and the bond he has with them makes biology irrelevant. When the twins are older, we’ll be honest about where they came from, and hopefully it will show them just how wanted and loved they are.

Comment from Shaun:

"When I was diagnosed as infertile, my whole world turned upside down. I questioned my identity as a man, and my position as a husband. Who was I if I couldn't provide sperm? I felt alone and went inward for a long time - not just weeks, but months. Over time I came to realise that of course I was still a man, and I found new depths of strength and resilience. I could not have navigated infertility without the sensitive, patient and compassionate support of my wife. I have now leveraged that painful experience and provide support to other men who are experiencing the same."

For support and more information about Shaun’s journey follow him on Instagram @knackered_knackers or visit his website The Male Fertility Coach.

For more advice on how to boost fertility, read our advice on the 10 most Googled questions about getting pregnant, plus what to eat to when you're trying to get pregnant.

As a mother, it could be argued that it’s only natural to fantasise about grandchildren when our own children have grown and flown the nest. We imagine doing all of those things again that we miss from raising our own children - picnics in the park and collecting acorns and pinecones on autumn walks. But the best part, some might say, is that we get to be fun granny and grandad - not the ones disciplining or dealing with the sleepless nights. 

We get all of the best bits and none of the stress! But with the average age of mothers increasing from 26 in the 1970s, to 31 today (according to the ONS), many women are left wondering if they will ever become grandmothers - especially when their daughters reach 35 - an age when fertility begins its decline. However, that gentle sound of the ticking biological clock that only gets louder with age could become a thing of the past as more and more women in the UK are hoping to preserve their fertility by freezing their eggs.

Latest figures show egg and embryo freezing are the fastest growing fertility treatments in the UK, rising 64%, from 2,576 cycles in 2019 to 4215 in 2021. But future proofing motherhood comes at a price and with costs starting anywhere from £2500, treatment is often inaccessible. Small wonder then that future grandparents are choosing to invest in their daughters fertility, footing the bill themselves rather than risk a life without grandchildren...

One woman tells us why she chose to pay for her daughter to freeze her eggs in the hopes of one day having a grandchild…

Shirley*, 58, lives in South London with her husband, Dominic*, 61.

As my daughter Eleanor*, then 35, sat at the kitchen table opposite me, sobbing, I put my hand out to reach hers and gave it a squeeze. ‘You’ll get over this, I promise,’ I told her. It was late 2022 and Eleanor had just announced that she and her partner of three years had split up and understandably, she was heartbroken. They’d grown apart, she said, and though it had been a mutual decision, it wasn’t an easy one. But while Eleanor worried if she’d ever find love again, I had other concerns. I hated myself for thinking it, but I was gutted that I was now even further away from becoming a grandmother.

That may sound selfish, but I’ve been longing for a grandchild for the best part of a decade. Eleanor’s younger sister, Sophie*, then 33, had announced years earlier that she had no desire to be a mother, and while me and my husband Dominic were disappointed, we respected her decision. Eleanor, on the other hand, longed to be a mother and she and I would often fantasise together about how lovely it would be to take her future children on days out to the zoo, and to spoil them with ice cream on sunny beach days.

And now, as she sat in the kitchen, dabbing her eyes with a tissue, I knew, deep down, she was probably having some of the same thoughts as me. The fact was, at 35, her biological clock was now ticking. Suddenly, before I could stop myself, I blurted it out. ‘Why don’t you freeze your eggs?’ 

Eleanor looked at me and frowned. ‘Do you have any idea how much it costs?’ she replied. To my surprise, she’d actually already looked into it, and had discovered it wasn’t available on the NHS.

It cost around £3,500 for the egg collection and freezing, but that didn’t include the cost of consultations, medication and the cost to store the eggs each year. It was a lot of money and Eleanor, who worked as a primary school teacher, couldn’t afford it. 

‘Your dad and I will pay for it,’ I offered. I didn’t even need to think about it. Dominic* and I both worked, him as an engineer and me as a bookkeeper. We had savings and while it was a lot of money, it would be money well spent if it would help us get the grandchild we longed for. And of course, if it helped Eleanor become a mother in the future, and took the pressure of time off of her, then of course it was worth it. When I spoke to Dominic later that night, he agreed with me. ‘We’d be investing in a grandchild,’ I told him. After a lot of thought, Eleonor agreed to accept our help.

So she booked an initial consultation with a fertility clinic in early 2023 and began taking medication to help stimulate egg growth. I went with her to her appointments, and we were told the best age to freeze eggs is between 27 and 34, but although she was 35, her egg quality was still good. Ten of her eggs were harvested and then frozen and would be kept in storage until Eleonor needed them.

It has cost us £4,300, plus we pay a yearly fee of £250 for the eggs to remain in storage. Eleanor is so appreciative and often tells me how grateful she is not to have that ticking fertility clock over her head.

She’s 36 now and still single. When the time is right for her and she meets someone she wants a family with, if she doesn’t fall pregnant naturally, at least she has her eggs on ice ready to help her out with fertility treatment - it’s like a security blanket. Friends often gasp when we tell them how much money we’ve spent , but investing in our daughter’s future, and hopefully giving her the chance to be a mother, and us grandparents, is priceless. 

*All names have been changed

When is the right time to freeze your eggs?

Alison Campbell, Chief Scientific Officer, for fertility group, Care Fertility, told us, ‘Egg freezing is far more accessible and successful than it used to be. Ideally, at least by the age of 30, we would advise women to be thinking about their fertility choices, and to consider egg freezing if they want a family at some time but are not ready right now. The sooner the better is best as egg quality declines dramatically as women age. The law now permits women to store eggs (or sperm or embryos) for use in treatment for up to a maximum of 55 years. Storage consent must be renewed every 10 years. Learn all you can about your clinic, the team, costs of treatment, how to prepare and the treatment process by attending a fertility information event and reading patient stories as it can really help’

More baby boys are born than baby girls, and mathematician Hannah Fry has explained just why that is. 

You’d be forgiven for thinking that the numbers of baby boys and baby girls born are basically equal. After all, we consider there to be a 50/50 chance of each when we’re expecting new arrivals – we can try to predict with this Chinese birth chart or the Nub Theory, but the gender itself is really just down to chance. 

However, mathematician Hannah Fry, who you might recognise from the BBC, has explained in a recent Instagram post that more baby boys are born than baby girls, and why. 

She says that a biologist told her – slightly morbidly – that slightly more boys being born was “evolution’s correction” for boys being more likely to get into accidents. 

However, the ratio can change dramatically over time, and peak in some interesting places. For example, at the end of a war, there’s an increase in the number of baby boys born. This isn’t something that’s unique to Britain, either – it happens all around the world. 

The most notable peaks in the UK over the last century or so occurred around 1919, 1945, and 1973. The First World War ended in 1918 and the Second ended in 1945, so this stands to reason. There was no such war around 1973, but it was a turbulent time for the country with an energy crisis and the three-day week. 

There are a number of theories that could explain this phenomenon. Fry’s personal favourite is that “God must be trying to replenish the male stock in the country,” but the actual reason, she says, is that “it turns out that the chances of a woman conceiving a male or female child actually very subtly change depending on when in her cycle she conceives.”

So if a woman conceives slightly earlier in her cycle, she’s very slightly more likely to have a baby boy. And, at the end of a war (or when there’s a three-day week, apparently) people have more sex than usual. Women get pregnant slightly earlier in their cycles, and consequently, more baby boys are born. 

In other fertility and conception news, here are 21 of the best foods for getting pregnant, and here’s our ovulation calculator to find out when you’re most fertile.

Could Christmas dinner help you conceive? Apparently so, and these are the five festive foods you should be eating.

It's no secret that more babies are conceived at Christmas, but while many think that's because couples are spending more time cuddled up under the covers during the cold weather, could the festive food we eat be responsible for the autumn baby boom?

That's right, if you're wondering how to increase fertility it turns out your Christmas dinner could be packed with fertility foods that will help to conceive. Improved fertility for both men and women has been associated with diets high in unsaturated fats, whole grains, vegetables, and fish, according to a study published by the scientific journal, Frontiers in Public Health. And with this in mind, fertility specialist at Fertility Family Dr Gill Lockwood has shared her insights into the foods that could help you conceive this Christmas.

So, if you're trying for a baby, make sure to indulge in these five festive foods this year...

Christmas foods to embrace while trying to conceive

1. Turkey

The traditional Christmas turkey is supportive of fertility, thanks to the boost of iron and zinc it provides. For those that don’t like turkey, other lean meats such as beef and lamb offer the same benefits. Alternatively, smoked salmon is another Christmas classic that can help with fertility.

Dr Lockwood explains: "Turkey is the ideal protein source as this favourite Christmas meat is low in fat and high in iron. Not only are a person’s iron stores the only source of iron for their baby’s blood, but people who are iron-deficient or anaemic have lower fertility rates."

Meanwhile, processed meats such as sausages and bacon aren’t as beneficial, meaning pigs in blankets should be enjoyed in moderation.

2. Nuts

Vegetarians and vegans can feast on a nut roast instead of turkey, benefitting from the protein and essential vitamins. If you’re feeling peckish waiting for the next festive meal, walnuts are a great snack, especially for men as they boost sperm vitality. Roasted chestnuts are another winter nut that can be enjoyed for their fertility benefits. 

Dr Lockwood says: "Zinc and selenium are vital for the immune system and a deficiency in these has been associated with male factor infertility. Fortunately, high levels of these essential substances are found in Brazil nuts, almonds and cashews, so feel free to nibble on these."

3. Brussels sprouts

Brussels sprouts - love them or hate them - are a Christmas classic and highly recommended for women trying to conceive. Packed full of folate, these vegetables aid the normal expansion of maternal tissues during pregnancy and help your body create red blood cells.

Women require up to 10 times more folate during pregnancy for a baby to grow healthily, which is why many take fertility supplements such as folic acid.

Dr Lockwood shares where else women can get their folate fix: "Brightly coloured vegetables such as beetroot, red onions and kale, are also good for the immune system and leafy green vegetables (even Brussels sprouts!) are full of folate."

4. Cranberry sauce

Cranberries are packed full of vitamins C, E, K1 and manganese. If you're looking to conceive, help yourself to a generous portion of cranberry sauce with your Christmas dinner this year, and you can boost your vitamin levels by having berries as part of your desserts too. 

Dr Lockwood explains: "Cranberries, raspberries, blueberries and strawberries are packed full of antioxidants, which are associated with protection from cell damage and cell ageing."

5. Cheese boards

Speaking of dessert, cheese boards are a staple at Christmas that’s hard to resist. Whilst indulgent, cheese is great for bones and growing a healthy baby. 

Cottage cheese, in particular, can be great for fertility, but that slice of brie won’t do any harm either.

As Dr Lockwood says: "Calcium is vital for good bone health for mum and her growing baby. Full-fat milk, yoghurt, cream and cheese should feature on the festive menu. Some ovulatory disorders have been linked to low cholesterol levels and cholesterol is the basic building block of all the reproductive hormones."

Foods to avoid while trying to conceive

• Alcohol
• Excess caffeine (no more than two cups of strong coffee or equivalent per day)
• Raw eggs
• High-mercury fish, such as tuna and mackerel
• Trans-fats (hydrogenated oils found in highly processed food and biscuits)
• Raw meat

It’s also important to remember that mental health needs to be taken into consideration when trying to improve fertility, and Christmas can be a high-pressure time for many. Co-host of The Fertility Podcast, Natalie Silverman, says:

"We put so much emphasis on our physical health when trying to conceive and little on our mental health, but feeling overwhelmed by everything can have such a big impact. Anything from the stresses of work to unwanted comments from family members and pregnancy announcements on social media can put the body in a heightened state of emergency, meaning it will pump out the stress hormone cortisol which prevents it from working properly. 

"Combined with the constant negative chatter you may be telling yourself about what you might be doing wrong in trying to get pregnant – often without realising it – and you begin to get an idea of how important the mind-body connection is."

If you're wondering why you can't get pregnant, we've rounded up 10 possible explanations. We've also spoken to an expert to come up with 8 tips on how to get pregnant as well as how to increase sperm count.

Fertility food and diet are an important part of your journey to pregnancy. Here we speak to experts about the best foods that increase fertility in females. 

Trying to conceive can be an exciting time and there are lots of things you can do to  improve your chances of getting pregnant. From using an ovulation calculator, to making sure you get enough exercise, there are many ways to increase your fertility. But one of the most important is thinking about your diet and ensuring that there is plenty of fertility food in your daily meal plans.

According to researchers from the University of Bari Aldo Moro in Italy: “Reproductive performance is definitely influenced by foods and type of nutrition.”  There are lots of foods that increase fertility in females, from dark leafy vegetables which are rich in folate to kidney beans which are packed with iron.

Registered nutritionist Charlotte Grand, who is the founder and author of The Fertility Kitchen, says: “Everything your body does requires nutrients which you get from food. Diet has a huge impact on all body systems that affect fertility, including hormones, immune system, detoxification, blood-sugar regulation and digestion. Building a baby is a nutrient-intense process, so a nutrient-rich diet is important.” 

So if you’re just starting out on your pregnancy journey, or you’re struggling to conceive, taking a close look at your diet could really help.

1. Oily fish

Oily fish is a really important fertility food to include in your diet when trying to get pregnant. Not only is it the richest dietary source of the essential omega-3 fat DHA, it also includes nutrients such as vitamin B12 and iodine.

DHA is vital for foetal brain development, as well as lowering inflammation.

Registered nutritionist Charlotte Grand says: “Oily fish ticks a lot of important fertility nutrient boxes, including vitamin B12, choline, iodine, iron, selenium and zinc.

“Choose fish species with high levels of DHA and low levels of heavy metals (such as mercury) and contaminants. Good choices include Atlantic mackerel, herring, rainbow trout, sardines and wild Alaskan or sockeye salmon. Include oily fish in your fertility diet two to three times a week and mix things up by trying different varieties.”

Omega-3 has also been found to improve the chances of conceiving. In this study of 900 women trying to get pregnant, researchers found that women taking omega-3 supplements had 1.51 times the probability of conceiving compared to women not taking them.

Registered nutritionist Emma Thornton adds: “Oily fish is a fantastic source of both omega-3 and vitamin D. Healthy fats such as omega-3 are anti-inflammatory and help to slow the release of sugars in our diet, therefore helping to sustain better energy levels. Adequate vitamin D is important for hormone balance, which is often an important consideration whilst trying to conceive.”

2. Flaxseeds

Research has shown that one of the most important hormones when trying to conceive is oestrogen. So finding fertility foods which boost this hormone is a great place to start.

Registered nutritionist Emma Thornton says: “Flaxseeds are gently oestrogenic and we need sufficient oestrogen in the first half of our menstrual cycle to successfully trigger ovulation.

“Flaxseeds are also fibre-rich and a good source of omega-3, meaning they are wonderfully anti-inflammatory and energy sustaining.”

An easy way to add flaxseed into your diet is to stir some into your breakfast cereal or a smoothie. Or alternatively, add some to an avocado and pasta salad for lunch.

3. Brazil nuts

The hormone progesterone plays a number of different roles in conception and pregnancy. Researchers have found that it is required for the successful implantation of a fertilised egg into the lining of the uterus.

As a result, registered nutritionist Emma Thornton suggests adding Brazil nuts to your list of foods that increase fertility in females. She says: “Brazil nuts are high in essential nutrients, including magnesium and zinc. Interestingly, these key nutrients are particularly important for the production of the sex hormone progesterone. Progesterone is important for maintaining the lining of the womb in the second half of our menstrual cycle, making it suitable to receive a fertilised egg.”

You don’t actually need to eat a lot of Brazil nuts to reap their benefits. It’s usually recommended to eat 1-3 a day.

4. Eggs

Eggs are a great fertility food and are really easy to include in your diet as they can be eaten in so many ways.

Registered nutritionist Charlotte Grand says: “Eggs are a rich source of complete protein, healthy fats and cholesterol. The yolks contain an abundance of important fertility nutrients and are the richest source of choline for many.”

Researchers agree that choline is extremely important during pregnancy for things like foetal brain development and placenta formation.

A great fertility-boosting meal is baked eggs with spinach or try this poached egg and buckwheat pancake recipe.

5. Liver

Although liver is not very popular these days, it is actually one of the best foods for increasing fertility in females

Registered nutritionist Charlotte Grand explains: “Liver scores highly in the fertility nutrition stakes. That’s because gram for gram, it contains more nutrients than any other food. It contains significant amounts of vital fertility nutrients, including vitamins A, B6 and B12, choline, copper, folate, iron, vitamin K2, selenium and zinc.”

Researchers in this study found that vitamin A “is essential for reproduction in both the male and female, as well as for many events in the developing embryo.”

If you haven’t eaten liver before, it may feel daunting. However, there are simple ways to incorporate this fertility food into your diet.

Charlotte suggests: “Start including it once a week and choose organic chicken liver, which has the mildest flavour. Hide small amounts in your favourite recipes by puréeing it or freezing, grating and adding it to the pot for the last minute or two of cooking time. Liver is suited to recipes like bolognese and chilli.”

This chicken liver salad is an easy lunch option, or pan-fried chicken livers with sherry and spinach is a great dinner party recipe.

6. Asparagus

An important factor to consider on your fertility journey is the quality of your eggs.

Asparagus is a fertility food which can support this. That is because, as well as being packed full of important nutrients for those trying to conceive, including folic acid and vitamin K, it also includes the antioxidant glutathione.

Studies have shown that glutathione shields eggs from damage and therefore improves their quality.

Asparagus is a really easy ingredient to incorporate into everyday meals. For some fertility boosting recipes, try grilled asparagus, sweet potato and poached egg or asparagus and pea risotto.

7. Spinach

Medical professionals recommend that all women who are trying to conceive take a supplement of folic acid. This is because it is extremely important for the development of your baby during early pregnancy.

The NHS recommends 400 micrograms of folic acid every day from before you’re pregnant until you are 12 weeks pregnant.

In addition, you can also boost your levels with the natural form of folate, known as vitamin B9, through a fertility food such as spinach.

Registered nutritionist Emma Thornton explains: “Folate is important for the early stages of development in pregnancy. For this reason, it’s recommended we stock up on food sources of folate, or the synthetic form, folic acid, from supplements, for a few months prior to trying to conceive.”

This study of 161 couples undergoing IVF treatment found that those who followed a Mediterranean diet had higher levels of red blood cell folate and an increased probability of becoming pregnant.

If you’re wondering how to cook spinach, it can be prepared in many different ways, from steaming to roasting. Plus, it can also be eaten raw in salads.

8. Citrus fruit

Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons and grapefruits are a great source of vitamin C, which has been shown to boost fertility.

In this study 100 men were given 1,000mg of vitamin C every other day as a supplement for six months. The results showed that consuming vitamin C significantly improves sperm concentration and mobility.

Oranges make an easy snack or can be juiced and lemon can be added as an ingredient when cooking.

However, if you are taking any kind of medication you should check that it is safe for you to eat grapefruit, as it can interfere with some treatments.

9. Seaweed

The mineral iodine is important when trying to conceive, as it is taken up by the ovaries and the endometrium (the lining of the uterus).

Researchers in New Zealand explained that: “Iodine deficiency is associated with reduced fertility” and have hypothesised that iodine could have a role as a potential therapy for unexplained infertility.

If you’re looking for a fertility food high in iodine, seaweed is the best option. You can sprinkle it on salad and soups, or roast it for a healthy snack.

Registered nutritionist Rachael Anderson says: “If you are planning a pregnancy, including iodine rich foods such as seaweed, fish, milk and dairy products is a good idea.”

10. Avocado

When considering foods that increase fertility in females, it is also worth thinking about those which increase the risk of infertility.

Studies have shown that trans unsaturated fats, found in items like fried fast food and bakery products, may increase the risk of ovulatory infertility.

Instead these unhealthy options should be swapped for a fertility food which contains healthy fats, such as avocado.

Registered nutritionist Rachael Anderson says: "Choose healthy monounsaturated fatty acids, such as avocados, over less healthy trans fats, which are found in biscuits, cakes and fried food."

11. Kidney beans

Iron is extremely important during pregnancy and can help to boost your energy levels as you try to conceive.

Kidney beans are a great source of both iron and protein and are particularly important if you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Research has shown that preconception anaemia (where the body does not produce enough red blood cells because the level of iron in the blood is too low) can adversely affect pregnancy outcomes. So it is important to keep your iron levels high when trying to conceive.

Registered nutritionist Emma Thornton says: “During pregnancy our iron requirements go up, so it can be nice to stock up in advance. Iron and protein are also essential for energy processes, something that can take a hit during pregnancy since there are many more demands on your body.”

For an easy way to add kidney beans into your diet, try something like Fearne Cotton’s vegan stew.

12. Berries

Berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and strawberries contain natural antioxidants. While these are important for our day to day health, research has also shown that they are beneficial for fertility.

In this study researchers found that antioxidant supplements can effectively improve semen parameters in infertile men. Plus, this research found that women with a high fruit intake had a reduced chance of infertility.

It’s really easy to incorporate berries into your daily diet. Sprinkle them onto your breakfast for a morning boost or grab a handful as a healthy snack.

13. Bone broth

Bone broth is known for its cold-fighting nutrients, but it is also a super fertility food.

Registered nutritionist Charlotte Grand explains: “Homemade bone broth (stock) offers a source of nutrients that can otherwise be lacking in our diets. The bones, skin and connective tissue are rich in protein, gelatine, collagen, glycine and minerals.

“Bones contain more minerals per gram than any other body tissue and broth made from bones is full of these minerals as they leach into the liquid as it simmers. Collagen and gelatine are rich sources of glycine, which is essential to obtain from the diet during pregnancy. Glycine is a structural amino acid required for foetal DNA and collagen synthesis. The most reliable sources include bone broth, slow-cooked meat and skin-on, bone-in poultry. You can also add pure gelatine or collagen powders to other foods.”

Studies have shown that glycine is extremely important during the later stages of pregnancy. So it is definitely worth adding bone broth into your diet if you are able to.

14. Butternut squash

Research has proved that calcium is a vital nutrient for women, both prior to conceiving and during the development of the foetus.

While many people receive their calcium from dairy products, it is also possible to get the nutrient from plant products. This is particularly important if you follow a vegan diet.

Registered nutritionist Emma Thornton explains: “Butternut squash is rich in calcium, which is a nutrient requirement that jumps up if we are to fall pregnant. This is because it helps to support the growth of the foetus.

“It’s a common misconception that we need to get calcium from dairy sources. However, actually plant based sources often also contain other vital nutrients such as magnesium. These are important for hormone balance and blood sugar regulation, and therefore energy.”

If you’re wondering how to cook butternut squash we would suggest roasting it, mashing it, or even blending it to make something like this tasty carrot and butternut squash soup.

15. Tofu

While protein is very important in a diet when trying to get pregnant, health experts suggest you should opt for plant-based proteins, such as tofu, rather than animal sources.

This study followed 18,555 women over an eight year period as they tried to conceive. After assessing their diets, researchers concluded that replacing animal sources of protein with vegetable sources of protein may reduce ovulatory infertility risk.

Registered nutritionist Rachael Anderson says: “Opt for plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, lentils, pulses and beans, over animal proteins. Evidence suggests this may help improve ovulatory infertility.”

If you’re not used to cooking with tofu, why not try something like Joe Wicks’ miso tofu with stir-fried ginger greens.

16. Nuts and seeds

While it is important that women who are trying to conceive ensure they have a good fertility diet, the same goes for their partners.

Nuts and seeds are a good source of monosaturated fatty acids, which are known to be helpful for women who are trying to increase their fertility. Plus, they are also important for men too.

Rachael says: “For men, diets rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to improve sperm health, quality and motility.”

This meta-analysis of studies looking at the effect of omega-3 fatty acids on male infertility, found that supplementing infertile men with omega-3 fatty acids resulted in a significant improvement in sperm movement.

Good sources of omega-2 fatty acids include walnuts, chia seeds and flaxseeds.

17. Greek yoghurt

Greek yoghurt is a great fertility food as it contains important nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.

Research has also shown that in order to increase their fertility chances, couples should stick to high-fat dairy options, rather than low-fat.

This study of 18,555 women who were followed over a period of eight years as they tried to conceive found that a high intake of low-fat dairy foods may increase the risk of anovulatory infertility (when an egg is not released by the female). However, eating high-fat dairy foods may decrease this risk.

18. Leafy greens

We know that leafy greens, like spinach, are important sources of folate, but they also provide so many more nutrients.

Registered nutritionist Charlotte Grand says: “Leafy green vegetables are especially beneficial for fertility because they are crammed with essential nutrients such as calcium, folate, iron and vitamin K1, as well as fibre.

“They also contain carotenoids, which are particularly concentrated in the ovaries where they protect against oxidative stress.”

These foods are also important for men, as studies have shown that a calcium deficiency can be associated with reduced fertilisation rate and male infertility.

Charlotte suggests: “Choose from chard (all varieties), collard greens, kale, rocket, spinach and watercress, and eat a variety.

“Aim to eat one portion, a one cup measure, tightly packed, with every meal. If it seems strange to eat greens at breakfast, add them to a smoothie or serve with eggs.”

19. Wholegrains

When shopping for fertility food it is always better to opt for wholegrains, rather than refined grains. This is because they are less processed and contain more nutrients.

Registered nutritionist Rachael Anderson says: “Try high fibre, low glycemic index foods, such as wholegrains, to improve fertility chances.”

In this large study researchers assessed the diets of women who were trying to get pregnant. Their results showed: “The amount and quality of carbohydrate in diet may be important determinants of ovulation and fertility in healthy women.”

It’s easy to include healthier carbohydrates into your diet by including wholegrains such as brown rice, wholewheat pasta and oats.

20. Olive oil

Swapping your usual cooking oil for olive oil is an easy way to improve your diet when trying to conceive.

Olive oil is high in healthy fat and research has shown that it can help to improve pregnancy outcomes.

