Maybe you’ve been trying to get pregnant for a while or perhaps you’re just thinking of starting to try, either way, you’ve come to the right place. There seems to be so much information on what you should be doing, and what you shouldn’t be doing, that it can make this exciting time seem a little overwhelming.&nbsp; Don’t worry though, we’ve got your back. By the time you’re done reading this blog, you’ll be armed with everything you need to know when trying to conceive.
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How long does it take to get pregnant?
 
Once you decide to start planning for a family, it might suddenly seem like all the stories around you are about how “ someone got pregnant within a month of trying”. Keep in mind that, that story, is an exception, not the rule. The likelihood of a young couple, with no known problems, getting pregnant is only around 20% every month. While this may look like a very low number, the cumulative pregnancy rate in one year is much higher, at a rate of 86%. This means that out of every 100 couples, 86 of them achieve a pregnancy by the end of 1 year of trying. So, if it is taking you some time, try not to worry too much. It’s valuable to know, however,&nbsp; that the chances decrease with age. So while the cumulative pregnancy rate at the end of 1 year is 86% when you’re 25 years old, it drops to less than 40% at the age of 40 years. It is based on this rationale that, experts recommend, additional evaluation when you’ve been trying for more than 12 months if you’re younger than 35 years and when you’ve been trying for more than 6 months if you’re over the age of 35 years.&nbsp; 
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 Simple tips to help you conceive
 We’ve put together a list of easy-to-follow tips, nutrition and lifestyle advice. Is following this list going to guarantee you a baby at the end of the year? No, but is it going to help you boost your chances? Absolutely. So let's dive right into it. 
 Start prepping three months in advance 
This applies to both men and women. It takes approximately 74 days for sperm to form scratch and around 3-4 months for eggs to develop fully and reach the matured stage. So it’s a good rule of thumb for couples to start prepping as early as 3 months before they actively try for a pregnancy.&nbsp; 
<ul>
 <li>Review the medications you’re taking to ensure they’re safe when trying to get pregnant</li>
 <li>Review your birth control - if you’re on some forms of birth control like contraceptive pills it can take 2-3 months for your fertility cycle to return when stopped.</li>
 <li>If you have any chronic medical condition, ensure they’re under control and being managed well</li>
 <li>Both egg and sperm quality can be improved through diet and lifestyle - so ensure you start making the necessary changes well in advance.</li>
</ul>
 Know your fertility window
 When you are planning for a pregnancy, timing is a pretty big deal. Once you ovulate, the egg only survives for 1 day. This means that if you miss that 24 hours, you’ve missed the boat for the entire month. The good news? Sperm survives for 5 days (sometimes even 7 days)&nbsp; in the female genital tract. Your fertile window is the 6-day time period comprising 5 days before you ovulate and one day after you ovulate. Having sex during this time gives you the best chance of falling pregnant. If you’re having regular 28-day cycles then ovulation usually occurs on day 14, however, everyone is unique and it is recommended you track your cycles to know your ovulation day. If you don’t have regular cycles or are not sure when you’re ovulating then have regular unprotected sex (about 3 times a week) once your period stops, to ensure that you don’t miss the fertile window or ovulation day. 
Keep your body moving&nbsp; 
Exercise. Getting in some regular movement can help improve your chances of conceiving, improve sleep and reduce pregnancy aches and pains. However, if your exercise routine is too vigorous or you’re into extreme sports then it’s better to tone it down because this may negatively impact your reproductive hormones and ability to get pregnant. Speak to your doctor to help you find the right balance. 
Watch the scale 
Being overweight and being underweight can both disrupt your reproductive hormones, menstrual cycles and your chances of conceiving. Therefore it is important to try to optimise your weight so you can benefit from healthier, better-quality eggs and reduced complications during pregnancy. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, being overweight increases your chances of developing gestational diabetes, high blood pressure and pre-eclampsia.&nbsp; While this is true plenty of people with different body types and weights have healthy pregnancies. Focus on a more holistic approach with the right nutrition and exercise rather than just the number on the scale. When in doubt reach out out to a professional for guidance. 
Up the nutrients on your plate 
