Debunking Fertility Myths: Facts You Need to Know

Fertility is a topic surrounded by numerous myths and misconceptions, often leading to confusion and anxiety for those trying to conceive. Understanding the truth behind these myths is crucial for making informed decisions about reproductive health. 

Myth 1: Women cannot get pregnant after 35

• It is widely believed that women cannot get pregnant after 35 and that fertility plummets drastically once this age is reached. Giving birth — a combination of pregnancy occurrence and successful delivery — peaks between 20 and 24. 

• After 30, the chances of conception naturally decrease, and the risk of complications, such as miscarriage and chromosomal abnormalities, increases.

• While it is true that fertility declines with age, many women can and do conceive naturally after 35. Advancements in reproductive medicine, such as egg freezing and in vitro fertilization (IVF), have also made it possible for women to conceive later in life.

Book your appointment with Thomson Medical today to explore our fertility services.

Myth 2: Long-term use of contraceptive medication causes infertility

• This myth has caused unnecessary concern for many women. Contraceptive medications, including birth control pills, do not cause permanent infertility. These medications work by temporarily preventing ovulation. 

• Once discontinued, most women’s fertility returns to its natural state within a few months as their hormones return to normal. In some cases, it might take a little longer for ovulation to resume, especially if periods were irregular before starting birth control.

• However, no evidence supports the idea that birth control causes long-term fertility issues.

Myth 3: Irregular menstrual cycles are linked to infertility

• Irregular menstrual cycles can indicate an underlying issue, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders, but they do not necessarily mean infertility. Many women with irregular cycles can still conceive naturally. 

• The key is understanding what is causing the irregularity. In some cases, lifestyle changes, medications, or treatments can help regulate the cycle and improve the chances of conception. 

• It is always best to consult a doctor if you have concerns about irregular periods and fertility.

Myth 4: Stress leads to infertility

• While stress can impact overall health and well-being, it does not directly cause infertility. Stress can affect hormone levels, potentially leading to irregular periods or temporary disruptions in ovulation. 

• However, it is more likely to intensify existing fertility issues such as ovulation disorders, sexual dysfunction, increased risk of miscarriage, etc. rather than cause them. 

• Managing stress is still important for overall health, and reducing stress levels can help create a more favourable environment for conception, but it is not a direct cause of infertility.

Myth 5: After giving birth, conception is easier

• Many people believe that having one child means they will have no trouble conceiving again. However, this is not always the case. Secondary infertility, the inability to conceive after previously giving birth, affects many couples. 

• This can be due to various factors, including age, changes in health, or complications from previous pregnancies. Just because someone has had a child does not guarantee that they will not face fertility challenges in the future.

Myth 6: Lifestyle choices will not affect fertility health

• Lifestyle choices, such as diet, exercise, and substance use, play a significant role in fertility health for both men and women. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can all contribute to better reproductive health. 

• Conversely, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use can negatively impact fertility. For men, these factors can affect sperm quality, and for women, they can disrupt hormonal balance and ovulation. 

• Making positive lifestyle changes can improve the chances of conception and lead to a healthier pregnancy.

Learn more about lifestyle changes you can make to boost your fertility.

Myth 7: You will never be able to have children if you are infertile

• Infertility does not necessarily mean a permanent inability to conceive. This means that conception has been challenging or has not occurred naturally after a year of trying.

• Many treatments are available, including fertility medications, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like IVF, and lifestyle modifications that can help couples conceive.

• In some cases, addressing the underlying causes of infertility can lead to natural conception. Fertility treatments have helped countless couples achieve pregnancy, so an infertility diagnosis is not the end of the road.

Conclusion

Understanding the facts behind fertility myths is crucial for anyone considering starting or expanding their family. By debunking these myths, we can better navigate the complexities of fertility and make informed decisions about our reproductive health.

If you are concerned about your fertility or have questions about your reproductive health, please book an appointment with our specialists at Thomson Medical for expert guidance and support.

FAQ

1) Does fertility only affect women?

No, fertility challenges can affect both men and women equally.

In approximately one-third of infertility cases, male infertility is identified as the primary issue, affecting sperm production, quality, or delivery.

Similarly, female infertility may stem from issues like ovulation disorders, blocked fallopian tubes, or uterine abnormalities.

Therefore, both partners should be evaluated when addressing fertility issues, and treatment plans may need to consider both male and female factors.

2) Can you get pregnant while breastfeeding?

Yes, although breastfeeding can suppress ovulation, it is not a reliable form of contraception.

While breastfeeding, can reduce the likelihood of ovulation and menstruation, it does not completely prevent them. The return of ovulation can vary among women and may occur before the first postpartum period, making it possible to conceive even if menstrual cycles have not yet resumed. Therefore, if you wish to avoid pregnancy while breastfeeding, it is important to consider additional contraceptive methods.

3) Is infertility always genetic?

No, infertility can be caused by a range of factors including lifestyle choices, environmental exposures, and medical conditions, not just genetics. While genetic factors can contribute to infertility, many other aspects can play a significant role. Lifestyle choices such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or poor diet can impact fertility. Environmental exposure to toxins or chemicals may also affect reproductive health. Additionally, medical conditions like hormonal imbalances, infections, or chronic diseases can contribute to infertility.