Know how your ovulation cycle works and other factors that affect fertility.

Knowing your menstrual cycle and ovulation days is helpful when you want to become pregnant. Most people have approximately five days in their monthly menstrual cycle when they are more fertile or likely to conceive a baby. These are the days leading up to when your body releases an egg.

To find out when you are most fertile, or when you are most likely to become pregnant, use the HealthLink BC Interactive Tool: When Are You Most Fertile?

Infertility

For some, getting pregnant may be more difficult than for others. Infertility or the failure to get pregnant after trying for more than one year, can occur in approximately 15 per cent of those people who are trying to get pregnant. There are a few factors that can affect fertility. Learn more about fertility problems.

Healthy living factors

  • Smoking can affect male fertility and increase the length of time it takes a female persons to conceive. Take steps to quit smoking and increase your chances of getting pregnant.
  • Substance use
  • Nutrition and weight
  • Stress
  • Chronic health conditions
  • Irregular periods
  • History of sexually transmitted diseases

Learn more about your health prior to pregnancy.

Problems with a female's reproductive system

Such as blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, decreased egg production, or pelvic problems such as endometriosis.

Problems with a male's reproductive system

Such as ejaculation or sperm production.

Age over 35

  • As females age, their eggs also age, and the ability to conceive decreases, especially when over 35
  • If you are over 35 and have tried unsuccessfully to get pregnant for more than six months, it is recommended that you see a doctor about infertility testing.
  • If you do get pregnant after 35, the risks of complications also increase.
    • Genetic abnormalities
    • Complications in pregnancy like high blood pressure, diabetes or having a cesarean birth
    • Increased risk of miscarriage

What should I do?

You should consider talking to your doctor if you have been unable to become pregnant after one year of having sex without using birth control.

Through tests such as ultrasound, blood work and a physical exam, a doctor can try to determine why you are not getting pregnant.

A wide range of treatments are available. Discuss with your doctor the best options for you.

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