If you’re ready to try to get pregnant, congratulations! This is no doubt a very special time, but any mom who’s been in your position will know that the journey from thinking about getting pregnant to actually getting pregnant can be a bit of a rollercoaster.
Chances are you’re already marking your most fertile days on the calendar, and stocking up on foods and vitamins to help boost fertility. It’s a lot to think about, but we’re here to support you from the start.
With so much information out there, it’s understandable if you feel overwhelmed and confused. To help you separate fact from fiction and test your knowledge, why not take our fertility quiz?
1- Missionary is best for conceiving
Fact/Fiction
There are some age-old beliefs that trying certain positions during sex will up your chances of conceiving, but there’s no solid research to back this up. With that in mind, go for what you and your partner like most, so that while you’re trying to get pregnant, you’re also having the best possible time.
2- If you’re older than most mums-to-be, it’s unlikely you’ll get pregnant
Fact/Fiction
It is true that your eggs decrease over time, so as you get older, the odds of conceiving decreasei. However, there are many other lifestyle factors – including diet and stressii – that may affect fertility. And while getting pregnant when you’re over 35 may take a little longer, it’s by no means impossible!
3-Most women ovulate on day 14
Fact/Fiction
It’s very common to ovulate on other daysiii. Cycles vary in length from woman to woman (and even from month to month). Getting familiar with your fertile window is key, because even if you have a 28-day cycle, ovulation can occur as early as day 11 and as late as day 20.
4- Your diet can influence the sex of your child
Fact/Fiction
Don’t be fooled by thinking that eating more salt will help you to conceive a boy, or dairy-rich meals will improve your chances of having a girliv. Your child’s sex is down to whether a ‘male’ or ‘female’ sperm fertilizes the egg first. However, you may be advised by your doctor to take a folic acid supplement even if you’re trying for a baby. In early pregnancy, a diet rich in folates (folic acid) can help to reduce the risk of birth defectsv.
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