How To Increase Fertility

Fertility plays a crucial role in the journey to parenthood, but for many couples, it’s not always a straightforward path. If you’re looking to boost your fertility, understanding the factors that influence it and the steps you can take to improve it can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore tests, supplements, lifestyle changes, and natural methods to help increase fertility while targeting information specifically for a UK audience.

Key Takeaways

Simple Tests Can Help:

Fertility tests like Babystart FertilCheck for women and FertilCount2 for men can quickly and privately identify potential issues, helping you take the right steps.

Healthy Habits Improve Fertility:

Eating nutritious foods, exercising moderately, and avoiding smoking or alcohol can boost fertility naturally for both men and women.

Supplements Support Fertility:

Special supplements like FertilCare for women and FertilMan for men provide essential nutrients to improve egg and sperm health, increasing your chances of conception.

Increasing Fertility After 35 Years Old

If you're specifically interested in learning how to increase your fertility levels after the age of 35 years old our dedicated guide has the advice you need.

Understanding Fertility: The Basics

Fertility refers to the ability to conceive and carry a pregnancy to term. Factors like age, health, lifestyle, and even stress levels can all impact fertility in men and women. If you’re struggling to conceive, there are tests and strategies available to help identify issues and improve your chances.

Fertility Tests: What to Check

If you suspect fertility issues, testing is a key first step. Fertility tests can provide insights into potential problems and help guide your next steps.

Tests for Women

• Babystart FertilCheck Female Fertility Test
  This at-home test detects follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in urine. High FSH levels can indicate reduced ovarian reserve, meaning fewer fertile eggs. This quick and accurate test gives results in minutes and is an easy way to check ovarian health. If the results are concerning, don’t panic—there are ways to improve egg quality.

Get the Babystart FertilCheck Test

Tests for Men

• Babystart FertilCount2 Male Fertility Test
  This test measures sperm concentration in semen, offering a quick and private way to assess sperm count. It provides results in just 15 minutes and is 99% accurate. Sperm count can vary, so this test may need to be repeated. Low results? Don’t worry—there are ways to boost sperm quality.

Learn more about Babystart FertilCount2

Ovulation Tests

• Babystart FertilTime Ovulation Test
  Designed for women, this test identifies the most fertile days of the menstrual cycle. Knowing your fertile window can greatly increase your chances of conception. This kit includes multiple tests to use throughout your cycle.

Shop FertilTime Ovulation Test

Supplements to Boost Fertility

Taking the right supplements can significantly improve fertility for both men and women. Maintaining good overall health supports hormone balance and reproductive health.

For Women

• Babystart FertilCare and FertilWoman Plus
  These supplements include essential nutrients like folic acid and vitamin D, which promote regular menstrual cycles and improve egg health.
  Explore FertilCare for Women

• Babystart FertilOva for PCOS
  Specially designed for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), this supplement helps regulate ovulation and improves egg quality.
  Learn about FertilOva

For Men

• Babystart FertilMan and FertilMan Plus
  These supplements contain key ingredients like zinc, selenium, and antioxidants, which support sperm production and motility.
  Discover FertilMan for Men

Natural Ways to Increase Fertility

Improving fertility doesn’t always require medications or treatments. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can make a significant difference (BBC, 2019; Create Fertility, 2022).

1. Diet

What you eat has a direct impact on fertility. Include these foods in your diet:

• Beans, Seeds, and Lentils: High in fibre and protein.

• Fruits: Rich in vitamin C and folic acid.

• Oily Fish: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids.

• Natural Yoghurts and Cheeses: Provide vitamin D and probiotics.

• Nuts: Contain omega-3 and omega-6, which improve sperm quality.

2. Exercise

Moderate exercise promotes hormone regulation and improves overall health. However, avoid overtraining as it can negatively impact fertility, particularly in women. A tailored exercise plan can help:

• Overweight individuals may benefit from more vigorous exercise (Chou & Mantzoros, 2014; Fontana et al, 2023; Bouassida et al, 2006)

• For women with regular cycles, light to moderate exercise is best to avoid disrupting ovulation (Mussawar et al, 2023).

• Exercise can have a positive impact on male fertility (Brinson et al, 2023)

Factors That Can Negatively Affect Fertility

Certain habits and conditions can reduce fertility. Identifying and addressing these factors can help improve your chances of conception.

Smoking

Smoking damages eggs and sperm, reducing fertility in both men and women. Quitting smoking can significantly improve reproductive health.

Alcohol

Even moderate alcohol consumption can interfere with hormone levels, making conception more difficult. Avoid alcohol when trying to conceive.

Stress

Stress impacts hormone balance, potentially leading to irregular periods in women and reduced sperm quality in men. Consider stress-reduction techniques like yoga, mindfulness, or therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should we have sex during the fertile window?

The fertile window spans five days before ovulation. Having sex every 1-2 days during this time maximises your chances of conception. Ovulation tests can help pinpoint these critical days.

Does losing weight improve fertility?

Yes. Excess weight can disrupt hormone levels, affecting ovulation and sperm production. Even modest weight loss can improve fertility.

Can supplements alone improve fertility?

Supplements can support fertility, but they’re most effective when combined with a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management.

Final Thoughts

Boosting fertility requires a combination of understanding your body, making healthy lifestyle choices, and addressing any underlying health issues. Whether it’s through testing, supplements, or natural methods, there are many steps you can take to improve your chances of conception.