Infertility can be a very exhausting and depressing experience for couples who are trying to conceive. Most of the information on the internet only ends up confusing these couples even more.
One cannot rely on information on the internet as it can be full of misconceptions and myths. In this article, we are mentioning the top five myths and facts about infertility.
- Myth: Infertility is only a women’s issue
When women fail to conceive, they often blame themselves for their inability to get pregnant. They put themselves under a lot of pressure and depression.
Reality: Infertility is not a women’s issue alone. Infertility is a disorder that can happen to both men and women. So, if you are trying to conceive and unable to do so, make sure you both are getting yourself checked and tested.
- Myth: You will get pregnant as time goes by
Even after months of trying to get pregnant and failing to do so is a clear indication that you need medical help. In this scenario, couples often blame the stress levels. This sometimes delays the treatment process.
Reality: Apart from stress, there can be multiple reasons for infertility like poly cystic Ovarian Disorder, thyroid imbalance, etc. Identifying the cause and starting treatment in such cases is essential.
- Myth: You lose your fertility after you cross 35
A lot of women must have heard that you can’t get pregnant once you cross the age of 35. It is one of the most prominent misconceptions. As you age, the quality of your eggs (or sperms), etc does tend to decrease, but it happens after the age of 40 years.
Reality: As long as you are healthy and following a good lifestyle along with regular visits to your gynaecologist, and you’re free from thyroid disorders, PCOD, etc. you should be able to conceive.
- Myth: Lifting your legs upwards after sex will get you pregnant
Some couples believe that certain positions or activities like walking or getting up after sex will reduce your chances of getting pregnant. Another myth that is very prevalent among couples is that lifting your legs after sex will push the sperm inside because of gravity and increase your chances of getting pregnant.
Reality: Sperms are genetically designed to make a straight shot to the egg. So no matter what position or activity you do, it will not be going to help in any way. Infertility is an internal issue that has nothing to do with positions.
- Myth: Consumption of birth control for too long can lead to infertility
Often women avoid having birth control pills for too long believing that it can increase the chances of infertility.
Reality: Birth control pills do not stop ovulation or fertilisation. They control the amount of the reproductive hormones like progesterone and oestrogen in your body that are responsible for maintaining your pregnancy. Thus once you stop taking your pills you should be able to conceive and carry out your pregnancy to term.
Conclusion
Pregnancy is one of the most important events in every couple’s life. When they fail to get pregnant, too much information on the internet can be overwhelming. Instead of falling for any myths regarding infertility, take medical help, and focus on leading a healthy lifestyle. The importance of diet cannot be ignored when you are trying to conceive naturally.
Kanupriya Khanna, a senior Consultant Nutritionist and Dietitian with over 17 years of experience in treating infertility can help you conceive naturally. She is titled as one of the best dietitians in Delhi to go for if you are facing infertility issues.