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Expert Q&A

	By Kathy Loebel Kathy Loebel is a certified nurse midwife

My husband and I are trying to get pregnant for the first time. Is there something we could do to increase our chances?

One of the most important things you and your spouse can do to facilitate a healthy baby is to live a healthy lifestyle prior to conception. That means eating healthily, regular exercise, vitamin supplements as needed, and avoiding excessive use of alcohol.

The preconception period is a great time to make some of those lifestyle changes like quitting smoking or losing weight. All women of childbearing age should take folic acid daily -- this prevents birth defects when the folic acid is taken prior to conception.

Finally, the timing of intercourse will certainly help with conception. The basic information a couple needs to know is the approximate time of the month the woman is ovulating and then have intercourse to coincide with ovulation. Women ovulate 14 days BEFORE their menstrual period starts. For example, if your cycle is 31 days, you will probably ovulate on day 17 of your cycle. Therefore, intercourse on days 15, 17, and 19 should increase the probability of a pregnancy.

Always see your health care provider prior to conception so they may add information which is particular to your health history. Good luck!

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