A Beginner's Guide to Trying to Conceive

Understanding the mechanisms of fertility treatment is the first step! We'll introduce the basic knowledge of fertility treatment in an easy-to-understand way.

Don't suffer alone
The secret is "trying to conceive together as a couple"!

"It seems like I'm the only one putting in so much effort..." "It didn't work again. I get depressed every month..." During fertility treatment, you and your partner may sometimes feel out of sync or get frustrated. When that happens, please don't suffer alone. The most important thing is for you both to stay on good terms. Here, we introduce some simple things to help you both continue your fertility treatment with smiles on your faces. Please read it together.

1. Understand that "trying to conceive is something that two people do together."

A baby cannot be conceived without the cooperation of both a man and a woman. Don't try to handle this alone; work together as a couple.

2. Become the opponent's biggest supporter.

Each person has a different role to play in trying to conceive. When your partner is working hard, support them wholeheartedly. While physical actions like taking time off work to accompany them to appointments are important, sometimes a simple, kind word like "Are you okay?" or "Thank you for everything" is enough. Try to express your consideration for your partner in a casual way.

3. Don't assume that others will understand your feelings without you having to say anything.

Even for two people who know each other very well, unexpected feelings can arise during fertility treatment that even they themselves didn't realize they had. Don't assume that they understand you, and try to be a little more considerate than usual.

4. No talking while doing other things! Talk face to face.

For couples hoping to conceive, discussing their future is a crucial time. If you're half-listening while watching TV or using your phone, it can easily lead to arguments like, "I told you that before!" or "I wasn't listening!" Make sure to have a proper, face-to-face conversation about trying to conceive.

5. Let's share our emotions.

When trying to conceive doesn't go as planned, you might feel discouraged. While cheering your partner up is one approach, sometimes simply being there for them and sharing their sadness can bring comfort. Sharing your emotions—joy, anger, sadness, and happiness—is an effective way to deepen your bond.

6. Try to think, "The other person is trying their best too!"

Lack of communication can easily lead to feelings like, "I'm the only one putting in the effort, why aren't they cooperating!?" When that happens, take a deep breath. Your partner likely cares deeply about you and your future. Look at them calmly and clearly communicate your feelings.

For both of you to always be smiling is important for creating a body that is more conducive to pregnancy. Especially during the fertility treatment period, make an effort to communicate thoughtfully with each other.

Supervising Physician: Dr. Isao Tsuji

Vice Director, IVF Osaka Clinic

Graduated from Kinki University School of Medicine. After working at Kinki University Hospital, Sakurai Hospital, and as a lecturer in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Kinki University School of Medicine, he assumed his current position.