5 Myths About Fertility You Need to Stop Believing

Fertility is a topic that is often shrouded in myths and misconceptions, leading to unnecessary anxiety and confusion for couples who are trying to conceive. Unfortunately, the internet and social media have only exacerbated the problem by perpetuating false information about fertility. It's crucial for couples to separate fact from fiction and make informed decisions about their reproductive health. In this article, we will debunk five common myths about fertility that you need to stop believing.

By understanding the truth behind these myths, you can take the necessary steps to increase your chances of conception and build a healthy family.

Myth 1: You can only get pregnant on certain days of your cycle.

Fact 1: While there are certain days of your menstrual cycle when you are more likely to get pregnant, it is possible to conceive at any time during your cycle. Sperm can survive for up to five days inside the female body, so even if you have sex a few days before ovulation, you could still get pregnant.

Myth 2: Infertility is always caused by the female partner.

Fact 2: Infertility is often seen as a women's issue, but it can affect both partners. In fact, male infertility is responsible for up to 40% of infertility cases. Common causes of male infertility include low sperm count, poor sperm motility, and structural abnormalities in the reproductive system.

Myth 3: Stress causes infertility.

Fact 3: While stress can have a negative impact on overall health and well-being, it is not a direct cause of infertility. However, stress can affect fertility indirectly by disrupting the hormonal balance and menstrual cycle. If you are experiencing infertility, it is important to seek medical advice and treatment.

Myth 4: Age only affects a woman's fertility.

Fact 4: While age does have a greater impact on female fertility, it can also affect male fertility. As men age, the quality and quantity of their sperm may decline, making it more difficult to conceive. Additionally, advanced paternal age is associated with an increased risk of genetic abnormalities in offspring.

Myth 5: You can boost fertility by having sex multiple times a day.

Fact 5: While having sex more frequently can increase the chances of getting pregnant, there is such a thing as too much sex. Overexertion can lead to exhaustion, which can affect fertility. Additionally, having sex too frequently can lead to a decrease in sperm count and motility, which can reduce the chances of conception.

SUMMARY

In conclusion, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding fertility that can lead to unnecessary stress and confusion. By debunking these myths and seeking accurate information, you can make informed decisions about your reproductive health. Remember, if you are experiencing infertility, it is important to seek medical advice and treatment from a qualified healthcare provider.

Jayti Shah is a Clinical Nutritionist with a master's degree in Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics. She is a member of the Indian Dietetic Association (IDA). Over the last 9 years, she has helped 400 clients in their clinical and weight loss journeys. She works with SocialBoat as a nutrition consultant.

At SocialBoat, we offer custom diet plans and guided workouts to help you achieve your goals in a 360-degree approach. Our gamified experience ensures that you don’t find workouts boring and we reward you for being consistent with your efforts.

REFERENCES

• American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2021). Male age and fertility. https://www.reproductivefacts.org/news-and-publications/patient-fact-sheets-and-booklets/documents/fact-sheets-and-info-booklets/male-age-and-fertility/
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Infertility FAQs. https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/infertility/index.htm
• Mayo Clinic. (2020). Female fertility: Why lifestyle choices count. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/female-fertility/art-20045887
• Mayo Clinic. (2020). Male fertility: Can it be improved? https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/male-fertility/art-20045882
• National Institutes of Health. (2021). Stress and infertility. https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/infertility/conditioninfo/stress