There is a vast amount of fertility information available on the Internet. The principal difficulty is that it has not been subjected to peer review in many cases. Therefore, people can propose theories and give advice on subjects for which there is no reliable evidence. Therefore, be cautious in assessing some of the claims and treatments you might read about. We recommend the following web sites as having soundly based data available for your information or they will give you links to others who experience the same problems.

www.access.org.au

This is the site for Australia’s national patient support group (see Support Groups). It provides a fantastic service and is constantly lobbying on your behalf with state and Federal legislators. It’s founder, Sandra Dill, was awarded an Order of Australia for her work and commitment in this area

www.andrologyaustralia.org

This is a site that gives quality information on men’s reproductive health. Established in 1999 with funding from the Australian Government the aim is to answer questions and improve knowledge and education about male fertility issues, impotence and reproductive tract cancers. Newsletters and information sheets can be downloaded.

www.fertilityfirst.com.au

This is our own website. Have a look and give us any suggestions of things you think we should add.

www.nor.com.au

Australian Infertility Support Group

www.inciid.org

International Council on Infertility Information Dissemination (INCID)

www.posaa.asn.au

This is a great information and support site for women with polycystic ovaries. It gives information about polycystic ovaries and access to internet chat and support groups. They also give you contacts within and outside Australia.

www.endometriosis.org

This is the World Endometriosis Society web site.

www.fatfree.com

This is an international site that supplies recipes for fat free cooking.

www.sands.org.au/

www.sandsvic.org.au/ www.inciid.org/links.html#miscarriage

These sites offer miscarriage support and 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.