The best things to eat when you’re trying to get pregnant is also the same food you should eat for a healthy life. This means you should be trying to eat plenty of whole foods such as different types of vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds, healthy fats and proteins. Several studies show that a rich diet packed with different nutrients improves egg quality, sperm quality and reduces the time taken to get pregnant. Although there are no specific guidelines for a recommended diet for fertility, the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fish, vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains, beans and unsaturated fats such as olive oil and avocado - is seen across various research to have some benefit in boosting fertility. If you can only implement one dietary change then it should be avoiding processed food. Processed foods cause inflammation and trigger oxidative stress which could lead to cell damage and alter the hormone synchronisation 
Make sure you’re getting enough sleep 
This one does not get said enough. Sleep is integral to maintaining good health. There is plenty of data that indicates that not getting enough sleep can affect reproductive hormones, making it harder to conceive. Poor sleep can lead to lower fertility rates, reduced success with fertility treatments, and higher risks of complications during pregnancy. Try to aim for a minimum of 8 hours of quality sleep each night for both you and your partner.
Pop your prenatals 
The best way to get the vitamins and minerals you need is ideally through diet. However when there is a chance that diet may fall short, the easiest way to get them is through supplements. Prenatal vitamins are supplements that are specially formulated to contain all the nutrients you will need for you and the growing baby in your early pregnancy. The most important component of your prenatal vitamin is folic acid, which is super important for proper development of the babies neural tube. Make sure your supplement has 400mcg of folic acid.&nbsp; Be careful not to take too much, excess vitamins can lead to toxicity. When in doubt reach out to a healthcare professional to help you find the right pre-natal vitamin for you.&nbsp; 
Stop or reduce alcohol intake 
There’s no safe dose of alcohol consumption in pregnancy. Alcohol passes through the placenta easily and accumulates in the amniotic fluid resulting in fetal exposure to higher concentrations than the mother. Apart from the effects on the baby while pregnant, alcohol consumption (even moderate)&nbsp; has been shown to increase the time to pregnancy. Heavy consumption can even cause menstrual disturbances and increase miscarriage rates. That being said there’s no relationship between light alcohol consumption and future fertility, so if you’re not pregnant or trying right now then you can enjoy a drink in moderation. However, if you’re planning a pregnancy now or within the next 3 months, cut down the drinking to optimise your chances of a pregnancy.&nbsp; 
Keep it smoke-free 
There is clear evidence that smoking increases the time it takes to conceive. The oxidative damage caused by smoking on the eggs and sperm leads to reduced fertility over time.&nbsp; 
Skip the coffee 
While there aren’t any studies directly linking caffeine intake to reduced fertility, there is some evidence to suggest excess caffeine can negatively impact IVF outcomes, suggesting some link might be there. Consuming too much caffeine during your pregnancy can increase the risk of complications such as low birth weight, stillbirth and miscarriages. The Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends limiting caffeine intake to less than 200mg/ day, but if you’re able to manage with less - even better. 200mg/ day is approximately two small cups of coffee.&nbsp; 
 Foremost, treat yourself with compassion 
This guide is meant to help you and not add to your stress list. Remember to treat yourself with kindness. Even small steps you take to boost your fertility make an impact. Prioritize self-care and take good care of your mental health when you are trying for baby. A simple routine of relaxation that will help you reduce stress and anxiety can go a long way. 
Do I need a preconception check-up? 
A preconception check-up is a medical checkup usually with your gynaecologist or your family doctor that is usually done when you’re planning for a pregnancy to make sure you are healthy. These check-ups can identify any medical conditions, deficiencies or other health problems that might affect your fertility and your pregnancy early. It is generally a good idea to optimise your health to improve your chances of conceiving. 
But how do I know if I’m fertile? 
If you’re having a regular menstrual period, and have no other medical history to suggest otherwise then it is generally assumed that you are fertile until proven otherwise (ie. you don’t conceive even after trying for one year). We have a slightly different take on this. Even when everything is okay, it takes time to fall pregnant, but if for any reason you are concerned or curious it is better to get evaluated early, rather than wait for the year to pass. Learning about your fertility and understanding your fertility can help put your mind at ease. If there are any issues identified, it is better to know sooner rather than later so they can be addressed. The easiest way to check is through our At-Home- fertility test. All you have to do is answer a few questions about your medical profile and pregnancy planning goals and we will recommend a personalised panel of tests to help get you the answers you need. Once you’ve completed the tests, you will receive a detailed report giving you complete clarity on your fertility and health. Giving you the right guidance and personalised information to plan your pregnancy with confidence. &nbsp;<a href="https://ferteve.in/health-assessment" target="_blank">Start the fertility quiz now</a>

