Having difficulty getting pregnant? There are some simple ways to help nature along.
If you've been trying to start a family without success, making some simple lifestyle changes may increase your chance of conception and help to ensure a healthy pregnancy. However, there are some factors, such as age, ovulation problems, sperm disorders and damaged fallopian tubes, that you can't change.
Eat well: if you're a woman, a nutritious, balanced diet will help improve your general health and wellbeing, and ensure your body is able to nourish a baby. If you're a man, healthy eating is also important for sperm production.
Choose a varied diet containing fresh fruit and vegetables, bread, potatoes, rice and other cereals (wholegrain, where possible), milk and dairy products, lean meat, fish and other sources of protein.
Watch your weight: being overweight or very underweight can disrupt your periods and hinder conception. A woman with a body mass index (BMI) of more than 29 or less than 19 may find it more difficult to conceive.
Drink wisely: the government advises women trying to conceive to avoid alcohol completely. Men shouldn't drink more than three or four units a day, and should avoid binge drinking to prevent damage to sperm.
Stop smoking: smoking has been linked to infertility and early menopause in women, and sperm problems in men. It also reduces the success of fertility treatments.
Be active: regular moderate exercise (such as brisk walking) for at least 30 minutes a day will help to keep you fit for conception and help to control your weight.