Deciding to have a baby is a huge step, but taking that decision only represents the beginning of what could be a long and challenging journey. Parents only talk about the challenges of raising their baby during the first few months, yet the process of reaching that point is often also not without its difficulties.
Yet as they always say, good things don’t come easy. The pregnancy process will be worth it in the end, but once you mentally decide to have a child, you’ll need to accept that it might be a bumpy ride from time to time.
The good news is that you’re not the first person to have a baby, which means there are plenty of tips and guidance to draw upon. In this post, we’ll run through some key things to keep in mind when you’re trying to conceive, which should help you physically, mentally, and emotionally.
It Can Take Time
Some people manage to get pregnant at the first time of asking, but they’re very much the exception, not the rule. In fact, even getting pregnant within the first month of trying is rare — only around 30% of couples manage to do so within that timeframe.
Given the probability that it might take some months — or even a year or more — to fall pregnant, then it’s best to proactively work on staying patient. It’s not a race. When it happens, it happens. Given what most of us were taught about birth control, many people believe that it’s likely that they’ll fall pregnant at the first time of asking, but that’s just statistically not the case.
Help is Available
With that said, while being patient is important, it’s also important to recognise that conception can be more challenging for some couples than others. Around 20% of people have fertility issues, which can make it more difficult to conceive. If you’re under 35 and have been trying to conceive for a year (or over 35 for six months without success), then it’s recommended to get checked. If you do have fertility issues, then affordable IVF treatment can help you. There are also fertility medications available for both men and women that can provide support.
Communication is Key
As we’ve mentioned, the journey towards pregnancy is often more challenging and complicated than many would-be parents imagine. It’s much easier to go through this journey as a team, and that’s why communication between partners is so essential. You’ll find that the process is more straightforward if you’re able to effectively communicate about the practical factors relating to your pregnancy, as well as managing the emotional and mental challenges that pregnancy can bring. Plus, the pregnancy journey is simply more fun if you approach it as a strong, unified couple that has solid foundations.
You’re Your Best Advocate
There’s plenty of help available for people wishing to get pregnant, but also keep in mind that, in many cases, you are your best advocate. Looking after your body and giving it the support it needs can go a long way towards increasing the chances of conception. Your lifestyle can give you a slight but noticeable advantage as you work towards your goal. It also makes managing the stressful side of trying to get pregnant easier; exercise is a well-known stress-buster, and you’ll also have the peace of mind of knowing that you’re doing everything you possibly can.
Combine exercise with healthy eating and good sleeping practices, and you’ll be on the right track.
Financial Planning is Key
There aren’t too many costs associated with trying to get pregnant. But when you actually are pregnant? Then the costs can quickly begin to pile up, and they only increase once the baby is in your life. Taking some time to figure out your finances and create a financial plan can be an effective way to keep stress levels in check. It’s a lot easier to focus all your energy on getting pregnant when you know that the money situation is fine.
Bonus tip: Start creating a baby fund as soon as you even consider having a baby. Even putting away a relatively modest amount into a savings account can make a big difference when the baby actually arrives.
Self-Care Can Make a Huge Difference
Setbacks are common in pregnancy, and as such, it can be a good idea to proactively work on maintaining positivity and optimism. You’ll need them from time to time. We tend to think of positivity as something that you either have or don’t have, but it’s possible to cultivate. Practical gratitude, continuing to do the things you enjoy, and being aware of any negative thoughts (such as ‘I will never get pregnant’) can all help.
Take Folic Acid Daily
Taking folic acid supplements is recommended for pregnant women, but it’s also important to take them before you get pregnant. That’s because it supports the development of the baby’s spinal cord and brain within the first month of pregnancy. Taking folic acid ahead of time will ensure that your body has all that it needs even before you’re aware that you’re pregnant. You should continue taking folic acid throughout your pregnancy.
Avoid Comparison
Pregnancy is a bit like life condensed: everyone moves through it at different times. Your friend might fall pregnant within the first week of trying, while you might need six months or more. It’s normal, and in no way reflects on you, your partner, or your baby. Avoid comparison, and simply continue to do the things that will help you get pregnant. Plus, it’s much better to be genuinely happy for others around you rather than comparing them to your situation.
It’s a Rollercoaster of Emotions
Finally, anyone with thoughts of trying to conceive will have to simply accept that it’s going to be a rollercoaster of emotions. You’ll have highs, and you’ll have lows — and they’ll only intensify once you’re actually pregnant. Stay positive, lean on your support network, and celebrate the small victories when they come along. Eventually, it’ll all be worth it.
