PRINCETON, Minn. — Azure Davis always knew that she wanted to have children. But what she didn't know was that her journey to creating a family would take longer, cost more money, and be as isolating as she originally thought.

She started trying two years ago; she was healthy, in her 30s, and had an active lifestyle. She got pregnant a year later, but had a miscarriage. After the miscarriage she decided to take the next step, meeting with a fertility specialist who recommended she try IUI.

"It's a lot less aggressive or abrasive than IVF, which people hear about a lot," Davis said. "It's far less expensive too." The process was difficult; she tried three rounds.

In between appointments and ultrasounds, Davis was doing her best to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Doctors say that lifestyle is a crucial part of getting pregnant. Anything from limiting alcohol, toxin exposure, drinking more water, sleeping and moderating stress can all support one's general health, which sets people who want to get pregnant up for success.

"Look at what you are eating, making sure it's supporting your blood sugar and anti-inflammatory efforts," said naturopathic doctor Cassie Wilder. "Even looking at things like your gut health and gut microbiome and treating something you're having symptoms of can open the door for your endocrinology to work better." But ultimately, Davis' IUI attempts failed.

She took a few months to recover before decided to start her IVF journey. "I didn't think that was ever.