Ways to Increase Fertility in Women
Looking to boost your fertility naturally? Learn effective lifestyle tips, diet changes, and medical treatments to improve reproductive health and increase your chances of conceiving.
Written by Dr. J T Hema Pratima
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 11th Aug, 2025
For many women, the journey to motherhood can be challenging, especially when facing fertility issues. The good news is that there are several natural and medical ways to boost fertility and improve the chances of conception. Whether you’re planning to conceive soon or just exploring ways to enhance your reproductive health, this guide will provide helpful insights.
Understanding Fertility in Women
Fertility refers to a woman’s ability to conceive and carry a pregnancy to term. A woman’s fertility is influenced by various factors, including age, hormonal balance, lifestyle, and overall health. While some factors (like age) are beyond control, many others can be managed with the right approach.
Common Causes of Female Infertility
These are common causes of female infertility:
1. Age: Fertility naturally declines after 35 due to a decrease in egg quality and quantity.
2. Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and thyroid disorders can affect ovulation.
3. Weight Issues: Being underweight or overweight can disrupt hormonal balance.
4. Stress: High stress levels can interfere with ovulation.
5. Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol, and poor diet can reduce fertility.
6. Medical Conditions: Endometriosis, blocked fallopian tubes, or fibroids can impact conception.
Natural Ways to Boost Fertility
These are natural ways to boost fertility:
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being underweight or overweight can disrupt hormones and ovulation. A balanced BMI (Body Mass Index) between 18.5 and 24.9 is ideal for fertility.
If underweight: Focus on nutrient-dense foods like nuts, dairy, and lean proteins.
If overweight: A gradual weight loss of 5-10% can significantly improve fertility.
2. Eat a Fertility-Friendly Diet
A nutritious diet supports hormonal balance and reproductive health.
Include:
Whole grains (brown rice, quinoa)
Lean proteins (eggs, fish, lentils)
Healthy fats (avocados, nuts, olive oil)
Antioxidant-rich foods (berries, leafy greens)
Iron-rich foods (spinach, beans, red meat)
Avoid:
Processed foods
Excess sugar
Trans fats (found in fried and packaged foods)
3. Track Your Ovulation
Knowing your fertile window (usually 5-6 days before ovulation) increases conception chances.
Methods to track ovulation:
Basal Body Temperature (BBT) charting
Ovulation predictor kits (OPKs)
Monitoring cervical mucus changes
4. Reduce Stress
Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which can interfere with reproductive hormones.
Stress management tips:
Practice yoga or meditation
Get adequate sleep (7-9 hours)
Engage in relaxing hobbies (reading, walking)
5. Exercise Moderately
Too much or too little exercise can affect fertility.
Recommended: 30 minutes of moderate exercise (walking, swimming) most days.
Avoid: Extreme workouts that disrupt menstrual cycles.
Consult Top Doctors
6. Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol
Smoking reduces egg quality and accelerates ovarian aging.
Excessive alcohol (more than 1-2 drinks per week) can lower fertility.
7. Take Prenatal Vitamins
Folic acid, vitamin D, and iron are crucial for reproductive health. Start taking prenatal vitamins at least 3 months before trying to conceive.
Medical Treatments to Improve Fertility
If natural methods don’t work within 6-12 months, consult a fertility specialist. Common treatments include:
Ovulation Induction: Medications like Clomiphene or Letrozole stimulate egg release.
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization): Eggs are fertilized outside the body and implanted.
IUI (Intrauterine Insemination): Sperm is directly placed in the uterus during ovulation.
Surgery: For conditions like endometriosis or blocked tubes.
When to See a Doctor?
Consult a fertility specialist if:
You’re under 35 and haven’t conceived after 1 year of trying.
You’re over 35 and haven’t conceived after 6 months.
You have irregular periods, painful periods, or known conditions like PCOS.
Apollo 24|7 Can Help! If you’re concerned about fertility, Apollo24|7 offers expert consultations and fertility tests. You can:
Book a fertility check-up
Consult a gynecologist online
Get personalized treatment plans
Conclusion
Improving fertility involves a combination of healthy lifestyle choices, proper nutrition, and medical guidance when needed. Every woman’s journey is unique, so be patient and kind to yourself. With the right approach, many women successfully enhance their fertility and achieve their dream of motherhood.
Consult Top Doctors
Consult Top Doctors
Dr. Chaitali Roy
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
28 Years • MBBS , MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Kolkata
Roy's Clinic, Kolkata
Dr. Ritika Khurana
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS, DGO(GYNAECOLOGY AND OBSTETRICS)
Pune
Dr Rupali and Dr Ritika, Pune
Dr. Bharathi Balakrishna
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
31 Years • MBBS,MD (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Bengaluru
Sanjeevini Speciality Health Care & Diagnostic Center, Bengaluru
Dr. Neha Jain
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
18 Years • MBBS , DGO (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
New Delhi
Dr. Jain's Pathlab and Clinic, New Delhi
Dr Homeira Nishat
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
34 Years • MBBS, Diploma in Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Bengaluru
Cure Hospital and Clinic, Bengaluru
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