Festive season, new beginnings: What couples should know when planning a baby

New Delhi: As couples consider starting a family during the festive season, experts highlight the importance of preconception health, timely fertility evaluation, lifestyle changes and understanding available fertility treatments.

The festive season often brings families together and encourages couples to think about new beginnings, including starting a family. While planning a pregnancy is a personal decision, preparing for it involves more than choosing the right time. Understanding reproductive health, addressing existing medical conditions and seeking timely medical advice can help couples make informed decisions about their journey towards parenthood.

Both partners should be involved in pregnancy planning. Fertility depends on several factors, including age, hormonal health, sperm quality, lifestyle and underlying medical conditions. A preconception consultation can help identify potential concerns and guide couples on the next steps, whether they are planning a natural pregnancy or exploring fertility treatments.

What should couples know before planning a baby?

• Do not delay fertility evaluation: Age plays an important role in fertility, particularly for women, as egg quantity and quality decline over time. Couples should consider consulting a fertility specialist if pregnancy does not occur after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse when the woman is below 35 years. Women aged 35 and above should seek evaluation after six months of trying, while those over 40 or with known fertility concerns may benefit from an earlier consultation.

• Both partners need to prioritise their health: Preparing for pregnancy is not solely a woman’s responsibility. Women may require an assessment of menstrual cycles, thyroid function, diabetes, medications and other health conditions. Men may need evaluation of sperm health, particularly if there are concerns about fertility. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor sleep, stress and unhealthy dietary habits can affect reproductive health in both partners.

• Make nutrition and lifestyle changes early: A balanced diet, regular physical activity, adequate sleep and maintaining a healthy weight can support reproductive health. Women planning pregnancy are generally advised to take folic acid daily, beginning at least one month before conception, unless their doctor recommends a different dose. Existing medical conditions and medications should also be reviewed before trying to conceive.

• Understand when IVF may be an option: In vitro fertilisation (IVF) may be recommended for conditions such as blocked fallopian tubes, certain sperm-related problems, endometriosis or unexplained infertility. However, IVF is not necessary for every couple experiencing difficulty conceiving. A fertility specialist can recommend appropriate investigations and discuss suitable treatment options based on both partners’ medical history, age and test results.

• Plan with awareness, not pressure: Festivals can bring joy and family expectations, but couples should remember that pregnancy planning is a personal decision. There is no single ideal time to conceive, and fertility treatment does not guarantee pregnancy. Seeking reliable medical guidance, understanding individual fertility needs and supporting each other emotionally can help couples approach parenthood with greater confidence and realistic expectations.

Written by Dr. Parul Gupata Khanna, Fertility Specialist, Nova IVF Fertility, Preet Vihar, Delhi