In this study of 111 couples going through IVF, 55 couples received a 6-week intervention of a daily supplement drink enriched with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, plus additional olive oil and olive oil-based spread. The results showed that it altered the rate of embryo cleavage (a series of cell divisions). Researchers now want to consider whether this translates into improved clinical outcomes.

21. Vitamin D supplement

As well as stocking up on fertility food, it is important that you have enough vitamin D in your diet.

Although you can get small amounts of vitamin D from foods such as oily fish, eggs and red meat, many people do not get enough. This is especially the case during autumn and winter, as much of the vitamin D we receive comes from the sun.

The NHS recommends that people get 10 micrograms of vitamin D each day. It also suggests that pregnant women consider taking a supplement of this amount between September and March.

Studies have also shown that vitamin D can have an effect on fertility. In this review of clinical data about the role of vitamin D in fertility and pregnancy, researchers state that: “Observational studies show that vitamin D deficiency is a risk marker for reduced fertility.”

Registered nutritionist Rachael Anderson says: “Research also suggests that taking a 10 micrograms (mcg) supplement of Vitamin D has favourable effects on fertility.”

Fertility-boosting nutrients

When you're trying to conceive it can also be a good idea to up your intake of vitamins and minerals, to make sure you're getting just the right amount of nutrients. Use the table below to work out what you could be getting a bit more of here and there, and the best foods to try, too.

11. Kidney beans

Iron is extremely important during pregnancy and can help to boost your energy levels as you try to conceive.

Kidney beans are a great source of both iron and protein and are particularly important if you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Research has shown that preconception anaemia (where the body does not produce enough red blood cells because the level of iron in the blood is too low) can adversely affect pregnancy outcomes. So it is important to keep your iron levels high when trying to conceive.

Registered nutritionist Emma Thornton says: “During pregnancy our iron requirements go up, so it can be nice to stock up in advance. Iron and protein are also essential for energy processes, something that can take a hit during pregnancy since there are many more demands on your body.”

For an easy way to add kidney beans into your diet, try something like Fearne Cotton’s vegan stew.

12. Berries

Berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and strawberries contain natural antioxidants. While these are important for our day to day health, research has also shown that they are beneficial for fertility.

In this study researchers found that antioxidant supplements can effectively improve semen parameters in infertile men. Plus, this research found that women with a high fruit intake had a reduced chance of infertility.

It’s really easy to incorporate berries into your daily diet. Sprinkle them onto your breakfast for a morning boost or grab a handful as a healthy snack.

13. Bone broth

Bone broth is known for its cold-fighting nutrients, but it is also a super fertility food.

Registered nutritionist Charlotte Grand explains: “Homemade bone broth (stock) offers a source of nutrients that can otherwise be lacking in our diets. The bones, skin and connective tissue are rich in protein, gelatine, collagen, glycine and minerals.

“Bones contain more minerals per gram than any other body tissue and broth made from bones is full of these minerals as they leach into the liquid as it simmers. Collagen and gelatine are rich sources of glycine, which is essential to obtain from the diet during pregnancy. Glycine is a structural amino acid required for foetal DNA and collagen synthesis.

“The most reliable sources include bone broth, slow-cooked meat and skin-on, bone-in poultry. You can also add pure gelatine or collagen powders to other foods.”

Studies have shown that glycine is extremely important during the later stages of pregnancy. So it is definitely worth adding bone broth into your diet if you are able to.

14. Butternut squash

Research has proved that calcium is a vital nutrient for women, both prior to conceiving and during the development of the foetus.

While many people receive their calcium from dairy products, it is also possible to get the nutrient from plant products. This is particularly important if you follow a vegan diet.

Registered nutritionist Emma Thornton explains: “Butternut squash is rich in calcium, which is a nutrient requirement that jumps up if we are to fall pregnant. This is because it helps to support the growth of the foetus.

“It’s a common misconception that we need to get calcium from dairy sources. However, actually plant based sources often also contain other vital nutrients such as magnesium. These are important for hormone balance and blood sugar regulation, and therefore energy.”

If you’re wondering how to cook butternut squash we would suggest roasting it, mashing it, or even blending it to make something like this tasty carrot and butternut squash soup.

15. Tofu

While protein is very important in a diet when trying to get pregnant, health experts suggest you should opt for plant-based proteins, such as tofu, rather than animal sources.

This study followed 18,555 women over an eight year period as they tried to conceive. After assessing their diets, researchers concluded that replacing animal sources of protein with vegetable sources of protein may reduce ovulatory infertility risk.

Registered nutritionist Rachael Anderson says: “Opt for plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, lentils, pulses and beans, over animal proteins. Evidence suggests this may help improve ovulatory infertility.”

If you’re not used to cooking with tofu, why not try something like Joe Wicks’ miso tofu with stir-fried ginger greens.

16. Nuts and seeds

While it is important that women who are trying to conceive ensure they have a good fertility diet, the same goes for their partners.

Nuts and seeds are a good source of monosaturated fatty acids, which are known to be helpful for women who are trying to increase their fertility.

Plus, they are also important for men too.

Rachael says: “For men, diets rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to improve sperm health, quality and motility.”

This meta-analysis of studies looking at the effect of omega-3 fatty acids on male infertility, found that supplementing infertile men with omega-3 fatty acids resulted in a significant improvement in sperm movement.

Good sources of omega-2 fatty acids include walnuts, chia seeds and flaxseeds.

17. Greek yoghurt

Greek yoghurt is a great fertility food as it contains important nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.

Research has also shown that in order to increase their fertility chances, couples should stick to high-fat dairy options, rather than low-fat.

This study of 18,555 women who were followed over a period of eight years as they tried to conceive found that a high intake of low-fat dairy foods may increase the risk of anovulatory infertility (when an egg is not released by the female). However, eating high-fat dairy foods may decrease this risk.

18. Leafy greens

We know that leafy greens, like spinach, are important sources of folate, but they also provide so many more nutrients.

Registered nutritionist Charlotte Grand says: “Leafy green vegetables are especially beneficial for fertility because they are crammed with essential nutrients such as calcium, folate, iron and vitamin K1, as well as fibre.

“They also contain carotenoids, which are particularly concentrated in the ovaries where they protect against oxidative stress.”

These foods are also important for men, as studies have shown that a calcium deficiency can be associated with reduced fertilisation rate and male infertility.

Charlotte suggests: “Choose from chard (all varieties), collard greens, kale, rocket, spinach and watercress, and eat a variety.

“Aim to eat one portion, a one cup measure, tightly packed, with every meal. If it seems strange to eat greens at breakfast, add them to a smoothie or serve with eggs.”

19. Wholegrains

When shopping for fertility food it is always better to opt for wholegrains, rather than refined grains. This is because they are less processed and contain more nutrients.

Registered nutritionist Rachael Anderson says: “Try high fibre, low glycemic index foods, such as wholegrains, to improve fertility chances.”

In this large study researchers assessed the diets of women who were trying to get pregnant. Their results showed: “The amount and quality of carbohydrate in diet may be important determinants of ovulation and fertility in healthy women.”

It’s easy to include healthier carbohydrates into your diet by including wholegrains such as brown rice, wholewheat pasta and oats.

20. Olive oil

Swapping your usual cooking oil for olive oil is an easy way to improve your diet when trying to conceive.

Olive oil is high in healthy fat and research has shown that it can help to improve pregnancy outcomes.

In this study of 111 couples going through IVF, 55 couples received a 6-week intervention of a daily supplement drink enriched with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, plus additional olive oil and olive oil-based spread. The results showed that it altered the rate of embryo cleavage (a series of cell divisions). Researchers now want to consider whether this translates into improved clinical outcomes.

21. Vitamin D supplement

As well as stocking up on fertility food, it is important that you have enough vitamin D in your diet.

Although you can get small amounts of vitamin D from foods such as oily fish, eggs and red meat, many people do not get enough. This is especially the case during autumn and winter, as much of the vitamin D we receive comes from the sun.

The NHS recommends that people get 10 micrograms of vitamin D each day. It also suggests that pregnant women consider taking a supplement of this amount between September and March.

Studies have also shown that vitamin D can have an effect on fertility. In this review of clinical data about the role of vitamin D in fertility and pregnancy, researchers state that: “Observational studies show that vitamin D deficiency is a risk marker for reduced fertility.”

Registered nutritionist Rachael Anderson says: “Research also suggests that taking a 10 micrograms (mcg) supplement of Vitamin D has favourable effects on fertility.”

11. Kidney beans

Iron is extremely important during pregnancy and can help to boost your energy levels as you try to conceive.

Kidney beans are a great source of both iron and protein and are particularly important if you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Research has shown that preconception anaemia (where the body does not produce enough red blood cells because the level of iron in the blood is too low) can adversely affect pregnancy outcomes. So it is important to keep your iron levels high when trying to conceive.

Registered nutritionist Emma Thornton says: “During pregnancy our iron requirements go up, so it can be nice to stock up in advance. Iron and protein are also essential for energy processes, something that can take a hit during pregnancy since there are many more demands on your body.”

For an easy way to add kidney beans into your diet, try something like Fearne Cotton’s vegan stew.

12. Berries

Berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and strawberries contain natural antioxidants. While these are important for our day to day health, research has also shown that they are beneficial for fertility.

In this study researchers found that antioxidant supplements can effectively improve semen parameters in infertile men. Plus, this research found that women with a high fruit intake had a reduced chance of infertility.

It’s really easy to incorporate berries into your daily diet. Sprinkle them onto your breakfast for a morning boost or grab a handful as a healthy snack.

13. Bone broth

Bone broth is known for its cold-fighting nutrients, but it is also a super fertility food.

Registered nutritionist Charlotte Grand explains: “Homemade bone broth (stock) offers a source of nutrients that can otherwise be lacking in our diets. The bones, skin and connective tissue are rich in protein, gelatine, collagen, glycine and minerals.

“Bones contain more minerals per gram than any other body tissue and broth made from bones is full of these minerals as they leach into the liquid as it simmers. Collagen and gelatine are rich sources of glycine, which is essential to obtain from the diet during pregnancy. Glycine is a structural amino acid required for foetal DNA and collagen synthesis.

“The most reliable sources include bone broth, slow-cooked meat and skin-on, bone-in poultry. You can also add pure gelatine or collagen powders to other foods.”

Studies have shown that glycine is extremely important during the later stages of pregnancy. So it is definitely worth adding bone broth into your diet if you are able to.

14. Butternut squash

Research has proved that calcium is a vital nutrient for women, both prior to conceiving and during the development of the foetus.

While many people receive their calcium from dairy products, it is also possible to get the nutrient from plant products. This is particularly important if you follow a vegan diet.

Registered nutritionist Emma Thornton explains: “Butternut squash is rich in calcium, which is a nutrient requirement that jumps up if we are to fall pregnant. This is because it helps to support the growth of the foetus.

“It’s a common misconception that we need to get calcium from dairy sources. However, actually plant based sources often also contain other vital nutrients such as magnesium. These are important for hormone balance and blood sugar regulation, and therefore energy.”

If you’re wondering how to cook butternut squash we would suggest roasting it, mashing it, or even blending it to make something like this tasty carrot and butternut squash soup.

15. Tofu

While protein is very important in a diet when trying to get pregnant, health experts suggest you should opt for plant-based proteins, such as tofu, rather than animal sources.

This study followed 18,555 women over an eight year period as they tried to conceive. After assessing their diets, researchers concluded that replacing animal sources of protein with vegetable sources of protein may reduce ovulatory infertility risk.

Registered nutritionist Rachael Anderson says: “Opt for plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, lentils, pulses and beans, over animal proteins. Evidence suggests this may help improve ovulatory infertility.”

If you’re not used to cooking with tofu, why not try something like Joe Wicks’ miso tofu with stir-fried ginger greens.

16. Nuts and seeds

While it is important that women who are trying to conceive ensure they have a good fertility diet, the same goes for their partners.

Nuts and seeds are a good source of monosaturated fatty acids, which are known to be helpful for women who are trying to increase their fertility.

Plus, they are also important for men too.

Rachael says: “For men, diets rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to improve sperm health, quality and motility.”

This meta-analysis of studies looking at the effect of omega-3 fatty acids on male infertility, found that supplementing infertile men with omega-3 fatty acids resulted in a significant improvement in sperm movement.

Good sources of omega-2 fatty acids include walnuts, chia seeds and flaxseeds.

17. Greek yoghurt

Greek yoghurt is a great fertility food as it contains important nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.

Research has also shown that in order to increase their fertility chances, couples should stick to high-fat dairy options, rather than low-fat.

This study of 18,555 women who were followed over a period of eight years as they tried to conceive found that a high intake of low-fat dairy foods may increase the risk of anovulatory infertility (when an egg is not released by the female). However, eating high-fat dairy foods may decrease this risk.

18. Leafy greens

We know that leafy greens, like spinach, are important sources of folate, but they also provide so many more nutrients.

Registered nutritionist Charlotte Grand says: “Leafy green vegetables are especially beneficial for fertility because they are crammed with essential nutrients such as calcium, folate, iron and vitamin K1, as well as fibre.

“They also contain carotenoids, which are particularly concentrated in the ovaries where they protect against oxidative stress.”

These foods are also important for men, as studies have shown that a calcium deficiency can be associated with reduced fertilisation rate and male infertility.

Charlotte suggests: “Choose from chard (all varieties), collard greens, kale, rocket, spinach and watercress, and eat a variety.

“Aim to eat one portion, a one cup measure, tightly packed, with every meal. If it seems strange to eat greens at breakfast, add them to a smoothie or serve with eggs.”

19. Wholegrains

When shopping for fertility food it is always better to opt for wholegrains, rather than refined grains. This is because they are less processed and contain more nutrients.

Registered nutritionist Rachael Anderson says: “Try high fibre, low glycemic index foods, such as wholegrains, to improve fertility chances.”

In this large study researchers assessed the diets of women who were trying to get pregnant. Their results showed: “The amount and quality of carbohydrate in diet may be important determinants of ovulation and fertility in healthy women.”

It’s easy to include healthier carbohydrates into your diet by including wholegrains such as brown rice, wholewheat pasta and oats.

20. Olive oil

Swapping your usual cooking oil for olive oil is an easy way to improve your diet when trying to conceive.

Olive oil is high in healthy fat and research has shown that it can help to improve pregnancy outcomes.

In this study of 111 couples going through IVF, 55 couples received a 6-week intervention of a daily supplement drink enriched with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, plus additional olive oil and olive oil-based spread. The results showed that it altered the rate of embryo cleavage (a series of cell divisions). Researchers now want to consider whether this translates into improved clinical outcomes.

21. Vitamin D supplement

As well as stocking up on fertility food, it is important that you have enough vitamin D in your diet.

Although you can get small amounts of vitamin D from foods such as oily fish, eggs and red meat, many people do not get enough. This is especially the case during autumn and winter, as much of the vitamin D we receive comes from the sun.

The NHS recommends that people get 10 micrograms of vitamin D each day. It also suggests that pregnant women consider taking a supplement of this amount between September and March.

Studies have also shown that vitamin D can have an effect on fertility. In this review of clinical data about the role of vitamin D in fertility and pregnancy, researchers state that: “Observational studies show that vitamin D deficiency is a risk marker for reduced fertility.”

Registered nutritionist Rachael Anderson says: “Research also suggests that taking a 10 micrograms (mcg) supplement of Vitamin D has favourable effects on fertility.”

How early on can you take a pregnancy test is something many people wonder, especially if they're trying to conceive or they start to notice certain changes in their body.

The best way to detect pregnancy accurately is through a home pregnancy test - but many people wonder how early on can you take a pregnancy test. There are early signs of pregnancy that many people look out for when they are trying to conceive, but these are not universal and certainly don't appear in the same way for everyone.

A missed period could easily be the result of stress symptoms or a change in diet, while a stomach bug could be mistaken for morning sickness if someone hasn't been pregnant before. While feeling tired is more often than not a symptom of a hectic lifestyle rather than pregnancy.

So it's better to be safe than sorry and opt for the home pregnancy test, as it is the most reliable method. First developed in a way we recognise today in 1927, home pregnancy tests have come on leaps and bounds and are used by medical professionals around the world, along with everyday people, as they're sold everywhere from pharmacies to supermarkets.

There are some that can even detect pregnancy within the first couple of weeks, so finding the perfect one for you is also important.

That's why we've asked Dr Larisa Corda, an obstetrician, gynaecologist and one of the UK’s leading fertility specialists, to help us out.

How early on can you take a pregnancy test?

You can take a pregnancy test from the first day of a missed period. And, though you may not want to wait, the best way to be sure is give it at least a week after your period is due.

Some home pregnancy tests may claim that they can tell if you're pregnant on the day you expect your period and it's possible to tell even a couple of days before your period, but this is not usually the case. It's not always possible to be that specific about the date of your period, and levels of hCG - a hormone produced by the placenta - vary greatly from woman to woman.

Women all have different menstrual cycles and so everyone ovulates at a different time. This will affect when your period is due. You may also have conceived later in your cycle than average, which will affect how much hCG is in your body.

How soon after unprotected sex can I test for pregnancy?

If you’re actively trying to conceive and you don’t want to wait until you’ve missed your period, you should wait at least one to two weeks after you had sex as some very sensitive tests may be able to detect a pregnancy at this stage.

If you’ve missed a period, regardless of whether or not you’re using the best type of contraception for you, it’s a good idea to do a pregnancy test to check.

Which pregnancy test can you take the earliest?

All pregnancy tests are most reliable on the first day of your missed period, according to the NHS, but some tests can be used as early as 4 or 5 days before your period is even due. These include...

Clear Blue Early Detection Pregnancy Test

One of the most reliable brands for pregnancy tests, this Clear Blue test is 79% accurate in testing for pregnancy 6 days before the missed period and 5 days before the expected period. It's got a classic colour changing tip for easy to read results and currently, you can get one test for just under £6 on Amazon.

First Response Early Pregnancy Test

With this pregnancy test, you can find out whether you're pregnant 6 days before your missed period and 5 days before your period is expected. Watch out though because it's slightly less effective at predicting early pregnancy than the Clear Blue test at 62% effective 6 days before, but it is 99% effective on the day of the missed period. Get 2 tests for under £6 on Amazon.

Clear Blue Digital Pregnancy Test

This pregnancy test is 99% accurate from the day of your expected period but can be used 4 days before the expected period, so it's the normal pregnancy test you can take the earliest.

Clear Blue was a brand recommended by over 400 doctors in a 2012 survey and at the moment, you can buy two tests for £11 from Amazon.

Pregnancy tests: Early signs you may need to take a pregnancy test

A missed period

One of the first and most reliable signs of pregnancy is a missed period in a woman who has regular periods. However, your period can sometimes be delayed or skipped due to stress, diet, exercise, or certain medical conditions.

Women all have different menstrual cycles and so everyone ovulates at a different time. This will affect when your period is due. You may also have conceived later in your cycle than average, if ovulation has been affected by something, even lifestyle. Although you may not want to wait, the best way to be sure is give it at least a week after your period is due.

Mild cramps

Implantation can also produce a feeling similar to menstrual cramps, except you won’t get a period associated with it. This can be an indication you’re pregnant.

Breast tenderness

Due to the increased production of oestrogen and progesterone, your breasts may feel tender and appear bigger due to increased blood flow. Your nipples might hurt and the veins might look darker under the skin.

You feel unwell

You may get nausea, food aversions, exhaustion and find yourself going to the toilet often to urinate. You know yourself, so pay attention to your body and any unusual physical symptoms that could mean you are pregnant.

How do you do a home pregnancy test?

There are many different types of home pregnancy tests and they cost between £6-12. Most of them work by telling you to urinate onto a small stick.

There are different ways to collect your urine for the test. Depending on the test you choose, you may have to:

• Collect your urine in a cup and dip a testing stick into the liquid
• Collect your urine in a cup and use an eyedropper to move a small amount of fluid into a special container
• Place the testing stick into the area of your expected urine stream so that it will catch your urine midstream

After the recommended waiting time has passed, the tests will display your results either as a change in colour, a line, a symbol, such as plus or minus, or the words 'pregnant' or 'not pregnant'.

If a line or plus symbol appears, you are pregnant. It doesn’t matter how faint the line or plus symbol is, the result is positive.

Most brands will advise you to repeat the test in a few days, no matter what the result.

If your first result is negative, it doesn’t mean you’re not pregnant. There might not be enough hCG in your body yet – take it again in a few days.If your first result is positive, you’re almost definitely pregnant. False positives are very rare, although they do sometimes happen, especially if you are on certain medication.

How accurate are home pregnancy tests?

Home pregnancy tests are very accurate and most claim between 97 per cent and 99 per cent accuracy, but as with any kit there are things that can affect the test result.

Here are some tips for how to improve their accuracy:

• Check the expiry date and make sure you follow the instructions properly.
• The amount of hCG or pregnancy hormone in your urine increases with time and is often different at certain times of day. The earlier after a missed period you take the test, the harder it is to spot the hCG. Also, testing your urine first thing in the morning may boost the accuracy.
• The amount of hCG in urine is different for every woman. Some women will have accurate results on the day of the missed period while others will need to wait longer.
• Some tests are more sensitive than others, and will affect how early you can use them to detect pregnancy.

If in doubt, the best thing to do is to consult your GP or a health care professional who will be able to take a pregnancy test for you.

How do pregnancy tests work?

Pregnancy tests look for a special hormone in the urine or blood called hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) that is only there when a woman is pregnant.

HCG is only made in your body after a fertilised egg implants itself in the uterus and this usually happens around 6 days after conception. However, this can vary from woman to woman but the further along your pregnancy you are, the higher the level of hCG tends to be in your body.

You might also like:

Early signs of pregnancy: 23 symptoms to be aware of 

How to in increase fertility: 42 ways to boost fertility

What's normal on your period: everything you need to know

Morning sickness: the causes, symptoms and best home remedies

An ovulation calculator can help to identify when you are most fertile and the days of the month when you have the best chance of getting pregnant.

Using an ovulation calculator is a great way to predict when ovulation might happen and increase your fertility or increase sperm count in your male partner. Plus it can also help take away some of the confusion around tracking cycles naturally - especially if your periods aren't regular. 

Menstrual cycles vary from 22 to 36 days. An 'average' cycle starts on day one of your period and continues to the day before your next one, about 28 days on average. When trying to conceive, pinpointing ovulation is key. Eating fertility-boosting foods like leafy greens, berries and oily fish can also help you or your partner get pregnant. "Some people find it reassuring to monitor signs of ovulation and feel confident they are taking control over their fertility," says Dr Matthew Prior, fertility consultant.

Find out how to use an ovulation calendar, discover how reliable they are and find out how to track your fertility using other methods.

Ovulation Calculator

What is an ovulation calculator and how does it help you get pregnant?

An ovulation calculator helps you to estimate how likely you are to ovulate on certain days in your cycle so you can identify your most fertile days, the ones that are prime for conception. These calculators work by taking the first day of your last period and the length of that menstrual cycle to give a range of days when you may release an egg.

"Ovulation calculators can provide you with a generalized idea of when your day of ovulation might be," says Dr Tiffany Pham, OB-GYN and medical advisor at Flo Health. "However, most people tend to have some degree of variation in their cycle length. Therefore, the results should be interpreted as estimates, as the actual day of ovulation can vary between cycles and from person to person."

If you've been tracking your cycle for a while, and are wondering why can't I get pregnant, Dr Matthew Prior says says it might be time to relax a little. 

"Some research shows that getting too hung up on your cycle can cause more stress and take away the enjoyment of trying to conceive causing unnecessary pressure," he says. "If this is the case it may be a good idea to stop monitoring for a few months." 

This was true for mum-of-two Sara when she was trying to conceive her second child.  "My partner and I got so hung up on my fertile days that having sex became a practical thing to do, rather than something that brings you closer," she explains. 

"I would go so far as to say it ruined our sex life, so we made a decision to throw the calendar out and instead, just have sex whenever we felt like it. Within two months, after 18 months of trying, I discovered I was pregnant, so I firmly believe stress can cause temporary infertility."

How to use our free ovulation calculator

Our ovulation calculator helps you identify when you're ovulating, i.e. releasing an egg, on a certain day of your menstrual cycle. It could help you to further identify your most fertile days and so help with conception. 

For our ovulation calculator you need to know your average menstrual cycle and when your luteal phase begins. The luteal phase is the second half of your menstrual cycle, which starts after ovulation and ends with the first day of your period.

Your luteal phase usually lasts 12 to 16 days, with an average of 14 days for most women, so if you’re unsure we’d recommend choosing 14 days on the calculator.

As with most ovulation tools, be aware that the dates given are an estimate and as Mr Raef Faris, from the Lister Fertility Clinic, says, they can’t guarantee the ovulation date will be 100 percent accurate. 

If you conceive outside of your ovulation dates for example, this will impact your due date. If you have any doubts, it's best to contact your GP, especially as there are a whole number of factors, from age to conditions like endometriosis, that can affect fertility.

Downloading and using calendar apps on your phone are also a way to track period dates and cycle lengths, to predict when you might ovulate. Though, Fertility Nurse Kate Davies from Your Fertility Journey says a calendar app could be misleading. "[Ovulation] is usually estimated to be around the middle of your cycle. However, it is well documented in the research that even having a regular 28-day cycle doesn’t mean you will always ovulate on day 14.

"Therefore, using and relying solely on a calendar app can actually be misleading. I encourage women to consider observing their natural fertility indicators (temperature and cervical mucus) and using this information to become empowered and knowledgeable on their cycle, fertility, and ovulation."

Dr Tiffany Pham says combining ovulation calendars and apps with natural signs of ovulation can be more helpful. "Ovulation calculators can be used in conjunction with other methods such as tracking body temperature, monitoring cervical mucus, or using urinary ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) to help you enhance your understanding of your menstrual cycle and fertility chances. For example, rather than using the urinary OPKs daily throughout your cycle, you might be able to narrow down the days closer to your estimated ovulation date with the help of these ovulation calculators to use the strips." 

What is an ovulation calendar and how do you use one?

