Making your baby

The first day of your pregnancy, as it is officially dated, is actually the first day of your last period. So in week one, you’ve not even released the egg that will become your unborn child. Instead, you begin your period as normal, perhaps unaware that this is the last one you will have for some time to come!

However, if you’re planning to get pregnant, it’s already a good idea to start taking folic acid to prevent spina bifida and to eat a healthy well balanced diet, while cutting out alcohol and cigarettes. After all, it’s never too early to give your baby the best start in life.

Your progress

Trying to conceive

For some people, getting pregnant is as easy as falling off a log, but for about half of all couples it takes longer than six months to conceive. There are a few things you can do to improve your chances of conceiving.

First, chart your cycles and pay attention to the nature of your cervical fluid. Is it creamy, thin or pasty? Or, is it more like an egg white? Basically, it's the slippery fluid that helps sperm make their journey up to do their job. If the fluid isn't the right thickness and consistency, sperm will get trapped.

Another way to get serious about conception is to take your body temperature every day before you get out of bed with a digital thermometer. Your temperature is lower by a few tenths of a degree just before you ovulate, and is a few tenths higher after. If you chart your temperature you can time intercourse for the day before your temperature is due to rise.

If you're trying to conceive, it’s wise to stop smoking, limit your alcohol consumption and exercise regularly. Take a vitamin supplement and/or eat breakfast cereals fortified with folic acid and B-vitamins.

If you still can't conceive after six months to a year, you and your partner may want to visit your GP for further evaluation, and possibly a referral to a fertility specialist

What to think about

If you are having no luck in conceiving after several months, make an appointment with your doctor or family planning clinic. It is worth being checked for any signs of vaginal infections or conditions that might make conception or pregnancy more difficult for you.

Tell your GP about any over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements or medicated skin creams that you use regularly, as some drugs, such as allergy medicines and cough remedies, can affect fertility. Remember that if you've been having Depo-Provera shots, conception won't occur until the hormones clear your system.