Struggling to concieve

Advice From Women Who’ve Been There

Trying to conceive (TTC) can be an emotional roller coaster. At times it can be exciting and enlightening (“we’re making a life!”), but it can also be stressful and frustrating (“we have to have sex how many times?!”). To us, it seems that the best advice we can give, should come from those who have experienced it firsthand, with all the ups and downs that come with TTC. That’s why we asked several mothers, mothers-to-be, and women who are currently TTC to share only the best advice with you. Here’s what they had to say: 

…it’s helpful for ladies to be empowered by knowledge about their cycle, big time. Read Taking Charge of Your Fertility, a dauntingly thick book for being all sciencey, but an extremely quick and fascinating read: I swear by it. 

— Marnee B., San Diego, CA 

The best advice I have gotten is to not make trying to conceive a job, and just have sex…a lot. But the most “helpful” was when my sister-in-law bought me an ovulation predictor kit. I got pregnant. Science: 1, Romance: 0. 

— Lindsay B., Fairfax, VA 

Nothing anyone says can help you deal with the emotional trauma every month when you get your period and your hopes are dashed to the ground and stomped all over. I would say the best thing to do is take it one day at a time. Try relaxation techniques like meditation, acupuncture, or yoga. 

— Amy B., Charleston, SC 

“Bonus advice: Make sure your baby dances are fun AND sperm-safe! Avoid using oils, saliva and lubes that aren’t proven to be fertility-friendly.”