Did you know that there are many myths about fertility that can affect your decision to become a mother?
Infertility is a problem that affects many people worldwide, and it is becoming increasingly common… much more than we might think. But despite it being a more common issue, unfortunately, it is also surrounded by many somewhat erroneous myths and beliefs.
These myths can add an extra layer of stress and confusion to couples who are already dealing with the emotional challenge of trying to conceive.
That's why today we want to talk a bit about all this and perhaps shed some light and clarity on those who decide to embark on this wonderful journey to motherhood and are in search of information.
The truth is that the percentage of a couple getting pregnant in the first month of having unprotected sex is 25%. By six months, this probability increases to 75%, and by the end of the first year, it reaches 85%.
When it becomes difficult to conceive after this time, it is assumed that there is some sort of problem, and it is at this point that these series of myths begin to emerge, which we have come to debunk today:
1. Infertility only affects women.
That 15% of couples who have not conceived within the first year are categorized as infertile.
Although it is thought that women have higher percentages of infertility, the reality is more balanced than one might think, with 40% of infertility causes being due to men, another 40% due to women, and 20% when the causes are mixed. This is why it is always important that if a couple wants to conceive, both should undergo studies and analysis to discover what is happening.
So, the truth is that both men and women can experience fertility problems.
2. Infertility problems are always physical.
The reality is that infertility can result from a combination of physical, emotional, and psychological factors. Stress, for example, can have a significant impact on fertility, as it can alter hormonal balance, which in turn can influence ovulation and fertility in women and can affect sperm production in men.
Additionally, mental health problems such as depression and anxiety can also affect fertility. Relationship tensions can also play a role; couples struggling with infertility may experience additional tensions, which can exacerbate fertility problems.
3. Taking contraceptive pills preserves fertility.
No, taking contraceptive pills does not preserve fertility. Contraceptive pills are a reliable and easily reversible contraceptive method; simply stopping taking them should almost immediately restore fertility.
In fact, contraceptive methods are not 100% effective, and even when using them, there are always chances of becoming pregnant. Furthermore, these contraceptives do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), which can affect or influence fertility.
4. If you relax, you will get pregnant.
While it is true that chronic stress can impact fertility by altering hormonal balance and other biological processes, simply recommending relaxation is not a guaranteed solution for infertility. Infertility is a complex medical condition that can be caused by a variety of physical, genetic, and/or hormonal factors.
This myth can be especially harmful, as it can lead couples to feel guilty or ashamed for not being able to "relax enough" to get pregnant. Instead, couples struggling with infertility need medical and emotional support, and it is important to seek help from healthcare professionals rather than relying on well-intentioned but ultimately incorrect advice.
5. The more sex, the more chances of pregnancy.
The number of sexual relations actually does not influence the chances of pregnancy at all. The most important thing for getting pregnant is timing, as a woman only ovulates at a specific time in her cycle, and this egg has only 24 hours to be fertilized. Having sex every day can not only be exhausting and routine but can also decrease semen quality.
Therefore, experts recommend having sex every two or three days throughout the menstrual cycle, without obsessing over fertile days. This way, a greater sperm reserve is ensured, and spontaneity and pleasure are favored.
6. Men are always fertile.
Another very common myth is to think that fertility depends only on women and that men have no trouble conceiving; however, this is not the case.
The quality and quantity of sperm are also affected by age, stress, smoking, alcohol, or diet. According to the World Health Organization, a man is considered to have low semen quality when he has fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter or when less than 4% have a normal shape. It is estimated that between 30% and 40% of infertility cases are due to male causes.
These are just some of the myths about fertility that exist and can create false expectations or frustrations in women who want to be mothers. It is best to get well informed and consult with a professional if you have doubts or difficulties in conceiving.
Remember that each case is unique, and there are many options to fulfill your dream of having a child, so it is important to seek good information and consult with a specialist in assisted reproduction if you have doubts or difficulties in conceiving.
Fertility is a complex issue that depends on many factors, both physical and psychological, and varies from person to person, as all bodies and all people are different.
We know that it is often not an easy road, and that's why at Mater, we would be honored to accompany you on your journey to fertility.
Together we can make that shared destination you desire a reality.
If you have more questions about fertility or about any fertility treatment or assisted reproduction, remember that at Mater Clinic we always answer all of them, and we are always willing to advise you for free. Write to us via WhatsApp at +34 645 096 548 or through your preferred contact method, and we will be happy to talk to you!"
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