The Path to Two Dashes: How to Increase Your Chances of Pregnancy

Planning for pregnancy is an exciting and emotional journey, but it can also be challenging at times. While there is no magical formula that guarantees immediate conception, there are several ways you can enhance your chances of becoming pregnant. From understanding your fertility cycle to making lifestyle changes, every step you take can be crucial. In this article, we will explore tips and strategies that can help you maximize your chances of pregnancy, making this dream a reality.

When is the Best Time for Intercourse?

To increase your chances of pregnancy, it is recommended to have intercourse every day or every other day, as couples who practice this method have the highest chances of conceiving. If this isn't possible, having sex every 2 to 3 days during the week, starting after your period ends, can help you align with your ovulation cycle and increase fertility (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2024).

The most favorable time for conception is during ovulation, which includes the five days before ovulation and the day of ovulation itself. The highest chances of pregnancy are two days before ovulation and the day of ovulation, so it's recommended to have intercourse at that time. During ovulation, the ovary releases a mature egg that travels down the fallopian tube to the uterus, where fertilization by sperm should occur. Sperm can survive for up to five days, so it is important to have sperm present in the fallopian tubes when ovulation occurs (Watson, 2018).

How to Recognize Ovulation? Track your cycle and calculate the middle point—if you have a 28-day cycle, ovulation likely occurs around day 14. You may also notice changes in your cervical mucus, which becomes clear and egg-white-like, or a slight rise in your basal body temperature (BBT) after ovulation. Ovulation tests available at pharmacies can also help track ovulation (Ibid). Mobile apps that track your cycle can also be helpful.

What Else Can Improve Your Chances of Pregnancy?

1. Regular exercise can reduce the likelihood of unpleasant pregnancy symptoms (such as back pain, hemorrhoids, swollen ankles) and excessive weight gain. In addition, a healthy and fit body is better prepared for childbirth. However, it’s important to maintain balance, as too much exercise can cause fertility problems, such as irregular cycles or cycles without ovulation (Fertility Network UK, n.d.).
2. Adequate fluid intake (about 8-10 cups daily) helps the kidneys flush out waste products and improves the quality of cervical mucus, which is important for fertility (Ibid).
3. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential, as both being overweight or underweight can reduce fertility (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2024).
4. Although no specific position has been proven to increase the likelihood of conception, certain positions may be better than others in ensuring sperm reach the egg. The missionary position with the man on top and the “doggy style” position (man behind) allow for deeper penetration, bringing sperm closer to the cervix. Sperm need about 15 minutes to reach the cervix once inside the vagina, and while it’s not necessary to raise your legs in the air or lie down after intercourse, doing so cannot hurt. Placing a pillow under your lower back may help keep sperm swimming in the right direction (Ibid). Additionally, orgasm is crucial for the man, as ejaculation enables conception. Although female orgasm is not necessary for conception, the movements during orgasm may help sperm reach their goal (Watson, 2018).

When Should You See a Doctor?

If you are planning for pregnancy, it’s advisable to consult a doctor. They can assess your health and help you make changes that improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy. The doctor may also recommend taking prenatal vitamins with folic acid several months before conception, which can reduce the risk of spina bifida, a condition affecting the spine and spinal cord. Most healthy couples conceive within one year. If you are under 35 and healthy, try to conceive within the first year before seeking medical advice. If you are over 35, or if you suspect fertility issues, seek help after six months of trying (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2024).

Infertility affects both men and women, but treatment is available. Depending on the cause, help may come from a gynecologist, endocrinologist, urologist, family doctor, or, in some cases, a fertility specialist (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2024).

If you have issues that may affect fertility, such as irregular or missed periods, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, a history of miscarriage, surgical procedures for hernia, or testicular problems (in your male partner), consultations with a qualified specialist are recommended (Watson, 2018). Additionally, if you have a chronic condition like diabetes or a risk of hereditary conditions (such as sickle cell anemia) in your child, or if you take certain medications (as some may affect fertility), it’s also advised to consult a doctor for pregnancy advice (National Health Service, 2023).

What Should Be Avoided?

1. Smoking harms the fertility of both women and men, as well as your general health and the health of the fetus. Smoking causes changes in the fallopian tubes and cervix, which can lead to miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy. It also damages the ovaries, reducing the number of eggs, thereby decreasing the chances of conception. Smoking reduces the number and motility of sperm and may also decrease the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF);
2. Excessive alcohol consumption can lower fertility. Alcohol is unsafe both before and during pregnancy, and drinking excessively reduces your chances of pregnancy, especially if you’re using fertility treatments like IVF. Alcohol can also lower testosterone levels in men, leading to erectile dysfunction, making conception more difficult;
3. Excessive caffeine consumption (more than five cups of coffee a day) can also reduce your chances of pregnancy;
4. Very intense workouts, especially for those with low body weight, should be avoided. Excessive and strenuous exercise, lasting more than five hours per week, has been linked to less frequent ovulation in people with low body weight;
5. Stress can negatively affect your cycle regularity and your chances of conception, so try not to worry and enjoy the process of trying to conceive. If stress or anxiety about conceiving is affecting your daily life, talking to a mental health professional can help relieve it;
6. Men should avoid carrying mobile devices in their pants pockets, as radiation may affect their fertility and sperm count. They should also avoid hot tubs, saunas, and tight underwear;
7. Delaying starting a family for too long can significantly decrease fertility, especially in your late 30s, as fertility in women declines drastically compared to their early 20s, and both the quantity and quality of eggs and sperm decrease with age. The age of the woman contributing the egg has the greatest impact on fertility, but sperm quality also declines after age 50 (Watson, 2018; WebMD Editorial Contributors, 2024; Mayo Clinic Staff, 2024; Fertility Network UK, n.d.).

Conclusion

Planning for pregnancy is a journey full of emotions, patience, and hope. Although there is no perfect recipe for success, every step you take to improve your health and understand your body can significantly increase your chances of conceiving. Taking care of your physical health, tracking fertile days, avoiding harmful habits, and consulting with professionals can all be key to reaching your goal. Try to stay positive and enjoy the process, as the most beautiful moments often come when you least expect them. Remember that every journey to parenthood is unique, and you’ve already taken the first step—committing to your health and future family. Good luck!

*This text is intended for informational purposes only. If you experience any symptoms, it is recommended to seek assistance from your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional.

References:

• Fertility Network UK. (n.d.). Conception tips. Fertility Network UK. Retrieved March 26, 2025, from https://fertilitynetworkuk.org/learn-about-fertility/factors-affecting-fertility/lifestyle-fertility/conception-tips/
• Sikkema, K. (2018, June 5). Man kissing woman’s forehead while holding ultrasound photo [Photograph]. Unsplash. Retrieved March 26, 2025, from https://unsplash.com/photos/man-kissing-womans-forehead-white-holding-ultrasound-photo-IE8KfewAp-w
• Watson, S. (2018, August 10). Babymaking 101: Ways to get pregnant faster. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/sex-for-pregnancy
• National Health Service. (2023, November 14). Trying to get pregnant. NHS. Retrieved March 26, 2025, from https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/trying-for-a-baby/trying-to-get-pregnant/
• WebMD Editorial Contributors. (2024, March 9). Things not to do if you want to get pregnant. WebMD. Medically reviewed by Traci C. Johnson, MD. Retrieved March 26, 2025, from https://www.webmd.com/baby/fertility-no-nos
• Mayo Clinic Staff. (2024, October 30). How to get pregnant. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved March 26, 2025, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/how-to-get-pregnant/art-20047611