For many couples who are trying to conceive, the journey to pregnancy can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding the best way to prepare. Whether you’ve been trying for a while or are just beginning your fertility journey, preparing your body for pregnancy is crucial. To help guide you through the process, I, Physician Ma would like to share some essential TCM fertility tips for preparing for pregnancy!
1. Preconception Checkups
Before trying to conceive, both partners should undergo a health checkup. For women, it’s important to assess ovarian function, check for any ovulatory disorders, ensure the fallopian tubes are clear, and rule out issues such as fibroids or polyps in the uterus. For men, sperm analysis is key. This includes checking sperm quality, quantity, motility, and morphology (shape).
2. Lifestyle Changes: Quit Smoking and Drinking
To enhance fertility, it is essential to make some lifestyle changes 3 – 6 months before attempting to conceive. Both partners should avoid smoking and alcohol, as these can negatively impact reproductive health.
For men, incorporating regular aerobic exercise can boost sperm count and quality. However, men should avoid hot tubs and keep shower water temperature moderate — excessive heat can affect sperm production and motility. For optimal sperm health, aim to keep the temperature around 35°C or lower.
For women, during the ovulation period, skipping intense workouts and focusing on light exercises like rope skipping can help. The rhythmic movement of your body helps promote the movement of the egg towards the fallopian tube and may even reduce the risk of an ectopic pregnancy. You should aim to do 200 – 350 jumps per session, ideally during the 14 – 15 days before your next menstrual cycle.
3. The Importance of Rest and Sleep
Good sleep is critical during the preconception period. Try to clock 7 – 8 hours of sleep each night to support hormone regulation and fertility. Try to avoid staying up late during the follicular phase (the first half of the menstrual cycle), as this can hinder egg and uterine lining development.
4. Nutrition and Supplementation: The Role of Soy Milk
A well-balanced diet is vital for supporting your body through the preconception phase. Soy milk is highly recommended in TCM as it supports digestion, nourishes the body, and aids in the growth and development of ovarian follicles.
How to drink soy milk for fertility:
- Post-menstrual phase: Drink pure soy milk after your period ends to support follicle growth.
- Two days before ovulation: Drink a blend of black soybeans and yellow soybeans.
- Ovulation days: On the 1st – 2nd day after ovulation, consume pure black soy milk.
It’s important not to consume soy milk continuously during the luteal phase (after ovulation), as this can disrupt hormonal balance.
5. Foot Soaks for Improved Circulation
Foot soaking is an excellent way to promote circulation and relax the body. In TCM, soaking the feet helps improve blood flow to the reproductive organs, making it beneficial for follicular development and increasing the chances of conception. I would recommend soaking your feet 2 – 3 times per week, using a blend of herbs tailored to your individual needs.
At 1TCM, we offer customised foot soak hydrotherapy designed to improve blood circulation and support fertility. If you’re interested, do schedule an appointment with us.
6. Nutrition for Fertility: High-Protein Food
A high-protein diet is essential for both men and women during the preconception phase. Protein is key to supporting egg and sperm development. Recommended high-protein foods include:
- Lean meats like beef, chicken, and pork
- Fish and seafood such as shrimp
- Eggs and dairy products like milk and cheese
- Nuts, seeds, and soybeans
Including these food in your diet can help enhance your fertility and provide your body with the nutrients it needs for a healthy pregnancy.
7. Don’t Ignore Potential Issues
Early intervention can make a significant difference in your fertility journey, and we can provide a tailored treatment plan to address your specific needs.
Preparing for pregnancy involves more than just trying to conceive. It’s about supporting your body and making lifestyle adjustments that will improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation for personalised fertility advice, feel free to contact us today.
Written by:
Physician Ma
