Easy Ways to Get Pregnant

Timing

• In the case of baby making, timing really is everything. To get pregnant, the sperm and egg must be at the same place at the right time. On average, women ovulate about two weeks into their cycle, measured from the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP). This number varies from woman to woman, though, so if you want to be exact pick up an ovulation test kit from your pharmacy.

  Don't be concerned about doing the deed "too often." The amount of sperm released in each ejaculation will be a bit lower if you have intercourse daily, but healthy men shouldn't experience a drop significant enough to inhibit pregnancy. If you aren't tracking your ovulation, aim to make love at least three times a week (about every other day) to ensure you're taking advantage of your fertile periods.

Weight

• Because female fat cells release large amounts of estrogen, extra pounds can act as unwanted birth control. Many women find that they easily get pregnant after losing 20 or 30 extra pounds. Losing the weight won't just increase your fertility. By adopting a healthy lifestyle before you conceive, your chances of making it through the first trimester--and beyond--without problem are greatly increased.

  On the topic of a healthy lifestyle, don't aim only for the number on the scale to go down. Make sure you're eating a balanced diet and taking a prenatal supplement to get all the vitamins and minerals necessary for a healthy conception. Stop smoking (if you do) and avoid alcohol. A healthy body before conception greatly increases your odds for conceiving and giving birth to a healthy baby.

Stress

• Stress releases a wide array of negative chemicals and hormones in your body, leading to erratic periods and, along with them, erratic ovulation. The more stress you're under while you're trying to conceive, the less likely you are to succeed. Evaluate what's going on in your life to cause the stress. This may not be the best time to conceive or it may be the perfect time to drop "obligations" that have been weighing you down.

  Sudden stress is more likely to prevent conception than on-going stress. If you think a recent trauma or life change (a death in the family, a big move, a job loss) is preventing you from getting pregnant, wait until things calm down. Once you have returned to business as usual, getting pregnant should be easy.