You may think that starting a family should be the easiest thing in the world but for many couples the joy of expecting a baby does not come as quickly as they hoped. It is a worrying time and poses many medical and lifestyle questions you might have never previously contemplated. In this article I’ve offered comprehensive answers to six frequently asked questions.

How long should we try to conceive before seeking medical advice?

This really depends on you and your partner’s health. It is always worth seeing your GP before starting to try. Your GP will ensure that you have been immunised against German measles (Rubella), and discuss lifestyle changes that you may need to make to maximise your chances and ensure that you will be as healthy as possible through pregnancy. Your GP will also be able to gather information about you and your partner and decide if you should be referred early on to a gynaecologist.

Generally as long as you and your partner are in good health, then you should try for about one year before seeking medical help. This is because most couples (80%) will fall pregnant within the first year, and 95% within two years without any medical intervention.

What sort of investigations should we expect to have done after one year?

After one year of trying, it is worth looking into why there maybe a delay. Your GP should be able to organise the basic investigations for you and your partner. The most important tests are a blood test to check that you are ovulating, and that your partner’s semen analysis is normal.

The ovulation blood test is best done 7 days before your next period starts. If you have a 28 day cycle then this means that the test is done on day 21. Commercially available urine tests are available and these will detect ovulation (again in 28 day cycle, ovulation should happen around day 14).

The male partner is normally given instructions as to producing the sample. To standardise the test most laboratories advise three days of abstinence from ejaculation. Most fertility centres have rooms where men can produce samples. Should this not be the case, it is best to bring in the sample as quickly as possible. Also try and keep the container as close to body temperature as possible.

My partner is not keen on having a semen test, does it matter?

Yes it does matter. We know that about 30% of all subfertility is due to there being a major problem on the male side. Slightly reduced semen measurements are thought to be contributory in another 15% of cases. It is very important that your partner’s semen is checked very early on in your investigations.

My periods are irregular, does that mean I will never be able to get pregnant?

An irregular cycle is when a woman has a cycle length of more than 35 days. The vast majority of women with irregular periods will fall pregnant. The most common cause of irregular periods is polycystic ovarian syndrome. This condition affects 20% of women, and is normally effectively treatable by weight control and medication.

An irregular cycle often means that ovulation (egg production) is not occurring on a regular basis. However, ovulation can occur occasionally. This explains why women with irregular periods can still conceive without medical aid, but the length of time they need to try is longer than in those women with regular cycles. If medication is required to make you ovulate then the treatment is best monitored by ultrasound.

I am 37 and am worried that I will not be able to conceive.

It is well publicised that the ability to fall pregnant decreases with age. This is because a woman is born with all the eggs she will ever have. The eggs of a 37 year old woman are 37 years old and unfortunately ‘new’ eggs cannot be made. These more mature eggs are less likely to produce a pregnancy, and if a pregnancy does arise then the chances of a miscarriage or a chromosomal abnormality in the pregnancy increase. A woman will go through the menopause when the vast majority of the eggs are used.A blood hormone test on day2 or 3 of your menstrual cycle can provide further information as to your chances.

When population studies are looked at, they do show that women after the age of 37 demonstrate a clear fall in the chances of falling pregnant. It is difficult to establish your individual chance without taking other factors into account, however most women aged 37-39 fall pregnant, it may just take longer than if you were younger.

We have been using hormonal contraception (the pill) for a long time, I have heard that it can cause a decrease in my fertility

The combined oral contraception does not cause infertility. Many women are concerned about a delay in fertility after stopping contraception. There are many different types of contraception and in the majority of cases (including the pill) fertility returns to the age related level quite soon after stopping.

It is worth remembering that the pill is prescribed for many reasons other than contraception. These include irregular, painful or heavy periods. These symptoms may be parts of a wider problem such as polycystic ovarian syndrome or endometriosis that are associated with a decrease in fertility. The pill often masks the symptoms, and once the pill is stopped the symptoms and the underlying problem will return. If your periods are very different from how they were before starting the pill then you should see your GP or gynaecologist.

If you are anxious that you are taking too long to conceive don’t be embarrassed to ask your GP questions relating to your specific circumstances and remember – you and your partner are in this together!

