The chances of becoming pregnant in one calendar month are around 25%. This means that if you are actively trying to get pregnant you should do so within 6 months to a year.

Around 90% of couples will become pregnant within 18 months. If you suspect a problem talk to your doctor about it as each and every couple have individual circumstances that may hinder there chances of becoming pregnant straight away.

As your age increases the chances of becoming pregnant decrease to around 15% per cycle.  If you are aged 35+ it is recommended that if you have you have been trying to get pregnant for 6 months or more and are not pregnant then you should book a visit to your local doctor or fertility specialist.

To maximize your chances of becoming pregnant ensure you follow these simple guidelines.

1. Find out when you are ovulating and have intercourse on and around these days. Most people ovulate in the middle of their cycle so try to have intercourse from around days 10-20 of your cycle.

2. Make sure you are at a healthy weight and are eating lots of foods high in nutrients and taking folic acid – this reduces birth defects and helps prepare your body for pregnancy.

3. Relax and enjoy making babies. Over 30% of women cannot conceive because they are too stressed out. This affects your ovulation and can hinder your chances of becoming pregnant.

If you have been actively trying to conceive for a year or more with no luck now is the time to make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your options.

Common questions your doctor may ask you about are:

1. How often are you having intercourse?

2. Are your cycles regular?

3. Family history

4. Are you taking any medications?

5. How long have you been trying to get pregnant for?

Once the doctor has all your information presented to them they will advise you on the best treatment method for you. You may be sent to a specialist or have specific tests to try and diagnose the reason why you cannot conceive.

In my case my partner and I tried to become pregnant for a year then went to see a specialist. He had tests to check sperm quantity,  quality and the shape. All the results came back positive and he was in great shape to make a baby.

Next it was my turn I was nervous as my partner obviously had no problems whatsoever. I  had to have a few more tests done to determine the reasons why I could not conceive.

First I used the ovulating kits to see which days I was ovulating but I never had a positive result.

The next test was a dye test in my ovaries to flush out any blockages – they were all clear as well.

After these test I was put on a drug called Clomiphene prescribed by my specialist to help me ovulate and increase my chances of becoming pregnant. I was fortunate that after taking this pill for 5 days and having several blood tests and being told exactly when to have intercourse that this worked for me. I was in disbelief – surely it couldn’t have worked! We were so excited and nervous at the same time.

I have learned that everyone is different and this worked for me but other people may need more intensive treatment such as IVF. Don’t give up hope, be positive. I know it can be heartbreaking. It took us 16 months to conceive and we are so blessed to have a beautiful baby girl. So keep trying and I know one day you too will have your own wee bundle of joy.