How to: Get pregnant through cycle planning

The menstrual cycle is made up of different phases that play a role in conception. We'll take a look at each of these phases and how they can affect your chances of getting pregnant.
The menstrual phase occurs when fertilization has not occurred. The uterine lining that has built up during the previous cycle period is shed and expelled along with blood. This phase usually lasts about 3 to 7 days.
The follicular phase begins immediately after menstruation. During this phase, luteinizing hormone (LH) stimulates the ovary to mature several follicles. Each follicle contains one egg. However, usually only one follicle becomes dominant and prevails.
The ovulation phase is the peak of the menstrual cycle and occurs about halfway through the cycle, usually around day 14 in a 28-day cycle. During this phase, LH causes the dominant follicle to rupture and the mature egg is released. It travels down the fallopian tube, ready to be fertilized.
The luteal phase begins after ovulation and usually lasts about 10 to 16 days. After the follicle ruptures, the empty follicle is transformed into a gland called the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum produces progesterone, which helps prepare the uterine lining for the possible implantation of a fertilized egg. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum regresses and the menstrual phase begins again.

During the menstrual cycle, various hormonal changes occur. Estrogen and progesterone play an important role in preparing the body for conception and maintaining a pregnancy. The exact duration and symptoms of each phase can vary from woman to woman, so it is important to observe your own body and cycle to develop a better understanding of your individual menstrual cycle.

During ovulation, the release of a mature egg from the ovary takes place. This is a crucial phase of the menstrual cycle when the chances of getting pregnant are highest. Here are some important aspects that occur during ovulation:

A hormonal surge , particularly luteinizing hormone (LH), causes the dominant follicle in the ovary to rupture and release the mature egg. The egg then travels down the fallopian tube, ready to be fertilized by sperm.

Ovulation usually lasts only 12 to 24 hours , but the fertile period can be a little longer. The fertile period usually covers a few days before and after ovulation. Sperm can survive in the female body for several days, so fertilization is possible even if intercourse takes place a few days before ovulation.

During ovulation, the environment in the woman's reproductive tract changes. Cervical mucus becomes clear, elastic and more fluid to make it easier for sperm to penetrate the cervix and reach the egg. The pH in the genital tract also becomes more sperm-friendly .

If intercourse occurs during the fertile window and sperm enters the fallopian tube, there is a chance that a sperm will fertilize the egg. Fertilization usually occurs in the fallopian tube, where the fertilized egg becomes a zygote.

Ovulation is an optimal time to get pregnant because the egg is only capable of fertilization for a short period of time. By understanding when you ovulate and knowing your fertile days , you can maximize your chances of a successful pregnancy. Methods such as observing cervical mucus, using ovulation tests, or tracking basal body temperature can help you determine when you ovulate more accurately.

There are several ways to optimize fertility and increase the chances of a successful pregnancy. Here are some tricks and tips that can help:

1. Healthy eating:
   A balanced and nutrient-rich diet can support fertility. Make sure you get enough fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and lean proteins. Avoid excessive consumption of sugary foods and saturated fats.
2. Correct nutrients:
   Certain nutrients such as folic acid, iron, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants can improve fertility. You can get them either through your diet or in the form of supplements, but consult a doctor before taking them.
3. Regular exercise: Regular physical activity can increase blood circulation, improve metabolism and support hormone balance. Choose activities that you enjoy and can do long-term, but avoid excessive physical exertion as this can affect fertility.
4. Stress management:
   Chronic stress can negatively affect fertility. Find ways to reduce stress, such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, or pursuing hobbies that bring you joy.
5. Avoid smoking, alcohol and drugs: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and drug use can affect fertility. Try to avoid these substances to improve your chances of getting pregnant.
6. Maintain a balanced weight: A healthy body weight is important for fertility. Being overweight or underweight can cause hormonal changes and affect fertility. Try to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

If you have been trying to get pregnant for a long time without success, it can be frustrating and stressful.

It is advisable to make an appointment with a reproductive medicine specialist or a gynecologist. They can perform tests to identify possible fertility problems in you or your partner. Based on the results, they can recommend treatment options or further steps.

Both you and your partner can undergo fertility tests to determine possible causes of infertility. This may include hormone testing, sperm testing, ultrasound scans, or other diagnostic procedures.

Depending on the problems and diagnosis identified , supportive therapies such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF) or other assisted reproductive techniques may be considered.

The process of trying to conceive can be emotionally challenging . It's important to seek support, whether from your partner, family members, friends or by joining support groups for couples with fertility issues. Counselling or therapy can also help to deal with the psychological stress.

While you focus on treatment and the road to pregnancy, don't forget to take care of your physical and emotional health . Take time to relax, exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and find activities that bring you joy.