Baby on the Brain this Valentine's Day? Fertility Specialist Gloria Richard-Davis, MD Discusses Top Considerations for Couples

LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Feb. 1, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- This Valentine's Day, whether it's a couple's first go-around or they're trying for their second or third child, it's important to combine romance with traditional conception considerations and the latest research.

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"Valentine's Day is an excellent baby-making occasion, as couples turn down the stressors of trying to conceive and enjoy intimacy with one another," says Gloria Richard-Davis, MD, Ob/Gyn, Fertility Specialist and co-author of Planning Parenthood.  "Keeping a few important considerations in mind this February 14th could very well enable the beginning of an exciting pregnancy journey."

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Below are Dr. Richard-Davis' top tips for trying to conceive and ensuring the healthiest pregnancy possible in 2018:

• Identify your fertile window. Conceiving this Valentine's Day depends on whether February 14^th falls on a day inside a woman's 5-day fertile window around ovulation. Tracking ovulation and identifying fertile days is easily done at home with a test like the First Response Digital Ovulation Test. Tracking ovulation can be challenging if a woman's menstrual cycle is irregular so consult a doctor in this case.
• Begin taking folic acid found in prescription prenatal vitamins like OB Complete even if pregnancy is just a thought. A new study shows it can lower autism risks and prevent neural tube defects, or those of the brain and spine.
• Schedule a preconception checkup with your gynecologist for a physical, to review medical history, and to feel, both mentally and physically, more prepared for pregnancy.
• Be wary of personal lubricants. Vaginal dryness is twice as common in women who are trying to conceive due to the stress of 'sex on demand.' So, when using a lubricant, remember that most will harm sperm motility which is why it's important to use a fertility-friendly lubricant like Pre-Seed that encourages sperm to swim freely and meet an egg.
• Practice healthy sleep habits. A recent study suggests that women with sleep disorders may be three times as likely to struggle with infertility.
• A healthy diet and frequent exercise are important before and during pregnancy. It is important to optimize weight before conception as obese women have a lower chance of pregnancy and a higher risk of miscarriage.

"If you suspect you're pregnant, but haven't yet missed your period, try First Response 'Triple Check' pregnancy kit which includes one early result test that can tell you six days before a missed period, a digital test to follow up, and a rapid result test to take on the day of your missed period," adds Dr. Richard-Davis. "The earlier you confirm a pregnancy, the sooner you can implement important behavior and lifestyle changes- like eliminating smoking or drinking."

 

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SOURCE Gloria Richard-Davis, MD