What came first, the chicken or the egg? Does it really matter? Both are needed to create one another, right?
The idea of conception can have different meanings for different people. For some, baby making might seem simple and for others it might sound like rocket science. I’ve heard countless horror stories of women, who tried for years to get pregnant. As for myself, I wanted to go with the flow and do my best not to stress out about the conception process.
I figured that there’s no point in getting upset, because things will fall into place, when the timing is right. Instead of worrying about not getting pregnant, I did my research to see what we could control. Let’s use the facts that are available to me, so I can worry less and have some fun.
AGE FACT
Women have had a difficult journey throughout the times. Since we’re talking about the subject of time, lest discuss the dreaded biological time clock. Since the beginning, our main purpose in life was to bear and raise the children. Society has had a way to maintain this same mind set for years. This particular pressure is still sadly among us. But this subject is going to be another story for different day. Today’s focus will be on current facts about conception, fertility, and age.
According to parent24.com, a woman aged 20 has a 25% chance of conceiving every month, whereas a woman aged 40 has less than a 5% chance of conceiving monthly. So this information does pose a lot of questions about women and aging fertility. I am able to visualize this huge, mysterious, ticking clock. This clock, automatically gives me an uneasy feeling. I realize I’m not the only person in the world who feels this unnerving pressure.
This fact does show us that our biological time clock is limited, unlike our male counter parts. The clock doesn’t have a pause button. We have so many more options available to us now, then in the past.
We also must realize that this pressure is a generational cycle, within our society. If you decide one day that having children is not a option, that is perfectly fine. We have got to stop shaming other women for their own life choices. There are so many new medical methods right at our finger tips, that can aid us in having children later in life.
SPERM FACT
Now, let’s switch gears and discuss information about the male’s seed. Whenever anyone hears or says the word, sperm, you can’t help but to giggle like middle schooler in health class. With all jokes aside, the little big swimmers play a large role within the conception process.
According to parent24.com, after ejaculation, the sperm is found within the cervix within 90 seconds and the most active sperm should reach the fallopian tube within five minutes. The sperm also determines the sex of you baby at the very moment of conception. There are a bunch of old wives’ tales you’ve probably heard about but most will not be reliable.
CONCEPTION FACT
Ovulation is the next important piece of the baby puzzle and this can become a bit tricky. I’ve always used an application on my phone that can tract my periods. I’m also able to calculate my most fertile days of my cycle. While trying to conceive, I used the Glow Period, Fertility Tracker to help me get organized.
There are also ovulation calculator tests available at the local drug store. This can also assist you with increasing your chances. The egg only lives for about 12 to 24 hours after it’s released from the ovary.
The sperm can live in the woman’s reproductive tract for up to three days. I would advise to try a few days before ovulation and after to improve your chances each month. But use you best judgement and do not over analyze the situation. If you are stressing about the right timing then this could be apart of the reason nothing is happening.
When your body is ready, things will happen just as they’re meant to happen. Now, also keep in mind that when it is time to seek assurance from a specialist, you should follow your instincts.
If you have done everything you can, there’s help out there for you and your partner. Try reaching out to a OBGYN or primary doctor with a list of questions and concerns you might have, I like did.
Create a plan of action for any issues that could arise. Please don’t worry about trying to do everything perfectly and please have fun.
FINAL THOUGHTS
I must admit, that all these conception facts are definitely information overload. It’s important to not let the information overwhelm you. Yes, I know that is easier said than done but you can only control so much during conception.
So get yourself organized and figure out what works for you and your body. Don’t be ashamed of asking professional for help with concerns you might have. As we’ve learned, science is not perfect, which may be why it’s referred to as the Miracle Of Life.
Trying to stop overthinking everything and let your body to the work. But if you are still unsuccessful, remember you are not alone in this journey and help is available for you, because where there is a will, there is a way.
