Fertility: When are you least likely to get pregnant?

Can you choose the right time to get pregnant?

When we say to get pregnant, chance has already been induced. Yes, it is by chance that you “get” pregnant. So even if sometimes we try to control everything, then even if we decide that it will happen that week, You have to know how to take a step back and understand that getting pregnant is also the result of chance in life.

Between the mysteries of the body, well-meaning but often contradictory advice, and waves of hope or questions, it is normal to feel a bit lost when a pregnancy does not arrive at the right time. What if we took a moment to take stock together?

In this guide, we invite you to go back to basics: understand how the magic of design works, discover simple actions to improve your chances, and calmly explore the available solutions if it should take longer than expected. Because, more than a list of tips, what we want is accompany you, with kindness and clarity, in this important stage of your life.

Understand your cycle to get pregnant

When it comes to knowing how to get pregnant, understanding your menstrual cycle is a key step. This natural process, which is often perceived as complex, becomes much clearer once you understand the main steps. It's not only about knowing your body better, but also about identifying when the chances of conception are the highest.

The phases of the menstrual cycle: a well-orchestrated rhythm

The menstrual cycle is divided into several phases that follow one another cyclically. These phases last an average of 28 days, but it is perfectly normal for a cycle to be shorter (21 days) or longer (up to 35 days).

The menstrual phase

It starts on the first day of the period, marking the start of the cycle. During this period, the uterus removes the mucous membrane that had thickened during the previous cycle. This phase generally lasts between 3 and 7 days.

The follicular phase

As soon as the rules end, this phase is put in place. Under the influence of hormones, several ovarian follicles begin to develop, and one of them will become dominant. At the same time, the endometrium (lining of the uterus) regenerates to potentially host an embryo.

Ovulation

It is the key moment in the cycle to get pregnant. Approximately 14 days before the next period begins, the ovary releases a ripe egg into the fallopian tube. This egg remains viable for 12 to 24 hours. It is the period of maximum fertility.

The luteal phase

After ovulation, the corpus luteum (the empty follicle) produces progesterone, a hormone that stabilizes the uterine lining. If the egg is not fertilized, hormone levels drop, causing periods to start, and the cycle starts all over again.

Why is the “fertile window” so important?

The fertile period, often referred to as the “fertile window,” corresponds to the days in the cycle when the chances of conception are highest. It generally includes the 5 days prior to ovulation, as well as the day of ovulation itself. This is explained by The lifespan of sperm, which can survive up to 5 days in the womb, waiting for the egg.

Methods for calculating the ovulation period

There are several ways to identify your ovulation period, depending on your preferences and menstrual regularity.

• ‍The menstrual calendar : For regular cycles, you can calculate ovulation by subtracting 14 days from your total cycle length. For example, in a 28-day cycle, ovulation usually occurs on day 14. In a 30-day cycle, it will occur around the 16th day.‍
• Cycle monitoring applications : many applications now allow you to easily follow your menstrual cycles. By entering your period dates and other information, they automatically estimate your most fertile days. It is a practical and accessible method for everyone. The app The best known on the subject is Flo and it is very effective.‍
• Ovulation tests : these tests, available in pharmacies, detect the increase in luteinizing hormone (LH) in the urine, a reliable indicator of impending ovulation. When used properly, they can be a great addition for women who want accurate data.

In a natural way, the body also sends natural signals indicating the arrival of ovulation. Learning to spot them can be very useful:

• ‍Cervical mucus : before and during ovulation, it becomes more abundant, transparent and elastic, similar to raw egg white. This change favors sperm progression.
• ‍Basal temperature : it increases slightly (around 0.2 to 0.4 °C) after ovulation. By measuring it every morning, you can draw up a pattern over several cycles.
• ‍Ovulatory pain : some women experience mild pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen at the time of ovulation.

Why is identifying this time period so important?

Knowing how to identify your ovulation period maximizes the chances of getting pregnant by focusing sexual relations on the most fertile days. It also avoids feeling overwhelmed by an “imposed” rhythm, by focusing on the quality of the moments shared rather than on the quantity. Finally, for couples experiencing difficulties conceiving, tracking ovulation provides valuable information to health professionals, thus facilitating the possible procedures for a fertility check.

Combining observation and tools for greater precision

Combining the observation of natural signs and the use of tools like ovulation tests or apps can help you better understand your cycle. This observational work may seem tedious at first, but it quickly becomes automatic and offers a sense of control over your design journey. By learning to identify your ovulation, you are taking concrete and informed actions to increase your chances of pregnancy. It is an important first step, which allows you to better listen to your body and to get closer to your goal with serenity.

Optimizing fertility through lifestyle

When you ask how to get pregnant, it is essential to take care of your body and to create the ideal conditions to promote conception. This includes paying close attention to one's lifestyle, eating habits, and even mental health.

