Common fertility myths, and what the evidence says

Why myths matter

Advice about conceiving comes from everywhere: family, neighbours, friends and the internet. Most of it is well meant. But some common beliefs can delay useful care, or place unfair blame on one person. Here are some we hear often, and what the evidence says.

Good to know. If you have believed any of these, you are in good company. They are widely repeated, and it is never too late to look at things afresh.

Myth 1: "If a couple can't conceive, it's the woman's problem"

What the evidence says: Causes can lie with either partner, or both. Male factors are involved in a large share of couples, either alone or alongside other factors. In some couples no cause is found. That is why guidelines suggest assessing both partners from the start.

Myth 2: "Men don't need to be tested if they are healthy"

What the evidence says: A man can feel completely well, have no trouble with sex, and still have a low sperm count. The only way to know is a semen analysis. It is simple and non-invasive, and it is often one of the first tests. Testing the male partner early can spare the female partner months of tests and treatment that may not address the cause.

Myth 3: "Just relax and it will happen"

What the evidence says: There is no good evidence that everyday stress on its own causes infertility. Telling someone to relax can make them feel the delay is their fault. Looking after your wellbeing matters for its own sake, but it is not a treatment, and it is not a reason to delay seeing a doctor.

Myth 4: "We already have a child, so we can't have a fertility problem"

What the evidence says: Difficulty conceiving after an earlier pregnancy is called secondary infertility, and it is common. Age, health changes or changes for the male partner can all play a part. It deserves the same attention as a first pregnancy.

Myth 5: "Age only matters for women"

What the evidence says: Age has the biggest effect on the person with ovaries, because the number and quality of eggs fall over time. But male age matters too. Sperm quality tends to change gradually with age, and the time to conceive can be longer when the male partner is older. Age is a reason to plan, not a reason to blame anyone.

Myth 6: "Home remedies or special diets can fix infertility"

What the evidence says: No herbal, home or "natural" product has been shown to treat infertility. Some products sold with such claims may contain undeclared ingredients, or may interact with medicines. A balanced diet, not smoking and keeping alcohol low are good for general health, but they don't replace finding the cause.

Caution. Always tell your doctor about any supplements or traditional products you are taking, and be wary of anything sold with a promise that it will lead to pregnancy.

Myth 7: "IVF babies are different or less healthy"

What the evidence says: Millions of children have been born worldwide after IVF, and most are healthy. Research continues into small differences in some risks, and much of the extra risk seen in the past was linked to twin and triplet pregnancies. This is one reason clinics now often transfer one embryo at a time. Children born after IVF are no less loved and no less "real".

Myth 8: "Fertility treatment is something to hide or be ashamed of"

What the evidence says: Infertility is a medical condition, like thyroid disease or diabetes. Seeking treatment is a sensible health decision. Who you tell is entirely your choice, but there is nothing shameful about it.

Myth 9: "IVF always works, and it's the only option"

What the evidence says: IVF is one option among several, and it is not right for everyone. Many people conceive with simpler steps, such as treating an ovulation problem, and some conceive without treatment. IVF also does not work in every cycle. An honest doctor will explain the choices and will not promise a result.

Myth 10: "With IVF you can choose whether to have a boy or a girl"

What the evidence says: In India, choosing or revealing the sex of a baby for non-medical reasons is illegal under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act. A registered clinic should never offer it.

When to see a doctor

• You are under 35 and have been trying for 12 months, or 35 to 39 and trying for 6 months.
• You are 40 or over, whether or not you have started trying.
• At any age, if periods are very irregular or have stopped, there is known endometriosis, there have been two or more pregnancy losses, or there is a concern for the male partner.

If the pressure from family or friends is affecting you, Tele-MANAS offers free mental-health support 24x7 on 14416 or 1-800-891-4416. Severe pain, heavy bleeding or fainting needs urgent care: call 112 or go to the nearest hospital.