Q: When are you most fertile?

During your normal monthly cycle you're most fertile when you ovulate (When an egg is released from your ovaries into the fallopian tubes) about 14 days before the start of your next period.

If you're regular you can easily work this out - and if you're on an average 28 day cycle you'll find that it's half way through! That's counting from the start of your period as day one.

So if you're trying for a baby then around the middle of your cycle is the time you are most likely to conceive. You can get test kits to find out when you're ovulating but you shouldn't get stressed out about it - especially when you first start trying. Making love as normal without putting pressure on your partner is the best way to start things off. If you've not conceieved after 12 months then it's probably time to speak to your GP for advice and then might recommend ovulation kits.

Want to try for a baby? Pre-trying checks

Check your diet, and general health and weight. If you're overweight then look at losing a few pounds first - once you're pregnant you won't be able to diet, so shift the weight first.

Eat a healthy varied diet. Plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Make sure you're having your 5 a day at least. (Some countries recommend 9 or 10 portions a day!!)

Eat plenty of foods rich in iron, calcium and folate. Folate is the natural form of folic acid and is found in fortified breakfast cereals, bread, oranges and leafy greens.

* iron - red meat, green leafy vegetables, dried fruit, and pulses such as lentils and beans,
* calcium - dairy foods like milk, cheese and yoghurt, broccoli and wholegrain cereals, and

Ask your GP about folic acid supplements - you may be advised to start taking this for a while before trying to concieve.

Your Gp might have some further information about diet and pre-conception health so it's worth mentioning to them.

Can I drink whilst I'm pregnant?

You should avoid alcohol whilst pregnant. Although medical opinion has changed over time it's probably easiest to just say no, or if you must have only a tiny sip! Most people will understand why you're not drinking although it can be tricky in the early days if you're not telling people until 12 weeks - so make something up. Saying you're on antibiotics and can't drink is an easy lie to tell!

Is fake tan safe when you're pregnant?

The active ingredient in fake tan is Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) isn't absorbed into the body so in theory, yes you can use fake tans.
However there's always a chance of an allergic reaction and your skin can react differently during pregnancy so it might be wise to give it a miss.

Also they offer little UVA protection so use a sun screen lotion instead.

Can I use herbal remedies when pregnant?

Herbal remedies and complementary medicines might affect your baby - so you're best avoiding any medicines unless prescribed by the doctor - who knows you're pregnant! Check with your midwife or GP if you want to take anything - there may be alternatives that are safe for pregnant women.