T’s Fertility Journey

T’s Fertility Journey

“It essential that you find yourself a great support network or team because you will need them in so many ways…”

I began my fertility journey after starting to feel somewhat frustrated by the fact I was unable to fall pregnant naturally. I began to feel more conscious of my age and it was both exhausting and frustrating seeing families around us who seemed to have no trouble falling pregnant.

One of the biggest obstacles I faced was living in the country where many services were unavailable. Finding the right place to get the type of ultrasound I needed, making sure my bloods were collected at the correct pathology clinic, and that the clinic understood the reports needed to be sent through urgently, especially after the dreaded two-week wait bloods.

Telling my workplace about my journey was something that helped me immensely. My employer and colleagues never questioned my appointments, my extra breaks or when I had to excuse myself to do my injections.

I was incredibly grateful for the support of my husband and four of my closest girlfriends. I found it hard to confide in my family because in the past, they were so focused on when I was going to start a family. Telling them they were going to be grandparents was such a wonderful surprise for them, especially given the fact they had no idea I was going through fertility treatment.

From my experience, the advice I would give to anyone embarking on their Fertility Journey is to look after your mental health. Fertility treatment can be draining, time consuming and costly. It essential that you find yourself a great support network or team because you will need them in so many ways.

If you’re exploring donor options, make sure you find the right donor who is right for you. The right donor may not be available right away, it may take a couple of cycles, but like finding your life partner, when you know, you know.

Share

Fertility Testing News & Information

FAQs about improving natural fertility

Will stress affect my ability to get pregnant?

Yes, chronic stress can impact fertility by disrupting hormonal balance and ovulation patterns. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices may help optimise your chances of conception. Consider speaking with a counsellor if stress feels overwhelming.

How does my partner's health affect our fertility?

Sperm health accounts for about 40% of conception challenges. Your partner can improve sperm health by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding excessive heat exposure (hot tubs, saunas, tight clothing), limiting alcohol, quitting smoking, managing stress, and taking a multivitamin with antioxidants. Sperm takes about 3 months to develop, so lifestyle changes need time to show results.

When during my cycle am I most fertile?

Your fertile window typically spans 5-6 days, ending on ovulation day. For a regular 28-day cycle, this usually falls between days 10-15, with peak fertility 1-2 days before ovulation. Track your cycle using ovulation predictor kits, basal body temperature, or cervical mucus changes to identify your unique pattern. Having intercourse every 1-2 days during this window optimises your chances.