Refer a Friend and Earn Offers! - Beli Prenatals are HSA/FSA eligible!

This Is Your 3-Month Plan For Trying to Conceive in 2024

You have big plans for parenthood in 2024, which means this is the time to start laying the groundwork for everything to come. While so much of conception is beyond our control, there are actionable steps you and your partner can take right now to support and nourish your fertility. In this three-month plan for trying to conceive in 2024, we’re sharing exactly how to become the healthiest you can to create, grow and welcome a new little life.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Human sperm and eggs have specialized maturation and growth processes in preparation for fertilization. These processes take roughly three months and are heavily influenced by lifestyle choices, including nutrition.
  • A daily prenatal vitamin is an easy way to shore up dietary gaps and nutritional deficiencies and help ensure you’re getting key nutrients for reproductive health.
  • Eat a diet low in sugar and processed carbohydrates and high in lean protein, veggies, fruits, healthy fats and whole grains to support your fertility health.
  • Make time for regular movement, which will benefit you physically and mentally. Exercise is an excellent form of stress management.
  • Reducing your exposure to environmental toxins can help protect your fertility health.

Why Three Months?

Great question! It all comes down to biology. You may be thinking—correctly—that men produce millions of sperm every day. They do indeed, but those sperm aren’t yet ready for action. Every single sperm must go through a critical maturation process known as spermatogenesis. Guess how long this process lasts? Yep, it’s roughly three months long, a time during which sperm cells divide, mature and become mobile. Outside influences (i.e. lifestyle habits like your diet, how much you exercise, how you manage stress, etc.) can affect sperm during this development stage for the good and the bad. In fact, nutrient shortages can lead to major sperm deficiencies during maturation (1). The reverse is too true: The right nutrients during this stage can actually help support healthy sperm development, which is defined by specific parameters:

  • Sperm count. The number of sperm cells in a given amount of semen plays an important role in overall quality. 
  • Sperm morphology. This describes the shape of the sperm, which should include an egg-shaped head and a long tail to help it move to the egg for fertilization.
  • Sperm motility. The ability to move is an essential function for sperm, and they aren’t all great swimmers. In a male version of the biological clock, Sperm motility begins to decline around age 35.

On the female side of the equation, the three-month timeline is just as important. Women are born with all the eggs they’ll ever have, and age is of course a factor in the quality of those eggs. But in preparation for fertilization, human eggs must move through a complicated growth process in the ovary follicles that takes—you guessed it—about three months. Like men, women can benefit from the right nutrients during this growth period to support egg quality.

We get really specific about what exactly happens to sperm and egg health during the first three months on Beli if you’re interested. Otherwise, just be aware that a daily prenatal vitamin, along with a mindful diet, consistent exercise, stress management—all the components of what would be described as a healthy lifestyle—are known as pillars of fertility. And those are the things you want to prioritize beginning three months (or longer!) from when you hope to conceive. Let’s break it down.

Take a Daily Prenatal Vitamin

It’s such a small thing (literally!) with such an enormous impact. A daily prenatal vitamin is a simple way to help shore up nutritional deficiencies in your diet while also ensuring you’re getting nutrients that support your respective preconception health. For men, as we’ve covered, it’s all about sperm health. Keep in mind that a man’s health before conception has a direct effect on his partner’s pregnancy, their baby’s health, and even the health of the following generation (2). No pressure, right?

For women, the goal is supporting egg quality and balancing hormones. In both cases, men and women can benefit from the specialized nutrition of high-quality prenatal vitamins. Beli Vitality for Men™ and Beli for Women are formulated to deliver key micronutrients that can help support preconception health (3). But the benefits come from consistency! Start your prenatals, and keep on keeping on every darn day up to and beyond conception, pregnancy and the postpartum stage.

Prioritize Nutrition

For all its benefits, a prenatal vitamin is only intended to supplement what you’re eating—it’s not a replacement for a nutritious diet and it won’t make up for a terrible diet, either. Fortunately, what you eat really is within your control, and you may be motivated to skip the processed carbs in favor of more veggies, lean sources of protein and healthy fats if you understand that nutrition plays a direct role in the fertility of men and women alike (4). 