An ovulation calendar is a tool used to help identify your most fertile days, it can also help you to track your menstrual cycle. After working out the ovulation date using the ovulation calculator, many couples turn to an ovulation calendar - sometimes known as a fertility calendar - to figure out the days of the month where they're most likely to conceive if they have sex.

It works as sperm can live in the body for up to five days after sex, so conception can occur even if you've had sex four or five days before ovulation begins. The fertility window is normally around six days, as that is the amount of days that the egg and sperm can survive. To figure out this fertile period, plot your menstrual cycle on a calendar then count back 14 days from the expected last day of your next cycle. This will be your most fertile day.

Will using a fertility app help me get pregnant quicker?

There are a number of paid-for and free apps that will do this for you - such as Clue. It's worth bearing in mind though, that recent studies have highlighted the lack of regulation in the fertility app market.

Surprisingly, a 2020 study into the features available with paid fertility apps and free fertility apps found that free apps provided more robust features than paid apps for tracking women's fertility. Researchers also found that nearly a third of fertility apps tracked signs like basal body temperature but didn't use that data to improve their fertility predictions. So women were wasting time and effort tracking those signs.

They also found that less than half the apps used evidence-based methods to estimate the fertile window. However, those methods still had inaccuracies. Worryingly, only 20 percent of the apps warned that their predictions could be inaccurate.

Another research study, which looked at 221 women who were trying to get pregnant, found that only 30% of the participants had their fertile window within days 10 and 17 of their cycle - which is the days identified by clinical guidelines. Many of the women in the trial actually reached their fertile window earlier or later, proving that it can be highly unpredictable, even if you have regular periods. 

What are the physical signs of ovulation?

As your body gears up to ovulate, you may notice some changes that signal your prime babymaking days. Many women experience more vaginal discharge around ovulation. It becomes wetter, clearer, and stretchier - like raw egg white. This fertile-quality mucus helps sperm survive their journey to meet the egg. 

Around the time the egg is released, you may also notice:

• Light bleeding or spotting
• Breast soreness
• Increased sex drive
• Mild one-sided abdominal pain
  

Basal body temperature (BBT) tracking allows women to pinpoint when ovulation has occurred in a menstrual cycle. After you release an egg, your progesterone levels rise, slightly increasing your resting body temperature by 0.2 to 0.6 degrees Celsius. 

You can track your basal body temperature over several menstrual cycles. When you see it shift upwards, you know that you have already ovulated. Measuring basal body temperature is considered a safe and natural way to track ovulation. However, it doesn't predict future cycles, and some studies have found that it is only 22 percent accurate in detecting ovulation. So, it's a good idea to use other indicators like cervical mucus quality and ovulation test strips to get the best picture of your fertility window.

When will I ovulate? How to work out your ovulation date

Ovulation happens about 14 days before your period starts, also called menstruation. What's normal on your period differs from person to person, but bleeding from three to seven days is considered the norm. While it may feel short, three days of bleeding is still considered normal as long as you're menstruating regularly. And each full menstrual cycle can last anywhere from 21 to 35 days. 

Some examples of ovulation dates are:

• If your average menstrual cycle is 28 days, you ovulate around day 14, and your most fertile days are days 12, 13 and 14.
• If your average menstrual cycle is 35 days then ovulation happens around day 21 and your most fertile days are days 19, 20 and 21.  

Studies in the British Medical Journal show that only about 30% of people have a a fertile window entirely within days 11-13, and that most people reach their fertile window earlier and others much later. This means that the timing of their fertile window can be highly unpredictable, even if their cycles are usually regular.

But if you want to try it, here's an easy to follow guide to working out your ovulation date...

Step-by-step guide to working out your ovulation date

Step 1: Your menstrual cycle

When your next period starts, make a note of the date. The following month, when your period comes again, make a note of this date, then count the days in between. This will give you your cycle length. You may need to do this for more than one month and take the average, especially if your cycle isn't regular. Remember also that coming off the contraceptive pill will reveal your true menstrual cycle.

Example:

• Period starts = 1st January, Next period starts = 3rd February
• Days in between (including 1st Jan but not 3rd Feb) = 33 days.
• This means your menstrual cycle length is 33.

Step 2: Your fertile dates

Using our ovulation calendar, find the right number in the menstrual cycle length column (33 for the above example) and read across for your ovulation day and most fertile days.

Step 3: Your ovulation date

Work out your ovulation and most fertile dates. For the below example:

• First day of last period = 3rd February 2021
• Cycle Length = 33
• Ovulation (19 days later) = 22nd February 2021
• Most fertile (18-20 days later) = 21st and 23rd February 2021

Once you know your ovulation date, as a rule, you are most fertile the day before, during and the day after. 

N.B. These figures are based on averages and should be used as a guide only. Days and dates may differ from person to person.

How to track your fertility

While using our ovulation calculator can help you to work out your ovulation date, there are other ways to work out when you might be ovulating too, according to our experts. 

"There are a few methods used mostly depending on the hormone surge that occurs prior to ovulation." Mr Faris says, "This includes temperature rise, cervical mucus and urine ovulation."

He warns, however, "They may not be accurate as some women may not show signs of ovulation, but would have ovulated already. The best advice would be trying naturally (every 2-3 days) soon after the period is over till day 20 of the cycle, but it could be extended (depending on the length of the cycle)."

While Dr Matthew Prior explains, "Some women can tell if they are ovulating where others can’t. When you ovulate, you may notice a change in your discharge and a slight increase in temperature or change in urine ovulation predictor kits."

"While these are all useful tools there is no evidence to suggest monitoring your cycles improves your chance of getting pregnant. This is because sperm can survive for several days in the reproductive system so as long as you are having sex every couple of days it is not important to get the timing to coincide with ovulation." 

Nurse Kate Davies says finding out your most fertile date may require a mixture of various methods. "All these fertility indicators, used together, can give you a reliable indication of when you are in your fertile time. You can choose to use systems to help you interpret your physiological data such as Apps and fertility monitors and some women also choose to use ovulation predictor kits to help identify when ovulation is about to occur." 

Shop fertility aids

Clearblue Digital Ovulation Test Kit

Make use of this at-home urine test to work out the two days of the month that you are most fertile, making it that little bit easier to conceive. This test is easy to use and easy to read, making the whole process as simple as possible.

Mum Nicole credits these ovulation tests with helping her conceive her much-longed for baby girl. "We tried for a year without any success, so one day I saw these tests and thought we had nothing to lose," she explains. "It really helped me understand when I was more fertile and as I've not always had regular periods they were more useful than a calendar. They are also super easy to use and can be taken anywhere so useful if you're going on holiday!"

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON 

Easy@Home 50 Ovulation Test Strips

Another way to track your most fertile days, simply test these strips in a urine sample, leave it in there for 5-10 seconds, and read the results according to the instructions that come in the pack - it couldn't be simpler.

One mum told us, "With Easy@Home tests stripes, you simply take a photo and upload it to the app - it will read the image and tell you if your fertility signals have peaked. I was so shocked at how different my peak days were with this, compared to traditional fertility tracker apps - they were days apart. I would highly recommend, as you also get a lot for your money."

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON  

Conceive Plus Fertility Lubricant + Magnesium and Calcium

This fertility lubricant claims to help support sperm viability in order to help you to conceive, and help make the process easier for you and your partner.

"Using a lube with 'Conceive plus' written on the side isn't the biggest passion driver", one mum told us."But, when you're trying, you'll give anything a go! It's hard to know if it helped or if things would've happened anyway... I did like the fact it took away the worry of other lubes reducing our chances though." 

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON  

Seven Seas Trying For A Baby - 28 pack

This pre-conception supplement contains folic acid, which is often recommended to women who are looking to fall pregnant. It's also advised for some women to continue taking folic acid into the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, but it's important to consult your doctor on taking supplements during your pregnancy.

'Prices for pre-natal supplements can really vary, but I found these to be the most reasonable as they're usually under a fiver," one mum told us. "I also liked that these are so small, you can swallow one without water." 

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON

Wellman Vitabiotics Conception 30 Tablets

These tablets provide a combination of vitamins, minerals and bio-active nutrients to help with conception and spermatogenesis - the production of male sperm. It also includes zinc, which is said to be an important mineral for the male reproductive system.

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON

SpermCheck Fertility Home Sperm Test Kit

Combine this easy-to-use at-home test kit with an ovulation calculator to boost your chances of conceiving. It can help to determine the concentration of sperm in your partner and whether his sperm count is within the normal range. It is advised however, that you seek medical advice if you are having trouble conceiving as they will be able to offer more comprehensive results on sperm count.

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON 

BABYMAD Basal Thermometer for Ovulation

This thermometer will help you spot even the smallest rise in your body temperature which is one sign of ovulation. This will help you to calculate your fertility window and help you plan as much as possible the ideal time for conception.

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON

Will my fertility lessen with age?

For many years, women have been told about the ticking time-bomb of fertility and that it drops from the mid-30s. However, there has simply not been enough research in this area. In 2004, a study published in the the Human Reproduction journal cited the scary statistic that just one in three women ages 35 to 39 will not be pregnant after a year of trying. However, what wasn't so well publicised is that the dates used in this study were French birth records from 1670 to 1830, a time when there weren't the medicines and scientific knowledge there is today.

Another study published in the same year, and using a more modern data source, actually found that found that 82% of women aged between 35 and 39 fell pregnant within a year.

So while it can be harder to conceive at a later age, it's not impossible and in fact many fertility problems experience have nothing to do with age.

I have irregular periods, when will I ovulate?

No matter the length of her period, every woman ovulates about 14 days before her next period. So, if you have a 28-day cycle, you'll ovulate on day 14, and if you have a 32-day cycle, you'll ovulate on day 18.

Mr Faris advises that the ovulation date in this case could vary, so "it would be useful to try regularly after the period and not to rely on the ovulation kits." This is because, as Dr Matthew Prior says, "Having regular periods is the best sign of ovulation. In fact, fertility specialists may not even advise bloods to check if ovulation has happened because regular cycles are a sure sign of ovulation."

Are there any physical signs that I'm ovulating?

As well as a rise in temperature and cervical mucus, there are some other physical signs that might be able to tell you that you're ovulating. These might include:

• A slight twinge of pain or mild cramps in your lower abdomen (think very mild period pains)
• Bloating
• Breast tenderness
• Some light spotting
• An increased sex drive

Our panel of experts;

Want to get pregnant faster? Learn how to increase your fertility through your diet and get tips for maximising sperm count to significantly boost your chances. Plus, why understanding your ovulation cycle is also essential to pinpoint your most fertile days.

If you’re struggling to conceive, you may be wondering how to increase your sperm count naturally - or, how you can help your partner.

Perhaps you have already been trying to conceive with an ovulation calculator, and now wonder if male infertility might be the issue. If so, you’re not alone. Low sperm count, is estimated to affect 50% of men. The advice out there can be overwhelming and so many claiming to increase sperm count are just trying to sell you a product or service.

 To advise on the best ways to increase sperm count, we talked to fertility expert  Dr James Hopkisson, the UK medical lead for TFP Fertility Group. He told us: “The key to understanding your fertility is identifying the reasons for a low sperm count. Fine-tuning your health will help you make a few marginal gains to improve the health of your sperm. Keeping fit, losing weight, and making healthy lifestyle choices will improve your sperm count and sperm health.”

Key facts about sperm health

• After puberty, sperm are produced continuously in the testes
• Each sperm takes 10 weeks to make, studies show
• Fertility research suggests only 5-15% of sperm needs to be the "normal" shape to be classified as "fertile"
• Studies indicate there has been a 32.5% decline in European men's sperm count over the past 50 years

“The World Health Organisation constantly refines the definition of a low sperm count and it was last revised in 2021," says Dr Hopkisson. "Male fertility assessments will look at 4 parameters. These are the volume of ejaculate (how many millilitres is produced) as well as how many sperm is within it. We also look at motility (a measure of how many swim in the right direction) and finally, “morphology”. Morphology examines the shape of the sperm head to ensure it’s healthy.”

How to increase sperm count

1. Eat the right foods

Having a healthy diet isn't just about getting your five fruit and veg per day. It can also be about avoiding certain foods that have an impact on your sperm count and health. Following a "health-conscious" diet (with good intakes of vegetables, fruits, fish and whole grains) can improve sperm health, with less DNA damage, according to various studies of dietary patterns.

Use caution over soy-based products. Some studies indicate that foods containing soy products may affect your sperm count, though the evidence is conflicting and limited. However, another study conducted the following year, concluded soy has no effect on sperm count. If you're working out and relying on soy-based protein shakes to help you bulk up, it might be worth erring on the side of caution and reducing your intake.

It might seem comedic to focus on nuts when talking about the health of your testicles and sperm count, but nuts contain selenium. Selenium is an antioxidant, long known by various studies to be beneficial for sperm health.

A 14-week, clinical study suggests nuts as an easy way to boost sperm count. The promising results showed 60g per day of mixed nuts saw an increase of:

• 16% in sperm count,
• 4% in sperm vitality,
• 6% in sperm motility

2. Boost your vitamin and antioxidant intake

It's not always easy to get all the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that you need into your daily diet. While it's important to ensure your daily food and drink intake is healthy, taking a daily multivitamin is probably a good idea.

There is a range of vitamins and antioxidants that studies show are beneficial for increasing your sperm count.

• One 2020 study reveals zinc and copper are important for spermatogenesis (creating new sperm)
• A review of several, smaller studies found vitamin C, vitamin E and CoQ10 supplementation improves semen quality
• A 2021 study on couples receiving fertility treatment suggests supplementation of vitamins and antioxidants such as folic acid, CoQ10, zinc and selenium improved reproduction

It can be difficult to know how to choose from the bewildering choice of vitamins and supplements to increase your sperm count. If you are worried about your levels of vitamins and minerals, you can ask your doctor for some blood tests. These will rule out major deficiencies in some essential nutrients, like iron, zinc, or folate.

Dr. Hopkisson, an expert in reproductive health, explains "we give prenatal advice to women to take folic acid and vitamin D, but men are never told to take any supplements. This needs to change. Men need to take equal responsibility for their health. Antioxidant supplements might be beneficial but maintain a healthy cynicism. Make sure it doesn’t do harm and you have looked into the evidence behind it.  You should also consider the cost of taking it. Think carefully whether there are better ways to improve your health."

Recommended providers of male fertility vitamin supplements

• View Wellman: Vitabiotics Conception 30 Tablets at Holland and Barrett

• View Conceive Plus Men's Motility & Fertility Supplement at Amazon

3. Keep your balls cool

Dr. Hopkisson warns genital heat stress is possibly a bigger issue than men might realise. He told us, "We've all heard stories in the media of the effects of heated testicles. We even know of a few celebrity chefs whose fertility has been affected by being close to warm stoves. It's just one factor of male fertility, but it's crucial to look at the whole picture, to make those marginal gains in increasing your sperm count."

According to research on genital heat stress, there are a few scenarios either known or theorised to cause heating of the testicles. These ball-heating scenarios include:

• Sitting for extended periods at work or rest: one 2022 study showed professional drivers were particularly at risk from  excessive testicular heat
• Keeping warm things, like computers, on your lap for long periods
• Wearing overly-tight underwear
• Hot baths for long periods
• Hot tubs and saunas should be used in moderation

Research by the University of Rochester Medical centre, theorised the male human body evolved to have the testicles outside the body to keep them cooler. That's why, when it's very cold, the scrotum scrunches up (contracts), to draw testicles closer to the body. The healthy human body is kept at a temperature of around 37C: too high for sperm production. Research indicates sperm production is optimal at 2-3 degrees centigrade lower than body temperature.

4. Watch your caffeine intake

While the effects of caffeine in a daily cuppa can get you started in the morning, it could be impacting your evening love-making.

It's not just those hot drinks that are to blame, though. Caffeinated soft drinks and energy drinks are also culprits and sometimes can have very high caffeine levels. Studies suggest caffeine intake from these drinks can reduce sperm concentration as well as your sperm count. Worse, it can also increase your testosterone levels to heights that affect sperm quality.

So, could giving up coffee be the key to increasing my sperm count? It's not clear that it will make a huge impact, but reducing your caffeine intake is never a bad idea. A large, Danish study of 2,554 healthy men found that moderate intake of caffeine didn't affect semen quality. However, intake of more than 800 mg a day (high intake) affected their total sperm count. Bear in mind, that the average cup of coffee is about 90mcg, whereas a double espresso from a coffee shop can be 125 mcg or more.

Caffeine is included in many carbonated (fizzy) soft drinks, coffee, tea, and even chocolate. Food packaging should always tell you which food or drink products contain caffeine. Add all your intake up and pay careful attention to what you consume, for your daily caffeine calculations.

5. Moderate your alcohol intake

While having a drink or two might help you get in the mood to romance your partner, alcohol could hinder your chances of conceiving. The NHS recommends only drinking up to 14 units of alcohol per week.

However, many people struggle to understand units. Advice from the NHS says "The number of units in a drink is based on the size of the drink, as well as its alcohol strength"

14 units is about 6 pints of beer or 10 small glasses of wine. Most bottles of alcohol will have a guide to how many units they contain, but if you're not sure, you can use an alcohol unit calculator to help you.

One Danish study, of 1221 men aged 18-28, revealed that even 5 units a week had adverse impacts on sperm. The most significant impact on sperm concentration, total sperm count, and abnormal sperm (poor morphology) was seen in men drinking more than 25 units a week. Alcohol intake also negatively impacted the participants' testosterone levels.

However, a larger study of 15 smaller studies, looking at 16,395 men found moderate consumption didn't have much of an impact on semen.

The impact of alcohol intake on sperm quality is controversial, but moderating your alcohol intake is a good idea in general. Alcohol intake can impact other aspects of your sexual health. Some studies suggest it can cause erectile dysfunction (difficulty maintaining an erection).

If you are worried about your alcohol intake, it's best to seek help quickly. Your GP can help you with reducing your intake or further treatment if you need it.

Helpful resources for moderating your intake of alcohol:

• Alcohol unit calculator by UK Charity, Alcohol Change
• Alcohol Aware UK, resources for alcohol addiction support
• NHS Alcohol Support

6. Stop smoking for to increase sperm count

Smoking isn't sexy and it's not good for your sex life, either. You may have ignored the warnings on the packets until now, but start paying attention if you want to increase your sperm count. There's a whole host of benefits to giving up cigerettes but you might not have even realised the impact smoking has on fertility.

Dr. Hopkisson, an expert in reproductive health TOLD US, "There are around 70+ chemicals in tobacco known to harm general health, so quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do to increase sperm count".

A review of 55 years of research covering smoking and sperm health concluded that smoking is known to be a "major factor" in causes of male fertility.  The study review suggests smoking results in:

• Low semen volume
• Reduced sperm count
• Fewer motile sperm (swimming the right way)

Men from one study, who smoked more than 20 cigarettes a day, had a 22.4% reduction in sperm concentration compared with non-smoking men. A 2019 review of sixteen studies, looking at smoking in 10,823 participants, compared smokers and non-smokers' semen quality. Oligozoospermia (low sperm count) was highest in smokers. They also found significant defects in the head, neck, and tail of the sperm of smokers (poor morphology).

Smoking doesn't just affect your sperm, either. The study also found that smoking causes impotence (difficulty in maintaining an erection) in "approximately 120,000 young men (30 to 50 years old)" in the UK.

There is a range of products available for giving up smoking. The first port of call should be your GP, as the NHS can provide support and advice for quitting the smokes.

Giving up smoking will to increase sperm count and prolong your life, something that becomes even more important when you conceive and become a father.

There is a range of different products available to help you quit smoking. Nicotine replacement is just one of your options. Speak to your doctor for further advice and recommendations.

Recommended products and books for quitting smoking

• View NiQuitin Patches (Boots, £23.40) or Nicotinell Mint Gum (Boots, £19,00)

• View Alan Carr's Easy Way to Quit Smoking Without Willpower at Amazon

• View Paul McKenna's Quit Smoking Today Without Gaining Weight at Amazon

7. Get enough sleep

Lack of sleep is something you will be accustomed to once you're a new parent, but to increase sperm count, ensure you get enough shut-eye now. Eight hours is what's usually recommended for optimal health, but the quality of your sleep is important, too.

According to recent evidence, poor sleep is associated with lower sperm count, abnormal (low) testosterone levels, and erectile dysfunction (difficulty in maintaining an erection). A study of 667 Chinese men in 2021 revealed that sperm count was also negatively correlated with poor sleep habits. These include both restricted and excessive sleep duration, irregular sleep patterns, and going to bed too late.

To help you fall asleep and increase sperm count in your sleep, follow these healthy sleep tips:

• Reduce the use of electronics before bed as research indicates blue light from screens impedes sleep
• Make a do-to list for the following day to stop them running through your head
• Keep a regular sleep and wake schedule as there's evidence this helps your sleep system stay in a routine
• Listen to calming music or a podcast
• Invest in blackout blinds, earplugs and an eye mask

8. Reduce stress

It's common knowledge that stress, anxiety, and depression affect your general health, but you might not have considered the impact on your sperm count.

Fertility and reproductive health expert, Dr. Hopkisson, explains:" Stress and anxiety can definitely affect the fertility of both partners. It may even stop you from having sex. Think carefully about how to make your life less stressful. Sometimes the act of trying to conceive can cause stress itself. Optimising the timing of sex to coincide with an ovulation calculator can make sex feel prescriptive and a chore. That disappointment each month of a negative test can really affect your mood. Remember to focus on lovemaking for fun as well as conception."

Dr Hopkisson's advice that the stress of trying to conceive can impact semen quality is borne out by research. One study compared semen collected from men undergoing fertility treatment at two different stages. The second sample revealed a distinct reduction in sperm quality, suggesting a large impact from the emotional stress of treatment.

A study of 744 fertile men attending a prenatal clinic looked at stressful life events and sperm quality. This study suggested two or more stressful life events impacted:

• Concentration of sperm
• Motility of sperm (swimming in the right direction)
• Shape and health of the sperm (morphology)

There are a number of ways to deal with stress, so if you are worried about anxiety or depression, seek help from your GP. They will suggest various self-help methods and might suggest medication, where necessary. Your GP may also be able to refer you for therapy to help you with anxiety on the NHS.

9. Maintain a healthy weight

Unfortunately, your weight does impact your chances of conceiving. A large 2021 study looked at the sperm quality of 9,464 men attending a prenatal clinic. Results found that a high BMI had one of the greatest impacts on low sperm concentration and low total sperm count. A "healthy" BMI for men is between 18.5 and 24.9.

Another study, which looked specifically at BMI alone, determined that obesity impacts both:

• Sperm morphology (shape),
• Hormone levels (testosterone, prolactin, and luteinizing hormones, all crucial for making good quality sperm)

Men who have a high body mass index are also at risk of illnesses like diabetes, which one 2021 study suggests damages testicles, increases sperm abnormalities and impairs reproductive capacity.

To enlarge the chart below, open Goodto's BMI Calculator chart PDF.

10. Do more exercise

Your overall health doesn't just rely on a good diet and good body weight - it can be related to how sedentary of a lifestyle you lead, too. We all know that exercise is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle, but many of us find it hard to incorporate it into our daily routine.

Sedentary lifestyles and less active leisure pursuits (such as watching TV) studies show, lead to issues with sperm count. Though the evidence that exercise directly increases your chances of conceiving is limited, some studies demonstrate exercise improves semen quality.

Don't overdo it, though, as a major review of all the existing scientific literature on exercise suggests that over-exercise could have an adverse effect on your sperm quality.

If you want to get some exercise into your daily routine, you don't necessarily need to go to the gym. The NHS recommends you do "at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week". Moderate-intensity exercises include riding a bike, taking a brisk walk, or even mowing the lawn.

To kick start your fitness routine and increase sperm count, try out the following:

• HITT workout challenge
• Couch to 5k running plan
• Walking for weight loss

11. Avoid environmental hazards

Dr. Hopkisson, reproductive medicine consultant for TFP Fertility Group, suggests that environmental toxins can be harmful, but those can affect sperm count are limited in the UK. He explains, "For the majority of us, our brilliant health and safety laws keep us safe from any workplace environmental toxins that might affect sperm quality."

However, it's important to be aware of some pollutants that might be present in our immediate environment and handle all hazardous substances with care. These include chemicals you might be using in DIY projects (e.g. for paint stripping), in the garden (pesticides) or even washing the car (detergents).

The pesticides (organophosphates) used in the UK are usually safe, but overexposure to these chemicals has been shown by recent studies (2021) to decrease sperm count. The evidence for this effect is very strong. A majority of the studies included in a major review of the evidence demonstrated that pesticides showed "significant associations between pesticide exposure and [poor] sperm parameters".

When handling dangerous substances, it's obviously important to keep yourself safe to increase sperm count. Follow the instructions on packaging at all times and, where necessary, wear protective clothing to protect your skin and lungs from harmful gas and liquid exposure. If you're worried you may have been exposed to a dangerous substance or gas, seek immediate medical attention. If you have experienced a chemical burn or experience difficulty breathing, do not hesitate to call the emergency services.

12. Avoid steroids unless prescribed by a doctor

Steroids, performance-enhancing drugs, can cause serious harm to your fertility.

Fertility expert, Dr Hopkisson, told us that not enough men using steroids are aware of how they can impact on sperm count. "I have treated men who have used steroids and it has caused them serious fertility issues. Men going to the gym and wanting that 'Love Island' body use anabolic steroids to get 'ripped'. Unfortunately, some of these men can't maintain an erection or steroids have damaged their sperm. Steroids can shrink your testicles permanently and completely halt sperm production".

According to a review on how steroids impact male fertility, steroid misuse can cause:

• Erectile dysfunction (difficulty in getting or maintaining an erection)
• Prostate enlargement
• Loss of libido (desire to have sex)
• Gynecomastia (development of breasts on a male chest)
• Low sperm count
• Abnormal sperm shape and size (morphology)
• Premature sperm death

The study concluded that the longer you abuse anabolic steroids, the longer they impact fertility.

