Tag: fertility

The Diet Plate

Healthy Lifestyle Choices for Happy Fertility

allycaralgoa

Written by Wellishia D’sa | Dietitian

Motherhood is a dream close to many hearts, but the path to conception can sometimes feel challenging. The truth is, our bodies are beautifully designed to reproduce, but they need the right care, nourishment, and mindset to flourish. Fertility, however, is a team effort — men face challenges too. Stress, toxins, alcohol, smoking, and belly fat can reduce sperm quality and affect conception chances.

The good news is that simple lifestyle changes make a huge difference. Nutrition forms the foundation. Traditional Goan foods are naturally fertility-boosting and can support reproductive health for both partners. Some key fertility-friendly foods include:

  • Goan Red Rice & Local Millets (Nachne, Bajra, Jowar): Help balance blood sugar and improve ovulation.
  • Leafy Greens (Methi, Drumstick leaves): Rich in folate and iron, vital for egg health and preventing birth defects.
  • Seasonal Fruits (Guava, Papaya, Pomegranate, Mango): Packed with antioxidants to protect eggs and sperm.
  • Nuts & Seeds (Cashews, Flax, Pumpkin Seeds, Coconut): Provide zinc and healthy fats that boost sperm count and hormone balance.
  • Pulses & Legumes (Moong, Chana, Kulith, Alsande): Plant-based proteins rich in iron and folate, essential for vegetarian couples.
  • Fish (Mackerel, Sardines, Shellfish): Omega-3s that improve sperm motility and egg health.
  • Eggs: Provide choline and protein, crucial for fertility and fetal development.
  • Lean Meats (Chicken, Local Goan Pork in moderation): Aid hormone regulation and reproductive health.

Along with diet, regular exercise such as beach walks or light yoga supports healthy weight and reduces stress. Adequate sleep allows hormones to reset naturally, while 15 minutes of morning sun provides vitamin D, essential for fertility.

Emotional well-being is equally important. Practices like meditation, prayer, or quiet gratitude ease emotional pressures and nurture hope during the fertility journey.

For couples with special dietary needs or health concerns like thyroid issues or vitamin deficiencies, personalized nutrition advice can make a significant difference. Consulting a qualified dietitian is recommended to tailor plans for optimal egg and sperm health.

With a balanced diet, lifestyle, and love, fertility can flourish — bringing you closer to the dream of parenthood.

Health Scope

Does Everyone Who Isn’t Conceiving Need IVF? A Gynaecologist’s Light Take

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Dr. Namrata Raikar

“We’ve been trying for a few months — do we need IVF?”

If you’ve asked this question recently, you’re not alone. As a gynaecologist, it’s something I hear all the time — especially from anxious couples in their 20s and 30s.

And the honest answer? No, not everyone who isn’t conceiving needs IVF.

Why the rush?

In today’s digital world, with social media filled with IVF success stories and influencers documenting every injection and ultrasound, it’s easy to think IVF is the default solution.

But the truth is far less dramatic — and far more hopeful.

When Should You Start Worrying?

If you’re under 35 and otherwise healthy, we recommend trying to conceive naturally for 12 months before seeking medical advice. If you’re over 35, that timeframe shortens to 6 months.

Why? Because conception isn’t instant — it takes time, patience, and the right timing.

Small Tweaks. Big Results.

Many couples conceive without needing high-tech treatments.
Simple steps can make a huge difference:

  • Tracking ovulation more accurately
  • Making lifestyle changes (diet, sleep, stress)
  • Addressing minor hormonal imbalances
  • Treating infections or irregular cycles

Sometimes, low-intervention treatments like ovulation-inducing medications or IUI (intrauterine insemination) can help.

When is IVF Actually Needed?

IVF is incredible, no doubt. But it’s usually reserved for specific situations like:

  • Blocked fallopian tubes
  • Very low sperm count
  • Endometriosis or severe PCOS
  • Recurrent failed IUI or unexplained infertility
  • Genetic conditions

The Bottom Line

Not conceiving immediately doesn’t mean something is wrong.
 Most couples don’t jump to IVF — and many don’t need to.
What you do need is a structured, step-by-step approach with a fertility specialist who listens.

If you’re feeling uncertain, don’t panic — start with a conversation.
With patience, the right guidance, and clarity, your journey can begin calmly and confidently.