Are you contemplating pregnancy? If so, you may be curious about how to enhance your chances of conceiving. This is why I advocate for women to consider their fertility health early—beginning in their 20s or even as teens. Fertility health is not just crucial when you're ready to start a family; it reflects your overall well-being.
Your menstrual cycle acts as a monthly report card for your health. It can reveal if you've been under more stress, lacking sleep, or over-exercising. How does your period respond? Maybe you've experienced more cramps or intensified PMS symptoms lately.
Optimal fertility is a vital indicator of overall health—and this applies to men as well. However, it’s become commonplace to not worry about fertility until the moment you want to conceive. At that point, many realize it’s not so easy, especially if they've been ignoring menstrual signs or using birth control methods for extended periods. Suppressing ovarian function can have long-term consequences.
Understanding the importance of your reproductive health early on can make a significant difference. I learned this the hard way. As a teen, I was prescribed hormonal birth control to manage my menstrual issues, including amenorrhea, irregular periods, acne, and debilitating cramps—not for contraception, as I wasn't even in a relationship. I wish I had known more about the potential side effects then. (You can learn more about birth control in my course, EmpowerHer Birth Control.)
Realizing earlier that you may want to start a family one day allows you to make informed decisions about your health. With infertility rates rising, it’s possible to look healthy externally while your body signals trouble internally. Addressing the root causes early can set you on the right path to recovery.
Remember, rebalancing your body takes time. For some, fertility may improve within three months, but for others, it could take years. It's important to remember that it takes about 90 days for an egg to mature. Thus, a minimum of three months is necessary to observe any changes and assess the effectiveness of your interventions.
Your lifestyle choices also significantly impact your fertility. Making informed, health-conscious decisions now can pave the way for a healthier future, both for yourself and any potential family plans.
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