Pro tip: prioritize protein now, especially in the morning. That not only gives you sustained energy for the day, it helps balance insulin levels, which can also help support fertility. Women who eat diets high in sugar and refined or simple carbs are at a much greater risk of ovulatory infertility, and men don’t fare much better, so skip the sugary snacks in favor of a protein smoothie (5). Beli’s Collagen Protein Boost makes it easy!

Make a Fitness Plan—And Follow It

You already know that regular exercise is good for your body and mind. Well, it’s beneficial for your fertility health, too. In fact, healthy reproductive system function is dependent on overall health, and movement is part of that. In men, regular exercise can help reduce inflammation and support sperm function. In women, ovulatory infertility may be reduced or even avoided with consistent moderate exercise when it’s combined with other healthy lifestyle habits, like nutrition (6). Are you sensing a pattern here?

There’s also the undeniable stress-busting benefit, which is no small thing. Mitigating stress is another important step on the journey to parenthood, and recent research shows that healthy stress management is associated with an increase in pregnancy rates (7). Regular exercise is a twofer that supports your physical and mental health, which is exactly what you want when a baby is the goal. And you don’t have to go nuts, either. Pencil in some workouts, a weekend hike, a short walk a few times a day, whatever you enjoy, to boost your energy levels, improve sleep quality, and generally clear your head.

Reduce Your Exposure to Environmental Toxins

Toxic chemicals are rampant in our daily lives, and that’s particularly problematic for hopeful parents-to-be. The eggs of women who are exposed to toxic chemicals may age faster. Exposure also increases the risk of miscarriage and slows down fetal growth in women who are pregnant. For men, too much toxic exposure can lead to reduced sperm counts and poor sperm quality.

The good news is the body has an amazing capacity for healing, so do your research and become aware of the potential for exposure to toxins in your immediate environment. Then, check out our post with five tips for cleaning up your lifestyle. Carly Hartwig, a holistic reproductive health advocate and fertility awareness educator through CLWC, shares specific ways to minimize your exposure.

The Takeaway

Planning for pregnancy really comes down to leading a healthy lifestyle, and that’s… kind of boring, to be honest. We get it! But facts are facts. The science is really clear on the long-lasting effects of the health of both parents prior to conception, and the three-month timeline gives men and women time to take steps that really support their fertility health. If you’re thinking of parenthood in 2024, embrace those healthy habits so you're the healthiest you can be for making, growing and having a baby next year.


Article Resources

  • Preconception Health. (2018). https://www.thelancet.com/series/preconception-health
  • Skoracka, K et al. (2020). Diet and nutritional factors in male (in)fertility—underestimated factors. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7291266/
  • Cetin, I et al. (2010). Role of micronutrients in the periconceptional period. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19567449/
  • Panth, N et al. (2018). The influence of diet on fertility and the implications for public health nutrition in the United States. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6079277/
  • Chavarro, J et al. (2009). A prospective study of dietary carbohydrate quantity and quality in relation to risk of ovulatory infertility. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3066074/
  • Chavarro, J et al. (2007). Diet and lifestyle in the prevention of ovulatory disorder infertility. https://journals.lww.com/greenjournal/Abstract/2007/11000/Diet_and_Lifestyle_in_the_Prevention_of_Ovulatory.17.aspx?sessionEnd=true
  • Rooney, K et al. (2022). The relationship between stress and infertility. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.31887/DCNS.2018.20.1/klrooney

    Additional Resources

    Most births occur between June and early November. Count back nine months, and you’ll see that places most conceptions in the fall and winter. So what’s the deal? Is it the cold weather, all the festivities, or something else driving us between the sheets? That ugly sweater is pretty cute, but you can chalk this up to reproductive seasonality. Here’s what that means, why it matters, and what to do to use it to your advantage.

    Read More

    Many men overlook how crucial sperm health is until it's too late. Red flag statements can signal poor sperm quality. Whether trying to conceive or maintaining health, recognizing these signs early can impact your fertility and well-being.

    Read More

    Fall is not just a time for pumpkin spice lattes and cooler weather; it’s also an opportunity to optimize fertility, particularly for men. Cooler temperatures naturally benefit sperm health, while Beli for Men provides the essential nutrients needed to take those benefits even further. 

    Read More

    Egg quantity and quality are critical aspect of our reproductive well-being. By understanding the ideal number of eggs at various ages, why egg quality and quantity matter, and how to nurture and improve egg health, we can make informed decisions about our fertility and overall health.

