So after spending a few months shy of 2 years TTC, I've had a fair few TTC related queries, so I thought I'd start this thread for others new to TTC with all the basic questions and guidelines answered. Feel free to add your own tips and advice for basic TTC for beginners

-You will not be able to get a bfp until AT LEAST 10 days after conception, also known as 10 days past ovulation (dpo). Testing at 3dpo for example will result in a definate bfn. People have been known to get positives before 10dpo, but a good general rule to follow to avoid disapointment is to test until at least after 10dpo.

-It's always best to test with first morning urine (fmu). This is because the concentration of hcg (preggy hormone) is the strongest first thing in the morning.

-Sperm can last 5ish days after sex, so it IS possible to conceive 5 days before ovulation, as is it possible to conceive a day after. You will alway here of people who go either side of these days, and you may be one, but there is a possibility of conception 5 days before or a day after O.

-If you have been on hormonal contraception for an extended period of time before TTC, it can affect how soon your cycle will regulate itself. I say 'regulate' instead of 'get back to normal', because your cycle may be different after being on hormonal contraception for a while. Because you had a 28 day cycle pre-the pill doesn't mean you will afterwards. It's very normal to have longer cycles after coming off the pill, as is it to have cramps, mid cycle spotting etc. You probably haven't had PMS in a while so your body is still getting used to it's natural reactions to it's menstrual cycle.

-Pregnancy is counted in weeks from your last menstrual period (lmp). This is based on a textbook cycle, of 28 days with ovulation on cycle day (cd) 14 and a 14 day luteal phase (lp). A luteal phase is the time between ovulation and when your (hopefully) blastocyst will make it's way down your Fallopian tubes, into your uterus and (again hopefully) implant. Implantation occurs normally around 7dpo. But it's different for everyone. Your cycle length, luteal phase and ovulation date may not be textbook and this is totally normal!

-The position you have sex in doesn't really matter too much, I promise So just make sure you're comfortable!

-And remember, an average healthy couple can expect to be pregnant within 12 months! This is the golden time to seek medical intervention and help, although depending on age etc many couples seek this help at 6 months.

That's all I can think of atm, but I'm sure I will remember a few more! Feel free to add your own, (remember for TTC for beginners lol) and I hope a lot of people new to TTC can read this and feel reassured. Good luck on your journey, hopefully soon you will be holding your bubba in your arms!