I want to get pregnant
What you need to know if you want to have a baby
Do you want to get pregnant? Then you’re entering a new phase where you look ahead, make choices, and likely have many questions. What can you do to increase your chances of pregnancy? And how do you prepare your body for it? In this blog, we give you clear answers and practical tips, so you can step into this new period consciously and with confidence. Prefer to talk about it personally? That’s possible too! If you want to get pregnant, you can sign up right away for our Preconception Consultation.
What should you pay attention to if you want to get pregnant?
Good preparation increases your chances of getting pregnant and ensures a healthy start for your baby. You definitely don’t need to do everything perfectly, but being mindful of your diet, lifestyle, and cycle really makes a difference. For example, pay attention to:
- Healthy nutrition: eat a varied diet with lots of vegetables, fruit, and fiber
- Exercise: stay active daily and listen carefully to your body
- Relaxation: get enough rest and sleep, and reduce stress
- Healthy weight: a BMI between 18.5 and 25 is ideal for a healthy pregnancy
Have questions or doubts? You’re always welcome for a Preconception Consultation at our midwifery practice in Amsterdam-Zuid, even if you’re not pregnant yet.
What helps you get pregnant faster?
You’re more likely to get pregnant faster if you understand your menstrual cycle and have intercourse around your fertile days. On average, it takes a year from the moment a woman decides she wants to become pregnant. It also helps to stop using contraception in time, avoid lubricants that hinder sperm, and start taking folic acid. And don’t be too hard on yourself. Approaching your desire for children with ease can certainly help—and makes the process more pleasant for you.
When am I fertile?
You are most fertile around your ovulation. This usually occurs about 14 days before your period, but it can vary depending on your cycle. Do you have a regular cycle? Then you can usually calculate your fertile window yourself or use an app. You can also use an ovulation test. And did you know your body also gives signals in the days before you’re most fertile? You may notice:
- More clear and stretchy discharge
- Sensitive breasts or light abdominal pain (“ovulation pain”)
- A higher body temperature after ovulation
Do you have an irregular cycle? Discuss with your midwife or GP what your most likely fertile period is. You can also talk about this with us during the Preconception Consultation.
How can I increase my fertility?
Your fertility is partly determined biologically. But your lifestyle also affects your fertility. So there are things you can do yourself to increase your chances, such as:
- Stopping smoking, alcohol, and drugs
- Eating healthy and taking bioactive folic acid
- Exercising without exhausting yourself
- Getting enough sleep and relaxation
- Avoiding harmful substances, for example at work
For men too, lifestyle affects your chances of getting pregnant. In 30% of cases, the reason for not getting pregnant lies with the man. Because his lifestyle and activities impact sperm quality, it’s important for him to take that into account as well. What men can do to increase the chances of pregnancy is explained in this blog we previously published.
What if getting pregnant doesn’t work?
For many couples, it’s completely normal for it to take a few months to even a year to become pregnant. So try not to be impatient. Still concerned? Then you can:
- Have regular unprotected sex
- Track your cycle using a calendar or app to discover your fertile window
- See your midwife if you have questions—you’re welcome even before you’re pregnant!
Have you not become pregnant after a year? Then see your GP or sign up for our Preconception Consultation to discuss your next steps. Are you over 35? Then it’s smart to make an appointment after six months.
What is the impact of smoking, alcohol, and drugs?
It goes without saying, but we can’t stress it enough: these substances can significantly reduce both your and your partner’s fertility. Smoking decreases the quality of both eggs and sperm, alcohol affects your hormonal balance, and drugs can even cause permanent damage. These substances are also harmful to your baby after conception—even in the first weeks when you might not yet know you’re pregnant. So: both of you should stop using them from the moment you want to get pregnant.
Frequently asked questions about getting pregnant and fertility
I want to get pregnant, where do I start?
Start with a healthy lifestyle, take bioactive folic acid, and track your cycle. You can also request a Preconception Consultation with us.
Can I still drink alcohol if I’m not sure whether I’m pregnant?
Better not. Alcohol is especially harmful in the early weeks, so particularly when you don’t yet know you’re pregnant.
When should I seek help if I want to get pregnant?
Are you under 35? After one year of trying. Over 35? After six months. And if you’re worried or have questions, you’re always welcome!
Is there something my partner can do?
Absolutely! It’s good for men to adjust their lifestyle if you want to get pregnant. By quitting smoking, eating healthy, and reducing stress, they can improve sperm quality.
Looking for personal advice about getting pregnant? Visit us in Amsterdam-Zuid!
Are you thinking about getting pregnant? Or have you already stopped using contraception? If you have questions or want advice, you’re always welcome at our practice in Amsterdam-Zuid—even before you’re pregnant! Our midwives are happy to help with honest information, personal advice, and of course a warm welcome. We also offer a special Preconception Consultation in which we discuss your situation, wishes, and health. Everything to help you prepare well for pregnancy. See you soon?
