Planning for Pregnancy
Preparing your body and mind for conception with evidence-based guidance and practical support.
Preparing your body and mind for conception with evidence-based guidance and practical support.
Before you start trying for a baby, it helps to look after both your body and your mind. Small changes before conception can help guide you through your treatment journey.
HyCoSy (Hysterosalpingo-Contrast Sonography) is a minimally invasive ultrasound procedure used to assess the health and patency of the fallopian tubes. It can be an important diagnostic step in investigating female fertility, as blocked or damaged fallopian tubes can be a cause of difficulty conceiving.
It is sensible for both partners to have a check for STIs before trying for a baby, as some infections can reduce fertility and increase complications.
If your periods are very irregular, very heavy, very light or more than 35 days apart, speak to a fertility specialist as you may not be ovulating regularly.
Around a third of fertility problems involve sperm factors. A semen analysis can check sperm number, movement and shape.
Your weight can have a meaningful impact on your fertility and pregnancy. Maintaining a healthy BMI, generally between 18 and 35, supports your body's natural hormone balance, improves your chances of conception, and contributes to a healthier pregnancy overall.
We assess each patient's unique circumstances, focusing on comprehensive health evaluation.
While we have a treatment cut-off age of 45 for using one's own eggs and an eligible BMI range of 18-35, we remain committed to exploring all potential options through personalised consultations.
Body weight plays an important role in female fertility. Both low and high BMI can disrupt hormonal balance, affect regular ovulation, and impact how well the body responds to fertility treatments.
Body weight also plays a significant role in male fertility. Both low and high BMI can disrupt hormone levels, affect sperm quality and production, and reduce the overall chances of conception.
Our preconception consultation is a proactive step to help individuals and couples prepare for a healthy pregnancy even before conception occurs. Dr. Koniman will assess the patient's medical history, including previous pregnancies, any pre-existing and chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or mental health matters, and review medications and lifestyle factors. The consultant will provide tailored advice and plans to give couples the best possible chance of a healthy pregnancy and baby.
Aim for a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruit, whole grains and lean protein (fish, poultry, beans, lentils, nuts), and limit sugary, highly processed foods. Gentle treats are fine, but regular heavy drinking or frequent high-sugar/fat foods are best avoided.
For most couples, having sex two or three times a week throughout the cycle gives a good chance of pregnancy. In a regular 28-day cycle, the most fertile time is roughly from day 10 to day 18.
If you have been trying for 12 months (or 6 months if you are 36 or over) without success, seek advice earlier.
Looking after your physical and mental health before you start trying gives you the best possible foundation.
Our consultants are here to guide you through every aspect of your fertility journey. Book an initial consultation to discuss your situation and receive personalised advice.