If you are using steroids seek immediate medical advice before stopping. Do not stop, "cold Turkey", because stopping the medication abruptly can cause withdrawal.

For further advice, see the NHS page on anabolic steroid misuse.

13. Review prescription medications

There are some prescription medications that can impact your sperm count.

However, before you throw them away in horror,  speak to your GP first. Firstly, all decisions about prescription medications must be taken in conjunction with qualified medical advice. Secondly, any effect on your sperm count caused by these medications may be too small to worry about. Your health must always come first, so please do not discontinue any medications based on this information.

Sperm count has been shown to be impacted by a few prescription medications, which include:

• Antidepressant medications (source: Journal of Human Reproduction, 2021)
• Chemotherapy drugs (source: Amzai et al, 2022)
• Painkillers such as morphine (source: Journal of Assisted Reproduction, 2022)
• Some medications for rheumatoid arthritis, like methotrexate (source: Jensen et al, 2021)

Dr. Hopkisson says that you should consult with your GP when you are thinking about trying to conceive. He told us, "Organise an appointment with a GP to do a full review of your medications. Most medications are absolutely fine to take when you're trying to conceive. If they impact your sperm count, your GP will help you find an alternative or refer you to a specialist. With a lot of medications, however, we just don't know how they could impact your sperm count. There isn't the research available on every drug."

14. Check your sexual health to boost male fertility

We've all had the talk about "the birds and the bees" and hopefully, a good sex education highlighting the importance of safe sex. Now that you're no longer taking precautions with contraception because you're trying to conceive a child, it's vital to keep sexually healthy.

An STI (sexually transmitted infection) check is a good idea, regardless of how long you've been with your partner. Getting an STI check - via the NHS - can rule out any issues that can affect male fertility.

Various infections can impact sperm count:

• Chlamydia can affect sperm count, according to the NHS
• Painful infection from Gonorrhoea can also reduce sperm count, caused by a relatively rare complication (source: NHS)
• Studies show HIV can cause infertility in men

It's not just STIs that can affect your fertility. Covid-19 infection has also been shown by studies to be a temporary and reversible cause of low sperm count. Another study, by the European Society for Human Reproduction, suggests "an assessment of semen quality should be recommended for men of reproductive age who are affected by COVID-19"

15. Take a penile health check

The basic mechanics for conceiving a baby might seem simple. However, your penis is a complex organ that can suffer from a range of conditions affecting conception. Some men are born with birth defects that can affect sperm count. Hypospadias, the most common penile defect, (where the urethra doesn't form properly in the womb) is just one issue that can impact male fertility, according to the British Medical Journal.

Dr. Hopkisson, an expert in fertility, has experience in treating common penile health complaints. He says, "If you have genital tract development issues, get a semen analysis. It's an easy process and it can be reassuring or an early flag for problems."

He recommends seeking early advice and support if you have a history of:

• Testicular torsion (twisting),
• Your testes didn't drop
• Other penile or testicular development issues
• Penile infections, like balanitis (see NHS advice for treatments)

If you know or suspect you could have a problem with your penis, consult your GP. They can refer you to NHS services for semen analysis. You can also seek private treatment options, should NHS waiting times be longer than you are happy with.

Low sperm count treatments

There are no evidence-based treatments for low sperm count itself, nor any medical solutions if sperm are damaged. Mechanical issues that affect ejaculation, like blockages, infections or swellings, can be treated with surgery or antibiotics.

Where sperm counts alone are the issue, fertility treatments (IVF or in-vitro fertilisation) that involve extracting eggs and sperm might be the only possible remedy. You only need one sperm cell "injection" per egg for some methods of laboratory-based reproductive medicine.

Diagnosing of low sperm count

Diagnosis of low sperm count will start with a semen analysis and this may reveal the cause of any fertility issues. Sperm analysis will check your sperm for:

• Sperm volume and concentration (how many ml is produced and how many are present)
• Motility (how the sperm swim)
• Morphology (correct sperm shape and size)

Over the last 20 years of Dr. Hopkisson's career, he says, there haven't been many new, evidence-based treatments to increase sperm count. He told us, "Treatment for low sperm count relies on working out exactly what the cause is. Some men might have hormone issues whereas others might have a problem with the delivery of sperm, caused by a blockage. Treating the hormonal issues can make a big difference, as might removing the source of a blockage. For men who don't produce enough sperm via samples, we can extract sperm, directly from the testicles."

Helpful links:

To understand more about the way that low sperm count is diagnosed and treatments, take a look at the UK's NICE guidelines on fertility treatment.

Fertility Foundation, UK Charity supporting couples undergoing fertility treatment

When to seek medical advice

If you have been trying for a baby for 6-12 months and haven't had any success, don't be afraid to seek help from your GP to increase sperm count.

You can ask for a review of your medications, a general check-up and blood tests to find any common causes of low sperm count. It's also worth ruling out sexually transmitted infections (STIs) at a local STI clinic.

Dr Hopkisson estimates low sperm count might affect 30-40% of couples in the UK and that there's a taboo surrounding male fertility. He told us. "Seek semen analysis sooner rather than later if you have a history of any penile or testicular development issues or infections. Get a good picture of your sexual health and ask your GP for a full "MOT". Fertility isn't just about your girlfriend or wife - men need to get better about talking about these things. Let's break down that stigma of talking about your testicles, sex and creating a family." - Dr Hopkisson, fertility and reproductive medicine clinician

Seeking medical advice for penile and testicular health

You can always seek help and referrals for advice if you have any concerns about your penis, testicles or general health.

If you experience any swelling, testicular pain or pain on ejaculation, you should seek immediate medical advice. Sudden severe, testicular pain can be a sign of testicular torsion (source: NHS) and is an emergency. Call 999 or attend Accident and Emergency immediately.

Make an appointment with your GP if you find any lumps or swellings in your testicles, or notice any changes in how they look or feel. MacMillan Cancer also offer advice on how to check your testicles.

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This happens when another egg is released from the fallopian tubes and is then fertilised by another sperm. It then implants in the womb several days after the first embryo. Superfetation 'twins' are extremely uncommon. It has been known to happen in around 10 cases and most of these cases have involved some form of fertility treatment.

Dr Gareth Nye, an expert in Fetal and Maternal Health at the University of Chester, told us, "For superfetation to happen successfully, a sequence of very unlikely events need to take place. Firstly, the release of an egg by an ovary during an ongoing pregnancy. This is incredibly unlikely because hormones released during pregnancy usually prevent further ovulation. The second egg is then fertilised. Finally, the second fertilised egg needs to implant in an already pregnant womb. This is difficult, as implantation requires certain hormones that usually aren't released during pregnancy."

There are some rare cases where superfetation must have occurred. One study described a case where "twins" had different fathers. The mother had sex with two different men at different times. She then experienced dual ovulation (superfetation). Paternity tests revealed that these babies have different fathers.

Research shows many cattle and pets like cats and dogs ovulate several times. These animals can have several babies with different fathers. This phenomenon is known as heteropaternal superfetation.

What happens in superfetation?

Superfetation is an unusual event that results in a woman being pregnant with two babies of different ages. It's when two eggs (ovum) are released at different times. Sometimes it can happen several days apart. The eggs are then fertilised by different sperm. This is incredibly rare, as usually, the release of hormones supporting an existing pregnancy prevents superfecundation.

Superfetation in humans almost always occurs in combination with fertility treatment. One study found superfetation occurred after intrauterine insemination (IUI). IUI involves implanting an embryo into the womb. Another study discovered a case where fertility drugs created a triplet pregnancy. Pregnant with twins, the patient got pregnant again with an ectopic pregnancy. Sadly, ectopic pregnancies (that embed outside the womb) cannot survive and usually result in miscarriage.

Dr Gareth Nye, expert in Fetal Medicine, agrees fertility treatments make superfetation likely. He explains: "Almost all recorded cases of superfetation involve IVF. A number of normal physiological processes have been skipped during IVF. This means the body does not undergo as many of the usual hormonal processes [that usually prevent superfetation]."

Although studies have demonstrated superfecundation happens in some non-human animals, it is incredibly rare in humans. The European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology concluded in one report that less than 10 historic cases had been recorded by the end of 2008.

However, a couple of cases worldwide have been reported since then. One case of superfetation, shared by The Independent in 2020, involved two babies, three weeks apart. The second baby was not discovered until an ultrasound scan. British mother, Rebecca Roberts, was taking fertility drugs when her babies were conceived. This lovely viral photo of her daughter and son reveals a real difference in their size. Rebecca's "super twins" raised global awareness of this incredibly rare phenomenon.

How far apart can superfetation twins be?

In theory, superfetation could occur at any time. However, all documented cases occurred within a month of the first conception. Many of the hormonal processes involved in supporting a healthy pregnancy will prevent the release of further eggs.

By week 7 of pregnancy, the cervix develops a mucus plug. The mucus plug keeps bacteria out and prevents womb infections, which can cause miscarriage.

Fetal health expert, Dr Nye, explains the mucus plug prevents superfecundation. "During pregnancy, your cervix forms a mucus plug that blocks sperm. This mucus plug is prompted to form by pregnancy hormones."

Are there any symptoms of superfetation?

The release of two eggs, fertilised at different times, is extremely rare. There are no symptoms of superfetation. When you are already pregnant, you are unlikely to notice new signs and symptoms of pregnancy.

Usually, women are unable to detect ovulation, although some suffer from ovulation pain, known as mittelschmertz. However, it is common to have some cramping in early pregnancy. This is more likely than secondary ovulation.

Dr Gareth Nye agrees that it's unlikely that you would know if superfetation has happened. He told us "We don't have any listed symptoms, as it's so rare. The first indication would be when a doctor notices during a scan".

Can superfetation twins be prevented?

Usually, usual hormonal changes that your body undergoes during pregnancy prevent superfetation. If you are not taking fertility drugs, it is incredibly unlikely that you will experience superfetation.

Even if you are taking fertility drugs, research indicates that superfetation in humans has only occurred around 10 times.

"Your body already makes good attempts at preventing superfetation," explained Dr Gareth Nye, University of Chester's expert in Fetal and Maternal health. This is why it's so extremely rare, so it's best not to worry about getting pregnant when you are already pregnant.

Risks and complications of superfetation twins

As superfetation will result in two babies of different ages, there are risks. Twin births are considered high-risk as mums of twins are more likely to go into premature labour.

A study of 2,170 twins found that 62% of twins were born early (before 37 weeks of pregnancy). This study also found that twins are more likely to have a low birth weight.

Superfetation "twins" of different ages are more likely to need special care. Babies born too early may suffer with breathing difficulties.

Doctors usually prescribe steroids to mums who go into early labour. This helps a premature baby breathe after birth. Studies show that prescribing steroids helps a baby's lungs develop more quickly.

As it's very rare, there is no research on babies born after superfetation. Dr Nye, an expert in fetal growth, explains the risks are the same as for all premature babies.

"The youngest baby is born at the same time as the older baby. This means the [more premature] baby has a higher risk. It's common for premature babies to suffer from breathing disorders, due to immature lungs."

Related video: Old wives' tales to predict the sex of your baby 

If you're thinking about expanding your family, you might be thinking about gender selection - trying to conceive a boy or a girl.

Gender selection uses sperm selection methods and in vitro fertilisation techniques (IVF) to implant an embryo of either sex into a woman's womb. Gender selection using medical techniques are controversial and illegal in many parts of the world, including the UK. However, it is legal in some states of the USA. Aside from medical intervention, there are a lot of theories and Old Wives Tales about gender selection during conception. Natural methods some couples use include altering the timing and frequency of sex in the fertile window, to dietary changes. However, these are not guaranteed and the evidence behind the techniques is limited and varied.

If you're certain you want to dictate the gender of your baby, the only way to guarantee this is expensive, medical IVF techniques. These can be complex and controversial.  To find out about the medical evidence behind the varied techniques behind gender selection, we talked to Dr Gareth Nye, who is an expert in maternal and fetal health at the University of Chester. We also spoke to microbiologist Kathryn Taylor, author of the Babydust Method: A Guide to Conceiving A Boy Or A Girl (Amazon |£12) for her view on gender selection.

"Gender selection is most common for second time mums, especially those trying to conceive a girl. Women are the ones in control of their cycle so lead the process." - Kathryn Taylor, microbiologist and pioneer of  the natural Babydust method for gender selection at conception.

How does gender selection work?

Gender selection is deliberately trying to conceive a boy or a girl using in vitro fertilisation (IVF) methods and sometimes "sperm sorting". IVF involves the woman taking drugs to stimulate her ovaries to release several eggs, which a doctor then retrieves.

Your partner will also need to provide a sperm sample. Women without partners or same-sex female couples can use sperm donors.

The sperm and the egg are joined together in a laboratory and left for a few days to develop in laboratory conditions. Then the tiny, early embryos are examined to determine whether they will grow into female or male babies using preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). This process was originally developed to allow scientists to analyse the embryos for any genetic abnormalities, especially conditions that only affect males or females.

Once the embryos are determined to be of the desired gender, they are implanted back into the woman.

How is a baby's gender decided?

Your baby's sex is determined by chromosomes. Chromosomes contain the basic DNA "instructions" to make a human. Half of your chromosomes come from your mother and half come from your father.

The sperm contains either X chromosomes (female) or Y chromosomes (male). The egg only contains X chromosomes. When they meet, the XY mix will produce a male and XX will produce a female.

Dr Gareth Nye explains: "The sex of your baby is determined in the most basic way at the moment when the sperm meets the egg. The baby then undergoes sexual differentiation during the pregnancy."

Gender selection for avoiding genetic illnesses

Sperm sorting methods; separating sperm into male sperm and female sperm used to be used for gender selection. This was sometimes done when a family had genetic illnesses that only ran in female or male lines. This method was previously unregulated in the UK but is now banned.

Dr Nye told us "There are good reasons for wanting to decide the sex of a baby when considering gender-specific diseases. However, technology is getting closer to removing these diseases, without the need for sperm sorting."

In vitro fertilisation of several embryos is the most successful method. The embryos are then tested for chromosomal abnormalities and the DNA is sequenced to determine whether they are male or female.

How much does gender selection cost?

Costings in the USA vary but the cost of one attempt to conceive a boy or a girl using IVF can range from $2000 USD to around $8000 USD.

However, many couples have to undergo several "rounds" of IVF treatment before an embryo successfully develops into a baby. There are also lab and testing fees and the costs of the drugs. Some couples say they have spent up to $100k to get the girl or boy they dreamed of.

Some couples who cannot afford medical gender selection or live in countries where it is banned, choose natural methods. These include faith in Old Wives Tales or trying to time conception according to various theories, as detailed below.

Is gender selection legal in the UK?

All medical methods for gender selection are illegal in the UK.

Sperm sorting (separating male and female sperm) was unregulated in the UK until 2003 and therefore legal.

"Sperm sorting" methods rely on determining the chromosomes in sperm before joining them with the egg. This method used to be unregulated in the UK but was banned by the government in 2003 after the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) recommended proper regulation.

"We are not persuaded that the likely benefits of permitting sex selection for social reasons are strong enough to outweigh the possible harm that might be done" - Suzi Leather, chair of the HFEA

Couples who cannot travel to seek medical methods of gender selection may try natural methods for gender selection.

What are the risks of gender selection?

Gender selection using medical methods is not without risks:

• IVF is invasive and expensive and many couples find it tests their relationship
• Risks to the woman involve bleeding and infection within the womb
• Studies show there is a small risk of damage to a woman's organs from the egg retrieval process
• Screening for the baby's gender is not 100% accurate (although it's very close!)
• Screening for a baby's chromosomal abnormalities is also not 100% accurate

Some parents may find that they spend a huge amount of money on gender selection and still do not conceive, as these practices are not guaranteed. They may also find that there has been a mistake in the process and they, therefore, give birth to a baby of the opposite gender they desired.

IVF methods can take a toll on a couple's relationship and the treatments for the woman include the use of hormones - which, studies show, can affect mood. However, it's unclear whether it's the treatment itself, or the stress of the IVF process that impacts emotions.

What are the ethical concerns of gender selection?

Gender selection is highly controversial - many people are so strongly opposed to deliberately trying to conceive a boy or a girl for a range of reasons:

• There are tough questions about what to do with discarded embryos not of the desired gender
• Many people fear gender selection could become a "slippery slope" towards creating "designer babies"
• Critics also say parents should not be inflicting specific notions of what gender means on their children, known as "gender imprinting"
• Others argue it should only be done for medical, rather than social reasons of "family dynamic balancing"
• Valuing one gender over another is fundamentally wrong to many
• Religious people feel it is against God's will

In 2018, the UK's fertility regulator investigated claims fertility doctors might have helped couples choose the gender of their baby. It's illegal to do this in the UK unless there are clear medical reasons, like a family history of illnesses found only in boys or girls.

Sex versus gender

The issue of gender and how it relates to sex (female or male) is also controversial. Not everyone identifies with the gender they are assigned at birth. Opponents of "gender essentialism", the idea that males and females are fundamentally different, disagree with gender selection. They argue that your little boy or little girl may not always identify the same way.

"Gender imprinting", or enforcing cultural values, beliefs, norms and orientations associated with gender, is also a risk. Especially if the desired boy or girl does not behave in the way traditionally and culturally associated with their gender.

Whatever your child's genitals, their gender identity and gender expression may not match. For the purposes of this article, gender selection refers to the sex of your baby assigned at birth.

Medical gender selection controversies: discarded embryos

Whilst interfering with fertility at all is controversial within many religious circles, the main reason that medical gender selection is particularly frowned upon is the question of those discarded embryos. The process of medical gender selection involves creating several embryos using in vitro fertilisation (artificially joining egg and sperm in a lab) and then determining which are of the preferred gender. Which means that there will be some that are left over, or "abandoned". This also happens where couples undergoing IVF have been through several tries and can no longer pay to store their embryos. These are usually destroyed or they can be given to other couples, known as embryo adoption.

The slippery slope towards "designer babies"

Critics of gender selection suggest it's a way towards designing babies that suit your idea of what's desirable in terms of how a child looks, too. Screening already allows couples to abort babies that have genetic abnormalities and critics argue it might not be long until these methods allow parents to eliminate almost every difference that they don't like. Some clinics already allow you to predetermine eye and hair colour to match your preferred aesthetic.

Dr Gareth Nye told us, "There are ethical issues around selecting designer babies which has been around for 20 years or more. The problem with allowing one aspect like gender means there's no barrier to stop selections based on eye colour or hair colour or genetic size for example."

Natural methods for gender selection

Some parents might prefer to try natural methods for gender selection. Whilst the evidence for these methods is mixed, some come with varied success rates. Conception methods that rely on tracking ovulation claim a success rate of 70% plus so what's the evidence behind them? Why do parents try them?

Looking for a more balanced family dynamic

Author of the Babydust Method Kathryn Taylor, who supports natural ways to influence the gender of your baby, is not overly concerned by natural gender selection. She believes that natural ways to select gender at conception are relatively harmless.

She told us, "People are already controlling how and when they conceive and with IVF you can select against certain disabilities. Contraception allows you to control when you get pregnant. Altering the timing and frequency of sex to try for a boy or a girl is completely natural and it's not 100% effective. We're just helping people to gradually tip the scales towards a more balanced family dynamic."

Gender selection myths and Old Wives' Tales

Some Old Wives' tales for trying to conceive a boy or a girl might be fun to try, but there's absolutely no evidence they actually work.

However, some ideas behind natural gender selection do have limited scientific evidence backing them. The earliest ideas about gender selection with a scientific basis focus on timing of sex during the fertile window. Based on the work of Dr Shettles, the idea is that male and female sperm react differently once they're in the womb.

What are the theories behind how natural gender selection might work?

Dr Shettles, an obstetrician and gynaecologist, was the first to look into methods for trying to conceive a boy or a girl in the 1960s. His theories were the first to look at the make up of female vs male sperm and their behaviour. Shettles found differences in the shape and size of different sperm. However, Shettles was unable to know for certain which sperm were which, as DNA technology didn't exist back then to distinguish them.

What are the differences between male and female sperm?

Publishing his theory in his book, Your Baby’s Sex: Now You Can Choose (Amazon | £38),  Shettles believed male sperm preferred alkaline environments and female sperm liked acidic environments.

Shettles' theory:

• male sperm have small, round heads
• female sperm have larger, oval-shaped heads
• female sperm live longer in the reproductive tract
• Male sperm is faster and reaches the egg first, but they do not live as long

When should we have sex to conceive a boy or a girl?

After these discoveries, Shettles recommended that couples wanting to conceive a girl should not have sex too close to ovulation. This lets male sperm die and the female sperm wait for the egg.

Those who want a boy should have sex as close to ovulation as possible.

Dr Gareth Nye, who is an expert in maternal and fetal health at the University of Chester, told us, "Despite being around for 60 years, the medical evidence still isn't strong enough to prove Shettles' method. Past studies suggested a big difference between X and Y sperm, however, recent studies suggest only negligible differences. When studying ratio, shape and size, motility and swimming pattern; strength, electric charge, pH, stress response, etc, the only difference between X and Y sperm is in their DNA content."

The Babydust Method for gender selection

Kathryn Taylor, a microbiologist and mum who wanted to select the gender of her babies, disagrees with Dr Nye. Her book on how to conceive a baby boy or girl is very popular and sells thousands of copies every month, all across the world. Having done lots of research into Shettles' method and his original theory, her tweaked version claims a 87% success rate. Kathryn is confident that gender selection is not only plausible, but likely if you follow her method.

The timing is right: sex on the schedule

Though her method differs from Shettles' original, it relies on timing and frequency. For example, she recommends couples trying to conceive a girl should only have sex once a month, 2-3 days before ovulation. She recommends women should strictly track ovulation. Ovulation tracking (working out when your egg will be released) wasn't as straightforward in the 1960s, but women are now able to do so easily with ovulation monitors and urine sticks (ClearBlue Ovulation Kit, from Boots | £36.99).

Kathryn Taylor, author of the method, told us "There are a lot of ways people try to choose the gender of their baby but the Babydust method has been successful for so many. Our anecdotal data collection suggests it's about 87% of couples trying who get the gender baby they want. The diet and PH part of the Shettles method has never been proven, which is why I focused on honing the timing and frequency of when couples should have sex."

Key timing tips for natural gender selection

The evidence for natural methods for gender selection is limited and weak. Studies found no effect from these conception methods.

If you want to try and "sway" your baby's gender, the basic advice is:

To conceive a boy

• Have sex close to ovulation as possible. The theory is that male sperm are fastest to the egg but don't live very long. This should be easiest to do if you are tracking ovulation with urine strips.

To conceive a girl

• Have sex two to three days before your predicted ovulation day. You may have to track for a few months as this is harder to predict than having sex on the day of ovulation if you are tracking it with urine strips.

https://youtu.be/gz4okWLoaqY

How common is trying to select your baby's gender with natural methods?

Microbiologist and author of the Babydust method, Kathryn Taylor, says that natural gender selection is rising in popularity. Her book, has sold millions of copies. She also has a Facebook community of  50,000+ members. She says trying for a little girl is most common. About 2:1 of women are wanting to have a girl in their next pregnancy.

"It's not always easy to try and abide by our methods. Sometimes people get overtaken by the moment or life gets in the way of conceiving. . It's a taboo subject, as is gender disappointment when an attempt doesn't work out. Don't take it too seriously and plan your future around conceiving a boy or a girl." - Kathryn Taylor

Christie, a mum of four got the girl she was hoping for. She said that following the theories was quite easy and only took her a few cycles.

"I'd seen the Shettles method mentioned somewhere on a Facebook group and it intrigued me. Whilst I really did not mind what sex baby we had, I thought it might be nice to give it a go. So we looked into it, just some very basic Google searches. I didn't want to change diet or anything. But we decided to follow the timing for sex before ovulation.  - Christie, who got the girl she wanted.

Dealing with gender disappointment after failed gender selection

Whatever your view of deliberately trying to conceive a boy or a girl, it's important not to put too much importance into what genitals your baby has. Whilst gender disappointment is more common in some Asian countries (and a risk for abortion for reasons of gender), it can affect couples of any nationality. If you're experiencing gender disappointment during your pregnancy, speak to your midwife for support. Anecdotally, most people find that it fades soon after your baby is born and you begin to get to know your new family member.

Dr Nye told us, "Essentially it boils down to a roughly 50/50 chance of having a boy or girl. Those who believe one method or another often remember it when it works or forget if it doesn't. Until someone collects the clear data from couples at conception and birth, we won't know for sure which methods are more effective."

Video of the Week 

Knowing how to increase your fertility can really make a difference if you've been trying to get pregnant for a while.

From eating foods that can boost fertility and trying fertility yoga to pinpointing your fertility window with our ovulation calculator - our guide has it all. If you're wondering how to increase your chances of getting pregnant, we've got advice and tips from fertility experts and nutritionists to help you get your mind and body in the best shape for conception. 

We've also got advice on increasing sperm count and to help you add a little fun, we've got tips on the best sex positions for conception. Fertility refers to the natural ability of an individual or a couple to conceive a child, and it can be affected by age, lifestyle, and genetics.

If you're older, or if you want to find out how to improve your fertility naturally, these fertility boosters can be helpful. If you're still having problems conceiving after making changes, talk to your GP about other options.

How to increase fertility: 40 ways to boost your chances of conceiving

1. Come off contraception

According to Tommy's, if you are on the Pill, you should finish the packet you are on and then wait for at least one month before you try to conceive. You can use condoms until then. If you are on the mini-pill, you don't need to finish the packet, but you should still wait to have a period. However, don't worry if you do get pregnant sooner as it's unlikely to harm your baby.

'Come off the Pill once you're ready to start a family,' says Dr Irfana Koita, a fertility consultant and director of IVF Matters. 'You should ovulate spontaneously and have regular cycles right away. If not, make sure you see a fertility specialist and get assessed,' she advises.

If you use a contraceptive injection, your periods might take a little longer to return. Progesterone implants and intrauterine devices (known as the coil) need to be removed by a doctor but your fertility levels should quickly return to normal. As above, doctors advise waiting at least one month to have a period before trying for a baby. 

