Fertility Self-Help
The following are suggestions that can be helpful during the time of waiting for pregnancy to occur:
- Know the time of ovulation, and the entire fertile period.
- Check that love-making is sufficiently frequent.
- Avoid the “female superior” position; it allows the male ejaculate to spill out of the vagina.
- The missionary position, man on top, is the most appropriate for fertility needs.
- Avoid moving after ejaculation to allow the semen to pool in the fornix areas around the cervix.
- Remain on the back for at least half an hour with the knees drawn up and a pillow under the hips.
- Eschew the douche. The fluid can upset the ecology of the vagina and hence upset the motility of the sperm.
- If lubrication is required, avoid the use of water-soluble jellies which can be spermicidal.
- Eat a balanced diet, with fresh vegetables and fruits, low-fat proteins, and unrefined grains.
- Maintain normal body weight. Avoid all crash diets and slimming programs.
- Exercise in moderation. Exercise abuse upsets ovulation and causes irregular periods.
- Avoid alcohol and marijuana. Both reduce sperm production and can affect the female reproductive system.
- Avoid cigarettes. Couples who smoke have a significantly lower fertility rate than couples who do not.
- Hot baths and jacuzzis affect sperm production. Avoid tight-fitting pants and jockey-type underwear. Keep the groin cool.
- Relax. Stress is a factor in infertility problems.