Why Am I Not Pregnant Yet?

You may think that there is a possibility for you to get pregnant every time you have sex. Technically, this is true but technically it is not. In order to get pregnant a few things have to line up. For some couples it can take anywhere from 6 months to a year to get pregnant; this is considered normal. Many doctors won't see you for fertility issues until you have been trying for at least one year.

To increase your chances of getting pregnant sooner, here are some recommendations.

Track Your Cycles

If you are trying to conceive it is a good idea to track your cycles. Every month take note of the first day of your cycle. Count the number of days between the start of each period.

This will give you clues about what day you probably ovulate on. If you have a regular 28 day cycle, it is a good chance that you ovulate on day 14. If you don't have regular cycles you could ovulate later. Some women can go months without a cycle, which can make it difficult to get pregnant.

Track Ovulation

Ovulation is the process of releasing an egg.

If you don't ovulate; you can't get pregnant. Even though sperm can live for several days; there is only a 12 to 24 hour window to fertilize the egg.

There are a few ways to detect ovulation: (information on these options will appear in a later article)

• Check your cervical mucus
• Check your cervical position
• Check your body temperature
• Take OPK's (Ovulation Predictor Kits)

Sexual Timing

Let's face it: To get pregnant naturally you must have sex. If you have sex at least three times a week, you should have no problem getting pregnant within a year; even without doing the steps mentioned above.

But if you want a more technical approach: Have sex every other day starting a few days before you are expected to ovulate continuing until few days after. This way you will have an optimum chance of catching the egg.

It is not advised that you have sex every day because it may dilute the sperm concentration.

The best thing to do is to relax and try not to make sex a chore. Your spouse will appreciate it. I know this is not something that a TTC-er wants to hear. Trust me I know.

If it has been over a year and the above techniques are not working; consult your doctor. There are treatments they can proscribe to regulate your cycles and cause ovulation.

If you know anyone that needs this information feel free to pass it on.