When you’re ready to take the plunge into parenthood, there’s no way to predict exactly how soon you’ll see a positive pregnancy test.

If you’re in pretty good health, and having regular sex without birth control, you should expect to conceive in your first year of trying, says Amelia McLennan, MD. She’s a maternal fetal medicine specialist at UC Davis Medical Center.

“In general, about half of couples will get pregnant within 6 months, and about 70%-80% will get pregnant within 1 year,” she says.

But you and your partner can boost your odds of being parents-to-be by knowing the dos and don’ts of fertility. Set yourself up for success with these guidelines.