Why can't I get pregnant despite being in good health?
Sep 13, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Introduction
In general, a healthy individual may still have difficulty conceiving due to factors such as poorly timed intercourse, stress, improper diet, poor sperm quality, or a thin endometrial lining, and treatment should be based on the specific cause. During preconception preparation, it is recommended that both partners regulate their emotions, engage in moderate exercise, travel, and other relaxing activities to improve mood, which may increase the chances of pregnancy.
In general, individuals who are physically healthy but unable to conceive may be affected by factors such as poorly timed intercourse, psychological stress, improper dietary habits, poor sperm quality, or thin endometrial lining. Treatment should be tailored according to the specific cause. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Poorly Timed Intercourse
A couple may both be in good health yet fail to conceive due to poorly timed sexual intercourse. Most women release one or two eggs each month, and the likelihood of conception is significantly higher when intercourse occurs during the ovulation period. The chance of pregnancy outside of this window is very low. Therefore, mistimed intercourse can directly affect a woman's ability to become pregnant. It is recommended to use ovulation test strips to monitor ovulation and schedule intercourse accordingly during the fertile window to increase the chances of conception.
2. Psychological Stress
Difficulty conceiving may also be related to psychological stress. Women who are overly eager to become pregnant may experience heightened anxiety, which can disrupt the secretion of various hormones in the body, leading to hormonal imbalances that hinder conception. It is advised to stay relaxed during the preconception period, avoid excessive pressure, and minimize feelings of anxiety.
3. Improper Dietary Habits
If a woman suffers from malnutrition or frequently consumes foods contaminated with toxic substances such as lead or mercury, or regularly drinks coffee, strong tea, or cola, her chances of conception may decrease.
4. Poor Sperm Quality
If a man smokes, drinks alcohol, or stays up late for prolonged periods, his sperm quality may decline, thereby affecting fertility. Men are advised to quit smoking and drinking and maintain a regular sleep schedule during the preconception period.
5. Thin Endometrial Lining
If a woman has an abnormally thin endometrial lining, it may prevent embryo implantation, thus interfering with normal conception. Patients are advised to follow medical guidance and take medications such as dydrogesterone tablets or progesterone capsules as appropriate.
During the preconception period, couples are encouraged to manage their emotional well-being, engage in moderate exercise, travel, or other relaxing activities to improve their chances of conception. If pregnancy does not occur after these adjustments, couples should seek consultation at a hospital’s reproductive medicine center. Avoid unproven folk remedies, as they may negatively impact health.
