Conception, or fertilization, is a process in which a male sperm cell merges with a woman's egg cell to form an embryo, which eventually develops into a fetus.
However, there are several factors that decrease the possibility of successful conception.
Nonetheless, there are ways that are useful to improve chances of conception for a couple.
But first, it is important to note the major factors that affect the chances of conception: Age A woman is most fertile between ages 20 and 25.
Her chance of conception is around 25 percent, which translates that for every four attempts for conception, one will be successful enough for fertilization.
As the woman gets older, however, her chances also become slimmer.
Sexually transmitted illnesses Diseases such as AIDS and HIV can affect the function of the reproductive system, which may result to infertility and other fertility-related health issues.
Previous surgical operations Pelvic and abdominal surgeries from the past may also alter the proper functions of the reproductive organs.
Below are some of the most common tips to improve chances of conception.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle Proper diet is among the most important factor to improve chances of conception.
Harmful vices such as alcohol drinking and cigarette smoking should be avoided.
Regular exercise should be observed, as well as other physical activities.
These activities don't only improve the overall health; they also add more fun and satisfying experience to a person's life.
Reduce stress and take more rest.
For men, keep the sperm cool Sperm cells are other half of the fertilization process therefore; they should be kept healthy to improve chances of conception.
Sperm cells develop best at cool temperature, perhaps the reason why male testes is outside the body.
Tight underpants and skinny jeans add more pressure to the reproductive area and cause an increase in the temperature, which deteriorates the sperm cell development.
Loose underpants like boxers are a much better alternative.
The right timing Another way to improve chances of conception is the proper timing for sex.
For best results, sexual intercourse should be performed just before ovulation or the process of a woman's menstrual cycle where a mature egg cell is discharged.
The average span of a woman's fertility cycle is around 28 days.
For those who have regular periods, most likely the ovulation occurs halfway during the menstrual cycle, which is on the 14th day.
However, some women experience irregular menstrual cycle, and determining the right time for sexual intercourse can be pretty tricky.
Check for cervical mucus During the first stages of the menstrual cycle, mucus forms around the cervix due to hormonal changes.
This mucus may impede the passing of the sperm cells thus preventing fertilization.
Therefore, checking the existence of this mucus on the female's reproductive organ can help in improving the chances of conception.
Body temperature To improve chances of conception, sexual intercourse should be made while the body is at normal temperature.
Since a woman's basal temperature (temperature while the body is at rest) rises slightly after ovulation, it is recommended to have sex just before ovulation.
Predict ovulation using special kits These devices are useful to improve chances of conception since these can help determine and monitor hormonal changes, and by knowing the occurrence of these events, a woman can know the best time for sexual intercourse.
Regular sex The more often the couple sex, the higher the chance of conceiving a child.
Infrequent sexual intercourse has been known to cause infertility.
For improving the chances of conception, a couple should have regular sex habits.
Pregnancy, however, is still a matter of chance.
It doesn't always occur even when a couple performs sex at the right time.
The period of which the couple will be able to conceive a child varies greatly.
If they are lucky enough, they will be able to conceive during the first month.
Some may have to wait longer.
Nonetheless, longer periods of waiting for a successful conception don't mean that there is anything wrong with them.
Thus for better chances, they need to seek doctor's advise while at the same time following these simple ways to improve your chances of conception.