The Ultimate Guide to planning a pregnancy

PCOS remains one of the most common endocrine disorders to affect women in the reproductive age group. In addition to this, as per WHO, nearly 70% of people with PCOS are undiagnosed. This means many women are living and working with tiredness and exhaustion without even knowing why. The ripple effects of this condition can touch every part of your life, including your professional journey.&nbsp;
A <a href="https://www.fertstertreports.org/article/S2666-3341(24)00010-2/fulltext">study published in early 2024</a>, looked into exactly this and the findings are not fun. They looked at 1000 women who were diagnosed with PCOS and evaluated the impact of PCOS on their work lives. Here is what they found - more than half of the participants missed work due to PCOS, showing how much this condition can really interfere with your jobs. Additionally, 72% of women said PCOS hurt their work quality, and over 50% felt it held back their career growth.
How does PCOS affect productivity at work:
a. Physical Symptoms
PCOS brings a host of physical symptoms that can interfere with your daily work life. You might experience chronic persistent fatigue, depression, anxiety or irregular menstrual cycles, all of which can disrupt your focus and energy levels. These symptoms can often mean you need more frequent breaks or even days off from work, which can impact your productivity and reliability at work​.
b. Mental Health Challenges
Women suffering from PCOS are at a higher risk of having depression, anxiety and perceived stress. In addition to this brain fog is a common symptom, making it harder to concentrate, make decisions, and stay on top of your tasks. These mental health disorders can sap your motivation and efficiency, creating additional hurdles in your career​.
c. Medical Appointments
Managing PCOS might require several visits to your healthcare provider. These appointments can disrupt your work schedule and add stress as you juggle your professional responsibilities and health needs. The ongoing nature of these medical commitments means you’re continually struggling to balance work with essential health needs. d. Emotional and Social Stress
Visible symptoms like weight gain, acne, and excess hair growth can significantly impact your self-esteem and confidence. The social anxiety and emotional stress from managing these symptoms can affect your professional interactions and hinder your career progression. It’s about more than the physical symptoms; it’s also about how they can make you feel in your skin, at your workplace​.
<h2>How to Manage PCOS at Work:</h2>
a. Seeking support

Connecting with others who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly empowering. Joining support groups, whether online or in-person, can provide you with practical advice and emotional encouragement. These communities can help you feel less isolated and more equipped to handle your symptoms.
b. Lifestyle Modifications
Simple lifestyle changes can have a big impact on managing PCOS. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques like yoga or meditation can help alleviate your symptoms. These healthy habits can improve your overall well-being, making it easier to stay productive and focused at work​. c. Open Communication
Don’t be afraid to talk to your employer and friends about your condition. Open communication can lead to better understanding and accommodations, such as flexible work hours or the ability to work from home when needed. Creating an environment where you can manage your health without compromising your job is crucial​ d. Professional Help
Getting the right professional help with a holistic approach can help you manage your symptoms more effectively, improving your productivity and job satisfaction. Regular tracking of your hormones and biomarkers can ensure you’re on the right track and making the most of your treatment options​ Frequently Asked Questions:
What is PCOS?
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a metabolic and hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It can lead to symptoms like irregular menstrual periods, excess hair growth, acne and infertility.
How does PCOS affect work productivity?
The exact way in which PCOS affects productivity may be different for everyone. Some of the common ways are through symptoms like fatigue, chronic pain, mental health issues, and the need for frequent medical appointments.
Can lifestyle changes help manage PCOS symptoms?
Yes, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management can significantly improve PCOS symptoms and overall well-being.
Are there treatments available for PCOS?
Yes, there are various treatments available, including hormonal therapies, medications, and mental health counselling, which can help manage symptoms effectively.
<h3>How Ferteve Can help:</h3>
With our Convenient at-home fertility and hormone tests, actionable insights and holistic ecosystem of doctors. Ferteve is designed to help you make informed decisions and take action confidently. .
<a href="/health-assessment" target="_blank" style="background-color:#06504D; color:white; text-decoration:none; border-radius:5px; padding:5px;">Get started now</a>

Is Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) hurting your career?