2. Know when you ovulate

Many women have no idea what their normal menstrual cycle is, especially after years of regulated periods on the Pill. Contrary to popular belief that women have a 28-day cycle,  some have a short one (25 days) and others a longer one (35 days). The fertility cycle starts on the first day of your period but ovulation doesn't necessarily start mid-cycle.

If you do have a regular 28-day cycle then ovulation occurs around day 14, but if you have a 25-day cycle ovulation occurs around day 11 and if you have a 35-day cycle then ovulation occurs around day 21. For women whose cycles aren't regular, an ovulation date calculator can come in very handy.

Do women need to keep a menstrual diary? 'If you're seeing a period every month (between 25 and 35 days) you don't need to maintain a menstrual diary,' says Dr Koita. 'If your cycles are regular it's an indication that you're ovulating every month.' To keep an eye on your periods try using an app such as the Hormone Horoscope app (available at Apple and Google Play). If you're wondering how to boost ovulation naturally, read on.

3. Book a reflexology session

Stress and anxiety can affect fertility so if you're looking at how to increase fertility consider relaxation techniques, such as reflexology. Reflexology is based on the idea that specific areas on your hands and feet link to different organs in your body. Putting pressure on those points may stimulate the energy flow to those organs.

'One way to relax is to book a regular slot for a massage or a reflexology session,' says women's health expert Natasha Richardson. 'Relaxation helps us balance our hormones and ovulate regularly; it's a major factor in fertility for both men and women.'

4. Use a basal thermometer

A basal thermometer is one way to track your most fertile days. Your basal body temperature is a measure of your regular temperature upon waking, which rises as a result of the hormonal changes during ovulation.

With a basal thermometer such as the Beurer Ovulation Thermometer (£14.99, Holland & Barrett) you can track the smallest basal temperature changes in your body, allowing you to know when you're ovulating and are therefore most fertile. While these sensitive thermometers are inexpensive, easy to use, and a form of natural family planning, they're not always the best ovulation predictor if you have irregular periods. Many women now find ovulation tests easier and more precise.

5. Use ovulation tests

Ovulation tests record surges in your hormone levels which indicate that you're ovulating. You can opt for a well-known brand such as Clearblue (£14.99, Amazon), or buy an own-brand version from pharmacies such as Boots.

'These are a good screening tool to reassure you that you're ovulating every month,' says Dr Koita. 'Use these for a couple of months. Once they confirm ovulation stop using them as they can make the process of trying to conceive very stressful,' she advises.

A test may also highlight potential problems with ovulation. Fertility expert Dr Arpita Ray from assisted conception clinic Bourn Hall estimates that about a third of women struggling with infertility have a hormone imbalance. This can impact ovaries and prevent the release of one mature egg each month, reducing the chances of becoming pregnant.

6. Deal with stress

Stress affects everyone differently so it's good to know the signs and symptoms of stress. Stress can put you off having sex, which makes it difficult for you to conceive, as well as 'cause unexplained infertility,' says Natasha.

Chronic stress can cause long-term exposure to flight-or-fight hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, which are bad for general health. 'When stressed, we produce a hormone called prolactin – the same hormone produced by breastfeeding women to inhibit ovulation, so it will make conception more difficult,' explains Dr Gillian Lockwood, medical director at fertility clinic CARE Fertility Tamworth.

Take some time for yourself and focus on winding down at the end of every day. Give yourself half an hour each evening to relax your body and mind – have a warm bath, read a book, and try breathing exercises to calm your mind. Relaxation exercises such as yoga may help you conceive.

'It’s important to try to de-stress when trying to conceive,' says Professor Geeta Nargund, medical director of CREATE Fertility  'Although easier said than done, a healthy mind promotes a healthy body, so try to reduce your stress wherever possible,' she advises.

7. Keep your vagina chemical-free

Avoid scented tampons and vaginal sprays as they can cause a pH imbalance in your vagina. Artificial lubricants, arousal oils and douches should also be avoided as these alter the normal acidity of the vagina, can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, and can affect the cervical mucus that transports the sperm.

'The pH of the vagina changes naturally during each cycle from inhospitable to hospitable for sperm, so it's important to just leave it be. Vaginal douching and washes can disturb this unnecessarily,' explains Natasha.

If you suspect you have a pH imbalance you can buy simple kits online or at high street pharmacies such as Boots (£8.99). These involve holding an applicator against the wall of the vagina and comparing the result with a colour-coded table.

8. Lie down after sex

Rather than heading to the bathroom after you've had sex, take time to relax your body for a minute whilst the sperm is still inside you.

While some regard it as a folk legend, others think that lying down for a few minutes, or putting your legs up, can help the sperm on their journey towards the egg.

The FERTI·LILY Conception Cup (Boots, £32.99) works on this principle and has had rave reviews from customers who believe it's worked. Insert this reusable soft silicone cup into your vagina after sex to push the semen towards your cervix (the opening to your womb) and 'increase the amount of sperm that enters the cervical mucus.'

9. Give up alcohol

While a very occasional tipple is unlikely to affect your chances of getting pregnant, it could harm your unborn baby if you get pregnant and continue drinking. That's why medical experts in the UK advise giving up alcohol completely while trying for a baby, and during pregnancy.

'A study co-authored by the Boston University School of Public Health found that moderate alcohol consumption does not affect a woman’s ability to get pregnant. Women who drank fewer than 14 servings of a 4 ounce glass of wine were no less likely to conceive than those who abstained completely,' explains nutrition expert Hayley Pedrick, founder of Habitude.

'However, heavier drinking – the equivalent of two bottles of wine or more a week – was associated with an 18% decrease in fertility,' she says. 'Researchers still recommend that women abstain from alcohol during their “fertile window” until a pregnancy is ruled out, because the foetus may be particularly vulnerable to alcohol during the first few weeks of conception.'

Alcohol intake also affects fertility in men. In the NHS article 'How can I improve my chances of becoming a dad?' it states, "Drinking alcohol excessively can affect the quality of sperm. The UK Chief Medical Officers' recommendation is to drink no more than 14 units of alcohol a week, which should be spread evenly over 3 days or more." So ask your partner to cut back or go teetotal.

Track your drinking with charity Drinkaware's alcohol calculator and find out more about alcohol's impact on fertility.

10. Get a medical check-up

It's sensible to book an appointment with your doctor to have a check-up before you decide to try for a baby. 'General health can be linked to fertility health so do speak to your doctor if you have any general health conditions,' says Professor Nargund. They can rule out any major factors affecting fertility. For example, according to the charity Verity, 1 in 10 women in the UK have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which is one of the leading causes of infertility, especially if it is undiagnosed and unmanaged.

You should also be screened for sexually transmitted diseases, which often show no symptoms.

'In the preconception period I also recommend all women have their Rubella immunity checked,' adds Dr Koita. Catching Rubella during pregnancy can harm the foetus.

11. Start a supplement programme

Although a healthy diet is the best way to gain nutrients, a basic vitamin supplement programme – particularly one that contains folic acid (B9) and vitamin D – can help ensure you get what you need.

'Supplements should be a vital component of a woman’s conception plan; they complement a healthy, balanced diet,' says Kate Davies, an independent fertility nurse consultant and director of Your Fertility Journey. 'I recommend the BetterYou Conception Oral Spray (£14.95, Boots) to all my patients as it includes essential folic acid, vitamin D and other important vitamins and minerals for optimising good fertility.'

NHS advice is to take a 400 microgram supplement of folic acid every day if you’re trying for a baby and every day after you're pregnant, up until your 12th week of pregnancy. Folic acid is essential for healthy red blood cells and to reduce your baby's risk of having a neural tube defect. You'll need to take it until 12 weeks of pregnancy.

See No. 23 for what you need to know about Vitamin D.

12. Check your BMI

Check you're a healthy weight before trying to conceive. 'It’s important to make sure you are at a healthy weight,' says Professor Nargund. 'Being over or underweight can affect your fertility.' For example, underweight women sometimes find their periods stop so they may have difficulty conceiving.

‘A healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) of between 18 and 25 increases the chances of pregnancy,’ says fertility expert Dr. Ray.

Dr Kotrotsou, Consultant in Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, agrees, 'Doctors often struggle to have frank discussions with patients about the impact of weight on the chances of pregnancy. In reality, being outside of a healthy BMI can cause hormonal imbalances that interfere with female cycles, normal development of eggs, and implantation of embryos,' she says.

'Our fertility predictor has found that losing just 6 or 7 kilos to reach a BMI that’s in the healthy range can increase the chance of pregnancy by more than half, which is very significant.'

13. Stock up on Vitamin E

'Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant. Research shows it can be used to reduce age-related ovarian decline. And in men it plays a role in combating free radicals which may otherwise reduce sperm count,' says Hayley.

'It's believed to be important to supplement with 160mg daily, using a natural rather than synthetic vitamin E. The reason for this is that a study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that the absorption rate of the natural version is more efficient than the synthetic. Almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds, beef, corn and eggs (yolk) are all good food sources of this nutrient,' she adds.

14. Eat a healthy, varied diet

Diet plays a major part in helping you conceive. Healthy eating throughout pregnancy will help you give birth to a healthy baby, too.

'The Murdoch Children's Research Institute identified the first 1,000 days of life as a critical period of developmental plasticity,' says Hayley. 'During this time the child is most influenced by nutritional choices, environmental exposures and stress. The microbiome is also a key influencer of health and disease outcomes,' she explains.

'However, we never know at the start of a fertility journey how long it is going to take to fall pregnant and keeping to a very strict healthy eating regime can be very difficult,' continues Hayley. 'We, therefore, aim for balance and work towards eating healthy 80% of the time and allowing space for enjoyment and a bit of what you fancy 20% of the time. This keeps up morale and doesn’t detract from enjoyment of food, eating out, and celebratory occasions while trying to conceive,' she explains.

‘Diet absolutely has an impact on fertility,’ adds Dr Kotrotsou. ‘It’s important to maintain a healthy diet that includes all food groups (carbohydrates, protein, fats), and contains the right amount of nutrients. Your fertility diet should also include more low GI (glycemic index) carbs such as porridge, lentils and beans, rather than high GI carbs, such as sugary and processed foods, because low GI carbs are digested more slowly. And you should choose unsaturated fats over saturated fats, and have plenty of sources of omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish and flaxseed).’

15. Stop smoking

Smoking impacts on fertility – in both men and women. Toxins in tobacco smoke can harm both eggs and sperm, including damaging DNA and reducing your chance of pregnancy. And it actively affects the success rate of fertility treatments such as IVF.

'If you're a smoker, give up as soon as possible if you are looking to conceive. Research shows smoking can be linked to early menopause in women and damaged sperm in men, so try and stop to help protect your fertility,' says Professor Nargund.

Giving up smoking can multiply your chances of pregnancy by almost half, according to research by Apricity. For help quitting find your nearest NHS Stop Smoking Service, or call the National Smokefree Helpline on 0300 123 1044.

16. Move your body more

'Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet are not only important for your overall health, but have also been found to help increase your chances of conception,' says Professor Nargund.

Fertility yoga and other exercises can help boost the 'happy hormones' endorphins, reduce stress, help us lose excess weight, increase heart function and lower cholesterol. Try to get the recommended minimum of 30 minutes exercise a day which leaves you slightly breathless, five days a week.

One study found that four hours of vigorous exercise a week could boost your chances of getting pregnant. Postnatal exercise is also important to your wellbeing and to help you get back to a healthy weight after you've had a baby.

17. Boost your B12 intake

Almost 50% of us have unhealthy levels of vitamin B12 according to research by health tracking service Thriva, even though we need it for cellular reproduction and men need it for a healthy sperm count. ‘Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that helps keep the body’s nerve and blood cells healthy and makes DNA, the genetic material in all cells,’ says nutritionist Rob Hobson.

'Studies have linked vitamin B12 deficiency to suboptimal fertility by causing changes in ovulation, development of the egg or changes leading to defective implantation which heightens the risk of miscarriage,' says Hayley. 'Chances of successful conception significantly increase once the deficiency has been corrected,' she adds. 

The NHS supports this, saying 'Vitamin B12 deficiency can sometimes lead to temporary infertility, an inability to conceive. This usually improves with appropriate vitamin B12 treatment.'

The best sources of B12 include beef liver and clams, but it’s also found in fish, meat, poultry, eggs, milk and dairy products. Consider a supplement if you’re vegan or vegetarian because vitamin B12 is only found naturally in animal foods. ‘Plant foods have no vitamin B12,’ says Rob. ‘Although some breakfast cereals, nutritional yeasts and other food products are fortified with vitamin B12.’

18. Don't forget zinc

Zinc is an essential nutrient. It ensures the production of good quality sperm and can reduce the chance of miscarriage, so it's integral to both male and female fertility.

'Zinc is required for every enzymatic process that occurs in the body,' says Hayley. 'This makes it a high-demand nutrient and one that is quite easy to become deficient in if you’re not conscious about including foods that contain it in your diet on a regular basis. Numerous studies have shown zinc to be vital to male fertility, as it influences the sperm motility, improving its ability to reach and fertilise the egg. It also supports healthy testosterone levels in men,' she explains.

 'A new study shows that a zinc deficiency can also negatively affect the early stages of development, reducing the ability of the egg cells to divide and be fertilised,' continues Hayley.

The daily requirement for zinc is 30mg and it can be sourced through food. 'Most people think of oysters as good sources of zinc. Love them or loathe them they're hardly a staple on anyone's meal plan!' says Hayley. 'More accessible sources for day-to-day zinc support include beef, lamb, peppers, sunflower and pumpkin seeds, wholegrains and seafood.

Don’t forget legumes, such as beans, peas and lentils.' They’re high in mineral levels, especially zinc,’ says nutritionist Elizabeth Stewart from vitamin supplement subscription service Vitl. ‘Legumes such as chickpeas and lentils are easy additions to warming soups and stews, increasing the nutrient value of any dish.’

19. Hydrate!

Although drinking more water won't make you more fertile, it will boost your overall health. The benefits of drinking water include reducing dehydration. Being dehydrated can affect the consistency of your cervical mucus, which is what helps the sperm get to the egg. But that's just one small benefit of staying hydrated. Water helps to flush out your system and wakes you up, which means you're less likely to crave a caffeine fix.

Aim for eight glasses of filtered water or herbal or fruit tea per day – more if it's a hot day – to keep you well hydrated and your body in good physical condition.

20. Switch from white to brown

Switch white refined foods to brown wholefoods if possible. That means swapping white options for brown rice, wholemeal bread and wholewheat pasta.

'Our blood sugar balance has a regulatory effect on our sex hormone balance. Choosing brown, wholemeal versions which slowly and steady release glucose into the blood stream, will be more beneficial to supporting hormone balance than white refined foods,' says Hayley.

'Wholemeal grains also have a higher nutrient density than refined grains but we need to prepare them properly in order to access the benefits,' says Hayley. 'Rolled oats, for example, should be soaked overnight to draw out the phytates which otherwise keep important minerals "locked away." The water containing the phytates should be drained away the following morning before consuming them.'

21. Spoon on the honey

Honey has been regarded as a natural fertility booster for generations, so much so that the word "honeymoon" is thought to have come from the age-old tradition of newlyweds eating a spoonful of honey each night in order to speed up the baby-making process.

'Honey is a highly nutrient-dense food with promising antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It has a long traditional history of use as a fertility enhancer. It's thought to improve egg quality and general fertility because of its rich B vitamin, iron, calcium, and amino acid content,' explains Hayley. '

'And 100g of honey has also been shown to increase nitric oxide levels in the blood by up to 50%,' she adds. 'This chemical substance improves vasodilation and can therefore improve erection in men suffering with erectile dysfunction. Locally sourced, high quality honey is recommended to access the full immune and fortifying benefits. However, it's best to avoid this remedy if you're struggling with a metabolic disorder, such as type 2 diabetes.'

22. Enjoy good fats

Fat is fine if it's good fat. Fat is an essential part of a healthy, balanced diet. It helps the body absorb certain fat-soluable vitamins, such as A, D and E, which are important for boosting fertility.

'There's a strong focus on including healthy fats to support fertility,' says Hayley. 'Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in regulating hormone balance, modulating inflammation and improving the conditioning of the uterine lining to support implantation and a healthy pregnancy. Oily fish are considered to be the most bioavailable source of omega-3. These include sardines, mackerel, anchovies, trout, salmon and herring. Good plant sources include avocados flaxseeds, walnuts and chia seeds,' she says. See our selection of easy salmon recipes for inspiration.

Cut down on bad fats, which are found in red meat, dairy foods, biscuits and pastries. Eating too much of these can raise cholesterol levels in your blood, increasing your risk of heart disease and stroke.

23. Get some vitamin D

Experts say that getting vitamin D from the sun can boost your female sex hormone levels and help regulate your menstrual cycle, making conception more likely. In men, it can improve sperm count since vitamin D helps with nucleus development, plus sunshine can raise a man's libido and testosterone levels.

'Sunshine boosts vitamin D as well as our endorphins and serotonin, so it's good all round (in safe quantities of course),' says Natasha. 'It only takes a small amount of exposure to sun each day to get what you need, plus studies have shown that women with higher levels of vitamin D in their follicular fluid are more likely to have successful IVF treatment,' she adds.

GP Dr Gill Jenkins says, ‘Between March to October, half an hour a day with direct midday sunlight, no sunscreen, on your face and arms or legs, should be enough to convert vitamin D3 to active vitamin D, which is absorbed into the bloodstream. In the winter none of us get enough direct sunlight and it’s advisable to take a supplement.’

'There are certain foods which can support vitamin D production,' adds Hayley. 'These include eggs (yolks) milk, butter and sprouted seeds.' Although fish liver oils (e.g. cod liver oil) are a good source of vitamin D they are not recommended during pregnancy.'

24. Consume B6-rich foods

'Research has found that eating foods rich in vitamin B6 (also known as pyridoxine) can double your chances of becoming pregnant,' says Hayley. 'It's important for regulating sex hormones, particularly progesterone. Progesterone is known as the pregnancy hormone because it helps the fertilised egg implant, establish and maintain itself in the uterine lining for a healthy pregnancy,' she explains.

'Good dietary of sources B6 include avocados, bananas, carrots, eggs (yolks), lentils, mackerel, peanuts, salmon, tuna, sunflower seeds and walnuts,' she says.

25. Take selenium (men and women)

Having enough selenium is very important. 'Selenium deficiency in women has been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage,' says Hayley.

Selenium is also good for males as it's an antioxidant that has been shown to increase male fertility. 'Good levels are also essential to maintain healthy testosterone levels and for the production of sperm in men,' adds Hayley. 'It is particularly important in the creation of strong whiplash tails in the sperm. One study found selenium supplementation to increase fertility from 17.5 to 35.1% in sub-fertile men,' she says.

'It's recommended that both men and women supplement with 100ug selenium a day,' she advises. 'Further dietary support can be obtained through herring, tuna, garlic, eggs, carrots, mushrooms and broccoli.' You can also find selenium in Brazil nuts and lobster.

26. Reach your RDA of fibre

It's essential for keeping your bowels regular, so make sure you eat plenty of wholegrains, fruit and vegetables to keep your digestive system functioning properly. The NHS recommends 30g of fibre a day, but 90% of Brits fall short of this figure, according to studies.

However, don't eat fibre to excess, warns Hayley. 'Fibre has many health promoting benefits in the body. However, when it comes to fertility, don't consume too much fibre. This is because one of the effects fibre has is to reduce oestrogen levels in the body. It does so by reducing β-glucuronidase activity, restricting oestrogen reabsorption in the colon. The result may be a lowering of reproductive hormones, which increases chances of anovulatory cycles occurring (cycles when there's an absence of ovulation),'  she says.

The solution? 'Swap very high fibre foods such as bran flakes, wholemeal breads and pastas for more gentle fibre foods such as oats, sweet potato, nuts and seeds and green beans, which contain moderate amounts of fibre and are packed with fertility-enhancing nutrients,' advises Hayley.

27. Cut back on caffeine

It was initially believed that caffeine affects fertility, but recent studies have shown that this may not be true, says fertility doctor Dr Kotrotsou. ‘However, the data on this isn’t particularly robust yet, so the general advice would still be to limit caffeine to less than 200mg per day.’

'Some studies show links between miscarriage and those who have five or more caffeinated drinks a day, but nobody knows exactly why!' adds Natasha. To be on the safe side limit your intake and remember thar caffeine isn’t just in coffee – it's also in caffeinated tea, certain fizzy drinks, energy drinks, chocolate and some over-the-counter medicines.’

28. Plan ahead

'There is so much that women can do to optimise their fertility. It’s all about feeling empowered to take back control. I recommend getting to know when you’re fertile, as research shows us that fertility awareness knowledge can significantly reduce your time to pregnancy. In some cases, as much as up to six months!' says Kate.

In order to boost your fertility, you should start to make positive lifestyle changes at least four months before you start trying to conceive. This is how long it takes the body to register change. If you already have a child, 18 months between birth and conception allows your nutrient stores to replenish. Our guide to the best time of year to have a baby is also helpful.

29.Keep things interesting in bed

According to Tommy's, sexual positions that allow for deep penetration are likely to help you conceive more than others, as they allow the sperm to be deposited closer to the cervix. 

Bring back the fun by trying one of our sex positions for conception which encourage deep penetration so your man's sperm is better able to reach your egg.

To keep you both excited and engaged try new positions and even places, and have regular sex (more of that, below).

30. Have regular sex

'You should have sex 3-4 times a week irrespective of your cycle day,' advises Dr. Koita. 'The egg lives for only 24 hours after ovulation and sperm live for 48-72 hours. By having intercourse regularly you will ensure that the egg and sperm have the opportunity to meet every month. Importantly, the sperm quality drops when men abstain for more than three days.'

Research suggests that even if you have sex six days prior to ovulation you stand a good chance of conceiving. If you want to have sex only on the day you ovulate, you may miss your chance of pregnancy. Our ovulation guide will tell you what you need to know.

31. Embrace yoga

'Yoga is a fantastic way to prepare your body for pregnancy as it focuses on relaxation techniques and breathing,' says Cheryl MacDonald, founder of YogaBellies.

'In fact, there have been studies in America (Dr Alice Domar, 2002), which revealed that women who practice mind and body techniques achieved pregnancies at a rate almost three times higher than those who didn’t,' says Cheryl. 'This is because yoga benefits the reproductive functions – both in men and women – by improving the overall integration of physiological systems, reducing stress and balancing the neurohormonal profile,' she explains.

'Yoga also lets mothers prepare for the actual birth, by using physical yoga postures, meditation and also yogic breathing techniques,' she adds. 'So, not only is it fantastic when you’re trying to get pregnant but it gets you into the correct mindset for giving birth.'

Try a YogaBellies for Fertility class (there are classes around the country). 'It's perfect for women who are trying to conceive, or those who want to get their body in the best possible condition for conception,' says Cheryl.

32. Treat yourself to a break

Lots of couples get pregnant during a getaway so pack your bags, grab your partner and head off somewhere away from daily stresses such as work and commuting. If we rest and relax we are also more likely to want sex.

'It can become quite overwhelming when you’re trying to conceive so it’s important to reset the balance,' says Kate. 'Taking the opportunity to care for your emotional health as well as your physical health is vital.'

'Holidays also help us easily dissociate from our workload and practice the relaxation we so desperately need more of in our weekly schedule,' says Natasha.

33. Book a thyroid check

If you've been trying to get pregnant with no positive results it's worth checking to see if you have a thyroid problem. A dysfunctional thyroid can wreak havoc on fertility. Yet it can be hard to diagnose as there aren't always symptoms.

'Checking your TSH levels (thyroid hormone) and vitamin D levels are important as they play an important role in one's ability to get pregnant and maintain a pregnancy,' says Dr Koita. Ask your doctor for a thyroid profile.

34. Get a good night's sleep

To improve your chances of getting pregnant you need to keep yourself as healthy and happy as possible and that includes getting enough sleep.

'Sleep is the time our bodies recover and heal,' says Natasha. 'And having a good routine around your bedtime is crucial to a good night's sleep. I recommend closing the curtains and making the space dark for two hours before sleep. Please, no screens in the last hour. I particularly like a cup of chamomile to seal the deal,' she says.

If you become severely fatigued, a lack of sleep can disrupt your periods, so if you are suffering from any sleep problems look at ways to fix them.

35. Use lubricant

Even if you haven't needed it before, you may now. Having lots of sex can make your vagina dry, so invest in lubricant. It's not advisable to use chemical-based lubricants as they can hurt sperm. Instead, use a lubricant such as Pre-Seed Fertility Lubricant (£18.49, Boots).

36. Reconsider your medication

If you're taking any medication (prescription or not), have a chat with your doctor about how these could affect your fertility, or a foetus if you fall pregnant.

'Speak to your GP if you are on any medication – e.g. antiepileptic, antidepressants or antihypertensives. You should be aware of the effects of these drugs on pregnancy and if there are alternatives available,' advises Dr Koita. Steroids, hormone-based hair and skin treatments and cancer treatment, amongst others, can also have an impact. But don't come off medication without profession advice. It could make you ill.

37. Take a fertility MOT

'Taking a fertility MOT is a great way of understanding your own unique fertility potential,' says Professor Nargund. 'For women, the fertility MOT can provide an assessment of your egg reserve, providing an indication on your biological clock and your ovulation status. A 3D internal ultrasound examines the uterus and gives you information on your womb, helping to spot any fibroids or polyps, which can potentially affect implantation,' she says.

'Additionally, advanced Doppler technology can assess the blood flow to your uterus, giving you further information about the quality of eggs and if there are any factors that can affect implantation or potentially cause miscarriage,' she adds.

'For men, a fertility test gives a detailed analysis of semen. It examines the count, morphology and motility of sperm,' continues Professor Nargund. 'Results are instant, and you can then talk to your doctor about the results to decide on the best next steps to take.' Visit CREATE Fertility for more info.

