01 · Beginning
You're here. That's the brave part.
Trying to conceive (TTC) means different things to different people. Before you choose a method or buy a single thing, let's get the fundamentals right. No pressure. No assumed knowledge.
First, the basics
The five things to understand before anything else.
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Your fertile window is small.Roughly five days before ovulation, plus the day of. Outside that window, conception isn't happening, no matter how often you try.
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Cycles aren't always 28 days.Anywhere from 21 to 35 is considered normal. Knowing your cycle length is step one.
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Ovulation happens once per cycle.You release one egg (sometimes two), and it's viable for around 12-24 hours. Sperm can survive 3-5 days, which is why timing matters.
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Tracking changes everything.Most TTC outcomes improve dramatically once people stop guessing and simply start tracking their fertility using OPKs, BBT, or both.
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You don't need a clinic to start.Plenty of people conceive without ever stepping into a fertility clinic. Knowing your options matters more than escalating fast.
Your first 30 days
A simple plan that works for almost everyone.
Whether you'll end up trying naturally, with home insemination, or somewhere else, these four things make sense to do first.
01
Start a preconception supplement
Folate (especially methylfolate) is the non-negotiable. Start at least three months before you want to be pregnant.
02
Track one full cycle
Use OPKs (ovulation strips) and a free app. Don't try to conceive in this cycle, just learn what your body does.
03
Have the bigger conversations
If you have a partner: decide when, how, who. If you'll need a donor: known or anonymous? Get the talking out of the way early.
04
Choose your path
Once you know your cycle, decide your method. Naturally? Home insemination? Clinical support? You'll know more by then.
Where to next
Your recommended next step.
Most likely first
Track your cycle
Get comfortable with OPKs and your fertile window before deciding on method.
If you have a partner
Optimise natural conception
Lifestyle, timing, and the small things that actually shift the odds.
If you'll use a donor
Learn home insemination
What it is, who it works for, and what you'll need.