    Read More

    Miscarriage is a complex issue, and while sperm health is just one factor, it's a crucial one. By understanding the statistics and research surrounding miscarriage and sperm health, couples can take proactive steps to improve fertility outcomes. Beli Vitality for Men offers a comprehensive fertility supplement solution, supported by industry research and designed to improve sperm health. By combining Beli Vitality with healthy lifestyle choices, couples can optimize their fertility journey and increase their chances of a successful pregnancy.

    Read More

    While it’s true that popular hair loss meds work minor miracles on that receding hairline and back-of-the-head bald patch, it’s also true that it can come with side effects—some of them sexual. So, what does that mean in terms of male fertility? Here’s what couples should understand about the effects of popular hair-loss medications on sperm health.

    Read More

    The long, lazy days of summer aren’t just prime vacation days. Summer could actually be an especially fertile season, which may be of interest to couples who are interested in starting a family. If you’re angling for parenthood this summer, here’s what to know about the season of fertility.

    Read More

    The summer heat really can have a temporary effect on male fertility, so doing what you can to keep cool, especially if the goal is becoming a dad, is really important. Here are tips to keep you and the boys cool this summer.

    Read More

    If you’re no stranger to the telltale signs of seasonal allergies—sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, irritated eyes, the works—you’re likely familiar with antihistamines. When you’re actively trying to conceive, there’s more to understand about histamines, seasonal allergies and how it affects your fertility.

    Read More

    When the plan is a baby, but you’re having a hard time conceiving, it’s normal to start wondering why. While there can be a number of issues in play, one tends to be overlooked: sleep quality. Specifically, men who have the sleep disorder sleep apnea could be at greater risk of fertility issues. Now, new research is drawing a more definitive link between sleep apnea and male fertility. Let’s review.

    Read More

    Fact: You can’t look at a guy—or eyeball his semen sample, for that matter—and determine his fertility. It just doesn’t work that way. The only way to truly assess sperm health is with a semen analysis. But there are a few lifestyle choices and truths that may indicate whether a man’s sperm is healthy and happy. 

    Read More

    While PCOS can be a challenging condition to manage, natural supplements like inositol that are included in Beli Preconception Boost offer a beacon of hope. Inositol's ability to improve insulin sensitivity, hormone balance, and ovulatory function makes it a valuable tool in the PCOS management toolkit. 

    Read More

    The concern that hormonal contraception affects future fertility is making the rounds on social media again. But research continues to show that all that worry is for naught. While birth control doesn’t cause long-term fertility issues, it can mask them by creating an artificial cycle—something that’s important to understand.

    Read More

    While it’s lumped into the “bodily fluid” category, semen is a complex cocktail of compounds designed to support fertility. Like sperm quality, semen health can be influenced by lifestyle factors—an important realization for couples trying to conceive. From color to consistency, here’s what healthy semen looks like.

    Read More

    There’s a lot of chatter when it comes to male masturbation and what it says about a man’s fertility or whether it’s an issue when a couple is actively trying to conceive. And in the interest of clearing up the confusion, we’re taking a facts-based approach to the topic of men, masturbation and fertility.

    Read More

    For many of us, our twenties and even thirties are a time when the focus is on pregnancy prevention. And that’s okay! But even when the idea of motherhood is miles away there is tremendous value in understanding your fertility health and what you can do to support it during these young, carefree days.

    Read More

    Once a month, PMS symptoms make their unpleasant presence known. And while knowing what’s happening won’t make PMS magically disappear, it can help you manage symptoms by balancing hormones and supporting your reproductive health. Let’s review.

    Read More

    Raise your hand if you already know that you have a biological clock. From age 35 and beyond, there is a natural decline in testosterone and sperm quality. Just as people lose muscle strength, flexibility and endurance with age, sperm also tend to lose their "fitness" over the life cycle. But what does that mean—and does it really matter?

    Read More

    It’s an easy assumption, but you’re much better off thinking that every prenatal vitamin is wildly different in terms of composition, nutrient quality and, importantly, nutrient amount. Not only is that actually true, it puts you in the smart consumer mindset of understanding what matters in a prenatal vitamin—and why.

    Read More

    If you have endometriosis, you can already recite its lengthy list of pretty terrible symptoms. And the standard options for managing those symptoms — medications, hormone therapy, hormonal birth control, estrogen blockers, surgery —  aren’t always great. But there is evidence that a so-called “endometriosis diet” can help.

