Baby-Making Secrets You Should Know

Here's what's out and what's in when it comes to conception:

• DON'T Smoke: Skipping the old post-coital cigarette is a must. Smoking not only decreases a woman's chances of getting pregnant, it also causes erectile dysfunction (impotence) in men, decreases sperm count, and is harmful to unborn babies.

• DON'T Drink: Despite the number of children conceived thanks to the libido-enhancing effects of alcohol, fertility experts recommend corking the bottle when you're trying to make a baby.

• DON'T Overheat: Both partners should avoid hot tubs and saunas which can overcook those precious eggs and sperm.

• DO Exercise: Exercise regularly if you don't already and try to get closer to your ideal body weight. A healthy, unpolluted body simply functions better. Just as a race car driver ensures that the engine is in perfect running order to maximize its speed and efficiency, so should couples hoping to cash in on one of nature's most wondrous mechanical and chemical processes—conception.

There's no end to the factual, fictitious, and sometimes funny advice a woman with an Internet connection and an ovulation predictor kit is likely to encounter. While much of it is based in fact and some of it actually works, a lot of it is just plain baloney. Do yourself a favor and check with your doctor for some professional advice before doing anything that sounds a little weird. Your body and your baby will thank you for it!