38. Be kind to each other

It's easy to forget each other during the process of getting pregnant. Making a family takes time, energy, a sense of humour and love. If you find yourself just going through the motions and forcing yourselves to schedule sex you may start to miss out on what should be an intimate time. Ironically, this can result in you wanting to less sex.

Every now and again take a break and inject some joy and romance into your relationship. Go on a country walk, treat yourselves to a dinner date, or give each other a seductive massage. Make sure you keep it fun and flirty with lots of talking. Focus on reliving your honeymoon period – not making a baby.

39. Educate yourself

'Fertility and general health are closely intertwined, so alongside educating young people about the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, we also need to empower them with an understanding of how to best look after their fertility,' says Professor Nargund.

'I have long campaigned for fertility education to be provided in schools – by educating young women and men about their fertility from a younger age, we can enable them to be in control and proactive about protecting their natural fertility by making the necessary positive changes to their lifestyle,' she says.

Forewarned is forearmed, so read up on how to increase fertility or reach out for advice.

40. Don’t give up

If you've been trying for a baby for a while with no success don't worry. You're not alone.

'Around 1 in 6 couples in the UK have trouble getting pregnant,' says Dr Koita. 'But with the right help and support you can fast-track your journey to parenthood,' she says. 'Female age is the most significant factor that determines the chances of a successful outcome, so a timely intervention is important. '

Remember, the more stress and pressure you put on yourself, the longer it will take. Stay well, keep positive and good luck!

How to boost fertility in men

There is plenty that men can do to boost their fertility too. Here are some ways in which you can ensure your sperm has the best chance when it comes to conception:

1. Cut out bad habits: Quit smoking now to improve the quality of your sperm. Quitting can help you and your partner become pregnant faster. 
2. Cut down on alcohol: While moderate drinking shouldn't affect your fertility, long-term and heavy alcohol use can decrease testosterone and sperm production, according to fertility experts in the US. Tommy's advises men to stick to 3-4 units a day.
3. Check your BMI: Having a high BMI, or being overweight, can affect the quality and quantity of your sperm. Aim for a healthy BMI of between 18 and 25. Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly to keep yourself in good shape, not only for conception but for fatherhood. You'll be running around after a toddler before you know it!
4. Keep your sperm cool: Good sperm health relies on being a few degrees cooler than your body's standard temperature. Not keeping testicles cool could lead to lower-quality sperm and decreased sperm production. Steer clear of hot baths, saunas and prolonged periods of sitting, and avoid putting a laptop directly on your lap. Loose trousers and underwear can also help lower the temperature of testicles.

Does folic acid boost ovulation?

While there is no evidence that folic acid can directly boost your fertility, there is some research to suggest that there is an association between taking folic acid, and a greater chance of becoming pregnant, according to authors of a Danish study in 2016.

Researchers found that women who took folic acid had increased 'fecundability' which means they had a greater chance of becoming pregnant during a menstrual cycle.

Doctors often recommend folic acid for women who are trying to conceive or are in the early stages of pregnancy, due to its importance in supporting healthy foetal development. Having good overall health, including taking any recommended vitamins and minerals like folic acid, can also indirectly contribute to healthy ovulation.

So if you're wondering how to boost ovulation naturally, taking folic acid could be good place to start, along with improving your diet and overall health. 

If you're wondering about how to get pregnant, we've got more advice and information, from the best time to get pregnant to wondering why it is't happening quickly enough. Plus, what to do if you want a baby but your partner doesn't and how to spot the early signs of pregnancy. 

If you've been trying for a baby for a while and it's just not happening, you're probably asking 'why can't I get pregnant?'. 

While the road to early pregnancy may be easy for some, it's certainly not the case for everyone. One in six people in the UK has trouble with conception, with issues ranging from simply missed ovulation windows to infertility.

And while there are a whole host of factors that can affect both female and male fertility, and so the chances of conceiving, many of them are easily identifiable and could be fixable with lifestyle changes and/or medical intervention.

Dr Anupa Nandi, Consultant Gynaecologist and Sub-specialist in reproductive medicine at The Lister Fertility Clinic, says that trouble conceiving might be down to just one factor - or multiple.

Try not to get too disheartened. As well as tracking your fertile window with our ovulation calculator - there is plenty you can do to increase fertility. These include trying fertility foods, giving fertility yoga a go, taking a folic acid supplement, and looking at ways to boost sperm count 

Why can't I get pregnant?

1. Problems with ovulation

Ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary into the fallopian tube, is one of the most vital processes for conception. Problems with ovulation, Dr Nandi says, are therefore one of the most common reasons for conception problems.

"Inconsistent ovulation, which can be due to polycystic ovarian syndrome, premature ovarian insufficiency or hormonal disbalance" are three of the most common ovulation problems people face. In fact, it counts for about 30-40% of all cases of infertility.

Signs of inconsistent ovulation, according to the NHS, including having irregular periods, no period at all or anovulation, otherwise known as abnormal bleeding.

Even though you don't need to time sex around your ovulation cycle, it can be handy to keep an eye on when or if you are ovulating normally using an ovulation calculator. It can also help to have sex every other day or every three days throughout your cycle.

2. Blockage of the fallopian tubes

Dr Nandi says that in connection with ovulation, blockage of the Fallopian tubes, "which could be due to pelvic inflammatory disease, previous chlamydia infection or previous abdominal surgery", is another main issued faced by those struggling to get pregnant.

If your fallopian tubes have become blocked or scarred through these incidences, then surgery might be required to break up the scar tissue in the fallopian tubes, making it easier for eggs to pass through.

However, the success of this is very much dependent on the damage to the fallopian tubes and, following surgery, there can be some complications - including an ectopic pregnancy - so it's always important to fully understand the risks before undertaking any fertility procedures.

3. Existing issues with male fertility

While there are many issues with male fertility that can be sorted out through lifestyle changes, some are problems that men are born with. If it's a natural conception, there could be issues with a lacking or inadequate sperm count, reduced sperm motility or high abnormal forms of sperm.

"Most cases of abnormal semen parameters are unexplained, however in some cases it could be due to inherent defect in sperm production due to testicular damage or blockage in the outflow tract." Dr Nandi says, "Some men have difficulties in erection or ejaculation."

Whether or not this is the case, it's important to look after the quality of sperm when trying for baby. "I would strongly advise men to avoid testosterone supplements to build muscle. This can have detrimental effect on sperm production," Dr Nandi suggests. 

"Any factors that can potentially increase the temperature of the scrotal area should be avoided as it can lead to DNA damage of the sperms, increase oxidative radicals. Research shows that even 1 degree centigrade rise in temperature can lead to 14% drop in sperm production. Prolonged sitting, driving, hot bath, saunas should be avoided." 

4. Too much exercise

Too much exercise can be an issue for both men and women, our expert explains. For women, "too much exercise can be counterproductive as it can cause hypothalamic suppression leading to problems with ovulation." 

And for men, "moderate-intensity exercise is good for sperm production but excessive exercise, such as bicycling for a long duration, can lead to the opposite effect."

While it's unlikely that exercising too much will be the sole cause of fertility problems, it's worth considering a general overhaul of lifestyle practices in the lead-up to conceiving, Dr. Nandi says.

"I would advise women and men to start doing lifestyle adjustments while trying for pregnancy. Taking care of all aspects of a healthy lifestyle such as diet, exercise, sleep, stress reduction and avoidance of risky substances (smoking, drugs, and alcohol) is of paramount importance. This will not only increase the chances of getting pregnant but also reduce pregnancy complications and improve the health of the unborn child." 

5. Not getting enough vitamins and minerals

Part of the overhaul in the lead up to pregnancy should include a look at your diet, Dr. Nandi of Lister Fertility Clinic - which is a part of HCA Healthcare - advises. "Research shows that increasing intake of fruits and vegetables and reducing fast food increases chances of getting pregnant. In addition, you should take folic acid from at least a month before starting to try for pregnancy. If you have medical conditions or are taking medicine, you might need higher dose folic acid and hence you should consult with your GP." 

But while it's essential to up the intake of certain vitamins and minerals, it's vital to stay away from some. "Avoid certain vitamins like vitamin A," she says as large amounts can harm an unborn baby. To this end, staying away from foods containing liver or liver products, such as pâté which is high in vitamin A, is also a good idea. 

For men, it's important to avoid red meat, processed meat and full fat dairy as these have been associated with a lower sperm quality, while "a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acid, antioxidants (vitamin E, C, selenium, zinc, lycopene) is associated with better sperm production." 

As with all changes to diet, speak to your GP if you're unsure about what which foods to eat during the conception process.

6. Being overweight

Particularly for women looking to conceive, being overweight can cause various issues - including:

• Hormonal imbalance
• Issues with ovulation
• Problems with menstruation

The closer a person is to a healthy BMI and weight, the better their chances are at conceiving. As noted though, it's important not to go too far the other way and do too much exercise or be underweight.

"Being overweight (BMI>30) or underweight (BMI <18) can lower your chances of getting pregnant. Regular mild to moderate exercise at least 30 minutes per day, which can be aerobic/ Pilates/ fertility yoga, will help you keep a healthy weight," Dr Nandi says. 

Obesity in men can also cause issues with conception, such as problems maintaining an erection, a lower sperm count, hormone problems, and other health conditions linked to being overweight. Any man looking to lose weight in the lead-up to trying to conceive should do this about three months beforehand, according to Better Health, as this is roughly how long it takes to develop sperm.

7. Smoking and drinking

Most people know that in the lead-up to trying for a baby, it's important to minimise harmful substances in the body - this particularly includes smoking.

While it's fine to have up to three units of alcohol per week when trying to conceive, Dr. Nandi says that cigerettes are an absolute no-go - due to the impact smoking has on fertility. "Give up smoking completely while trying for pregnancy," she says, "as it can reduce sperm quantity and quality." 

8. Not having enough sex

"Having sexual intercourse every other day in the fertile window, which is 6 days before ovulation, will increase chances of conception," Dr Nandi says. 

According to one study, ovulation lasts for between 12 to 48 hours - but someone can be fertile for up to seven to ten days. This is because sperm can survive for up to five days in the female reproductive system.

Once released from the ovary, an egg can survive for up to 48 hours without fertilisation. This is considered to be the period of ovulation but the fertile window is the total amount of time the egg is fertile and how long sperm can wait for the egg in the reproductive system.

9. Unexplained problems

Unfortunately, sometimes fertility issues cannot be explained.

As Dr Nandi says, "Three to four out of 10 couples will not have any detectable cause for infertility in the standard tests and will be classed as ‘unexplained’. There can be various subtle factors causing infertility in them like problems in fertilisation or implantation, endometriosis, change in the quality of sperm or egg due to ageing, various lifestyle and environmental factors."

10. Undiagnosed medical conditions or medication side effects

Although these are some of the most common reasons for why someone can't get pregnant, it's certainly not all of them. Our expert warns that there are plenty more, including "various medical disease, effect of medications, rare genetic disorders" and other issues not relating to fertility at all.

If you have concerns about conception, pregnancy or anything in between, it's best to speak to your GP who will be able to best advise on the situation.

Related features: 

• Early signs of pregnancy 
• Ovulation calculator 
• Best time to get pregnant
• Fertility foods to boost fertility 
• I want a baby and he doesn't
  

Fertility yoga is a brilliant way to de-stress and may even help you get pregnant. We've spoken to the experts to find out how, why and who it works for...

Fertility yoga may be for you if you’re currently trying to conceive and looking to boost your fertility, or want to prepare your body for a future pregnancy. 

The stress-relieving properties of fertility yoga are thought to have helped many women fall pregnant. Stress has a huge impact on your ability to conceive, and yoga is proven to be an effective form of relaxation.

By regularly practising yoga with moves that bring specific benefits, alongside using an ovulation calculator, you may experience more success when trying for a baby.

Can yoga increase fertility?

Fertility yoga is a series of yoga poses that promote relaxation. It also encourages blood flow to the hips, and increases circulation and connection to the pelvic area, abdomen and heart.

"It is a gentle yoga practice that incorporates breathing, visualisation, positive affirmation and asana (poses)," says Cherie Lathey, director of Yoga Mama.

The focus of fertility yoga is to help you cope with stress, but why is this so important why trying to conceive?  "When we’re stressed, the adrenal glands pump stress hormones such as adrenaline into the bloodstream," explains Cheryl MacDonald, founder of YogaBellies.

The YogaBellies for Fertility 8 week course focuses on stress management, nutrition, relaxation, fertility support and the power of positivity. This can deny the uterus and ovaries of the rich blood blow and oxygen they need to optimally function and therefore negatively impacts our ability to become pregnant."

How yoga can help with conception

There is evidence to back up the positive link between yoga and fertility. Research by Dr Alice Domar, at the Mind/Body Institute at Harvard Medical School, looked at a group of women who had been unsuccessfully trying to get pregnant for a year. Those who practiced mind/body techniques achieved pregnancies at a rate of almost three times greater than those who didn’t.

"This is because yoga therapies benefit reproductive functions, both in men and women by improving the overall physiological systems," explains Cheryl. "This then modulates the neuroendocrine axis to reduce stress and regulate the neurohormonal profile."

Another US study found that just six weeks of yoga dramatically lowered the anxiety levels for the women who participated and were undergoing IVF.

However, Cherie stresses: "It is important not to make claims that fertility yoga guarantees a couple will fall pregnant. Rather that it is a way of doing yoga that fosters a nurturing sense of self-care to help soothe the surges in the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline."

Benefits of fertility yoga

In addition to the stress-relieving benefits that aid conception, these are the ways that fertility yoga helps overall health and wellbeing:

• Strengthens and tones the body
• Boosts blood flow to the uterus and ovaries
• Reduces inflammation in the body
• Helps better breathing
• Increases flexibility
• Balances metabolism
• Increases libido
• Reduces low mood
• Makes you feel more in control

Carving out me-time can prove difficult when juggling a busy lifestyle, but it’s something you should try to do.

"It’s absolutely imperative to nourish emotional and mental health when trying to conceive. Fertility yoga gives you the time and space to do this," says Cheryl. 

Fertility struggles can often be physically, emotionally and financially demanding. Yoga is a practical and positive self-care tool that you can use during this time. 

Zita West, a leading fertility expert also explains: "Any exercise that involves mindfulness, breathing techniques and meditative visualisation has many physical, emotional and mental benefits. Yoga is a calming antidote to any woman consumed by an overwhelming desire for a baby. The resulting stress of which becomes an impediment to conception itself."

What type of yoga is best for fertility?

There are many styles of yoga that include different sequences practiced at different paces and varying levels of intensity.

Hatha, Iyengar, Yin or Restorative yoga are gentle practices that are good for beginners and can be beneficial when trying to conceive.

"Fertility yoga might be a gentle flowing sequence. This will include poses that encourage blood flow to the uterus, hips, heart, and other abdominal organs. It may include poses such as bridge, light twists, and legs up the wall. Cat/ cow, hip rotations, cobblers, supported goddess pose, to name but a few," says Cherie.

"Meditations and specific breathing techniques (pranayama) are used during certain yoga sequences. These help to balance complex emotions, improve sleep and increase feelings of self-compassion," adds Cheryl.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oFHYSf0v6Sc

There are also yoga classes designed to aid those who are undergoing IVF treatment with different moves for each of the different stages.

You may decide to refrain from more vigorous types of yoga such as Ashtanga and Vinyasa. Hot yoga should be avoided while trying to conceive or if you're pregnant, due to the 40°C studio temperature that may pose a risk.

What other exercises increase fertility?

It’s not just yoga that is beneficial for fertility, these low-impact ways to work out can help you stay fit and healthy in preparation for pregnancy.

• Walking A gentle way to help beat stress and build endurance.
• Dancing This feel-good way of moving can improve blood flow. 
• Pilates Helps to tone the body and offers relaxation benefits similar to yoga.
• Swimming A weight-bearing cardio exercise that’s easy on the body.

Is it ok to work out if you are trying to get pregnant?

Exercise is important for women during every life stage including the time when you’re trying to conceive. "It’s a great idea to maintain a clean and healthy body if you want to get pregnant and yoga is a fantastic, low-impact way to support this," says Cheryl.

Some women may choose to avoid vigorous exercise when trying to get pregnant. However, many women will not be negatively affected by high-intensity workouts if they have a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) and are used to this level of exercise.

For a few women, intense physical activity can put stress upon the body and affect the hormones that control the menstrual cycle.  

Get plenty of rest alongside exercise. Maintaining a healthy diet with sufficient calorie intake will also replenish the energy burned when working out. Talk to your GP if you haven’t conceived after a year of trying, or if you are not having regular periods. 

Yoga positions that can boost your fertility

Emma Robinson is an experienced yoga teacher and osteopath. She suggests these yoga positions if you’re trying to relax and prep your body for conception. The benefits go beyond boosting your fertility too. According to Emma, regular practice can help your body during the pregnancy, during labour and post-birth it can help with your recovery.

Bounded angle pose (Baddha Konasana)

• Begin seated with a straight spine, bring your heels into the body and press the soles of your feet together.
• Allow your knees to drop open as far as they can without forcing them.
• Hole onto your big toes, and extend through the length of your spine.

Cat stretch (Marjaryasana)

• Start on all-fours, with your knees aligned below your hips and your wrists underneath your shoulders.
• Inhale and hold your gaze forward.
• Drop your head, tuck your chin to your chest and exhale – rounding your spine and drawing in your navel.
• Hold for a few seconds before returning to an all-fours position.

Cow stretch (Bitilasana)

• Adopt the all-fours position with knees aligned below your hips and your wrists underneath the shoulders.
• Inhale, letting your belly sink towards the floor while lifting your bottom towards the ceiling. Hold your gaze forward.
• Exhale and return to the all-fours position.
• This pose is often alternated with the cat stretch for a gentle flow.

Cobra (Bhujangasana)

• Begin by lying face down on your mat with your feet hip-width apart and your hands placed on the mat by your ribs.
• Press down with your hands, raise your head and open and lift your chest upwards, rolling your shoulders down.
• Take your gaze upwards, hold and then slowly release back down to the mat.

Downward facing dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)

• Begin on your hands and knees with your wrists in line with your shoulders.
• Exhale and push your hips up and backwards towards the ceiling, while straightening your arms.
• Lift up through your knees, engage your core, and drop your shoulders away from your ears.
• Sink your heels downwards – pedalling your feet back and forwards, or bending the knees slightly if you feel tightness.

Warrior 2 (Virabhadrasana II)

• Begin by standing with your heels slightly apart, with the base of your big toes touching.
• Exhale and step out to the side with one foot.
• Raise your arms parallel to the floor with the palms faced down.
• Point your front foot towards the top of the mat and the back foot at a 45 degree angle.
• Gaze straight ahead and sink down the front thigh so it’s parallel to the floor. Anchor by pressing the heel of your back foot into the floor.
• Stretch your arms away from your shoulder blades.
• Inhale, step to the front of your mat and repeat on the other side.

Savasana/relaxation

• Lie on your back, close your eyes and rest your arms at your sides with your palms facing upwards.
• Drop your feet open and let your body sink into the mat.
• Scan your body, releasing any tension and allowing your breath to come naturally.
• Stay in position for five minutes before bringing awareness back into the body and moving gently into a seated position.

Fertility yoga buys:

Gaiam Premium Yoga Mat, from £27.78

This is the go-to brand for lightweight, extra-cushioned, non-slip yoga mats in a choice of eye-catching designs.

Alaman Yoga Knee Pads, £13.95

These foam-like cushions give support and comfort for your knees, hands, head or elbows during practice.

Yogamatters Cork Yoga Block, £14

A natural-material yoga block that can help with stability and balance during poses.

Yoga and Fertility: A Journey to Health and Healing, £20.50

A helpful guide that includes simple yoga, breathing and meditation practices to reduce the stress involved in fertility challenges. 

It's hard when one half of a couple is ready to have a baby but the other isn't - where do you go from there? Here we speak to the experts to help you navigate this tricky time. 

Being in a relationship can bring lots of amazing things into your life and also lots of challenges, from wondering how to spice up your relationship to discovering the benefits of spooning (hint: they're many and varied)

The idea of your partner not wanting a baby, when you're ready can be tough to reconcile, and you're not alone in this. It's an issue that happens to millions of couples all around the world, undoubtedly since it can be hard to tell whether or not your partner wants to start a family unless you explicitly talk to them about it. 

This is the first piece of advice that John Kenny from The Relationship Guy has, as he suggests, "It is of fundamental importance that this is discussed before a relationship gets to a place where it is in a committed space.

"Never hold out hope that someone will change their mind if their opinion differs and don't sacrifice what you want for the sake of someone else. Obviously, people change their minds about things over time, and what may not have been an issue previously can be at a later date. To address this if it happens, then I would always suggest that there is an honesty from one to another."

So what should you do if you're thinking, "I want a baby and my partner doesn't"? Here's what the experts have to say...

I want a baby and my partner doesn't - what should I do?

So while it might be too late to have the 'I want a baby, do you?' talk early in the relationship, it doesn't mean that it can't happen now. As John Kenny says, "Make time for a conversation when both know a conversation is going to happen and calmly put your thoughts and feelings across to the other person.

"Be ready for an instant reaction if this is new news to them and give them time to consider their position. You are unlikely to get the answer you want in that moment."

He then suggests thinking about whether this has been an issue from the beginning of the relationship and if so, "why did someone commit to this in the first place? Both need to consider what holds most value to them, as the need/want for a child rarely diminishes. If it isn't to be for both of them, are they with the right person?"

"If it is something that is important to someone then it can't be an issue that you can ignore. It is important that once a relationship starts to develop into something longer term that the conversation about children is had at this time, so it can be resolved there and then."So how do you resolve it?

5 reasons your partner might not want a baby and how to respond

1. 'I'm just not ready.'

Solution: Mig Bennett, Relationship Counsellor says that it's important to ensure there's no tone of accusation but to "be curious about why they feel unready". He says, "Are they doubting the strength of the relationship, or fearing a repeat of their own childhood? Any number of concerns may come out." While it's one of the most common reasons for not wanting children, not many people delve into what not being "ready" actually means.

"The question I would recommend asking your partner is when they think is the right time to have a children?" Emma DaveyCounsellor and Trama Therapist tells us, "Sometimes people have a lot of expectations of when the right time is. What are they basing this on?  Is it finances, accommodation, or lifestyle? Speaking with your partner, and finding out what the reasons are, will give you a better understanding of what they want out of their life.

"It could be they still have things they want to do and achieve before having a baby, or they could have worries about being a parent. Having a baby is a life-changing experience and many want to ensure they do it at a time that is right for them. Nobody knows what to expect when having a baby, but it does change everything, even if you’re determined it won’t. Some people may view the prospect of that change as scary and they may doubt their parental skills."

"Communication and understanding is key." Emma says, "Be as open and honest as possible with each other about the concerns. Listen to each other and try to reach an agreement. "

But ultimately both our experts agree that just because it's a 'no' at the moment, doesn't mean it's going to be a 'no' forever. By continuing to check in with someone about what they want, you can make sure that you're both on the same page.

2. 'I'm too young to settle down.'

Solution: "I think context matters here, especially if there is an age difference." Ruairi Stewart, The Happy Whole Coach, warns. "For some women, there can be more urgency in their timeline of when they want or expect to have children based on their age or work commitments."

But he says, "It’s really important to have these kinds of conversations, even if they’re uncomfortable so that both people can be clear about their feelings and intentions. It may be that the outcome of this conversation results in a deal-breaker situation, and the person who wants to have kids needs to reassess whether they can or should stay in the relationship if this is something they are set on.

For the person who feels they are too young to have kids – it is their right and freedom to assert that. A respectful relationship has to take into account where both people are in their timeline and what each person wants from the relationship in terms of family planning and when that might happen. I don’t think it is fair for pressure to be put on the younger person, and that may also be a deal breaker for them if they feel they are being pressured."

3. 'I've changed my mind.'

Solution: "People change their minds about a lot of things during their life and having a baby is no exception." Emma Davey tells GoodtoKnow, "It is important to respect the views of both you and your partner, neither is right or wrong. It is a personal decision.  No one should be forced into such a life-changing thing against their will. It wouldn’t be fair to both your partner and the child, and there is a good chance they will resent you for it.

"The decision on how you move forward is yours. If your heart is dead set on having a family, and your partner isn’t, you may have to conclude that the relationship isn’t right for you. It can be a scary thought of what to do; do you pick your partner and accept that you won’t have the family you want?  You have to decide what means more to you and your happiness. Try to think long term, accepting that you won’t have children may become tougher as you see your friends with their families and later their grandchildren.

"I would advise seeing a therapist so you can talk to a third party and really understand what you want and any concern you may be feeling. Can you see yourself without a baby or can you see yourself without your partner, it’s good to explore all your options?"

Talk to them "from a curious standpoint" adds Mig Bennett, as your partner is not the enemy. But if it's the case that one person has decided they do want a child, after previously not wanting one, then it's important to ask "why you want a child and why now? Is it because you want someone to love or be loved by? Is it to mend an unravelling relationship? Is it to feel secure? Is it because he may change and become more responsible or mature as a father? Having a child for reasons such as these is not a positive starting point."

"The bottom line may be that this isn’t the relationship for you." Mig adds, "In all three scenarios, if the issue is causing the couple to be stuck and embittered I suggest getting some counselling with a specialist couple counsellor to focus on this issue alone."

4. 'We can't afford to have a baby.'

Solution: This is a tough one and there's no one right answer for everyone as every individual has different personal values and monetary incomes, which are unquestionably one of the features that makes it harder or easier to have a baby. In fact, according to The Money Advice Service, looking after a child could cost as much as over £7000 within the first year - without childcare. For many people, this is a huge expense and on top of the potential for not being paid as much during maternity or paternity leave, it's a real consideration for many couples.

"But just because you’ll be spending a bit more, that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to make your money go further." Counselling charity Relate tells those with similar issues. "With a little bit of planning ahead, you can avoid unnecessary spending."

