When it comes to fertility and conception, there are numerous facts and fiction circulating. From old wives’ tales to scientific studies, it can be overwhelming to differentiate between what is true and what is not.

In this article, we will debunk some common myths and shed light on the realities of fertility and conception.

1. Age Matters

Fact: Age plays a significant role in fertility. Women are born with a finite number of eggs, and as they age, both the quantity and quality of their eggs decline. As a result, the chances of conceiving naturally decrease with age.

It is advisable for women to consult with a fertility specialist if they are experiencing difficulty conceiving after the age of 35.

2. Fertility is Solely a Woman’s Concern

Fact: While women bear the physical burden of pregnancy, fertility is a joint concern. Both male and female factors contribute to infertility issues.

Approximately 40% of infertility cases are attributed to male factors, including low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or structural abnormalities. Therefore, it is crucial for both partners to undergo fertility evaluations.

3. Stress Causes Infertility

Fiction: While stress can affect various aspects of our lives, there is no conclusive evidence linking it directly to infertility. However, stress can indirectly impact fertility by affecting libido and sexual functioning.

It is essential to address stress and adopt healthy coping mechanisms, but it should not be viewed as the sole cause of infertility.

4. Certain Sexual Positions Increase the Chances of Conception

Fiction: Despite numerous claims suggesting that certain sexual positions can enhance fertility, there are no scientific studies to support these assertions.

The position of the cervix and the movement of sperm towards the egg are regulated by biological mechanisms, making sexual positions irrelevant in terms of conception.

5. Pregnancy is Guaranteed After Stopping Birth Control

Fiction: Pregnancy is not immediately guaranteed after discontinuing birth control methods. It may take time for hormonal balance to be restored, and normal ovulation to resume.

It is advisable for couples to allow a few menstrual cycles to pass before actively trying to conceive after stopping birth control.

6. Only Women Need to Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Fiction: Both partners should prioritize a healthy lifestyle when trying to conceive. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, recreational drug use, and certain medications can all impair fertility in both men and women.

It is crucial for both partners to adopt a balanced diet, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, and avoid harmful substances.

7. Fertility Treatments Always Result in Multiple Pregnancies

Fiction: While fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF) can increase the chances of multiple pregnancies, it is not an inevitable outcome.

Advances in reproductive technologies and improved protocols have allowed for better control over the number of embryos transferred, reducing the occurrence of multiple pregnancies. The number of embryos transferred during IVF can be decided based on various factors, including the couple’s age and the quality of the embryos.

8. Infertility is a Rare Problem

Fiction: Infertility is more common than many people realize. Approximately 1 in 8 couples worldwide experience difficulties in conceiving.

It is essential to acknowledge that infertility is a medical condition and seek professional help if conception does not occur after a reasonable period of trying.

9. Fertility Declines After the First Child

Fiction: While fertility may decline slightly with age, it does not drastically decrease after the birth of the first child.

In fact, some couples may experience secondary infertility, where they struggle to conceive subsequent children despite having successfully conceived in the past. The reasons behind secondary infertility can vary and may require medical intervention.

10. Adoption or Surrogacy is a Last Resort for Infertile Couples

Fiction: Adoption or surrogacy is not a last resort but rather a personal choice for couples who are unable to conceive naturally or carry a pregnancy to full term.

Infertility treatments offer various options, and adoption or surrogacy is just one of them. Ultimately, the decision of how to build a family should be based on the couple’s preferences and circumstances.