Common mistakes when trying to conceive

Trying to conceive can be an exciting but stressful experience. Unfortunately, many couples find themselves making common mistakes that can prevent them from getting pregnant.

Here are 5 common mistakes people make when trying to conceive, and how to correct them.

1. Not having enough sex

It’s important to remember that having sex every day is not necessary for conception.

However, aiming to have sex at least three times a week, especially in your fertile window will increase the chances of sperm meeting egg for fertilization. You can learn more about the fertile window here.

2. Saving up sperm

Saving up sperm is not recommended for fertility outcomes because it can reduce sperm quality. Sperm motility and viability decrease when sperm is stored in the body for too long, which can lead to a lower chance of fertilization.

Additionally, sperm that is stored for too long can be exposed to toxins, such as alcohol and drugs, which can further reduce fertility. It can also be less resilient and more prone to damage, which can also decrease fertility. Finally, when sperm is stored for too long, it can lead to DNA damage, which can result in chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo. 

3. Obsessing over charts, gadgets and trackers

Obsessing over ovulation trackers is a common mistake because it can create unnecessary stress and anxiety.

Trying to conceive can be a stressful process and focusing too much on tracking ovulation can add to this. Too much focus on ovulation can lead to couples overlooking other important factors, such as diet, supplements, exercise, and lifestyle changes, which are all important for healthy fertility. For these reasons, it is best to use ovulation trackers as a guide, but not to obsess over them.

4. Stressing and obsessing

Not only is this a passion killer (see our point below), it's all too easy to become stressed about your fertile window, when you're going to be having sex, and making all of these adjustments in one go to try and give conceiving your best shot.

However, stress is a massive factor when it comes to those finding it difficult. Fertility is a whole body event, and your mindset is included in this. Whether it's meditation, getting in enough sleep or addressing your work-life balance, try to manage stress as best you can.

5. Killing the passion

Performance anxiety is real. When you're trying to conceive, it is easy to focus on getting the job done rather than being intimate with your partner. When there is tremendous pressure around needing to perform at a certain time, the passion is killed. Instead, be close with your partner and enjoy sex!

If you're just starting out on your fertility journey, our recommended supplements for you can be found here. As well as this, we have a number of articles related to fertility nutrition, which you can find here.