Myths around Infertility

Introduction

Infertility is a topic surrounded by many myths and misconceptions, which can create confusion and unnecessary stress for those trying to conceive.

Common myths about infertility

Myth- Infertility is always a Woman’s Problem

Infertility affects both men and women. About 30% of infertility cases are due to male factors, 30% due to female factors, and a combination of both or unexplained factors causes the remaining 40%. Both partners need to undergo testing and evaluation when facing infertility. Signs of male infertility also exist, like testicle pain, ejaculation problems, etc.

Myth- Stress caused fertility issues

Extreme stress can impact hormonal balance and ovulation, it is rarely the sole cause of infertility. Infertility is often the result of underlying medical conditions, age, or reproductive issues. However, managing stress is still important for overall health and well-being during the conception process.

Myth- Birth Control Causes Infertility

Long-term use of birth control does not cause infertility. After stopping birth control, most women’s fertility returns to normal within a few months. However, underlying fertility issues that were masked by birth control use may become apparent after discontinuation.

Myth- Lifestyle Doesn’t Affect Fertility

Lifestyle factors such as diet, weight, smoking, alcohol consumption, and exposure to environmental toxins can all impact fertility. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can improve reproductive health and increase the chances of conception.

Myth- Need to Have Sex Every Day to Get Pregnant

Having sex every day can be exhausting and isn’t necessary to conceive. Having intercourse every other day during the fertile window (the days leading up to and including ovulation) is often sufficient for conception.

Myth- Coffee intake does not affect fertility

Consuming more coffee delays pregnancy. Try to limit coffee intake to 2 cups a day if trying to conceive.

Myth- You Can Get Pregnant at Any Time in Your Cycle

A woman is most fertile during ovulation, which occurs around 12-16 days before her next period starts. While it’s possible to conceive if intercourse occurs a few days before or after ovulation, the chances are significantly lower outside of this fertile window.

Myth- If You’ve Had a Child Before, You Can’t Be Infertile

Secondary infertility, the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after previously having a child, is quite common. Factors such as age, health changes, or complications from previous pregnancies can contribute to secondary infertility.

Myth- Smoking does not hinder fertility

Smoking cigarettes a day can considerably lower the fertility rates in both sexes. Conceiving becomes difficult. Also, smoking damages the genetic material in sperm and eggs.

Myth- Infertility Treatments Always Result in Multiple Births

Some fertility treatments increase the likelihood of multiple births (like twins or triplets), but advances in technology and careful monitoring have reduced this risk. The goal of treatment is typically a healthy singleton pregnancy.

Myth- Only Women with Irregular Periods Are Infertile

Irregular periods can be a sign of ovulatory issues, women with regular periods can also experience infertility due to other factors such as blocked fallopian tubes, uterine abnormalities, or male partner issues.

Myth- You need to relax, and you’ll get pregnant.

Infertility is a medical condition that often requires professional treatment. Telling someone to “relax” can be unhelpful and dismissive of the underlying medical issues.

Myth- If a couple adopts a child, the woman will get pregnant.

If a couple adopts a child, the woman will get pregnant. It is painful to hear if you are a couple trying to start a family. There is no truth in it as well. This is based on anecdotal evidence and has no scientific basis.

Myth- If a couple has a pet at home a Dog or a Cat, the woman will not get pregnant.

If a couple has a Dog or a Cat at home, the woman will not get pregnant. again this is a misconception. There is no truth in it as well.

Conclusion

These myths can lead to unnecessary stigma and confusion. However, it is important to visit your Gynaecologist to get authentic information and advice on pregnancy-related issues.