Preparation is everything

Most couples have a 15% to 20% chance of conceiving in any given cycle. Of couples who are fertile, statistics show that around 50% will have conceived by three months, 75% by six months and 90% by 12 months.

In general, you should consult a fertility specialist if you have not conceived within one year of trying.

The most fertile period in a woman's cycle is the three to four days leading up to ovulation. So knowing when you ovulate is the key to success.

You can become familiar with your cycle by keeping a basal body temperature (BBT) graph. Using a digital thermometer, take your body temperature every morning before you get out of bed. Make a note of the reading or plot it on a graph. A noticeable temperature shift (upwards) signals ovulation. If your periods are regular, ovulation will occur around the same time every cycle.

The days of your cycle are numbered from the first day of your period. If you notice that ovulation occurs on or around day 14, days 10 to 13 are your most fertile.

Good nutrition is important for any woman who wants to get pregnant. Not only are you preparing your body for the big job it has to do, you're giving your baby the best possible start. Folate and iodine supplements are recommended from the time you're trying to conceive onwards. Zero alcohol is best.

- Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables. At least three servings of vegetables and two servings of fruit each day
- Choose wholemeal or wholegrain breads and cereals whenever possible
- Try to ensure that the fats you eat are good fats. Use products made with olive, avocado oil and flaxseed oil
- Get into the habit of consuming at least three servings of milk or milk products each day - preferably reduced or low fat
- Eat at least two servings of protein a day - lean meat, chicken, fish, eggs or legumes
- Take folic acid tablets (0.8mg) every day. Folic acid supplementation reduces the risk of your baby being affected by spina bifida
- Multivitamins recommended for pregnant women are an option to ensure you're getting adequate nutrition
- Avoid high risk foods for listeria and toxoplasmosis, infections that can cause pregnancy complications. These include raw meat, chilled cooked meat, prepared salads, unpasteurised milk and cheeses, raw seafood and paté
- If you are fond of herbal remedies, be aware that some herbs should be avoided. Talk to your naturopath or herbalist about your pregnancy plans.
- When buying medicines over the counter, ask the pharmacist for advice. Some medicines are not suitable for women who are planning to get pregnant.
- Avoid high doses of vitamin A as this can cause birth defects