The good sleep fertility guide for men and women

Sleep is one of the body’s natural healers and if you don’t get enough of it your health can suffer. Your immune system may not be as effective, your moods can plummet, relations with those close to you can become strained, and your hormones might become unbalanced.

This can make it difficult to pinpoint when you’re most fertile – and if you do not know when you’re ovulating, it could potentially make it more difficult to conceive (have a look at our ovulation calculator to work out when you’re at your most fertile).

So, for the sake of a regular menstrual cycle, strengthened immune system, good temper, and lowered stress levels, it’s imperative that you’re sleeping well – likewise for your partner. The usual figure sleep RDA is eight hours a night but some people need more and some need less. You know your body better than anybody and have to decide what’s the right amount for you. If you’re having problems getting to sleep, take a look at our top 10 tips for a good night’s sleep.

Why not chat to other women about this, or other topics, by leaving a message on our chat forum. Alternately, if you want to meet other women in your area, visit our people section to find out what’s happening in your area. If you have any unanswered questions, use our questions page to gain wisdom from other moms or our resident experts for all those pregnancy or baby-related niggles. Have a look at our kit section for good ideas on which equipment to purchase once you’re pregnant.

The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.