Articles
Short, practical reads for every stage. General information, not medical advice. If you have urgent symptoms, go to a clinic or hospital.
25 articles
Clear filtersYou do not need expensive “fertility foods” to prepare for pregnancy. A balanced diet with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, healthy proteins and appropriate fats supports general and reproductive health.
Folic acid is one of the most important supplements to start before pregnancy. Taking it before conception and during early pregnancy helps reduce the risk of serious problems affecting the baby's developing brain and spine.
Smoking, alcohol and recreational drugs can affect fertility and may expose a pregnancy before you even know you are pregnant. Learn why changing these habits before conception matters for both partners.
Some infections can be more serious during pregnancy or affect a developing baby. Checking your vaccination history before conception gives you time to receive vaccines that may be recommended before rather than during pregnancy.
Some medicines are safe when trying for pregnancy, while others may need to be changed before conception. Review prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, supplements and herbal products—but do not stop essential treatment on your own.
Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, epilepsy, thyroid disease and sickle cell disease may affect pregnancy. Good control before conception can reduce risks for both mother and baby.
You do not have to wait until you are pregnant to visit a healthcare professional. A pre-pregnancy check can identify health conditions, medicines, infections and other risks that are easier to address before conception.
Preparing for pregnancy can begin before you stop contraception. A few important steps—such as taking folic acid, reviewing medicines, managing health conditions and checking vaccinations—can help you enter pregnancy healthier.
Fertility changes with age, especially for women because both the number and quality of eggs decline over time. Learn what this means when planning pregnancy and when to seek fertility help.
Sperm can survive for several days inside the female reproductive tract, while an egg has a much shorter life after ovulation. Understanding this difference explains why sex before ovulation can lead to pregnancy.
Your body may give clues that ovulation is approaching. Learn how changes in cervical mucus, cycle patterns, ovulation tests and body temperature can help you identify your fertile days.
Your chance of pregnancy is highest in the days leading up to ovulation and around the day the egg is released. Learn what the fertile window means and why it is not always Day 14.
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