Is your body ready for pregnancy or more importantly are “you.” I agree both questions may sound silly to the woman who has already given birth, but because each pregnancy differs and the body changes with age, makes questions of this nature ones that have to be asked. Aside from getting the body into a healthy state to carry a baby, plans have to be made for the infant’s arrival. Parents need to be prepared for when baby turns toddler. They need to be prepared when toddler turns teen. Do the parent’s preparations ever stagnate, no; planning still goes on for when the children fly the nest? Mom will nurture her baby, tickle her toddler and nag her teen – and why. Every mom has a personal built in mechanism inside which triggers an emotion what impels her too protect and love in a way you could never imagine or even understand until you become a mom too.

Is your body ready for pregnancy.

The norm for preconception preparations usually starts up to 12 months before conception. Your doctor will need to ask questions to ensure you have a healthy pregnancy. If you already use contraception (birth control pill) your GP may suggest a pill-free break before trying to conceive. Disconnection from the pill will permit the reproductive system to go through several normal cycles before you conceive – which will make it easier to establish when ovulation happened. While this is suggested it is best to take necessary precautions. Use a condom or a barrier method of contraception till you are ready.

Is there such a thing as unhealthy pregnancy? This will depend on what is meant by unhealthy. Unhealthy pregnancies can really only result from how you look after yourself before and throughout the 9 month period. Smoking, taking drugs, eating bad foods and drinking alcohol can harm your well being and severely damage the unborn baby Shingles Treatment. Avoid caffeinated drinks, although 1 to 2 cups a day is acceptable. Research disclosed that caffeine in one or two cups of coffee will not have a significant effect on the developing fetus.

In pregnancy you could face serious issues. Infections i.e. chickenpox (varicella), German measles (rubella) and hepatitis B can be dangerous for an unborn baby. If your immunizations have not been completed or your immunity to certain infections is unknown, your preconception care may include one or more vaccines.

If you suffer from diabetes, asthma or have high blood pressure – you’ll want to make sure your condition is stable before conceiving. Your GP will be aware of any medication you take for any disorders you have, however if you buy over the counter herbal solutions tell your doctor.

Safe proposals at this stage are prenatal vitamins. Why take prenatal vitamins so early. The baby’s neural tube – which becomes the brain and spinal cord – grows during the first 4 weeks of pregnancy. Taking prenatal vitamins before conception helps prevent neural tube defects. Prenatal vitamins contain folic acid. Your baby needs this essential nutrient during the early weeks of development to help prevent serious conditions like spina bifida.

Although the body needs vitamins, seek medical advice to verify if it is safe for you to take them.

You need to be aware that if infected with a venereal disease (VD – STD) it can increase the risk of infertility, ectopic pregnancy (fertilized egg implants outside the uterus) and other pregnancy complications Unprotected sex is not safe and neither are the problems that can rise from having sexual intercourse without using contraception.

If there is family history of ill health then this can affect your pregnancy and risks increase. Baby can be born with a medical condition or birth defect. Do not concern yourself at this time over this issue because women all over the world are delivering healthy babies. To put your mind at rest, talk to your nurse or doctor at the clinic.

Age does not really have to give reason for concern, however depending on the age group we talk of – may see extra care rules having to be issued. After age 35, the risk of fertility problems, miscarriage and certain chromosomal disorders increase. If you have in the past suffered complications when giving birth – tell your GP. Complications may have included high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, preterm labor, premature birth or birth defects. If you want to deliver a healthy baby and give it the best start in life, then eat healthy foods and stay clear of substances that harm. Healthy lifestyle choices during pregnancy are vital. Light exercise combined with a healthy diet is the key to future goodness for you and your baby.

Obesity is not healthy and if you do not want to delay the conception process then try and lose weight. According to the ASRM, weighing too much or too little can make you less fertile and affect your ability to carry a baby to term. Avoid alcohol and illicit drugs. Good luck and give baby plenty of kisses and hugs.

The Immaculate Conception explained.

Pope Pius IX confirmed in his 1854 dogma that “the most Blessed Mary was, from the first minute of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege of Almighty God and by virtue of the merits of Jesus Christ, Savior of the human race, preserved immune from all stain of original sin.” This confirms that Christ redeemed all human beings, including Mary although at the time done differently. Medieval Franciscan theologian quoted, Duns Scotus (1266-1308) Christ’s role was to mediate for all men, and that to do so he must have been born of a pure mother. Since this mother was also mediated by him, then his mediation would be to make her immaculate which would also facilitate his birth. This does not contradict the Bible in that subsequent to Adam and Eve’s fall from Eden, all men are born with Original Sin. Christ removed Mary`s sin, as we now all have thanks to his sacrifice. In our case, this is through baptism. As Mary was his mother, hers was removed before birth, therefore labeled ‘Immaculate Conception’

In today’s society we have no blessed virgins so therefore you need to take safety precautions to stay safe. Using contraceptives can prevent sexually transmitted diseases and an unwanted pregnancy.