    Read More

    Men really do benefit from specialized nutrition in the form of a prenatal vitamin that’s formulated to support sperm health. Here’s what that looks like, and how specific nutrients can impact a man’s fertility health before fatherhood.

    Read More

    Shilajit is finally getting the credit it’s due, and we’re proud to point out that our proprietary formula was the very first to include this powerful Ayurvedic compound. Here’s why shilajit is rapidly becoming the darling of the male fertility world–and what you’re missing if you’re skipping it.

    Read More

    Ever wondered why men produce so much darn sperm, especially if only one of them will ultimately fertilize the egg? There are millions of sperm in normal ejaculate because it increases the likelihood that one will reach the egg and seal the deal. It begs the question, what exactly happens on the journey to the egg?

    Read More

    Optimal nutrition plays a pivotal role in enhancing fertility and supporting a healthy pregnancy. A diet rich in essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats, lays the foundation for reproductive health.

    Read More

    Is there anything unsexier than scheduled, pressure-ridden, trying-like-hell-to-conceive sex? But good news. We’ve found handy workarounds and tricks of the trade, so forget the basal temperature chart for a second and read on for four ways to keep things hot when you’re TTC.

    Read More

    Many men overlook how crucial sperm health is until it's too late. Red flag statements can signal poor sperm quality. Whether trying to conceive or maintaining health, recognizing these signs early can impact your fertility and well-being.

    Read More

    Fall is not just a time for pumpkin spice lattes and cooler weather; it’s also an opportunity to optimize fertility, particularly for men. Cooler temperatures naturally benefit sperm health, while Beli for Men provides the essential nutrients needed to take those benefits even further. 

    Read More

    Miscarriage is a complex issue, and while sperm health is just one factor, it's a crucial one. By understanding the statistics and research surrounding miscarriage and sperm health, couples can take proactive steps to improve fertility outcomes. Beli Vitality for Men offers a comprehensive fertility supplement solution, supported by industry research and designed to improve sperm health. By combining Beli Vitality with healthy lifestyle choices, couples can optimize their fertility journey and increase their chances of a successful pregnancy.

    Read More

    While it’s true that popular hair loss meds work minor miracles on that receding hairline and back-of-the-head bald patch, it’s also true that it can come with side effects—some of them sexual. So, what does that mean in terms of male fertility? Here’s what couples should understand about the effects of popular hair-loss medications on sperm health.

    Read More

    The summer heat really can have a temporary effect on male fertility, so doing what you can to keep cool, especially if the goal is becoming a dad, is really important. Here are tips to keep you and the boys cool this summer.

    Read More

    If you’re no stranger to the telltale signs of seasonal allergies—sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, irritated eyes, the works—you’re likely familiar with antihistamines. When you’re actively trying to conceive, there’s more to understand about histamines, seasonal allergies and how it affects your fertility.

    Read More

    When the plan is a baby, but you’re having a hard time conceiving, it’s normal to start wondering why. While there can be a number of issues in play, one tends to be overlooked: sleep quality. Specifically, men who have the sleep disorder sleep apnea could be at greater risk of fertility issues. Now, new research is drawing a more definitive link between sleep apnea and male fertility. Let’s review.

    Read More

    Fact: You can’t look at a guy—or eyeball his semen sample, for that matter—and determine his fertility. It just doesn’t work that way. The only way to truly assess sperm health is with a semen analysis. But there are a few lifestyle choices and truths that may indicate whether a man’s sperm is healthy and happy. 

    Read More

    While it’s lumped into the “bodily fluid” category, semen is a complex cocktail of compounds designed to support fertility. Like sperm quality, semen health can be influenced by lifestyle factors—an important realization for couples trying to conceive. From color to consistency, here’s what healthy semen looks like.

    Read More

    There’s a lot of chatter when it comes to male masturbation and what it says about a man’s fertility or whether it’s an issue when a couple is actively trying to conceive. And in the interest of clearing up the confusion, we’re taking a facts-based approach to the topic of men, masturbation and fertility.

    Read More

    For many of us, our twenties and even thirties are a time when the focus is on pregnancy prevention. And that’s okay! But even when the idea of motherhood is miles away there is tremendous value in understanding your fertility health and what you can do to support it during these young, carefree days.

