Navigating the world of fertility can be challenging, especially when there is so much misinformation circulating. To help clear up some common misconceptions, we’ve put together a list of fertility myths and the facts that debunk them.
Myth 1: Infertility is rare.
Fact: Infertility is quite common. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that about 1 in 6 people are affected by infertility globally. It’s important for those experiencing difficulties to know they are not alone and that help is available.
Myth 2: Infertility is primarily a female issue.
Fact: Infertility affects both men and women. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), approximately one-third of infertility cases are due to male factors, one-third to female factors, and one-third to a combination of both or unknown factors. It’s important for both partners to undergo evaluation when facing fertility issues.
Myth 3: Stress causes infertility.
Fact: While stress can affect overall health, it is unlikely to be a direct cause of infertility. Infertility is a medical condition that cannot be resolved simply by relaxing. However, managing stress can improve general well-being and may mitigate the negative emotional impact that can accompany the fertility journey.
Myth 4: Age only affects female fertility.
Fact: Age impacts fertility in both men and women. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), a women’s fertility declines more rapidly around age 35, due to several changes:
- The number and quality of eggs (ovarian reserve) decreasing naturally and progressively from before a woman is born until the time she reaches menopause
- This decline accelerates quickly after her mid-30s
- Miscarriage and chromosomal abnormalities in the child (such as Down syndrome) are more common in older mothers
- Fibroids, endometriosis, and tubal disease are more common and can affect fertility
- Women who become pregnant at an older age have a higher risk of complications during the pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia
In their mid to late forties, men start to experience changes in their sperm that can cause issues with fertility and birth defects in the offspring.
Both men and women should consider age when planning to conceive.
Myth 5: Having a child means you won’t have fertility problems in the future.
Fact: Secondary infertility, or difficulty conceiving after having a child, is a common issue that affects millions of couples. It is estimated that approximately 11% of couples in the United States are affected by secondary infertility. Various factors, including age and health changes, can contribute to secondary infertility.
Myth 6: Lifestyle is the main factor affecting fertility.
Fact: Although a healthy lifestyle can improve fertility, many infertility issues are caused by medical conditions such as blocked fallopian tubes, ovulation disorders, or genetic factors. It is important to seek medical advice to understand the underlying causes of infertility. However, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, regular exercise, and moderating alcohol and tobacco consumption can all contribute to improved fertility. Lifestyle changes can complement, but not replace, medical treatments.
Myth 7: Infertility means you’ll never have children.
Fact: Many cases of infertility can be treated with conventional therapies like medications or surgery. Assisted reproductive technology (ART) has increased the success rates of treatments over the years, giving many couples the opportunity to conceive. The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) estimates that in vitro fertilization (IVF) accounts for 99% of ART procedures performed. According to the 2022 Preliminary National Report by the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART), patients under 35 had a 51.2% live birth rate as a new patient undergoing IVF.
Myth 8: Birth control causes infertility.
Fact: Using hormonal birth control does not affect long-term fertility. While it may take a few months for menstrual cycles to regulate after stopping hormonal birth control, it does not affect fertility. Individuals or couples trying to conceive should give their bodies some time to adjust after discontinuing birth control.
Myth 9: Certain sex positions improve chances of pregnancy.
Fact: There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that certain sex positions improve chances of pregnancy. Sperm can reach the cervix within seconds regardless of sexual position, so couples should focus on regular, well-timed intercourse rather than specific positions.
Myth 10: Infertility treatment always requires expensive procedures like IVF.
Fact: Many infertility cases can be treated with less expensive and less invasive methods. Intrauterine insemination (IUI) or oral fertility medications may be sufficient in many cases. IVF is not often the first option and is only recommended when other treatments have failed.
Myth 11: Taking fertility drugs guarantees pregnancy.
Fact: Fertility drugs such as clomiphene and letrozole can help stimulate ovulation, but they do not guarantee pregnancy. The success of these drugs varies and depends on the underlying cause of infertility and other factors.
Myth 12: You can’t get pregnant during your period.
Fact: While it’s less likely, it’s still possible to get pregnant during your period, especially if you have shorter menstrual cycles or irregular cycles.
The average menstrual cycle is about 21-35 days. If you have a shorter menstrual cycle, you can have a higher chance of getting pregnant from sex during your period. Sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so having sex during your period could result in pregnancy if you ovulate early.
Myth 13: You only need to see a fertility specialist after a year of trying to conceive.
Fact: While it’s generally recommended to seek help after a year of trying for those under 35, and after six months for those 35 or older, you should see a specialist sooner if you have known risk factors such as irregular menstrual cycles, suspicion for male factors, or risk factors for blocked tubes.
Conclusion
Understanding the facts about fertility can help alleviate unnecessary worries and guide aspiring parents toward effective solutions. If you’re facing fertility issues, schedule an appointment at AFCC today with one of our physicians who can provide personalized advice and treatment options. Remember, many individuals and couples have overcome fertility challenges and gone on to build their families!
Sources: 1 in 6 people globally affected by infertility: WHO (April 2023); How common is infertility? (NIH, February 2018); Does My Age Affect My Fertility? (ASRM, 2024); Secondary Infertility (Cleveland Clinic, March 2023); In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Use Across the United States (HHS, March 2024); 2022 Preliminary National Summary Report (SART, 2022)