Branden Rathert stand up routine on video of baby conception

Couples who intend to conceive a baby would do well to time their lovemaking. There is an optimum time for enjoying sexual intercourse that increases the chances of conception. However, to be able to do this it is important to know when your spouse is ovulating.

Ovulation in your spouse is determined by her menstrual cycle. The popular belief that ovulation occurs mid-cycle is not really true.

• Ovulation generally occurs about 14 days before she get her period.

• Women who have a 28-day cycle will thus ovulate mid-cycle.

• A woman with a 35-day menstrual cycle will, ovulate closer to day 21, and not mid-cycle.

These are some of the signs that your spouse is ovulating:

• Tenderness in her breasts

• An uncomfortable feeling in the abdomen

• Increase in discharge from the vagina

• Increase in body temperature of up to 1 degree Fahrenheit

If you are planning a baby, the ideal time to have sexual intercourse is one or two days before your spouse ovulates and again on the actual day of her ovulation. Having sexual intercourse on other days is fine. However, you need to ensure that you don’t inadvertently leave out the days around her ovulation. This is because:

• The period while sperms remain alive is about two to three days.

• In contrast, the egg remains for only about half to one day.

• Having sex one or two days before and on the day of the ovulation ensures that there is enough healthy sperm in the fallopian tube at ovulation.

Tips for planning a baby

Conception depends on the successful completion of three processes: ovulation, fertilization of the egg by the sperm, and division of the fertilized egg after which it attaches itself to the uterus.

These are things couples can do to ensure a successful conception:

• Have a general health checkup : Couples who are trying to conceive should undergo a routine medical examination to ascertain if they are in good physical health.

• Maintain an exercise routine : Regular exercise helps couples planning a baby, to stay healthy. It increases their ability to relax, promote sound sleep, and fight physical and mental stress. This will increase their chances of conceiving a baby.

• Eat well : Having a balanced diet, that will provide them with all the essential nutrients they require, is important for couples to conceive a baby.

• Avoid smoking and alcohol: Alcohol or smoking can interfere with healthy sperm production and hamper successful conception.

• Tracking the woman’s menstrual cycle : This will help couples to time sexual intercourse to coincide with ovulation. Having sex during this time is important for successful conception to occur.

Many future dads are a bit confused about their role in their spouses’ pregnancy. If you are one of them, here are some pregnancy planning tips to tell you what you can do.

Smooch from one of her Hollywood movies

Splendida song dei Conception,gruppo metal norvegese,con alla voce l’attuale cantante dei kamelot,Roy Khan… LINE UP Roy S. Khan – vocals Tore Østby – guitar Ingar Amlien – bass Arve Heimdal – drums Hans Chr. Gjestvang – keyboards LYRICS Conception – Silent Crying She lays her head on her pillow says her prayers with no sound there’s a shadow by her window telling her there’ll be no one else to know Silent crying for a childhood gone by she’s slowly dying with the secret she hides close to her heart Another night left to eternity another memory to deny she counts her dolls tries to forget about what no one else will ever know Silent crying for a childhood gone by she’s slowly dying with the secret she hides What no one else will ever know Silent crying for a childhood gone by she’s slowly dying with the secret she hides Silent crying if she dared she would find the word she dreams of but the word passes by.

It is not enough for you to conceive, it is important that you have a healthy and safe delivery when the time comes and that is why I am introducing to you the three healthy conception tips that you can apply in your pregnancy period to ensure the safety of the baby before and after delivery. There is a probability that you are living the wrong life style and that can bring harm to the fetus. Read on and discover for yourself the healthy tips just for you and your baby.

* Ensure that you adhere to the doctor’s instructions- For your healthy delivery this is one factor that you must ensure you stick to. You will receive advice on the things you are meant to do and not to do by your OB-GYN. This is very important, there are some women that have been told to go on regular exercise because their pregnancy is not a complicated one while those with complication have been told not to but instead they should have a enough bed rest so as to make stay healthy during delivery, it all depends on  individuals’ body structures.

