The art of conception for a woman is a delicate thing. The process is a complicated one which involves several steps. The woman's body must help the sperm travel into the fallopian tubes, make sure an egg is there to be fertilized, and make sure it can embed in the uterine wall. If any of these steps fail to happen, infertility can occur. While this may seem like a difficult task, there are some natural ways to help improve feminine fertility.
Chart Fertility Signs
One of the best ways to ensure everything is lining up correctly is to track when you are fertile. Start by keeping track of your basal body temperature. Your temperature will rise right before the production of an egg. Track fluctuations in this temperature over time. When you have figured out the cycle, have intercourse just before your body temperature rises. This is the best time for egg fertilization.
Also, keeping track of cervical mucus production will give an indication of ovulation and will help you determine when intercourse will be the most effective. After your period, your cervix will not produce mucus. As an egg moves into the uterus, mucus will be produced, appearing at the entrance of the vagina. At this stage, the mucus will be sticky, and white or yellow. As the egg ripens, the mucus will begin to clear up and get slippery. When it is the consistency of an egg white, you will be at your most fertile.
Intercourse Positions
Use sexual positions designed to help with conception. Missionary or rear entry position (the male on top of or behind the woman) will allow the man to deposit semen close to the cervix, helping it get to the egg. Avoid any position which requires the woman to be on top, as semen may leak out of the vagina. After sex, elevate hips for 15 minutes to keep semen from leaking out.
Diet
Eating right is extremely important for fertility. Not only can it help with the hormones associated with fertility, it also allows a woman to maintain a healthy weight, which is vital for conception. Harvard Medical School suggests additional dietary needs to help women with the quest for pregnancy. First, avoid trans-fats, as these will not only clog arteries, but will affect fertility. Also, use unsaturated vegetable oils and switch meat for vegetable proteins such as beans or tofu. Get plenty of water and take multi-vitamins for female health. Finally, don't cut out carbohydrates completely. Instead, switch to carbs that are rich in fiber, like grains and vegetables.
Chemicals
Chemicals in the vagina can be extremely detrimental to sperm. Stay away from water based lubricants, as sperm will not be as effective if these are used. If you have the need for lubricant, try to spend more time getting aroused before intercourse occurs. Also, the chemicals in scented tampons, oils or douches can make the vagina a hostile environment for sperm.
