Planning for parenthood: A Practical Guide for Newly Married Couples

May 6, 2025

Getting married is a life-changing experience—and for many couples in Nepal and around the world, the next big step is starting a family. But did you know that proper planning can increase your chances of a healthy and successful pregnancy?

Whether you’re ready now or planning for the near future, this blog is your go-to guide for understanding the best time, tools, and lifestyle changes needed for conception. Let’s explore what science and tradition say about planning for a baby.

👶 Why Planning Matters for Parenthood

Having a baby is more than just timing—it’s about being emotionally, physically, and financially ready. Planning pregnancy can:

Increase chances of natural conception
Reduce health risks for mother and baby
Help identify and address fertility issues early
Support emotional and mental readiness

📅 Step 1: Understand Your Fertility Cycle

One of the most important things a woman can do is track her ovulation. Ovulation is when an egg is released from the ovary-your most fertile period.

✅ How to Track Ovulation:

Use Ovulation Test Kits like Ovasure, available in Nepal, to detect the LH surge
Use mobile fertility apps
Monitor cervical mucus and basal body temperature

Pro Tip: Most women ovulate about 14 days before their next period. Timing intercourse around this window increases your chances.

🧪 Step 2: Use Ovulation Kits for Better Accuracy

Ovulation kits, like Novala Biotech’s Ovasure, help detect the Luteinizing Hormone (LH) surge that occurs before ovulation.

Benefits:

Over 97% accuracy in detecting LH surge (Ref: American Pregnancy Association)
Non-invasive, simple to use at home
Empowers couples to time intercourse more effectively

🥗 Step 3: Adopt a Fertility-Friendly Lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle can enhance fertility for both men and women. Make these changes early:

Eat a balanced diet rich in folic acid, iron, and antioxidants
Exercise regularly, but avoid overtraining
Stop smoking and limit alcohol
Manage stress through yoga, meditation, or hobbies
Maintain a healthy weight

According to the WHO, underweight or overweight women may face ovulation problems. (Ref: WHO Fertility Guidelines)

🧑‍⚕️ Step 4: Get Preconception Check-Ups

Visit a gynaecologist or family physician to:

Review medical history
Get vaccinated (rubella, hepatitis, etc.)
Screen for reproductive issues
Discuss any family genetic conditions

Early health checks can help avoid complications later and prepare your body for pregnancy.

🧬 Step 5: Try Naturally for 6–12 Months

Couples under 35 should try naturally for up to 12 months
Over 35? Consult a fertility specialist if you’re not pregnant within 6 months

Regular intercourse (every 2–3 days) around ovulation is key. Use ovulation kits to time it right.

💉 Step 6: Know When to Seek Medical Help

If you’ve been trying but haven’t conceived:

Male fertility test for sperm quality and needed lifestyle modifications
Start with ovulation induction (with pills)
Move to IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) if needed
Consider IVF or ICSI for complex cases

Talk to a fertility expert for guidance. Many couples conceive with minimal intervention when they act early.

🛍️ Bonus: Must-Have Tools for Your Baby Journey

✅ Ovasure Ovulation Kit – Easy, affordable, accurate, and made in Nepal
✅ Folic Acid supplements – Start at least 1 month before conception
✅ Digital calendar or fertility tracker app like flo, period calender, clue

Pregnancy doesn’t always happen instantly—and that’s okay. With smart planning, the right tools like ovulation kits, and a healthy mindset, you can increase your chances of a smooth and joyful pregnancy journey.