Your New Year’s Resolution: Baby in 2010?

From Heidi Murkoff, the popular author of the “What to Expect” book series gave her top ten list for those trying to achieve pregnancy in 2010.

1. Start planning now. Leading experts (Centers for Disease Control, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American College of Pediatrics) recommend hopeful parents start planning and preparing for pregnancy three months before they begin the task of making that baby.
2. Watch your weight. Fat cells retain estrogen and too much estrogen in the body will mess with ovulation even if you have regular periods.
3. Cut back on caffeine. Heavy caffeine consumption is liked to fertility issues, including early miscarriage. Keep it to 200 milligrams a day or the equivalent of two six-ounce coffees.
4. Oysters. It’s true. Oysters are a concentrated, natural source of zinc, important for fertility. Also, it’s a libido booster which benefits both sexes.
5. Keep your man cool. Sperm production will decrease in a heated environment like a hot tub, sauna or even spandex shorts and tight underwear. Cell phones too generate some heat so keep them out of your man’s pockets.
6. Curtail the cocktail. Alcohol can disrupt a woman’s ovulation cycle and reduce a man’s testosterone and sperm production.
7. Yams. Yams contain a substance similar to progesterone, which might help stimulate ovulation. At the very least, they are an excellent source of nutrients needed for baby-making good health.
8. Sexy movies. Men produce more testosterone and sperm after watching a sexy movie -- and it doesn’t have to be X-rated.
9. Watch the biological clock. For men and women, the clock is ticking. Be aware of the challenges you may face so you have the proper expectations.
10. Keep at it. Most couple do not conceive at first attempt. It takes the average couple without any fertility challenges between six and twelve months to make that baby. Be patient and stay focused on the goal.

Source: The Post Standard, Amber Smith