The Truth Behind 5 Common Fertility Beliefs
A couple unable to get pregnant after months or years of trying may become discouraged at the prospect of possibly never having kids — more so, if they heard all the myths surrounding fertility. What are some of the most popular myths?
1. The Woman Is to Blame
Believe it or not, fertility problems are not just a female issue — men can have problems with fertility too. In fact, one-third of all couples find out that it’s the “man’s fault” for not conceiving. If you and your partner have been trying to get pregnant but have been unsuccessful, it’s important you both get health screenings. The earlier a diagnosis, the quicker the possibility of becoming pregnant. A quick sperm test at home can sometimes indicate a potential problem which can then be further investigated with your GP.
This statistic underscores the importance of both partners undergoing health screenings when pregnancy proves elusive. A simple at-home sperm test can often provide initial insights, potentially uncovering issues that warrant further investigation with a GP.
2. Women Should Be Pregnant After a Month
The majority of women spend their time not getting pregnant and, when they finally want to, are shocked to realise it doesn’t happen right away. The reality is that most women won’t become pregnant the first year they try. If you are 35 years old or older, it’s important to try for six months before getting professional assistance. If you’re younger than 35, you should wait 12 months before seeking help.
Many couples are surprised to learn that immediate conception isn’t the norm. It’s important to give your body time to adjust and not put undue pressure on yourself. For women under 35, doctors typically recommend trying for a full year before seeking professional help. Those 35 and older should consider consulting a fertility specialist after six months of unsuccessful attempts.
3. Getting Pregnant a Second Time Is Just as Easy as the First Time
Yeah, right. Don’t think so. This is another common misconception couples have about fertility. It’s not uncommon for women to experience secondary infertility. When a couple has tried getting pregnant for more than a year, they should seek out the assistance of a fertility expert. This person will look at your situation and determine what could be the cause of your infertility. There is a host of problems that could cause it such as ageing, infection, fallopian tube blockage and a decrease in ovarian reserve.
It’s especially important for women who have experienced a miscarriage or have a history of menstrual irregularities to seek expert medical advice. While it’s true that some couples may conceive without any medical intervention, it’s important to understand that every couple’s situation is different. Fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF), intrauterine insemination, and other assisted reproductive technologies are available for couples who are struggling with infertility.
Another thing to get wise on – there are lifestyle factors that can impact fertility. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and managing stress can all play a role in fertility. Couples who are trying to conceive should make sure they are both taking care of their bodies to increase their chances of success.
In conclusion, getting pregnant a second time is not guaranteed to be just as easy as the first time. While some couples may have no issues at all, others may struggle with secondary infertility due to a variety of factors. Seeking the advice of a fertility expert and incorporating healthy lifestyle habits can help increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.
4. Age Is Only a Number
Age is a huge factor in determining fertility. The key point to remember is that the older a woman gets, the fewer eggs her body has. A decline in ovarian reserve isn’t just in reference to the number of eggs but the egg quality. As women get older, so do the eggs in her body. This can cause miscarriage and infertility. The ideal ages for women to become pregnant is between 20 and 35 years of age. After 35, her fertility will drop significantly. And, for some ethnicities, the age maybe even earlier.
When it comes to fertility, age plays a significant role, particularly for women. As a woman ages, both the quantity and quality of her eggs decrease. This decline isn’t just about having fewer eggs; it also means the remaining eggs are more likely to have chromosomal abnormalities. These age-related changes can lead to increased risks of miscarriage and fertility challenges. While men can father children later in life, they’re not entirely immune to age-related fertility issues either.
5. NHS Entitles All Couples to One Round of IVF
The sad thing is that IVF treatment access on the NHS is low. Medical professionals feel that women under the age of 40 should be given at least three cycles of IVF. However, this isn’t happening, and cuts could be coming that would impact any additional help couples could get. For example, if a woman’s partner already has a child from another relationship, she may be deemed ineligible for assistance.
This kind of criteria only puts additional pressure on couples who are already struggling with fertility issues. Many are forced to take out loans just to fund their treatment. The financial burden can add a significant amount of stress and anxiety, which can ultimately affect a couple’s chances of success.
The lack of support for IVF treatment is also a social injustice. It means that couples who cannot afford to pay for treatment will never have the chance to experience parenthood, while those who have the means can have as many children as they like. It’s a sad reality that highlights the inequalities in our society.
It’s important for the government to prioritise funding for fertility treatment and ensure that everyone has equal access to this life-changing option. Couples should not have to suffer silently or bear the burden of such expensive treatments on their own. It’s time for a change towards a more inclusive and compassionate healthcare system, one that values every individual’s right to conceive and build a family.
Photo Credit: Anthony Cunningham for Zoom Testing
This post first appeared in 2013. It was last updated in October 2024.
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