Infertility and Its Many Myths
Despite the fact that infertility affects 1 in 6 couples trying to become pregnant, there are still many misconceptions about infertility. This could be due partly to the fact that many couples don’t know very much about infertility until dealing with the issue personally. Here are 5 things people are still getting wrong about infertility.
1. Myth: a woman’s age does not affect fertility
For a healthy woman, the best reproductive years are during the 20s. Fertility gradually begins to decline during the 30s, particularly after the age of 35. Women between the ages of 20-24 have an 86% chance of conceiving within one year. Women between the ages of 30-34 have a 63% chance of conceiving.
Women over 35 who are trying to conceive may benefit from assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI). Women should also focus on improving health through a nutritious diet, adequate exercise, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol.
2. Myth: women with endometriosis cannot conceive
In around 50% of cases of infertility in women, between 6-10% have endometriosis. Although this condition is not optimal for pregnancy, most often, women with endometriosis need a little help to conceive. This can include taking fertility medications or undergoing IVF treatment. A woman with endometriosis should talk to a fertility specialist to get an understanding of how endometriosis may affect reproductive health and to find out options for fertility treatment.
3. Myth: infertility is a psychological problem
Infertility is a condition of the reproductive system. Trying to conceive can be frustrating and stressful. This is especially true when a couple has been trying to get pregnant for several months or years. However, infertility always has an underlying physical cause.
4. Myth: having an irregular menstrual cycle is a sign of infertility
Women who have irregular periods often have a trickier time predicting ovulation. Some may not ovulate at all. While this makes conception more difficult, these women are not necessarily infertile. Speaking with a healthcare provider can help a woman clarify what role irregular bleeding is playing in the fertility challenges.
5. Myth: infertility treatments are too expensive
Fertility treatments can turn out to be expensive. However, many couples find that there are manageable ways to deal with the cost. Health insurance may cover a percentage of the total cost. For people who don’t have enough money saved, grants or low-interest loans may be an option.
Exposing the myths of infertility
Don’t fall into the trap of believing the myths about infertility. Couples who have been diagnosed with infertility should talk to a fertility specialist. A healthcare provider will be able to explain the cause of infertility, how this will affect the chances of becoming pregnant, and which fertility treatments may be helpful.
