When it comes to conception, misinformation or myth is everywhere. From old wives’ tales to misleading advice passed down through generations, many people believe myths that can impact their understanding of fertility or even conception.
Some of these misconceptions can cause unnecessary stress, while others may lead to unintended pregnancies.
Whether you’re trying to conceive or simply want to be informed, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction.
In this article, we’ll debunk some of the most common myths about conception and provide the scientific truth behind them.
Understanding the reality of fertility can help individuals and couples make informed decisions and take control of their reproductive health.
Let’s explore the myths about conception that need to be left behind once and for all.
Myth 1: You Can Get Pregnant Any Time During The Month
Fact: A woman is only fertile for a limited window during her menstrual cycle, typically around ovulation, which occurs about 12-16 days before her next period (1).
While sperm can live in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, conception is most likely to occur when intercourse happens close to ovulation.
Myth 2: You Can Only Get Pregnant On The 14th Day Of Your Cycle
Fact: While ovulation often occurs around the 14th day in a 28-day cycle, this is not true for everyone.
Cycle lengths vary among individuals, and ovulation can occur earlier or later. Tracking ovulation through basal body temperature, cervical mucus changes, or ovulation predictor kits provides a more accurate indication of fertility.
Myth 3: Birth Control Causes Permanent Infertility
Fact: Most birth control methods, including pills, IUDs, and injections, do not cause permanent infertility.
Fertility usually returns within a few weeks to months after stopping birth control, though some methods like the Depo-Provera shot may take longer to wear off.
You may want to read 6 Things To Do To Prepare Your Body For Pregnancy?
Myth 4: Certain Positions Increase the Chances of Conception
Fact: No scientific evidence supports the idea that specific sexual positions increase the likelihood of pregnancy.
Sperm are naturally designed to swim toward the egg regardless of position, so what matters most is timing intercourse around ovulation. Also, it is important for the sperm count to be okay.
Myth 5: If You’ve Had A Baby Before, You Won’t Have Fertility Issues
Fact: Secondary infertility, which is the inability to conceive after previously having a child, is a real condition that affects many couples.
Age, lifestyle factors, medical conditions, and hormonal imbalances can all play a role in fertility changes over time.
Myth 6: Age Doesn’t Affect Fertility
Fact: Age is a significant factor in fertility for both male and female. Female fertility declines significantly after the age of 35 due to a reduced number and quality of eggs.
Also, male fertility declines with age, as sperm quality and motility decrease over time. Indeed, this can affect conception rates and increase the risk of genetic abnormalities in offspring.
Myth 7: Stress Alone Can Prevent Pregnancy
Fact: While high levels of chronic stress can impact hormone levels and menstrual cycles, stress alone is unlikely to be the sole reason for infertility.
However, reducing stress through relaxation techniques, a healthy diet, and proper sleep can support overall reproductive health.
Myth 8: You Can’t Get Pregnant If You Have Irregular Periods
Fact: Irregular periods can make it harder to predict ovulation, but they don’t mean pregnancy is impossible.
Basically, tracking ovulation through basal body temperature, ovulation predictor kits, or consulting a doctor can help increase the chances of conception.
Myth 9: You Can’t Get Pregnant If You’re Breastfeeding
Fact: While breastfeeding can delay the return of ovulation and menstruation, it is not a guaranteed method of birth control.
Ovulation can occur before a woman notices her first postpartum period, making pregnancy possible. Remember that the flushing of an unfertilised egg is what menstruation is all about. So, what if the semen fertilises the egg before you see your first period after childbirth?
Those who wish to avoid pregnancy while breastfeeding should use additional contraceptive methods.
Myth 10: You Can’t Get Pregnant The First Time You Have Sex
Fact: Pregnancy can occur any time unprotected sex happens, including the first time.
If a woman is ovulating or within her fertile window, sperm can fertilise an egg and lead to pregnancy.
Using contraception is the only reliable way to prevent pregnancy if not trying to conceive.
Myth 11: Fertility Treatments Always Work
Fact: While medical advances have improved fertility treatment success rates, there is no guarantee.
Success depends on many factors, including age, underlying health conditions, and the specific treatment used.
Takeaway
Understanding the facts about conception helps people make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
If concerns about fertility arise, consulting a healthcare provider can provide accurate guidance and potential solutions. By dispelling myths about conception, individuals and couples can better navigate their journey toward parenthood.