Fertility Myth-busters Part 2

Back by popular demand, we spotlight fake news about fertility and our bodies this week. Keep reading to discover clinician-approved answers to these common topics.

Myth 1: You can get pregnant any time during the month.

Fact Check: A woman is only able to conceive during a 6-day window of time during each menstrual cycle. This period of fertility is called ovulation and typically occurs around the middle of the cycle, approximately 14 days before the next period starts. During this time, an egg is released from the ovary and is available to be fertilized for about 12-24 hours. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to 5 days, so the fertile window includes the days leading up to and just after ovulation. Just before ovulation, you may notice your vaginal secretions become clear, wet, and stretchy. During ovulation, your resting body temperature will rise slightly. Just after ovulation, these secretions become thicker and more opaque.

Myth 2: Women have more infertility issues than men.

Fact Check: Male infertility accounts for approximately 40-50% of all infertility cases. (Shameless plug - read our Grapevine edition on male infertility!). Similarly with female infertility, male infertility can be caused by many factors and can present in many different ways. Factors such as low sperm count, poor sperm motility, and abnormal sperm morphology can contribute. If you’re struggling to conceive, both partners should undergo a fertility evaluation to understand the full picture.

Myth 3: Age doesn't affect men's fertility.

Fact Check: While men continue to produce sperm throughout their lives, the quality and quantity of sperm decline with age. As men age, sperm count, volume, and motility (how well the sperm can move toward the egg) can decrease, and the likelihood of genetic mutations in sperm increases. These changes can lead to lower fertility rates and a higher risk of miscarriage and genetic abnormalities in a fetus. Studies have shown that men over the age of 40 are less likely to successfully father children compared to younger men.

Myth 4: You will struggle to get pregnant after being on birth control pills.

Fact Check: There is no evidence to suggest that birth control pills cause long-term infertility. Most women resume normal fertility soon after stopping the pill. Studies show that the majority of women can conceive within a few months of discontinuing oral contraceptives. Any delay in the return of fertility is typically temporary and not a long-term effect of the pill itself. While birth control pills can regulate menstrual cycles and prevent pregnancy, they do not have lasting effects on a woman’s ability to conceive once she stops taking them.

Myth 5: Infertility is rare.

Fact Check: Infertility is more common than many people realize. About 1 in 7 couples struggle to get pregnant. Both medical and lifestyle factors can contribute to infertility, such as age, smoking, alcohol, being significantly over or underweight, and certain STIs like chlamydia. It is important for couples to seek help if they have been trying to conceive for a year without success (or 6 months if the woman is over 35). Recognizing the prevalence of infertility can help reduce the stigma and encourage more people to seek the necessary medical assistance.

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*The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or any other qualified healthcare provider with questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.