* The next is for you to ensure that you are frequent in following the diet plan that your doctor has provided for you. Your Vitamins is very important and that is why you have to drink it always as prescribed by your doctor. Do you know that you are to meet the daily dietary allowance that you are been given since this can not be an ordinary diet. Folic acid is no exception for you to take because it enables your baby to be well developed. With these few emphasis that I have laid, you can know see the reason for the prescription to be taken serious.

* Finally you have to be happy always- This is very important, but sometimes because of the change in hormones, you tend to smile this minute and then the next minutes you are crying. Another factor that can bring about your mood been down is the aspect of morning sickness. But you know what? If you want to have a safe conception you ought to positive minded and happy always and because whatever mood you are in the baby in your womb also feels it. I would say many thanks to the morning sickness and that states that we are actually pregnant.

Though I know that it might be very hard for you to be happy which is one of the conception tips but you can get to do those things that make you happy to help uplift your mood.

One of the greatest challenges for this young pinay celebrity is for having her own name, detaching herself as the daughter of the Mega Star Sharon Cuneta and Gabby Conception and to be known also for the things that she do best.  Though Iâ??m really not a big fan of KC, Iâ??m safe to say that sheâ??s is doing great.  Sheâ??s currently engage as an actress in one of ABS-CBNâ??s teleserye and is currently the United Nations World Food Programme National Ambassador Against Hunger.

To mention a few of the missions of KC Conception as the Ambassador against hunger are to increase awareness against hunger most especially for the children in the conflict affected area of Mindanao and also to find ways on how to sustain the organizations program of providing nutritious food or school meals for the children of Mindanao.

Bayo a clothing brand company partnered with UN-WFP thru KC Conception.  Bayo have expressed they are not just about business and fashion but also a socially responsible brand.  For a limited time only Bayo will be producing a line of clothing called YOU, designed by KC Conception herself.  KC has explained that she really loves sketching and designing clothes and this opportunity would really help in raising funds.  The You Collection will have a tag that says KC to identify it from other clothing line.

All proceeds from this partnership will go to UN-WFP, KC has also explained that sheâ??ll not receive anything from these and 100% of it goes to UN-WFP.  If all of the collections are sold nationwide it would raise an amount of P500,000 or roughly USD 10,000.  And it would be equivalent to 150,000 school meals.  As of the moment they are already providing 75,000 school meals in 427 schools in North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Philippines.

The process of conception is a rather complicated one, from the time that the sperm fertilizes the egg till the time the embryo implants itself in the wall of the uterus; it is a very complex procedure. To start with let us introduce you to the definition of ovulation. Ovulation is said to be taking place when the egg is separated from the ovarian follicle which leads to a complex interaction of female reproductive hormones that begins the maturing of the ovum as well as initiates the release of the ovum. Once the egg has separated from the follicle, it is carried to the fallopian tube where fertilization must occur within the next 24 hours if it has to or the egg will thereafter begin to disintegrate. This means that by the time the egg has taken its place in the fallopian tube, the male sperm should already be waiting in the womb or the tube itself.

Now this is how conception takes place, read carefully to follow – after ejaculation, the sperm has to move through the cervix to the uterus. The sperm will successfully transport itself only if the sperm is healthy and mobile, if the cervical fluid in the vagina is non hostile, capacitation (a process by which the sperm becomes capable enough to penetrate an egg in order to fertilize it) takes place. You must know that post ejaculation a protective gel like layer is formed around the sperm and the sperm with the highest mobility travels to the egg through the cervical mucus. When the woman is most fertile during ovulation, this mucus is least resistant to the sperm and allows it most accessible fluidity to travel through and read the ovum. Once however the sperm has entered the womb, contractions take place in the uterus helping to propel the sperm to the fallopian tubes which are placed at the upper part of the uterus.

Once ovulation has taken place, the ends of the fallopian tubes move over the ovaries which takes as much time as about 24 hours, and this is referred to as the resting state. During this period the egg is either prepared for fertilization or can already have started getting fertilized. Also the sperm should have already been waiting to fuse with the egg or must have already fused with it. After this the fused egg moves downwards to settle in the uterus but if a problem occurs in it traveling, an ectopic pregnancy might take place which is a rather dangerous situation and can be fatal not only to the egg but also the mother. Once the egg reaches the uterus is will plant itself into the uterine wall which might cause a little bleeding due to the rupturing of the walls. Hereafter you will be experiencing several changes as days move on and the little egg grows into a full baby over the next nine months. Feel the changes and rejoice on becoming a mother soon.

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