If you’re trying to conceive, you’ve probably heard some crazy fertility ideas, from trendy ideas to old-fashioned tricks for getting pregnant faster. They range from the common, like lying with your legs elevated, to the really weird, like throwing your underwear on the roof (which we don’t recommend, by the way).
We spoke with Renée Wellenstein, MD, a physician board-certified and trained in both obstetrics and gynecology and functional medicine, about some of the strangest pregnancy strategies we’ve ever heard of.
1. Use a menstrual cup
The claim : Inserting a menstrual cup after sex may help speed up conception by allowing sperm to remain near the cervix for much longer than usual. This method is based on the same basic idea of lying down with your legs elevated after sex, but with a modern twist.
Expert opinion : Dr. Wellenstein believes this could be a legitimate way to support couples as they continue with fertility treatments. “I believe that using a menstrual cup can increase a couple’s chances of conceiving,” she said. “Inserting the cup after sex keeps more sperm near the cervix for a longer period of time than sex alone.”
In short , we’re optimistic! As long as you don’t leave the cup inserted for longer than the recommended time, this could be an exciting new step if you’re having trouble getting pregnant.
2. Eat parasites
Claim : A parasitic roundworm is common in Bolivia, and experts say it could increase fertility in people. While there’s no way to compare parasites to pregnancy, scientists say that infection with a parasitic worm could change a person’s immune system, making them more likely to get pregnant.
Expert opinion : While this bizarre story could lead to future developments in the field of fertility treatment, Dr. Wellenstein points out that “there is the possibility of other symptoms and possibly more serious complications. Additionally, treating the infection would require additional medication, which is not typically recommended during pregnancy.”
In short , don’t try it. No matter how badly you want to get pregnant, we doubt many people are going to line up to be infected with a parasite. But maybe scientists will use this information to develop a different, less unpleasant way to harness the fertility-enhancing powers of this bug.
3. Baby Aspirin
Claim : Taking a daily baby aspirin may improve your chances of pregnancy by creating a better environment for fetal development. But before you head to the pharmacy, it’s important to consider the risks.
Expert opinion : Dr. Wellenstein doesn’t recommend widespread use of aspirin when trying to conceive: “I think aspirin can be helpful for women with a history of infertility, especially those with unexplained infertility caused by some kind of inflammation. But I would not recommend it for women who are trying to conceive.”
Bottom line : Talk to your healthcare provider. Because medications work differently depending on your individual needs, it’s important to always talk to a healthcare professional before taking any medication, especially if you’re pregnant or trying to become pregnant.
4. Eat pineapple after ovulation
Claim : Eating a pineapple core right after ovulation can help you get pregnant.
Expert’s take : “The enzyme bromelain, found in pineapple juice and stems, is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties,” says Dr. Wellenstein. “While this is unlikely to help improve your chances of conceiving, the immune system-supporting vitamin C in pineapple makes it a healthy choice for women trying to conceive.”
Bottom line : Eating a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables can have a positive impact on your overall health, and it’s always a great way to start a pregnancy. But don’t expect a pineapple core to be a magic elixir that’ll give you a baby.
5. Taking cough syrup (in safe amounts)
The claim : Some cough syrups contain guaifenesin, an expectorant that thins cervical mucus in the same way that mucus does, allowing sperm to travel more easily to the egg during ovulation.
Expert opinion : “While this may be true, it doesn’t necessarily translate into increased live birth rates, as there are many other factors that affect pregnancy,” explains Dr. Wellenstein.
Bottom line : Talk to your healthcare provider before trying this method to make sure you’re taking a safe dose and that you don’t have any other issues that could prevent you from getting pregnant. If your healthcare provider gives you the go-ahead, there’s no reason you can’t try this method.
6. Acupuncture
Claim : Research suggests that acupuncture may help with infertility, but the topic is controversial. One study showed that acupuncture improved live birth, clinical pregnancy, and implantation rates in infertility patients.
What the experts say : “I strongly believe that acupuncture can be effective in treating infertility,” says Dr. Wellenstein. “I don’t think it can do any harm if it’s administered by a trained professional.”
In short , give it a try. If you are having trouble conceiving, acupuncture appears to be a safe, potentially effective, and relatively inexpensive way to get pregnant. What’s more, this method can be safely combined with traditional medicine and assisted reproductive techniques to increase your chances of having a child.
7. Add egg whites
Claim : The most fertile cervical mucus has properties similar to egg white, so inserting real egg white into your vagina instead of real egg whites can increase your chances of conception.
Expert opinion : According to Dr. Wellenstein, “The only time I think egg whites may be helpful is if you’re being treated for infertility with Clomid, a drug that thickens cervical mucus. Egg whites may help sperm travel through the cervix and into the uterine cavity.”
Bottom line : I have to admit I was surprised that our medical experts thought this would work. To an extent this makes sense, but regular lube would also work. However, do not try this method without the supervision of a medical professional.
