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Fertility and Conception
The complege guide to getting pregnant
a couple
Zita West learn more here
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Ovulation chart

As the average female cycle is 28 days long, the conception plan is divided into four weeks. However, every woman is individual and if your cycle is longer or shorter than 28 days, you can use this chart to work out how long to use the information for each week, and also when you are ovulating. Once you have established the pattern of your cycle, you will be equipped to understand what is happening in your body week-by-week.
 

Ovulation Chart
Please note that this graph is intended as a guide only. Every woman's cycle is different and anyone experiencing fertility problems should consult their doctor. (Click here to see a non-graphical representation of the ovulation chart)
 

Week 1
Menstruation - The first day of the menstrual cycle is the first day of bleeding, which marks the start of the follicular phase. This is when the egg grows and develops.

Focus on:
Diet and Nutrition - Eat well - this is not the week to fast or diet. Avoid alcohol but drink plenty of water.
Lifestyle - In ancient cultures, menstruaction was a time for women to withdraw from society and rest... The modern world doesn't stop for menstruating women, but in a hectic life, you should make space and time to reflect and be still.

Week 2
This is the most important time of the month from the point of view of fertility. Between 10 and 20 egg follicles have been developing, but only one of them will become dominant this week. Ovulation takes place at the end of this week.

Focus on:
Diet and Nutrition - Diet is crucially important to hormonal balance and good egg quality...You need certain nutrients to ensure that the uterus is prepared and cell division is successful.
Lifestyle - You will feel more energetic this week than last and you will be much more inclined to do exerise. It's fine to keep your normal exercise routine.

Week 3
This week marks the start of the waiting period, as you wonder what is going on inside your body and hope that fertilization takes place and that implantation will occur successfully.

Focus on:
Diet and Nutrition - Make sure that you maintain your good dietary habits but consider boosting certain nutrients.
Lifestyle - Take at least 20 minutes of moderate exercise at least three times a week.

Week 4
An embryo arrives in the uterus approximately 4-5 days after fertilization and implantation occurs about 7-10 days after ovulation (in a 28 day cycle).

Focus on:
Diet and Nutrition - As during the preceding weeks , you should maintain the healthy eating patterns ...if you are pregnant, you now need those nutrients to nourish a baby.
Lifestyle - Exercise will help you focus on something other than whether or not you might be pregnant, and more holistic and reflective forms of activity might prevent you from tearing you hair out by relaxing your body and calming your mind.

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