Preconception Counselling & Lifestyle
Lifestyle Modifications
Nutrition & Weight
- • Maintain BMI between 18.5-24.9 for optimal fertility
- • Mediterranean diet may improve fertility outcomes
- • Folic acid 0.4-1mg daily (start 3 months before conception)
- • Vitamin D supplementation if deficient
Exercise
- • Regular moderate exercise (150 min/week)
- • Avoid excessive high-intensity training
- • Balance is key - both extremes can affect fertility
Substances to Avoid
- • Smoking cessation (both partners)
- • Limit alcohol intake, as lower consumption is associated with lower health risk.
- • Reduce caffeine (≤300mg/day)
- • Avoid recreational drugs
Timing of Intercourse
Best timing
- Track your menstrual calendar to predict days; ovulation typically occurs 14 days before next period.
- Track cervical mucous changes; highest probability of conception is on the day of peak production of slippery clear mucus.
- Daily monitoring with a basal-body thermometer can detect the transient increase in body temperature (0.5 degrees Celsius rise).
- Luteinizing hormone kits.
Environmental Factors
Occupational Hazards to Avoid
- • Pesticides and chemicals
- • Heavy metals
- • Radiation exposure
- • High heat exposure (males)
Medications to Review
- • Review all current medications
- • NSAIDs (may delay ovulation)
- • Antidepressants (outweight risks/benefits of use)
Psychological Support
Infertility significantly impacts emotional well-being. Recommend:
- • Stress management techniques
- • Relationship counselling if needed
- • Support group referrals
- • Mental health screening at each visit