So while it won't solve all your issues, it's something to consider if you're worried about not being able to afford a baby. Relate advise taking a look at The Money Advice Service's tips on saving during difficult times as well and say, "Although it’s natural to want to give your new arrival the very best of everything, most babies thrive whether they arrive on a budget or in the lap of luxury.

"So try to ignore all the ads and focus on the priorities."

While this advice might not solve your problems, talking and opening a positive conversation without blame is the best way, according to our experts, of determining what your next move will be if you want a baby and your partner doesn't. As after all, if they simply don't want a baby (and anyone is entitled to feel that way) then it's important to consider what you're going to do next.

5. 'I've got kids already, I don't want any more'

Solution: We know that not all families are the same but being part of a step-family, as a step-parent who naturally adore their step-children but wants a child of their own, can be really difficult. Ruairi says, "I would ask if this person wants to have their own family. If the answer is yes, then that could well be a deal breaker.

"A direct conversation needs to be had. State how you feel, but be prepared for the fact that the other person may not change their mind. This is a huge life decision for both of you, and if having your own family is important, that may mean that this might happen with the person you are currently with.

"Consider that your partner may not want to have children due to a negative experience with their ex, which is something that could be worked through and talked in order to help shift their perspective.

"The important thing is to be direct and have the conversation in a safe, calm, non-judgmental way, but be clear of your intentions for the long term and respect your partner’s wishes equally."

6. 'I'm too old to have children.'

Solution: "Check before you start that there’s no ‘tone’ of accusation or criticism in your voice then be curious, by asking probing questions about their feelings." Relationship counsellor Mig Bennett suggests. "Then really listen, calmly and without interrupting (especially with the word ‘but’) to the answers."

"Playback to your partner, in a neutral tone, what you’ve heard and let them know you hear. You may discover some things about their past or their fears for the future that you didn’t realise were at play. Then ask if they would listen to your feelings and put them calmly and concisely. Only say each feeling once! Ask if they have any questions. Then leave it with a comment such as 'Thanks for listening to me. I will go away and think about all you’ve said. Let’s leave it there.'"

"Sometimes we challenge too much, only considering our viewpoint and we push ourselves into polarised positions. If your partner can see you hear his or her fears that polarisation can shift."

While relationship expert Emma Davey agrees, she says that it's not an unusual conflict to arise - especially in relationships with larger age gaps. "Find out why your partner doesn’t want a baby."

She suggests, "Discuss the issue calmly so that you understand what their objections are. Their age may not be the only reason, they may also be worried about age-related fertility, or health complications.  A baby at a later stage in life may mean expensive IVF, which can lead to disappointment and a strain on the relationship.  Older people, who have already been parents, will also better understand the disruption that children bring. They may worry that you’re romanticising what it will be like. If you’ve already gone through the upheaval and expense of raising a family, and are now experiencing some ‘freedom’ again, it can seem a terrible burden to start the whole process again."

Our expert panel:

Talk about babies early

If you're researching this ahead of time then take note, unlike much-outdated dating advice would have us believe, talking about pregnancy and children early in the relationship is a good sign. 

"Those who still consider the topic to be taboo are revealing an inner immaturity." Maria Sullivan, dating expert and vice president of Dating.com, says. "Some consider even the mention of the topic of having children alone to indicate some sort of premature, one-sided, and disproportionate commitment. The fact that this has become a normal way of thinking about it is all wrong. Dating is all about finding someone who wants what you want – you can only get to that point if you’re open, honest, and upfront."

But sometimes it's too little, too late as many people meet their partners long before the idea of having a family is even on the table, while other couples might have thought they were on the same page, only for one person to change their mind. Whatever the circumstances, it's completely reasonable for anyone to have second thoughts or reservations about having children as the idea of starting a family begins to turn into a possible reality.

Wonder why you've gone off sex and looking to add a bit more to your sex life, try our piece on Tantric sex or what is spooning and how it can increase intimacy levels.

Once you're sure you're ready to start a family, you might want to consider when will be the best time to conceive.

Deciding when to get pregnant is a big step, not only will not only affect you at the time, but it may also affect your child throughout their life.

Of course, with so many factors affecting fertility, conceiving to a timetable can never be guaranteed, and even the most carefully calculated pregnancies may arrive unexpectedly.

However, if you'd like more information to help you choose when might be the best time for you to be pregnant, read on.

When to get pregnant: the weather

You may decide that you want a baby to be born in early autumn, so they're old for their school year, but you should bear in mind that means you'll be pregnant during the summer. Carrying a baby in high temperatures can be very uncomfortable, especially if it's during the third trimester.

Many women choose a spring baby because it pretty much avoids being pregnant during those summer months and the final trimester happens in winter, which means you'll be wrapped up anyway. Any pregnancy hot flashes will be much easier to handle when it's milder outside.

When to get pregnant: your health

Do you suffer from depression, or maybe Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)? If you do, then winter could be the most difficult time of year for you, so you may want to avoid having your baby at a time that coincides with that, as the hormonal changes associated with pregnancy can also affect your emotional health.

Spring is another good option for a child, because the main cold and flu season is over by March and April, so both you and your little one will be less likely to pick up something during their very early weeks.

When to get pregnant: family situations

When does the rest of your family have a birthday? Perhaps you'd like everyone to all have their special day around the same time, or perhaps you want to space them out.

Some people think that it's better to have a child's birthday not coinciding with major holidays or events, such as Christmas, or maybe summer's better because you can go on holiday and celebrate.

All these concerns vary for all families so you can see how things might differ, depending on your situation.

When to get pregnant: check your ovulation

Trying to work out your cycle and prime ovulation dates can be a confusing and stressful process especially if your periods aren't regular.

Try and alleviate some of the stress by using an ovulation calculator. By tracking each cycle you can work out exactly when you'll be most fertile giving you the best chance at conceiving.

During that time try and get as many baby-making sessions in as possible and your chances of conceiving will be a lot higher.

Please be aware ovulation tools are there to give you the best estimate possible but we can't guarantee they will be 100 per cent accurate. Please see your GP or midwife for more information.

When to get pregnant: your work

Obviously, once you have your baby you go on maternity leave - but have you considered whether your pregnancy might be more difficult at certain times of the year, depending on your job?

If you know that your job requires you to travel more during a busy season, then you might want to avoid being in late pregnancy around then.

Similarly, if your work is influenced by the wedding industry, the summer is bound to be your busiest time and being in full bloom during July and August won't make your job any easier.

Even not having your partner around during the end of the pregnancy might be a factor, so if their career is likely to have a similar effect, think hard about when your baby is likely to be born, and whether you'll have enough support around you at that time.

When to get pregnant: your child

Depending on what season your child is born in, there are scientific patterns that show a child's health can be affected by four different factors:

• Date of conception
• Time of year of pregnancy
• What food you eat during pregnancy
• Time of year you're born

A woman's hormone levels can vary greatly during pregnancy, depending on what time of year it is. For example, melatonin, the hormone that affects how well we sleep, is influenced by temperature and light levels.

The hormone levels in a woman's body as a child is developing and is born can affect a person's health for the rest of their life.

When to get pregnant: the seasons

Spring babies

• Most intelligent
• Increased risk of asthma
• Earliest age of menopause

Asthma is on the rise and those born in spring are most at risk, potentially because viruses that affect breathing are more common at this time of the year. However, it's also said that the brightest babies are often born in springtime!

Summer babies

• Most likely to be happy
• Have fewer children
• Least likely to have grass and pollen allergies

The high pollen counts during early summer are thought to be the reason for summer-born people being less affected. Mothers will have been pregnant during early summer and antibodies form to reduce the sensitivity.

If you want to have lots of grandchildren, you should know that your baby will be less likely to have a large family if they're born in the summer months. Scientists aren't sure why, but these women consistently have fewer children.

The good news, though, is that the sun obviously has a positive effect on summer-born people, who are happier than winter-born people.

Autumn babies

• Increased risk of childhood eczema
• Most likely to be physically active
• Latest age at menopause

A 2016 study from the University of Southampton showed that children born at this time do have a higher likelihood of developing eczema, but for the most part, being born in autumn is meant to be good for health because mums will have soaked up lots of vitamin D from the summer's sunlight. Vitamin D is important for brain function and is also thought to have long-term health benefits.

Reproductive hormones are higher in pregnant women in summer, so this is thought to lead to autumn babies being born with more eggs and so having a later menopause.

Winter babies

• Tallest people
• Most likely to be grumpy
• Often left-handed

Daylight hours and an increase in vitamin D are linked to winter babies being taller, while the lack of sunshine is thought to be the reason for grumpiness. Research from Germany found that men born between November and January were also significantly more likely to be left-handed than those born during other parts of the year - but they couldn't decipher why...

Scientists have also discovered that winter people tend to be less likely to try extreme sports and prefer comfort and familiarity. Strange but true!

When to get pregnant: the best day of the year to conceive

A study conducted by the University Of Indiana, USA showed the best day of the year to get pregnant is 11th December with nine per cent of Britain's babies being born on 16th September.

It's said to be down to a number of factors: the colder weather means more people spend time with their loved ones snuggling indoors, sperm quality is much higher in colder conditions and we all know festive drinking increases your chance of some bedroom fun.

The research also showed that an extra three in every 200 pregnancies survives if conceived in December.

Find out more about ovulation with Fertility expert Dr Larisa Corda's ovulation guide. It tells you exactly how to work out when you're ovulating, what triggers ovulation as well as when you should have sex to increase your chances of conception.

When you’re trying to get pregnant, the one thing every woman will almost invariably be worrying about is ovulation. Find out exactly what it is, how it impacts fertility and how an ovulation calculator can help identify when you're ovulating?

Here, we separate the facts from the fiction on everything from the early signs of ovulation to questions about eggs and sperm.

What is ovulation?

Ovulation is a part of your menstrual cycle, your period. And it happens when an egg is released from your ovary.

If the released egg is fertilised by sperm, it travels to the uterus and implants to develop into a pregnancy. If the egg is not fertilised, it disintegrates and the uterine lining is shed during your period.

Understanding how ovulation happens and when it takes place is not only good practice to undertand your own body and how it works, it can also help you fall pregnant.

What happens when you ovulate?

Every month your body prepares itself for a pregnancy. During this process one follicle (on rare occasions it may be two) is selected to grow in your ovary and produce an egg, that is then released due to a surge of hormones regulated by the brain.

This usually happens mid-cycle, about 14 days in, but cycle lengths can vary widely between women, which can make predicting ovulation rather tricky.

There is no set pattern or order as to which ovary ovulates each month: it could be the same one or they can alternate. Once released from the follicle, the egg then travels down your fallopian tube where it has the opportunity to meet sperm. If this happens and fertilisation successfully occurs, then an embryo is created which then goes on to implant in the womb. If fertilisation does not occur, the womb lining is shed and you experience a monthly period.

How long does your cycle last?

Every woman is different. The average cycle is 28 days, but many healthy, fertile women will have a cycle slightly shorter or longer than this, so won’t necessarily ovulate on day 14. But this can be perfectly normal for them! Whereas the lead up to ovulation, or the follicular phase, can vary, the luteal phase, or time after ovulation, is usually the same, around 14 days.

When you ovulate depends on the due date of your next period and not the previous one – for instance, if your cycle regularly lasts 31 days, you should ovulate on day 17 (deduct two weeks of the luteal phase from the cycle length). So if you have sex on your prime fertile days, between days 14 and 17, you have a good chance of falling pregnant. Confused? Our ovulation calculator can help.

What triggers ovulation?

It’s all down to hormones. You produce Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) during the first part of your cycle, which triggers your body to start the process of maturing eggs for ovulation.

It also increases the amount of oestrogen being produced and when oestrogen levels are high enough, they trigger a release of Luteinizing Hormone, or LH, causing the mature egg to burst from the follicle. That is ovulation. Occasionally more than one egg may be released if two follicles grow and burst, which is how non-identical twins are conceived.

How can you tell if you’re ovulating?

If you learn to ‘read’ your body and get to know your cycle you should be able to tell when you’re ovulating. Every woman is different, and you should spend time familiarising yourself with your own body’s pattern of behaviour, but there are a few general rules that can help.

One of the best ways to tell is to look out for changes in your cervical secretions. After your period, you can feel quite dry for a day or so and then get a whitish type of secretion. Then, when you start to ovulate the secretion from your vagina will change to a clear, sticky, mucus-like discharge. It’s wettish and stretchy, like raw egg white, and normally quite noticeable, so start looking out for it. This is a good sign you’re ovulating. After ovulation, the discharge will change again and become creamy and white.

Do ovulation prediction kits and temperature charts make a difference?

They can be a useful guide to tell you when you’re ovulating, but can also be inaccurate and also cause confusion as well as unnecessary anxiety. Ovulation kits work by testing your urine for a hormone surge which occurs just before ovulation, but by the time you get the result, the window of opportunity may have passed.

Some of the more accurate ones which provide a value for your LH hormone include My Lotus monitor, and can provide you with a useful graph. Something called basal body temperature (BBT) measurements can also be used, but these rely on the fact that your body temperature increases a very small amount after ovulation – again, you may have already ovulated by the time you get this information, so it’s too late to conceive in that particular cycle, though if your cycle is regular, you can use it to help you to predict ovulation in the next one. Learning to read and understand your body is what’s best, so if you use a monitor, it hopefully just backs up what you are experiencing yourself.

How long do the sperm and egg live and when is the best time to have sex?

An egg lives for about 12-24 hours after you ovulate, and sperm can live for five to seven days. Ideally, you need a lot of sperm on stand-by to ‘pounce’ on that egg when it’s released, so having regular sex in the lead up to ovulation is very important, meaning that no matter when ovulation occurs, there should theoretically be enough sperm available to do their job, if you’re trying to get pregnant.

Too many people become obsessed by only having sex in their fertile window, which is a few days before ovulation and the day of ovulation. Yes, this will give you the best chance of success but it completely deprives you of any sense of spontaneity and fun in the process, which, after all, is what sex should be about! Also, new studies have shown that sperm quality and their ability to fertilize an egg can improve with more regular sex, so even more reason to have more of it!

What should I do after sex to boost my chances?

A lot of people worry that if they feel semen fluid leak out of them, this means all the sperm have gone. This is not true! A single human ejaculate contains many millions of sperm and you only need one of these to fertilize an egg, don’t panic. However, as most people naturally feel like resting after sex, this is your body’s mechanism of encouraging the sperm to make their way into the womb and then the fallopian tubes where fertilization happens. There is no need for standing on your head as this has not scientifically be proven to help, though if you fancy doing it, go for it!

Can ovulation be painful?

Some women get a sharp pain in their lower abdomen, called mittelschmerz, as the ripe egg is released by the ovary. Rarely women may lose a small amount of blood when they ovulate too and this is all perfectly normal. But a huge amount of pain shouldn’t be felt. If you are bleeding between periods unexpectedly or experiencing a lot of discomfort, you should consult your GP.

Why can it be so difficult to get pregnant?

Humans just aren’t very fertile as a species. You only have a one in three chance of conceiving every month – and that’s just when you’re a healthy twenty-something. As you get into your thirties those chances become less with fertility typically declining much more drastically in women from around the age of 35.

1 in 6 couples may struggle to get pregnant within a year of trying. Up to 20 percent of women may be affected by this problem in their lifetime. This is really significant and is due to a number of reasons, the main one being age, but also other conditions that could affect fertility, such as endometriosis, STDs and polycystic ovaries (PCO). Then there is the male side with up to a third of infertility cases being due to problems with producing or the number or quality of sperm.

Empowering yourself with the necessary tools to be able to understand your own body and go to the doctor early enough if you suspect something is wrong, is key, as well as following some basic principles about how to optimise your and your partner’s health for pregnancy, which I share in The Conception Plan. If you are under 35 and have been trying for a year or more, go and see your GP to start some basic tests, and if you are 35 or over, do not wait longer than 6 months to go and see your doctor.

Dr. Larisa Corda is an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist and is one of the UK’s leading Fertility experts.

Wondering how to get pregnant or are in the midst of trying? This Morning's fertility expert Dr Larisa Corda shares her top tips for boosting your chances of conceiving. 

If you've been wondering how to get pregnant or increase your fertility, read our expert advice. Dr. Larisa Corda has put together a comprehensive list of advice on how to get pregnant, which forms the foundation of The Conception Plan, a natural method for getting pregnant for both men and women.

As well as tracking your fertile window with our ovulation calculator - you might also benefit from adding a few more 'fertility foods', to your diet, trying fertility yoga as well as a folic acid supplement, and looking at ways to boost sperm count 

How to get pregnant

1. Watch your pregnancy diet

Eat well and focus on seasonal foods, and an organic diet. This way you’ll know the produce is far less likely to have been influenced by hormones, pesticides, added preservatives, chemicals and additives.

Have a majority plant based diet and get strict about what you put inside of yourself as studies show it influences not just your health, but the health of your baby through the process of 'epigenetics', where what you eat can influence the expression of certain genes in offspring.

2. Exercise to get pregnant

Exercise to help boost the circulation to your reproductive organs and also to help you maintain a healthy body and mind. Exercise - especially fertility yoga - can also help to reduce the stress and any pre-pregnancy anxiety you might be feeling. Be aware, that too much or being over-vigorous can do the opposite, so be mindful and aim for that which is realistic and achievable for you.

The generally accepted guidance is at least 150 minutes spread out over the week. This will also help you to keep you within the ideal weight range that is vital for fertility and helps to reduce the chance of miscarriage, as studies show.

3. Avoid stress and consider alternative therapies

Reduce stress and keep caffeine (which is a stress activator) to a minimum. Though there is not as yet a proven association between stress and infertility, there is a wealth of literature to point to the problem of too much stress and activation of the fight or flight response, leading to an imbalance in hormones that affect fertility.

It also leads to lack of sleep, lowered libido, and an unhealthy appetite leading us to eat too much sugar, drink excessively, or smoke, all of which can reduce the chance of getting pregnant. Meditation, mindfulness, relaxation exercises, being outdoors in nature, having a bath, spending time with close friends, or a hobby can all help reduce stress, as can acupuncture, reflexology, hypnotherapy and reiki.

4. Get plenty of sleep when trying to get pregnant

Prioritise sleep and ensure your bedroom becomes a sanctuary that is conducive to sleep. It’s important to get enough rest when trying to get pregnant, to support your physical, emotional, and perimental health. This means clearing out the clutter, not using any electrical devices such as TVs and mobile phones before bedtime, and ensuring the room is dark enough to allow you to get the crucial 7-8 hours sleep a night that most of us need to be able to function well. The benefits of deep sleep to health are demonstrated in many studies.

5. Have frequent sex

Have sex often and throughout your cycle. Most people become too obsessed with using an ovulation calculator to track their fertile window when trying to get pregnant, and confine sex to that time. But as long as you’re having intercourse several times a week, there will be sperm available to fertilise the egg. This is because sperm can survive in the reproductive tract for several days. Recent studies suggest that sperm quality may actually improve with more regular sex.

6. Take a supplement

Get yourself on a good multivitamin supplement a few months before you start trying to get pregnant. For men looking to increase sperm count, a supplement rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, E, selenium, zinc and garlic can help. Women should look towards a vitamin supplement that delivers the required dose of folic acid, iodine and vitamin D. Omega 3 is also important for both men and women as it influences the development of the baby’s brain and IQ as is a probiotic with studies suggesting the growing importance of the microbiome of the womb in achieving pregnancy.

7. Stop smoking

You absolutely need to stop smoking to boost fertility, as this can cause damage to the lining of the womb, the eggs and sperm, but also adversely affect the health of your child, and cause all sorts of complications in your pregnancy. You also stop drinking alcohol - or cut right down, as it has also been linked to abnormalities in the baby.

8. Avoid pollutants

Be mindful of the toxic elements influencing your environment, from unfiltered water to plastic, to products you put on your skin or use around the house. These toxins can end up being harmful to our hormones that control fertility, as well as the eggs and sperm.

Always try and use products in their most natural state especially as some recent studies have also shown certain toxins can influence sperm DNA, which can be passed on to offspring and has been linked to obesity and other health issues in the child. In addition to which a recent Italian study has shown evidence of air pollutants potentially being linked to earlier menopause in women.

Dr Larisa Corda is an obstetrician and gynaecologist and one of the UK’s leading fertility specialists

Related features: 

• Early signs of pregnancy 
• Best time to get pregnant
• Why can't I get pregnant? 
• Fertility foods to boost fertility 
• I want a baby and he doesn't
  

Advances in fertility options, along with the delay in starting a family, have resulted in women making the choice to freeze their eggs.

Egg freezing is an opportunity for women to increase fertility in the future, by pausing the biological clock from ticking out. With more and more women deciding to delay getting pregnant, it's a treatment on the rise. 

"I believe there are a couple of key factors which are motivating more women today to freeze their eggs," says Dr. Victoria Walker, from the internationally leading assisted reproduction centre, Institut Marques. 

"We live in a career-driven society, so it is not unusual that many women are considering delaying motherhood in order to focus on their work. I also think that waiting for ‘Mr. Right’ to have a baby is a motivating factor, which is leading more women to freeze their eggs than ever before."

There are three key stages to egg freezing. Here, Dr Walker gives us the lowdown on the process.

1. The ovarian stimulation phase

"During this, patients undergo stimulation of their ovaries through a course of subcutaneous injections. This begins on the second or third day of their menstruation. This medication ensures that multiple eggs are produced during the ovulatory cycle, rather than just the one that would occur naturally. Patients are monitored to see how their follicles are growing, so it’s clear when the eggs have successfully matured and are ready for retrieval. Check-ups are carried out through regular ultrasounds and blood tests."

2. The egg retrieval process

"This takes place at a fertility clinic. Using ultrasound technology, a doctor identifies the patient’s ovaries and then gently guides a catheter through the vaginal wall. Suction is used to draw out the eggs, one by one, which are then placed in test tubes. The entire procedure takes approximately 15 minutes."

3. Freezing and storage

"Immediately after retrieval, the eggs are rinsed, incubated, and prepared for freezing by an expert. ‘Vitrification’ is performed by hardening the eggs quickly, at a low temperature. To achieve this, a large quantity of cellular cryoprotectors are used to treat the eggs to avoid breakages in the cellular membranes.

Following this, the eggs are frozen by being submerged in cold liquid nitrogen, and then stored in a secure environment. When the women decided it's the right time to have a baby, the eggs are defrosted and fertilised. The transfer of the embryos then takes place 2 or 3 days later."

How much does egg freezing cost?

"In the UK, egg freezing costs around £3,500-£4,500 and you’ll also pay an annual fee to store your eggs," says Dr Walker.

When the time comes that you'd like to try for a baby, you’ll need to pay for thawing, fertilisation and transfer of the eggs.

What to consider..

"For anyone thinking about freezing their eggs, it's recommended that freezing takes place by the age of 35," says Dr Walker. 'This is the end of a woman’s prime reproductive years, and so her eggs are usually still of good quality and quantity. The younger the patient is, the better the survival rate and quality of the eggs. This, in turn usually means higher pregnancy rates.' Despite this, the most common age for a woman to freeze her eggs is 38, according to the The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HEFA).

Unless someone’s fertility may be affected by disease, fertility laws in the UK mean eggs can only be stored for a maximum of 10 years. After then they are destroyed, although the government is calling for this time limit to be ditched to reflect the advances in science and social changes.

Caroline Dinenage, a minister in the Department of Health told the BBC: "I am particularly concerned by the impact of the current law on women's reproductive choices. A time limit can often mean women are faced with the heartbreaking decision to destroy their frozen eggs or feel pressured to have a child before they are ready."

Whether a woman chooses to freeze her eggs or not is a very personal decision. There are many lifestyle advantages to delaying becoming mum, and egg freezing can ease the pressure of rushing into motherhood.

"However, it is important to emphasise that egg freezing does not guarantee you'll be able to conceive, and undergoing IVF at an older age does reduce the chances of pregnancy success," says Dr Walker.

Related links: 

• How to increase fertility 
• I want a baby and they don’t: what to do when your partner’s not ready
• Ovulation calculator: When will I ovulate?
• Early signs of pregnancy
  

Did you know that today is the most popular day for people to get pregnant?

But, what is it about today in particular that makes it the most fertile day of the year?

Well, the most popular birthday in the UK is September 16, meaning that most people conceive on 11 December.

And the reasons for December 11th being the most fertile day of the year?  There are a few...

Scientists think it's all in the biology, and that the colder winter air improves sperm quality.

However, another explanation as to why it's the most fertile day is that couples are simply having more sex at this time of year.

The festive season means spending more time together, feeling broody with the New Year looming and of course, a little more drinking and partying than usual.

There's also the theory that couples will try to plan their conception so that they will give birth in autumn, as it gives their baby an advantage academically.

Statistically, September babies do better at school as they are amongst the oldest in their school year, and can be almost a whole year older than an August-born baby in the same class.

In fact, there are all sorts of things your baby's birth month can mean for their life.

So if you're currently trying for a baby, hop to it, as tomorrow really could be your lucky day!

And, if you're really considering the most effective way to get pregnant, check out our tips on using an ovulation calculator as well. This helps you track your menstrual cycle to work out when you'll be ovulating over the next six months.

Once you figure out when you're most fertile, you can then schedule in some one on one time with your partner.

After all, the nights are getting colder, darker and longer - it would seem crazy not to use it as an excuse to get extra cosy...

Fertility expert Dr Larisa discusses the common causes of infertility and the wide range of treatments available to couples struggling to conceive.

Infertility is medically defined as the inability to become pregnant after 12 months of regular sexual intercourse without birth control or, for women over age 35, six months. Up to 15 to 20 per cent of people may experience this problem over their lifetime, with 1 in 6 couples being affected.

What causes infertility?

For pregnancy to be successful, a sequence of events needs to occur that includes a healthy egg meeting a healthy sperm to create an embryo, that must divide and implant correctly in the womb. It sounds simple enough, yet each one of these processes depends on many other factors and favourable conditions which allow for conception to take place. There may be problems at any of these stages in both men and women.

What can cause infertility in a woman?

