Fertility Myths vs. Facts: Dispelling Common Misconceptions

If you’re trying to conceive, you’ve likely encountered misinformation online or even from friends and family. Fortunately, many of the scary “facts” surrounding fertility aren’t facts at all. Let’s dispel some common myths about fertility so you can grow your family confidently.

Myth: Stress Causes Infertility

It’s normal to experience stress while trying to conceive, but there’s no scientific evidence to support that stress causes infertility. However, activities you may engage in while stressed, like smoking, drinking, or eating unhealthily, can make it more challenging to conceive. Stress can also lower libido. Practicing mindfulness, meditation, and other relaxing activities can reduce stress and help you navigate your conception journey. 

Myth: Infertility is Mostly a Female Issue

A common misconception is that female conditions are typically to blame when it comes to infertility, and that’s simply not true. When it comes to infertility in heterosexual couples, males and females are both responsible 30% of the time. The remaining 40% is due to a combination of male and female or unknown factors.

Myth: Birth Control Can Impact Fertility

There is no scientific evidence that the birth control pill negatively impacts fertility. However, it can take time for the menstrual cycle to return to normal after coming off of hormonal birth control. Therefore, some women may experience a brief delay in conception. 

Myth: You Can’t Get Pregnant After 35

Age can play a factor in pregnancy outcomes, but the female fertility window continues until menopause. The chances of having a successful pregnancy peak in the early twenties and slowly decline into the thirties. However, plenty of women aged 35 and above have healthy pregnancies and can even have better pregnancy outcomes than younger people. 

Get the Facts From Fertility Experts

Misinformation about fertility is everywhere. The best way to get the answers you need is to consult a fertility specialist. The Prelude Network is the largest and fastest-growing network of fertility centers in North America, and we can help connect you with an expert team in your area. Contact us today for more information or to request a consultation.