Ageing affects every part of our bodies, and our ovaries are no exception. We’ve known for a while that we lose a significant number of eggs to age. However,  a study published in 2010 took everyone by surprise when they showed us in numbers exactly how fast this decline might be occurring. They developed a mathematical model that showed that for 95% of people with ovaries, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2811725/">88% of the ovarian reserve (eggs they’re born with ) is already gone by the age of 30 years</a>, and by the time they hit 40 years, 97% of the reserve is gone. An important caveat to consider here, the number of eggs you have is not the only indicator of fertility (and on its own, it can’t tell you whether or not you can conceive). However, knowing more about your egg reserve and how it declines, can help you make better-informed decisions about your reproductive timeline.<h3>The Biological Clock: What Happens as Ovaries Age?</h3>People with ovaries are born with a finite number of eggs, approximately one to two million. By the time you reach puberty (which is when your periods start), the number of eggs you have has already reduced to 300,000 to 500,000. This is thought to be due to a process called atresia, which is a natural process through which follicles (sacs that house the eggs) degenerate and die. Interestingly, only a fraction of these remaining eggs, around 400-450, will ovulate during a woman's lifetime.The decline in egg quality is often a forgotten aspect of ovarian ageing. As women age, the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities in eggs increases, which can lead to failure to fertilise, implant, miscarriages, and congenital disabilities. The decrease in both the quantity and quality of eggs contributes to the increasing difficulties women face, to conceive, as they get older.<h3>Factors Influencing Ovarian Ageing</h3>While age is a primary factor in declining ovarian reserve, several other elements can influence this process:Genetics: A woman's genetic makeup can determine the rate at which her ovarian reserve declines. Women with a family history of early menopause may experience accelerated ovarian ageing.Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity can negatively impact ovarian function. Smoking, in particular, is associated with reduced ovarian reserve and earlier onset of menopause.Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain chemicals and toxins can impact ovarian function and accelerate ageing.<h3>The Role of Oxidative Stress in Ovarian Ageing</h3>Oxidation is a normal and essential process that happens in your body. Oxidative stress is what occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, leading to cellular damage. The ovaries are particularly susceptible to oxidative stress due to their high metabolic activity. While there is a need for the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during follicular development and ovulation, an abnormal increase in ROS can speed up ovarian damage.Oxidative stress can accelerate the depletion of the ovarian reserve and negatively impact egg quality. It can cause DNA damage in oocytes, leading to chromosomal abnormalities and reduced fertilization potential. Antioxidant defence mechanisms weaken with age, making older women more vulnerable to oxidative damage.Strategies to mitigate oxidative stress include adopting a diet rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, and minimising exposure to environmental toxins. Research is ongoing to explore the potential of antioxidant supplements in preserving ovarian function and improving fertility outcomes.<h3>The Decline of Fertility: A Timeline</h3>Your fertility is typically at its peak in your early 20s to late 20s. During this period, the likelihood of conception is maximum, and the risk of miscarriage and chromosomal abnormalities is relatively low. However, fertility slowly begins to decline in the early 30s, with a more pronounced decrease after age 35. By the age of 40, the chances of conceiving naturally drop significantly, and the risk of complications such as miscarriage and genetic abnormalities increases.Understanding this timeline is beneficial if having children is part of your plan. If you wish to conceive later in life, you should be aware of the potential challenges and consider options such as egg freezing or assisted reproductive technologies (ART).<h3>How can I optimise my ovarian health?</h3>While ovarian ageing is a natural process, there are steps you can take to optimise their fertilityHealthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can positively impact ovarian function.Avoiding Harmful Substances: Reducing exposure to harmful substances such as tobacco, alcohol, and environmental toxins can help minimise ovarian damage.Regular Check-Ups: Regular proactive fertility and hormone testing can help monitor reproductive health and identify potential issues early. Tests such as AMH levels, FSH and antral follicle count (AFC) can provide insight into your ovarian reserve.Fertility Preservation: For women who wish to delay childbearing, options such as egg freezing can be a good way to do that. This involves retrieving and freezing eggs at a younger age for future use.<h3>The Emotional Impact of Ovarian Ageing</h3>Knowing that you’re racing against time when it comes to your fertility can be emotionally tough. Luckily science is advancing and opening more doors along the way. Mapping your family planning goals, proactively testing (fertility and hormone tests ) to understand where you stand and re-evaluating yearly can help you make better, more informed choices to help you achieve everything you’ve pictured for yourself on your terms.

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