apollo

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.

reviewerImg

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

  1. 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.

  2. If underweight: Focus on nutrient-dense foods like nuts, dairy, and lean proteins.

  3. 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

Dr. Mona Yadav, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Mona Yadav

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

19 Years • MBBS, MD (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

Dombivli

Nulife multispeciality, Dombivli

700

Dr. Parul Sharma, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Parul Sharma

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

8 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

New Delhi

THE DOCTORS NESST, New Delhi

1000

800

Dr. Shyamala Devi, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Shyamala Devi

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

38 Years • MBBS, MS Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Vijayawada

Sri Shivshakti Nilayam, Vijayawada

1250

300

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

Dr. Mona Yadav, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Mona Yadav

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

19 Years • MBBS, MD (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

Dombivli

Nulife multispeciality, Dombivli

700

Dr. Parul Sharma, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Parul Sharma

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

8 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

New Delhi

THE DOCTORS NESST, New Delhi

1000

800

Dr. Shyamala Devi, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Shyamala Devi

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

38 Years • MBBS, MS Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Vijayawada

Sri Shivshakti Nilayam, Vijayawada

1250

300

Consult Top Doctors

Dr. Asha Rani Singh, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Asha Rani Singh

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

24 Years • MBBS DGO

Delhi

Dr Asha Rani Singh Clinic, Delhi

875

Dr. Mona Yadav, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Mona Yadav

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

19 Years • MBBS, MD (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

Dombivli

Nulife multispeciality, Dombivli

700

Dr. Parul Sharma, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Parul Sharma

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

8 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

New Delhi

THE DOCTORS NESST, New Delhi

1000

800

Dr. K Anusha, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. K Anusha

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

4 Years • MBBS, DGO

Yemmiganur

SRINIVASAA HOSPITAL, Yemmiganur

200

180

Dr. Shyamala Devi, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Shyamala Devi

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

38 Years • MBBS, MS Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Vijayawada

Sri Shivshakti Nilayam, Vijayawada

1250

300

More articles from General Medical Consultation