Ways to increase the chances of getting pregnant

Hey there, mamas-to-be! As a future mom, you're about to embark on the most exciting and transformative journey of your life. Pregnancy comes with a whole host of changes, some of which can be a bit unexpected - food aversions being one of them. But don't worry, it's all part of the adventure! Let's dive into how you can navigate those tricky taste buds and find ways to nourish your growing bundle of joy.

First things first: Why do food aversions happen? The short answer is hormones. During pregnancy, your body goes through numerous changes as it prepares to nurture a new life. One of those changes involves an increased sensitivity to smell and taste due to heightened levels of estrogen and progesterone. This means that foods you once loved might now make your stomach turn, or perhaps even trigger nausea. Don't fret - this is normal and will pass (fingers crossed!) as you progress through your pregnancy.

Now that we know why food aversions happen let's talk about what you can do to cope. If you find yourself turning your nose up at certain foods, here are a few suggestions to help you maintain a balanced diet:

1. Experiment with different cooking methods: Sometimes, the sight, smell or texture of a certain food may trigger an aversion. Try changing up the way you prepare it to see if that makes a difference. For example, if cooked broccoli is a no-go, try blending it into a smoothie or roasting it for a sweeter flavor.

2. Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Instead of three large meals per day, opt for five or six smaller meals throughout the day. This can help keep your blood sugar levels stable and minimize feelings of nausea.

3. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is crucial during pregnancy, especially if you're experiencing vomiting or diarrhea. Aim for at least eight 8-ounce glasses per day. And don't forget about electrolyte-rich drinks like coconut water or sports drinks to replenish essential nutrients lost through vomiting or diarrhea.

4. Consider supplements: If you're struggling to get enough nutrition from food alone, talk to your healthcare provider about whether prenatal vitamins could be beneficial. They can provide the necessary nutrients that may be lacking in your diet due to food aversions.

5. Seek support: Share your struggles with friends, family members, or fellow pregnant women who might have experienced similar challenges. Sometimes just knowing you're not alone can help make the process feel more manageable.

If you've been diagnosed with PCOS and are eager to conceive, know that dealing with food aversions during pregnancy is just one more hurdle to jump over on your fertility journey. Be patient with yourself and remember that there are many factors at play when it comes to getting pregnant - including hormonal imbalances and ovulation irregularities associated with PCOS. Working closely with a healthcare provider can help identify potential solutions for increasing your chances of conceiving quickly and successfully.

Early pregnancy insomnia can also be another hurdle for expectant mothers. While dealing with food aversions and sleepless nights might seem overwhelming, taking steps to create a relaxing bedtime routine (such as reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques) can help promote better sleep quality.

Lastly, when should you start trying to conceive? Most healthcare providers recommend waiting until after your first trimester (the first 12 weeks of pregnancy) before actively trying to conceive since miscarriage risk is highest during this time. However, if you have PCOS or any other health concerns that impact your fertility, it's best to speak with your doctor about creating a personalized plan tailored to your needs.

In conclusion, food aversions during pregnancy are a common occurrence caused by hormonal changes in the body. By experimenting with different cooking methods, eating smaller meals more frequently, staying hydrated, considering supplements, seeking support, and working closely with your healthcare provider, you can find ways to nourish both yourself and your growing baby despite these challenges. Embrace the journey ahead and remember that every mama faces her own unique set of obstacles - but you got this!