    Read More

    Raise your hand if you already know that you have a biological clock. From age 35 and beyond, there is a natural decline in testosterone and sperm quality. Just as people lose muscle strength, flexibility and endurance with age, sperm also tend to lose their "fitness" over the life cycle. But what does that mean—and does it really matter?

    Read More

    It’s an easy assumption, but you’re much better off thinking that every prenatal vitamin is wildly different in terms of composition, nutrient quality and, importantly, nutrient amount. Not only is that actually true, it puts you in the smart consumer mindset of understanding what matters in a prenatal vitamin—and why.

    Read More

    Men really do benefit from specialized nutrition in the form of a prenatal vitamin that’s formulated to support sperm health. Here’s what that looks like, and how specific nutrients can impact a man’s fertility health before fatherhood.

    Read More

    Shilajit is finally getting the credit it’s due, and we’re proud to point out that our proprietary formula was the very first to include this powerful Ayurvedic compound. Here’s why shilajit is rapidly becoming the darling of the male fertility world–and what you’re missing if you’re skipping it.

    Read More

    Ever wondered why men produce so much darn sperm, especially if only one of them will ultimately fertilize the egg? There are millions of sperm in normal ejaculate because it increases the likelihood that one will reach the egg and seal the deal. It begs the question, what exactly happens on the journey to the egg?

    Read More

    If you’re noticing any of these signs, the good news is that it’s simple to make changes. Switching to a high-quality prenatal like Beli's Prenatal—one formulated with chelated minerals, methylated B vitamins, 400 mg of choline, and vegan vitamin D3—can make a world of difference. 

    Read More

    Egg quantity and quality are critical aspect of our reproductive well-being. By understanding the ideal number of eggs at various ages, why egg quality and quantity matter, and how to nurture and improve egg health, we can make informed decisions about our fertility and overall health.

    Read More

    The long, lazy days of summer aren’t just prime vacation days. Summer could actually be an especially fertile season, which may be of interest to couples who are interested in starting a family. If you’re angling for parenthood this summer, here’s what to know about the season of fertility.

    Read More

    If you’re no stranger to the telltale signs of seasonal allergies—sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, irritated eyes, the works—you’re likely familiar with antihistamines. When you’re actively trying to conceive, there’s more to understand about histamines, seasonal allergies and how it affects your fertility.

    Read More

    Choline is an overlooked essential nutrient in many prenatal vitamin formulas, and it's a major oversight. Here at Beli, we've been sounding the alarm for years and it's gratifying to see that the market is beginning to catch up. That's thanks in part to articles like "The 7 Best Choline Supplements for Pregnancy, According to a Prenatal Dietitian" from Parents. Spoiler: Beli for Women made the list.

    Read More

    While PCOS can be a challenging condition to manage, natural supplements like inositol that are included in Beli Preconception Boost offer a beacon of hope. Inositol's ability to improve insulin sensitivity, hormone balance, and ovulatory function makes it a valuable tool in the PCOS management toolkit. 

    Read More

    The concern that hormonal contraception affects future fertility is making the rounds on social media again. But research continues to show that all that worry is for naught. While birth control doesn’t cause long-term fertility issues, it can mask them by creating an artificial cycle—something that’s important to understand.

    Read More

    For many of us, our twenties and even thirties are a time when the focus is on pregnancy prevention. And that’s okay! But even when the idea of motherhood is miles away there is tremendous value in understanding your fertility health and what you can do to support it during these young, carefree days.

    Read More

    Once a month, PMS symptoms make their unpleasant presence known. And while knowing what’s happening won’t make PMS magically disappear, it can help you manage symptoms by balancing hormones and supporting your reproductive health. Let’s review.

    Read More

    It’s an easy assumption, but you’re much better off thinking that every prenatal vitamin is wildly different in terms of composition, nutrient quality and, importantly, nutrient amount. Not only is that actually true, it puts you in the smart consumer mindset of understanding what matters in a prenatal vitamin—and why.

    Read More

    If you have endometriosis, you can already recite its lengthy list of pretty terrible symptoms. And the standard options for managing those symptoms — medications, hormone therapy, hormonal birth control, estrogen blockers, surgery —  aren’t always great. But there is evidence that a so-called “endometriosis diet” can help.

    Read More
    ×

    Change Shipping Country

    Cancel