C Hawkins: "Got pregnant with Conceive Plus"

I, at 37 years old was told my fertility was depleted and id need IVF to get pregnant. Add to that I had no partner, so decided to go it alone, via at home Artificial insemination with a sperm donor (a friend). I was told the chances of this working without fertility treatment/IVF/Donor eggs etc were very slim, near non existent. I started trying last December 2013. Every month I finely tuned my insemination technique, taking tips from lots of online resources. I went from using a syringe to a soft cup (the type you use for periods), I added something every month when I was unsuccessful, I.E herbal medications to aid fertility, ovulation dip sticks, fertility scope, to look at saliva, etc (without going into gory details). This last month I did 2 things differently, I started a vegan diet the day I ovulated last month (unsuccessful month) the diet wasnt actually for fertility reasons but moral reasons,( but Ive since read its a great fertility aid). I also added Conceive Plus, first time doing so, and Im now 5 weeks pregnant! It was definately either the veganism or the Conceive plus, or both, with my apparent poor fertility I would 100% recommend this to anyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get pregnant naturally at 37 with low fertility?

Whilst fertility does decline with age, many women over 35 still conceive naturally or with minimal intervention. The NHS recognises that around 1 in 7 UK couples experience fertility issues, but this doesn't mean natural conception is impossible. Using fertility-friendly lubricants like Conceive Plus alongside tracking ovulation can help support your chances.

Is at-home artificial insemination legal in the UK?

Yes, at-home insemination with a known sperm donor is legal in the UK, though it's important to understand the legal implications regarding parental rights. The HFEA recommends seeking legal advice before proceeding, as donors through licensed clinics have different legal protections compared to informal arrangements with friends or known donors.

How long should I try to conceive before getting an NHS referral?

NICE guidelines recommend that women under 35 should try for 12 months before seeking a referral, whilst women aged 36 and over should be referred after 6 months of trying. If you're over 40, your GP should refer you immediately for fertility assessment. Waiting times and CCG funding criteria vary by area, so it's worth checking your local NHS trust's policies.

Does Conceive Plus actually help you get pregnant?

Conceive Plus is a fertility-friendly lubricant designed to support sperm survival and motility, unlike regular lubricants which can hinder sperm movement. Many women trying to conceive in the UK use it alongside other fertility tracking methods. Whilst individual results vary, it's formulated to be compatib

le with the natural conception process.

Can changing my diet improve my fertility?

Research suggests that a balanced diet rich in whole foods, vegetables, and healthy fats may support reproductive health. The NHS recommends maintaining a healthy weight and taking folic acid supplements when trying to conceive. Some women find that dietary changes, combined with fertility aids like Conceive Plus, help support their TTC journey.

What fertility aids can I use at home before IVF?

Before considering IVF, many UK couples try ovulation predictor kits, fertility-friendly lubricants like Conceive Plus, and lifestyle modifications. Fertility scopes that analyse saliva patterns and basal body temperature tracking are also popular options. These methods can help you identify your fertile window and optimise your chances each cycle.

How much does IVF cost if I'm not eligible for NHS funding?

Private IVF treatment in the UK typically costs between £3,000 and £5,000 per cycle, with additional costs for medications and extras like ICSI. NHS funding eligibility varies significantly between CCGs, with some areas offering up to three cycles whilst others offer none. Many women explore natural conception methods and fertility supplements before committing to costly private treatment.