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However, the responsible thing to do in such cases is to separate the facts from the myths. Understanding the science behind these myths will help you seek medical help if needed instead of relying on home remedies.
Myth 1: Only Women Are Responsible for Infertility
What you may hear: The problem must be with the woman when a couple cannot have a baby.What science says: Male fertility is equally important in conceiving a baby. You may feel surprised, but male fertility contributes to nearly 40–50% of all infertility cases. Both partners should get tested for fertility when facing difficulties in conceiving.
Myth 2: Getting Pregnant Is Easy If You're Young
What you may hear: You are still young. Just relax, and it will happen.What science says: Although age is a critical factor, being young still does not mean you will get pregnant easily. Conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), thyroid disorders, and hormonal imbalances may affect fertility even in your 20s. Consult a fertility specialist if you have been trying for a while without success, instead of waiting for it to happen.
Myth 3: Using Birth Control Will Make You Infertile
What you may hear: Using pills or a copper-T for a long time will affect your chances of pregnancy later.What science says: Your fertility mostly returns within a few weeks to months after stopping pills or removing copper T. You need to address the underlying medical issues, which may be preventing pregnancy.
Myth 4: Eating Certain Foods Will Boost Fertility Instantly
What you may hear: Have almonds soaked in milk every day. It increases the chances of pregnancy.What science says: Although food is important, eating a single food during pregnancy is not helpful. You also need other foods rich in folic acid, iron, protein, and healthy fats to support your hormones. Traditional home remedies may delay getting treatment if you need it.
Myth 5: A Woman Should Get Pregnant Within the First Year of Marriage
What you may hear: It has been a year! Still no good news?What science says: This adds more pressure on most couples. A couple is advised to seek medical help if they have been unsuccessful in conceiving after one full year of regular, unprotected intercourse, according to global medical standards. You may find it reassuring that it is normal for some couples to take longer, especially when you are older or have health concerns.
Myth 6: IVF Is the Only Option If You're Not Conceiving Naturally
What you may hear: You will have to do a test tube baby now. Nothing else will work.What science says: IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) is usually recommended only when other less invasive methods have not worked for you. This method is just one of many fertility treatments available today. Your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes, medication, IUI (Intrauterine Insemination), or even simple tracking methods based on your condition.
Myth 7: Astrology or 'Pooja' Can Fix Fertility Issues
What you may hear: Take spiritual help for your pregnancy concerns. Just do the ritual.What science says: Spirituality is good for emotional comfort, as it brings you peace of mind. However, getting proper care and treatment for your medical issues is something you cannot ignore. You may not realise, but conception problems are often caused by physical, hormonal, or anatomical factors that require diagnosis and treatment instead of rituals.
Myth 8: If You’ve Already Had One Child, You Can’t Be Infertile
What you may hear: You already have one child. How can there be a problem now?What science says: You may struggle to get pregnant again after birthing a child; it is called secondary infertility. Your age, health, lifestyle choices, or medical history and conditions all lead to this condition.
Myth 9: Having Intercourse Daily Increases Chances of Pregnancy
What you may hear: You must try every day to get pregnant. It increases your chances of conception.What science says: Timing is more crucial than frequency. You are most fertile during your ovulation window, which usually occurs around day 14 in a 28-day cycle. Timing intercourse every two days around this period will give you the best result.
Let Go of Myths, Embrace Facts
Fertility is a sensitive subject for many couples, and it gets complicated when you believe in myths instead of science. You may have to listen to unsolicited advice from many, but it is up to you to take the necessary measures for your conception journey.Always trust your instincts and make decisions based on facts rather than believing in common household myths. Please do not rely on home remedies and consult your doctor for medical help when you think something is wrong.
FAQs on Fertility Myths Indian Families Still Believe – and What Science Says Instead
- How long should I try to conceive before visiting a doctor?
Consult a fertility specialist if you are under 35 and have been unsuccessful in getting pregnant for over a year. In another case, seek medical advice if you are over 35 and trying for more than 6 months. - Can stress really affect fertility?
High-stress levels may impact the hormonal balance required for ovulation in women. On the other hand, sperm quality reduces in men due to stress. This can lead to fertility issues. - Is infertility permanent?
Medication, lifestyle changes, and simple procedures are available these days to treat minor infertility issues. IUI or IVF has also helped many couples achieve pregnancy when they struggle to conceive naturally.