Adopt a fertility-friendly diet

Food is an essential tool for promoting fertility, for both women and men. It plays a decisive role in regulating menstrual cycles, improving the quality of eggs and sperm, and maintaining optimal hormonal balance.

Choose foods that are rich in essential nutrients

Some nutrients are particularly important for fertility:

• Folic acid (vitamin B9) : it promotes cell division and the formation of a healthy embryo. It is found in green leafy vegetables (spinach, arugula), legumes (lentils, chickpeas), and citrus fruits.
• Omega-3 : these essential fatty acids support hormonal balance, improve the quality of eggs and promote sperm mobility. Sources: fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), flaxseeds, nuts.
• Zinc : essential for sperm production and egg maturation. Found in seafood, pumpkin seeds, nuts, and lean meats.
• Vitamin D : I play a key role in hormonal regulation and reproductive health. The main sources are sun exposure, fatty fish, and fortified dairy products.
• Antioxidants (vitamins C and E, selenium) : protect eggs and sperm from oxidative damage. They are found in red fruits, citrus fruits, green vegetables, nuts, and seeds.

Maintain stable blood sugar

Unstable blood sugar can also upset the hormonal balance, especially in the case of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). For this:

• Promote complex carbohydrates : legumes, whole grains, fiber-rich vegetables;
• Avoid fast sugars : limitations on sugary products, sodas and industrial pastries;
• Always include protein and fiber in your meals to slow the absorption of carbohydrates.

Limit inflammatory foods

Again, chronic inflammation of the digestive system can affect fertility. Watch your consumption of the foods below (although it is best to talk to a dietitian on the subject)

• Processed foods that are high in sugars and processed fats;
• Poor quality oils (hydrogenated, rich in excess omega-6);
• Excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeine;
• Overconsumption of gluten.

In any case, Eating fresh and homemade food is good for your health and great for the line, so you have everything to gain!

The importance of weight in fertility

Weight has a direct impact on fertility. A body mass index (BMI) that is too low or too high can lead to hormonal disorders and disrupt ovulation. In men, this can affect sperm production and mobility. In case of overweight, Losing 5 to 10% of your weight can significantly improve the chances of conception but this is also the case in case of underweight where the body is not strong enough.

Practicing an adapted physical activity

Physical exercise is beneficial for fertility, as long as it is done in moderation. Regular activity, such as walking, yoga, or swimming, promotes good blood flow and reduces stress, while helping to maintain a stable weight. If you have a regular sports routine that is not excessive (less than 5 hours per week), don't change anything! This is part of your life balance the most important thing when trying to get pregnant is to feel good!

Learning to manage stress

Stress, while invisible, can have a significant impact on fertility. He can disrupt ovulation, reduce libido, and even influence sperm quality. Learning to release pressure is therefore essential for those who want to conceive.

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To help you manage stress, many proven methods are useful such as mediation, sophrology or even just take care of yourself by going for a short massage!

Optimizing together: the role of the couple

It is important to remember that conceiving a child is a matter of couple (except when you have chosen to make a baby by yourself). Everyone's lifestyle plays a role, and optimizing fertility also involves teamwork. Discussing, supporting each other, and sharing these efforts not only strengthens your chances of getting pregnant, but also your bond. Taking care of your well-being and that of your partner is an important step in making the desire for pregnancy a reality.

Fulfilling sexuality is also the key to better fertility

When trying to find out how to get pregnant, the question of sexuality is obviously central. The ideal is toavoid entering into mechanical sexuality, where you make love only to get pregnant ! So yes, it is a good thing to know your ovulation phase, to maybe try to keep your evenings available during the days when ovulation takes place. On the other hand, you must try to maintain a little attraction at the time of sexual relations, simply to be able to enjoy it as much as possible!

What is the ideal frequency?

It is not necessary to have daily sexual intercourse to maximize the chances of getting pregnant. In reality, reports every 2 to 3 days are sufficient to ensure a constant presence of active sperm in the fallopian tubes. The sperm cells then survive 5 days in your uterus so they will have time to meet the pretty eggs if the timing is right.

Making fun and design go hand in hand

If you put too much pressure on yourself, the sexual act may become a burden instead of being... a pleasure. So to relax, and above all, continue to spend nice moments together, try to take advantage of the moment:

• Organize a small candlelit dinner with pretty lingerie if that's your thing;
• Offer a massage to your partner or ask him to give you one: small candles and a little bit of essential oil always add a little sweetness to this shared moment;
• Go on the weekend and just take advantage of being together to have fun sex moments together;
• Communicate what you like and don't like and try to discover new things about each other, there is always something to learn in life.

In any case, we remind you: the timing in life is often the right one so have confidence in yourself and in your ability to become a mom one day! If it's not there yet, there's probably a good reason. Try to enjoy your present, your partner and let go of the “when” of the arrival of this pregnancy.