Caring for your fertility is something that those interested in growing their family, whether in the next few years or not for a while, should keep in mind the same way they monitor their diet or exercise routine. It doesn’t have to feature an intense, daily routine, of course, but fertility shouldn’t be taken for granted.
Many patients will state that they assumed they would be able to conceive with ease when the time came, only to realize that an issue may be present. Sometimes this issue cannot be prevented with proper care, but sometimes it can.
Fertility is not so removed from everyday health concerns as most people think, and there are actual steps you can take that will positively impact your fertility. Fertility Solutions has composed a list of five fertility goals women can set for 2018.
1. Consider fertility testing: Fertility testing can take place before an issue is suspected. Please keep in mind that it is not a requirement, but for some, knowing where their fertility sits in terms of their family planning goals can be very helpful. You can speak with a fertility specialist to determine if testing is a good option. Specialists may recommend testing for younger women with personal or family histories of certain medical conditions like endometriosis, PCOS and early menopause.
2. Talk to your doctor: A general health assessment is often a great place to begin. Knowing whether any issues are present, or if there is room for improvement in terms of long-term healthcare, is also important for fertility. For example, obesity is linked to fertility issues, but so is being underweight. Both cases may require nutritional guidance from a medical professional so you can obtain a healthy balance suitable to fertility.
3. Get active: Moderate physical activity is recommended for almost everyone of all ages, but a stationary lifestyle impacts your physical and mental well-being in ways you may not expect. Links between stress and infertility are not necessarily written in stone, but stress offers little in the way of aiding fertility concerns. If you’re new to exercise, you should discuss routine options with your provider.
4. Plan your birth control: Some methods of birth control are best for women and couples who do not plan on trying to conceive for 3-5 years, whereas others can be stopped or removed and attempts to conceive can begin right away. You should discuss your family planning goals with your gynecologist to determine which form of birth control is best for your situation and comfort.
5. Take sexual health seriously: Your sexual health can impact fertility, as certain STDs can cause fertility issues (in both women and men). Proper protection is necessary for sexual encounters. If you suspect that you may have an STD, please do not put off screening and/or treatment. Many STDs are effectively treated if diagnosed shortly after transmission.
If you have questions about how to care for your fertility, please feel free to contact the specialists at Fertility Solutions. We have seven New England locations and we’re happy to schedule a consult to discuss your family planning goals.