Have you been trying to get pregnant for some time now? If so, you’re probably familiar with the monthly cycle - and we’re not talking about the menstrual one.

This is the monthly cycle that goes something like this: have sex at your fertile time; wait anxiously to see whether you have a period; your period arrives and then you have to cope with the disappointment. This can lead to stress, which makes next month harder to deal with, plus the stress hormones themselves can reduce your fertility. And so on…

If you recognise yourself in this scenario, why not think about taking a break from the vicious cycle of actively trying to conceive? Take a couple of months out altogether. Live your life, spend quality time with your partner, have sex which is unrelated to babies and free yourself from the anxiety, stress and disappointment. Don’t start taking the pill at this time in case it disrupts your hormone balance and ovulation, but actively try NOT to get pregnant.

Freedom from calendars and diaries could help reduce your stress hormone levels, improve your overall physical and emotional health - and who knows what might happen after your break?

Post us a comment here if you’ve done this, or if you have any tips to help other couples.