Six Things You Need When Trying To Get Pregnant

Originally published 12/09/2020. Updated for accuracy and relevancy on 10/08/2023.

So you decided it’s time to bring a baby into this world, and want to know where to start. This guide will share six things you need to conceive. 

By Vernita Brown

I like to start most things in my life with optimism and a plan. But the truth of the matter is, when it came to my journey to motherhood, I was pretty clueless. Realizing the gaps that my less-than-stellar high school sex-ed class left me with, I felt pretty ignorant and helpless. I didn’t know there were tools I could use to help me learn about the fertile window and get in tune with my body’s own rhythm. But knowing what I know now, I feel empowered to share what I’ve learned with other women to improve their journeys. 

About 75% of people will get pregnant in the first six months of trying, and 90% will get pregnant within the first year. [1] This means it will likely take you a few months, and that’s normal! But it can be hard to get a negative pregnancy test month after month. Setting realistic expectations and knowing that you might not get pregnant the first month you try is important. 

So if you’re just starting out, here are a few things I recommend to help you get pregnant!  

Ovulation Tests

The best way to maximize your chances of getting pregnant more quickly is to know your fertile window. Plan on having sex every day or every other day during the six-day fertile window, which includes the five days leading up to ovulation and the day of ovulation. There are a few ways to track your fertile window to time sex— the easiest of which is to use ovulation tests or our our complete Ovulation Test Kit. 

Fertility Friendly Lube

When trying to conceive, it's important to make sure your everyday lubricant doesn't get in the way of your goal. You’ll want an FDA-cleared fertility lube like The Lube to help conceive and to make sure the swimmers are still winners.

Prenatal Vitamins

The ideal time to start a prenatal is one to three months before trying to conceive. If you start taking a daily prenatal vitamin before pregnancy, you can set this proverbial nutritional safety net firmly in place, thereby giving yourself and your future baby the best chance of reaping as many benefits as possible. [2] Try the Prenatal Daily Packets for convenient daily use, or the Prenatal Gummies for a delicious alternative. 

Pregnancy Tests

This is obvious, but you’ll want to stock up on pregnancy tests in advance. With the Natalist early at-home pregnancy test, you can begin testing up to five days before your expected period. You can also shop pregnancy test strips for an earth-friendlier option. 

Conception 101

It’s important to have access to accurate and reliable pregnancy books for moms when trying to get pregnant. I recommend Conception 101, which is the perfect tool to help you achieve your goals and learn everything you need to know about having a baby. 

Parent Plans

Parent Plans is a Natalist book that contains thought starters for you and your partner. Covering topics from conception to parenting philosophies, expect to think and talk about everything from baby names to values and finances to birth. I highly recommend going through this workbook with your partner!!

Most of these products are available as part of The Get Pregnant Bundle for just $120! Or if you're looking for a more personalized selection, check out one of our other great bundle options to save money and get the essentials necessary for TTC!

If you're looking for a gift for your partner or just want to gain some insight on your fertility, try our at-home sperm test kit or women's fertility test!

References:

1. Taylor A. ABC of subfertility: extent of the problem. BMJ. 2003;327(7412):434-436. doi:10.1136/bmj.327.7412.434
2. Li Z, Mei Z, Zhang L, et al. Effects of Prenatal Micronutrient Supplementation on Spontaneous Preterm Birth: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial in China. Am J Epidemiol. 2017;186(3):318-325. doi:10.1093/aje/kwx094