St. Joseph’s/Candler OB/GYN Dr. Claire Sejour also offers advice for women suffering from infertility

Trying to get pregnant? Hoping to get pregnant one day in the future? There are things you can do now to optimize your chances of conceiving and having a health pregnancy.

Start with preconception counseling, recommends Dr. Claire Sejour, St. Joseph’s/Candler Physician Network OB/GYN.

“Preconception counseling is a good option for all women and should be offered to patients before they even try to conceive,” Dr. Sejour says. “Even if it’s during your annual visit, start talking to your provider about your family planning goals and optimizing your health.”

That includes:

• Getting control of any chronic conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure
• If you do have chronic conditions, making sure you are taking medications as prescribed
• Making sure you are up to date on your vaccinations
• Incorporating a moderate amount of exercise
• Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol
• Eating a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables and whole grains
• Taking folic acid at least one to three months prior to trying to conceive

What if I still can’t get pregnant?

“Infertility is fairly common, especially unexplained infertility,” says Dr. Sejour. “I also think woman are more open to share their journey of infertility so we are hearing about it more than before.”

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive within a period of time, explains Dr. Sejour. For women who are 34 years and younger that is a 12-month window of regular, unprotected intercourse yet not getting pregnant. For women who are 35 and older, that window is six months.

“Another thing women can do is if they are not having regular cycles, they should discuss it with their doctor,” Dr. Sejour says. “If you are having regular cycles, knowing your fertile window (approximately six days each month you are most likely to get pregnant) and having intercourse as much as you can during that window improves your chances.”

Dr. Sejour encourages women to be open with their OB/GYN about their conception journey. If you continue to have trouble getting pregnant, your provider can order lab work, imaging and other necessary tests to try to get to the root of the problem. If needed, you can be referred to an infertility specialist to explore further options.

“In terms of infertility and a healthy pregnancy in general, especially myself having just gone through a pregnancy, make sure you find your sense of community and support,” Dr. Sejour says. “There are a lot of online groups and forums or talk to your provider for help finding the right support.”

“You would be surprised that a lot of women go through infertility, and it’s nice to know you are not alone and finding that support can be very helpful.”

Looking for an OB/GYN in the Savannah? Request an appointment with Dr. Sejour or one of our Physician Network providers today.