Up to 50 per cent of infertility cases happen because of problems with the woman’s fertility and there are many different reasons for this – here are a few of the main ones:

Age: This is the most important factor affecting a woman’s fertility. Older women are less fertile. The chance of a woman conceiving after aged 35 – 39 is about half of women aged 19 – 26.

Even before menopause, our bodies’ reproductive capabilities slow down. This natural decline of fertility happens in all women, though it happens at different ages for individual women. It leads to a reduction in the number of eggs, their quality and therefore ability to fertilise and lead to a healthy embryo. This decline can sometimes be due to previous surgery, cancer treatment or genetic factors.

Ovulation problems: Problems with ovulation are also very common, the biggest cause being polycystic ovaries (PCOS). This a a hormonal and metabolic disorder that leads to irregular ovulation as well as problems with insulin, putting a woman at risk of other health issues too. Ovulation problems may also be due to thyroid disorders, adrenal gland disorders, excessive exercise, diabetes, weight loss, obesity, or certain medications.

Implanting problems: Sometimes the cause is structural problems, or blocked fallopian tubes that transport the sperm to the egg. This can be due to endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), or scarring due to surgery or repeated injury. Sometimes women are born with abnormalities that affect their reproductive organs, and other times fibroids, which are benign growths of muscular tissue in the womb, can create a problem, though not always and it depends on their size and position.

Endometriosis in particular, is a very common condition that causes 1 in 20 cases of infertility. It’s where tissue from the lining of the uterus is found outside the uterus in the pelvis. As well as causing scarring, it can also cause painful and heavy periods, as well as having an effect on your fertility, but it can be a difficult condition to recognise, with diagnosis sometimes requiring several years.

What can cause infertility in males?

Around 30 per cent of infertility cases happen because of a problem with male fertility.

Sperm disorders: Men are also affected by infertility and the issues arise either due to problems producing or having enough sperm, how well the sperm are moving, and whether they are morphologically normal or not. Whereas a woman is born with all the eggs she will ever have in her lifetime, a man produces new sperm every 3 months, but men are still not immune to the effects of age and over the age of about 40, sperm quality declines.

Genetic conditions: Men can be born with genetic conditions, such as cystic fibrosis, that can prevent them from producing sperm in an ejaculate, but more commonly, there could be structural problems such as varicoceles, which are enlarged veins affecting a man’s testicles, blocked or damaged reproductive structures that transport sperm, problems with erection or ejaculation, and also previous undescended or injured testicles.

Lifestyle: A low sperm count can be caused by a number of factors from illness and side effects of medication to diet. Environmental and lifestyle factors can affect sperm count too, e.g. too much heat to the testes can lower sperm count as can exposure to certain chemicals. Alcohol and drug misuse and some sexually transmitted diseases can also affect sperm count.

Unexplained infertility

This is perhaps the most frustrating diagnosis of all and affects about a third of couples. No obvious cause for infertility is found despite investigations. But this is where perhaps lifestyle factors may have the most significant influence.

Whereas medical intervention here in the form of IVF is often given, it may not necessarily succeed, with success rates still lower than we would hope to see. This is why identifying any potential causes behind the infertility is really important, including any lifestyle factors that need to be adjusted before treatment is started.

Treating infertility: How can you get pregnant if you are infertile?

See your GP if you're concerned and have been trying naturally between 6 months to a year, depending on your age. It’s important to investigate the infertility first, for both you and your partner. Tests can be as simple as a blood test to check your hormone levels and a pelvic ultrasound to look at the ovaries and womb. A semen sample from your partner can be checked for sperm levels.

Other treatments, from donor sperm, to assisted conception techniques such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), where a single sperm is injected into an egg and then the embryo is placed back in the womb, can be discussed with you.

But before any of this starts, it’s vital to get yourself into the best possible state of health through lifestyle changes that will improve any underlying medical conditions that could be behind the infertility, as well as boosting your chances of pregnancy whether naturally or through assisted reproductive treatment.

This is the foundation of The Conception Plan, which I use to improve a couple’s natural chances of conception, as well as those undergoing treatment, and I discuss these tips in my article on how to get pregnant.

IVF

Around 24,000 couples opt for IVF (in vitro fertilization) treatment every year in the UK. About 8000 babies are conceived through IVF procedures, which involve removing eggs from the woman's ovaries and mixing them with either her partner's or a donor's sperm to fertilise. The fertilised eggs are then put back in the womb.

Do keep in mind that NHS treatment availability varies throughout the UK and you may have heard of the postcode lottery.

The funding is severely restricted in many areas of the UK and national guidance is not necessarily followed, instead being replaced by very strict criteria that have to be met for a couple to qualify for treatment. You could need several IVF treatments before you conceive and there's no guarantee then that you will end up with a baby.

IVF treatment can be very gruelling, so aim to get as much help and support from family and friends or support groups as you can. Not everyone will get pregnant with IVF and some of these pregnancies may end in miscarriage. Choose a clinic that is licensed by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), which regulates and inspects all clinics and if you are going abroad, make sure you do your research about the clinic and its success rates.

Infertility treatments overview

Ultimately, treatment is all about reversing an identified cause. There are times when a doctor may recommend surgery prior to undertaking any fertility treatment, if the lifestyle changes alone are not enough to improve the clinical picture.

For example, this can be done for endometriosis, polycystic ovaries, blocked fallopian tubes, scarring in the womb, or for male related infertility due to a previous vasectomy, or problems with ejaculation where sperm needs to be retrieved surgically from the testes.

Fertility treatment typically involves the stimulation of egg or sperm production, or the handling of eggs, sperm or embryos. It can include treatment with clomid, intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). It may also involve the use of donor eggs and sperm, as well as surrogacy.

Superovulation drugs

Suitable for: Women with ovulation problems, most commonly PCOS. What happens? Clomid (taken as a pill) or Gonal-f, and Menopur (administered by injection) will be prescribed to encourage the ovaries to produce more eggs than usual. Side effects: Hot flushes, mood swings, nausea and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), a rare but potentially life compromising condition. There is a higher chance of twins. Private cost: Clomid costs less than £10 for a prescription; the injectable drugs are around £200 per cycle, but you will need monitoring by ultrasound and blood tests.

Intrauterine insemination (IUI)

Suitable for: Women for whom superovulation hasn't worked; mild male factor infertility; if using donor sperm, in cases where a couple is unable to have sex. What happens? You take superovulatory drugs (though you could have IUI naturally without this) and have ultrasound scans to track the development of your eggs. Once your eggs are mature, you will be given a shot of the hormone HCG to trigger ovulation and the IUI is done after this. Your partner produces a semen sample or donor sperm is used and inseminated into the uterus - this takes about 10 minutes and is pretty painless. Before doing IUI, it’s important to make sure a woman’s fallopian tubes are open and healthy. Side effects: Mild cramps, OHSS if stimulating drugs are used, which also increase the chance of twins. Private cost: £800 to £1300 per cycle

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) and Intracytoplasmic sperm injection ICSI

Suitable for: Women for whom superovulation and IUI has failed, unexplained infertility, endometriosis, absence of fallopian tubes or pelvic inflammatory disease, older women, male factor infertility. What happens? Fertility drugs are used to stimulate the ovaries to produce eggs. Assuming all goes well at this stage, those eggs are then retrieved from the woman's ovaries in an out-patient procedure, and fertilised in a special incubating dish with sperm or, in cases of ICSI, sperm is injected directly into the egg to help with the process of fertilisation. Side effects: Hot flushes, headaches, bloating, OHSS, small surgical risk with egg collection process. Private cost: This can be anywhere from around £5000 per cycle, to much more, also depending on whether any add ons are used. You doctor should always discuss these with you, as the majority of these have not yet got a robust enough evidence basis behind them.

Donor eggs

Suitable for: Older women, those with premature menopause or very low ovarian reserve of eggs, where several rounds of IVF has failed, same sex male couples using a surrogate, you have a high risk of passing on an inherited condition. What happens? A younger woman who has been screened by the clinic undergoes treatment with fertility drugs in order to collect her eggs, which are then fertilised with sperm from your partner to create an embryo that is transferred into your uterus. In the meantime, you will take medication to prepare your womb lining ready to receive the embryo. Private cost: Depending on the criteria you may have for the donor, this can be anywhere from £10000 upwards, with fresh eggs costing more than those that have been frozen.

Donor sperm

Suitable for: Women who are single, male factor infertility, same sex female couples, there is a high risk of the male partner passing on an inherited condition. What happens: Donor sperm can be used either in the process of IUI or IVF. Side effects: The sperm should come from a regulated clinic to ensure that it has been screened appropriately. Unregulated sperm donation done online puts the woman’s and her baby’s health at risk. Private cost: Costs normally start at around £1000.

Surrogacy

Suitable for: Women who do not have a uterus or have problems affecting the uterus, cases where repeat IVF has failed, same sex male couples using an egg donor. What happens? A surrogate is a woman who undergoes embryo transfer and carries the pregnancy. Private cost: There is no set figure on this and costs can be huge depending on where the surrogacy is done. However, an average cost of £12000 to £15000 is common in the UK. Surrogacy laws are different in each country, and can be quite complex.

Dr Larisa Corda is an obstetrician and gynaecologist and one of the UK’s leading fertility specialists

Retroverted uterus is probably not a phrase that you use regularly. In fact, a lot of us may not know what it means – let alone if we’ve even got one.

Women’s health experts estimate that around a quarter of women have a retroverted uterus  - and many don't even realise. So the chances are it’s a condition that could affect you or someone you know. But what exactly does it mean and how will it affect your life? Here, we get the answers that you really need…

What is a retroverted uterus?

A retroverted uterus is also commonly known as a tilted uterus or a tipped uterus. It’s when the uterus leans towards the back of the body rather than resting in a forwards position. 

A woman’s uterus is shaped like an upside-down pear and sits in the pelvic area behind the bladder. The size of the uterus varies between women but is on average between 6-10cm long and 3-5cm wide.

It’s typical position is bending slightly forwards towards the bladder and abdomen. This is known as an anteverted uterus, and most women’s uteruses will be in this position.A retroverted uterus tips backwards instead, towards the rectum and spine.

Ms Shazia Malik, Consultant Gynaecologist at HCA Healthcare UK’s The Portland Hospital, explains that while it’s not necessarily something to worry about, it can be an indicator to a more serious condition such as endometriosis or a pelvic infection. ‘These can be troublesome if not recognised or treated,’ she says.

What causes a retroverted uterus?

So, you're probably wondering what causes a retroverted uterus. Are women born with it or does it develop over time? The answer, says Shazia, is that both is possible.

For most women with a retroverted uterus, it is present from birth. And in this case, having a retroverted uterus will usually not cause a problem.

Sometimes there are other medical factors that may cause the position of the uterus to change from an anteverted uterus to a retroverted uterus. Pregnancy, fibroids or a tumor can cause the uterus to enlarge, and this may result in a tilted uterus. 

‘In some women it can be caused by a condition called endometriosis, previous surgery, pelvic infection or pelvic adhesions causing tissues to stick together,’ says Shazia.

A retroverted uterus may also be the result of childbirth or the menopause. These can cause the ligaments around the uterus to become weak so that it tips backwards.

How common is a tilted uterus?

‘It is perfectly normal for up to 25% of women,’ says Shazia. 

But despite 1 in 4 women having a retroverted uterus, many are unaware of their uteruses position. Others may notice signs that their uterus is tilted. 

What are the symptoms of a retroverted uterus?

‘Most women have no symptoms at all,’ says Shazia. 

In fact, women are often first alerted to the condition when going for a smear test, because if the health professional doesn’t know about the tilted uterus or doesn’t recognise it when they start the test, they may find that they have difficulties finding the cervix.

‘Some women also find it harder to insert a menstrual cup over the cervix if the womb is retroverted,’ explains Shazia.‘And very occasionally it can cause uterine incarceration in the first trimester of pregnancy,’ she says. This is where the uterus becomes wedged into the pelvis resulting in an inability to empty the bladder fully.

Other symptoms of a retroverted uterus include:

Feeling discomfort or pain during sex: Particularly during deep penetration or in certain sexual positions such a from behind 

Painful periods: You may have back ache during your period rather than abdominal pain 

Needing to wee, or feeling bladder pressure: A tilted uterus can sometimes affect bladder function

Difficulty positioning tampons: It may be more difficult to insert a tampon when the uterus is tipped backwards

Urinary tract infections (UTIs): UTIs may be more common with a retroverted uterus

According to research published in the International Urogynecology Journal, 69% of grade 2-4 uterine prolapses involve a retroverted uterus. A uterine prolapse is when the muscles and  ligaments can no longer hold the uterus in place in the pelvis and the uterus slips down into the vagina.

Can a retroverted uterus affect your ability to get pregnant?

While it was previously thought that a tilted uterus could make it harder for sperm to navigate to the uterus and reach an egg, more updated research has shown that it’s not a cause for concern.

‘There is no evidence that this affects fertility in itself,’ Shazia confirms.

However, that is only providing that there are no ‘contributory pelvic abnormalities or conditions’ that are causing the retroverted uterus.

So if a uterus is tilted tipped due to a condition like endometriosis, then the endometriosis can be a contributing factor to problems with conceiving.

Will a retroverted uterus affect sex or contraception?

For most women, no, but there are some circumstances when it can cause a problem.

‘Certain sexual positions –such as when you are on top, can cause discomfort if you have a tilted uterus,’ says Shazia.

And if your chosen contraception method is an IUD, a retroverted uterus can affect the insertion.

‘With IUD insertion it is important that the health professional recognises that the womb is tilted backwards,’ says Shazia, ‘otherwise they can perforate the uterus by not inserting the IUD correctly’. 

So make sure to make any medical professionals aware if you do have a tilted uterus. Generally, it won’t affect any other form of contraception or tampon use and you’re even unlikely to notice in childbirth, as the uterus tilts forwards anyway when it enlarges at around 12 weeks of pregnancy.

How do you fix a tilted uterus?

The good news is that it doesn’t normally require ‘fixing’ at all. ‘Mostly treatment is required to treat the condition causing it – if there is one, such as surgery for endometriosis or uterine fibroids, or infection,’ advises Shazia. ‘Otherwise if it is a significant problem, for example during intercourse, keyhole surgery can help to fix the ligaments supporting the womb to keep it tilted forwards.’

Previously, vaginal pessaries or certain exercises were recommended to women with the condition, but Shazia says there is no good evidence that these help.

If you do experience any of the symptoms of a tilted uterus,  discuss it with your doctor to check that it’s not a sign of something more serious.

Geriatric mother is the hard-hitting term that the medical profession have used, over the years, to describe pregnancies in women over the age of 35 years old.

Geriatric mother, at 35 years old? Now, as a rule 35 isn’t considered old in our society, you’re not shopping for nursing homes just yet, so it’s baffling as to why a pregnancy past this age is dubbed ‘geriatric’, though you may also hear the softer term ‘advanced maternal age’ which classes your pregnancy as a geriatric pregnancy.

While many of us think falling pregnant past the age of 30 is difficult, the figures don’t lie. The over-35’s now have the fastest growing birthrates and the number of women having babies in their 40’s have nearly doubled in 10 years.

In addition, statistics show that in 2010, 27,000 babies were born to women over 40 compared with just 9,336 in 1989.  In fact around one in five women are aged 35 or older when they give birth.

Historically women had babies in their 20's, btu nowadays however women use this time of their life to build careers and relationships, leaving babies until later in life.

While most have perfectly healthy pregnancies and babies, being an older mum can affect your pregnancy and the birth.

What does geriatric mother mean?

A geriatric mother is a woman who is having her first baby at 35 years or older.

Basically, all this term means is that:

• A) your doctor is out of touch and should actually be referring to you as ‘advanced maternal age’ and
• B You’re over 35 years of age and pregnant.

That’s all it means.

No attention is paid as to whether this is your first pregnancy, whether your partner is over 35, if you’re overweight not even if you’re healthy or not, this term is literally based on your age.

At what age do you become a geriatric mother?

35 years and older is when this term is used. According to a report by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) the College specified that the optimal age for childbearing is 20 to 35.

What is the best age to have a baby?

What are the risks of a geriatric pregnancy?

Not only do you risk being called a geriatric mother, but according to the NHS as women get older, both mothers and babies face an increased risk of pregnancy-related complications and health problems.

These are due to changes in the reproductive system and general health problems that comes with age.

Problems may include:

• Greater difficulty in initially conceiving a child, with the personal and psychological difficulties that this can cause.
• Increased risk of complications for both mother and infant during pregnancy and delivery (although the actual size of the risk may be small).
• Greater risk of general maternal health problems, such as high blood pressure
• Higher risk of miscarriage in women above the age of 35
• Higher risk of having twins or triplets
• Increased chance of having a baby with a congenital abnormality (ie Down’s syndrome)
• Increased risk of pre-eclampsia
• Increased risk of complications during delivery, such as prolonged labour, need for assisted delivery or Caesarean section, or stillbirth

Though, it's important to remember that according to the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology's editor: 'Where there are no tangible medical complications of pregnancy, the risks of childbirth in older women are no greater than in younger women.'

What are the benefits of a geriatric pregnancy?

Having a baby later in life isn't all about bad news and health risks. Women who wait to have children have many benefits at their disposal.

Older mothers have more resources to care for their children they tend to be better educated, more financially stable, confident and settled in themselves. They have the emotional maturity and life experiences.

And, you're in good company with some famous faces joining the geriatric mother club!

Nicole Kidman had her daughter, Sunday Rose at 41, Halle Berry had daughter Nahla at 41, while red head Marcia Cross welcomed twin girls at 44 and Susan Sarandon gave birth to son Miles Guthrie at 45.

A new study has shown that completing four hours of 'vigorous exercise' a week boosts the chances of a woman getting pregnant.

If you've been trying for a baby but haven't had any success, it could be time to start thinking outside of the bedroom...

According to a new study on 1,214 women, conducted by University of Massachusetts Amherst, exercising for just four hours a week can improve your chances of getting pregnant.

The women were aged between 18 and 40 and all had suffered at least one miscarriage.

The scientists discovered that those who do 240 minutes of intense physical exercise had a boosted fertility rate of around 69 per cent.

Overweight women had an improvement in fertility after doing as little as a 10 minute walk a day. This boosted their chances of conception by 80 per cent within a six week cycle.

Choosing to go for a walk for 10 minutes a day can make a real difference to your fertility

Professor Brian Whitcomb, study co-author, said: 'We were happy to be able to add scientific evidence to general recommendations about physical activity.

'This is especially true for the results about walking for even limited blocks of time. Walking has great potential as a lifestyle change because of its low cost and availability.'

Brian explained: 'What we eat and what we do are potential factors we can change to shape our health. So this sort of research is important because it helps provide information on the things people can actually do something about'.

Although the researchers are confident that exercise can boost fertility, they are yet to pin down exactly why it has such a dramatic impact.

'We don’t know what to make of the finding that high intensity physical activity may have different biological effects than walking, but our study doesn’t offer enough detail to get at why vigorous activity would work differently than other levels.'

The researchers concluded that more work was needed but that the initial results were very reassuring.

They said: 'These findings provide positive evidence for the benefits of physical activity in women attempting pregnancy, especially for walking among those with higher BMI. Further study is necessary to clarify possible mechanisms through which walking and vigorous activity might affect time-to-pregnancy.'

The average age for women to have their first baby has risen from 27 to 28.5 in recent years.

In 2014, over half of all births were to mothers aged 30 and over and two-thirds of fathers were aged 30 and over. Meanwhile, the pregnancy rate for women over the age of 40 is also at a record high.

However, some experts have been hitting back at the trend for later life pregnancies. Speaking at a talk at the Cheltenham Science Festival titled 'The Fertility Time Bomb', gynaecologist Dr Gillian Lockwood warned that 'women can't Botox their ovaries', adding that she feels the peak age for women to have a baby is 25.

There's no denying that some women who have children later in life wish they'd started a family earlier.

Newsreader Natasha Kaplinsky gave birth to her two children, Arlo and Angelica, in her late thirties, but now says she wishes she'd had children younger. She told the Mail Online, 'I met my husband later on in life. I feel very fortunate with my two, but I feel I would be pushing my luck if I tried again... I didn't know what it would feel like to have children and it's only since then that I wished I had started sooner. I would have had a whole football team if I could have done!'

Natasha's comments came not long after fellow TV star Kate Garraway backed a campaign encouraging women to have children younger, before it becomes too late. Kate, who had her children Darcey and William at 38 and 42 said, 'In some ways I wish I'd had my babies younger. Now I would love a third child but I've almost certainly left it too late. My fertility door is slamming shut.'

However, some celebrities, such as Halle Berry for example, who welcomed her second child in 2013 at the age of 47, are proving that it is still possible to have a healthy pregnancy in their 40s.

On the other end of the scale, teenage pregnancy rates in the UK are dropping - there were about 23 conceptions per 1,000 15 to 17-year-old girls in 2014, compared to a high of 55 in 1971, according to the Office of National Statistics.

So what is the best age to have a baby? Take a look at pros and cons for each age group and decide for yourself...

Your teens

Having a child while you're still maturing yourself isn't always a good idea, but with the right support, many teenagers can become great mothers.

Pros

• 1. You'll have more natural energy and physical resilience at this age than any other, so the sleepless nights and energy-draining demands a newborn baby makes on you might not affect you so deeply. 
• 2. You're less likely to have a job or established career to balance with your new responsibilities, so you can concentrate more fully on being a mum. 
• 3. You're young enough to relate more easily to your child as he or she grows up.

Cons

• 1. You are statistically more likely to give birth prematurely or have a low birth-weight baby, and you are at increased risk of developing complications during pregnancy. 
• 2. You are still growing yourself. This can affect the development of the placenta, which in turn can affect your baby's health. Babies born to teenage mothers are at increased risk of suffering health problems. 
• 3. You may lack the emotional maturity needed to deal with motherhood and all the sacrifices you'll have to make - becoming a mum is one of life's biggest changes, and you might find it difficult to cope at such a young age. 
• 4. Teenage mums are often in less stable relationships, and more likely to end up as single parents. 
• 5. Your baby will interfere with your education, and you'll have to be incredibly determined and hardworking to catch up. 
• 6. Your savings and income may not be as high as other mothers who have their babies later, meaning you could be more likely to struggle financially.

Your 20s

Until recently, the average age for women to give birth was 27 and it's easy to understand why. This decade is still considered by many to be the most natural time to have a baby.

Pros

• 1. Your fertility reaches its peak in your early 20s. Your body is ready for pregnancy - and because you're still young, it's supple and flexible enough to recover quickly too.
• 2. You are still fit and more full of energy than you might be in later decades. You're young enough to cope physically with the demands of a new baby. 
• 3. You've had longer to mature, and are more likely to be in a stable relationship with a steady income than you were in your teens.

Cons

• 1. Your social life will suffer. If you like going out most nights, motherhood can be a significant chance of lifestyle. 
• 2. Your career might still be in its early stages, and it will probably have to take a back seat, particularly when your baby is very young. 
• 3. You may be more financially stable than in your teens, but you've just got used to having your own money to spend on yourself, and now it's going on a baby. Parenting requires a lot of selflessness.

Your 30s

The average age for becoming a mum in the UK has risen from 27 to almost 30 in two decades. In fact, more women now give birth in the 30-34 age group than in the 25-29 age group.

Pros

• 1. You're more mature and ready to make the sacrifices required to become a mum. 
• 2. Your finances are generally more stable and you'll therefore be more likely to be able to cope with a break from work. 
• 3. Studies show that women who wait until their 30s actually enjoy better health, live longer and end up having healthier babies.

Cons

• 1. You could find it more difficult to get pregnant than you would have if you'd conceived earlier. At 35, you are half as fertile as you were at 25, which means it can take much longer for you to get pregnant in your late 30s. 
• 2. Statistically, you have an increased risk of miscarriage. Genetic disorders such as Downs syndrome also become more likely with later pregnancies. 
• 3. The physical demands of pregnancy and caring for a newborn baby - especially sleepless nights - may be harder for you to deal with.

Your 40s

The number of women giving birth in their 40s has increased by 50% in the last decade.

Pros

• 1. You are older, wiser and ready to devote yourself to motherhood. 
• 2. You are financially stable. 
• 3. Your working life is more likely to be settled and secure and you will find it easier to take a maternity break .

Cons

• 1. Your fertility is in decline as you age. You may have to undergo IVF or other fertility treatments which can be expensive, unpredictable and physically and emotionally draining. 
• 2. You're more likely to suffer complications in pregnancy such as pre-eclampsia, and are more at risk of needing a Caesarean or forceps delivery. 
• 3. The risk of having a baby with Downs syndrome is about 1 in 28 for a mother who is 45. 
• 4. You may have less energy to cope with your new arrival. Without help, you could find yourself exceptionally worn out!

American scientists have issued a warning to potential parents to avoid one month of the year in particular when they are trying for a new baby.

Researchers from the University of Indiana say that the worst time of the year to try and start your family is June, and have even named it ‘the toxic June effect’.

The scientists believe that large quantities of pesticides sprayed on crops in the summer months are partially to blame for it being the most ‘vulnerable stage’ for potential mothers - making summer mummies the most likely to have short pregnancies and premature babies.

This pesticide problem is combined with lower levels of sunlight and Vitamin D exposure towards the end of the pregnancy around February and March.

And despite shops telling us we should be rekindling passions in our relationships in late February, scientists say Valentines' Day on 29 February is one of the least likely times to conceive.

On the contrary, Christmas is the peak time in the calendar for conceiving, with the month of December being the best time for successful pregnancies.

The research found that an extra 3 babies in every 200 pregnancies survive if conceived in December.

They believe that just as low sunlight affects June mothers, the December mothers-to-be are exposed to high levels of summer sunshine at a late stage of the birth.

Higher levels of Vitamin D not only help with a smooth birth, but it maintains healthy bones and is thought to protect against cancer, Type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis.

The revealing study was conducted at Indiana University for five years between 2004 and 2009 and involved 270,000 pregnancies.

These findings also fit with results from the University of Cambridge, which showed that babies born in the summer were likely to be stronger and taller.