Deciding to try for a baby is one of the most exciting milestones in life. But before you toss the birth control and start tracking ovulation, it’s helpful to take a step back and get informed. Trying to conceive (TTC) involves more than just timing — it's about preparing your body, mind, and lifestyle for the journey ahead.
Whether you're just thinking about it or already planning, here’s what you should know before you start trying to conceive.
Start with a Preconception Checkup
Before you begin your TTC journey, it’s smart to schedule a preconception appointment with your doctor or OB-GYN. They can:
- Review your medical history and any chronic conditions
- Talk about your menstrual cycle and fertility
- Discuss medications and supplements
- Ensure your vaccines are up to date
- Offer guidance on healthy weight and lifestyle habits
This checkup sets the stage for a healthy pregnancy and gives you a chance to ask questions.
Understand Your Menstrual Cycle
Knowing how your cycle works is key when trying to conceive. Most people ovulate (release an egg) about 14 days before their next period, but this can vary. You're most fertile in the 5 days leading up to and including ovulation — this is known as your fertile window.
Helpful tools:
- Ovulation predictor kits (OPKs)
- Basal body temperature (BBT) charting
- Cervical mucus tracking
- Fertility tracking apps
Learning to recognize ovulation signs can significantly increase your chances of getting pregnant.
Start Taking Folic Acid
Ideally, start taking a prenatal vitamin with at least 400 to 800 mcg of folic acid at least one month before you try to conceive. Folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects, which develop early in pregnancy — often before you even know you're pregnant.
Evaluate Lifestyle Habits
Your daily habits can impact fertility and the health of your future pregnancy. Here's what to look at:
Healthy Habits:
- Balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein
- Regular exercise (aim for 30 minutes most days)
- Adequate sleep and stress management
Habits to Avoid:
- Smoking or vaping
- Excessive alcohol or caffeine
- Recreational drug use
- Exposure to environmental toxins
If your partner is involved, their lifestyle matters too — sperm health plays a role in conception.
Know That It Might Take Time
Getting pregnant doesn’t always happen right away. In fact, even for healthy couples:
- About 30% conceive within the first cycle
- Around 80% conceive within six months
- Up to 85-90% conceive within a year
It’s completely normal for it to take several months, especially if you're under 35. If you're over 35 and haven’t conceived after six months, or if you’re under 35 and haven’t conceived after a year, it’s a good idea to consult a fertility specialist.
Track Your Mental and Emotional Health
Trying to conceive can be an emotional rollercoaster. Excitement can quickly turn into frustration or anxiety when it doesn’t happen right away. It's important to:
- Manage expectations
- Find a support system (friends, online groups, or a therapist)
- Talk openly with your partner
Emotional well-being is a big part of the TTC journey — and it’s just as important as physical health.
Know When to Seek Help
Some situations may call for early support or evaluation, such as:
- Irregular or absent periods
- A history of miscarriage
- Diagnosed reproductive health conditions (like PCOS or endometriosis)
- You or your partner have known fertility concerns
- You’re over 35
Fertility help doesn't mean you're "failing" — it’s a proactive step toward your goal.
Final Thoughts
Trying to conceive is a beautiful and sometimes challenging journey. The more you know going in, the better prepared — and less stressed — you'll be. From optimizing your health to understanding your cycle, every step you take now lays the foundation for a healthy pregnancy and baby.
Remember: It’s not about doing everything perfectly. It’s about being informed, patient, and kind to yourself along the way.
Thinking about growing your family? Start by taking care of yourself. Your future baby will thank you for it.
