Maximizing fertility: What to avoid

To improve your odds of conceiving:

• Don't smoke. Tobacco has multiple negative effects on fertility, not to mention your general health and the health of a fetus. If you smoke, ask your health care provider to help you quit before conception.
• Don't drink alcohol. Heavy alcohol use might lead to decreased fertility. Generally, it's best to avoid alcohol if you're hoping to conceive.
• Curb caffeine. Research suggests that fertility isn't affected by caffeine consumption of less than 200 milligrams a day. That's about one to two cups of 6 to 8 ounces of coffee per day.
• Don't overdo strenuous exercise. Strenuous, intense exercise of more than five hours a week has been associated with decreased ovulation.

Also, talk to your health care provider about any medications you are taking. Certain medications — even those available without a prescription — can make it difficult to conceive.