Fertility

Once you’ve decided to try for a baby, an active happy sex life is all most people need to conceive.

Nine out of 10 couples in which the woman is under 35 will conceive naturally after one year of having regular unprotected sex.

If you’re hoping to get pregnant, having sex every two or three days throughout the month will give you the best chance.

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What if I don’t get pregnant after a year?

If you are worried that it is taking an unusually long time for you to conceive, there may be a problem your doctor could help you or your partner with. Because some couples do take longer than others to conceive, many doctors prefer you to have been having sex without contraception for at least a year, 2–3 times a week, before referring you for fertility tests.

If you are over 35 or if you have any known medical or fertility problems you may be referred for help after six months. There are ways to help couples conceive if they are having problems getting pregnant. These will not always be successful, depending on the reasons for the infertility. If you are concerned about your fertility, make an appointment with your GP.

Some women do get pregnant but the pregnancy fails – this is called a miscarriage and is common. This can happen to women of any age. If this happens to you, there is a high chance you will be able to have a successful pregnancy in the future. However, some women who have a miscarriage, or more than one miscarriage, may require specialist help.

You can find out more information from your doctor, nurse or midwife, or by contacting the Miscarriage Association (Tel: 01924 200799)

 
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