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Myth 1: Lying Down After Sex Boosts Your Chances of Conceiving
You’ve probably heard people say that lying down after sex or even putting your legs up against a wall can help sperm reach the egg. Sounds believable, right? But the truth is, it doesn’t really make a difference. Experts say no proof that staying flat on your back actually boosts your chances of getting pregnant.The idea comes from thinking gravity will pull sperm away if you get up too soon. But that’s not how it works. Sperm are strong swimmers, and gravity doesn’t stop them from doing their job.
Myth 2: Certain Sex Positions Are Best for Conception
Another common tale is that specific sex positions, like missionary, are better for conception. Honestly, that’s just another myth.There’s no solid proof that any position makes a real difference when it comes to conceiving. Sperm can reach the cervix no matter what position you try. The best thing you can do is relax, enjoy the moment, and not let intercourse turn into a task on your to-do list.
Myth 3: Having Sex Every Day Is the Best Way to Get Pregnant
Daily intercourse only slightly increases pregnancy odds compared to sex every other day.So really, it comes down to what feels right for you. Every day, every other day, or even every two to three days during your fertile window, all work just fine.
Myth 4: Morning Sex Is Better for Conception
There’s a myth that morning sex is ideal because sperm counts are higher then. It’s easy to see why this sounds convincing.While studies show sperm count is slightly higher in the morning, the difference is really small and doesn’t make much of a difference when it comes to getting pregnant.
Whether you prefer morning or night, the time of day isn’t a major factor.
Myth 5: Having Your Appendix Removed Harms Fertility
For years, people thought that getting your appendix removed could hurt your chances of having a baby. Thankfully, this is a myth.A study from the University of Dundee (UK) found that having your appendix removed doesn’t cause infertility and may even be linked to higher pregnancy rates. Researchers analysed over 76,000 women who had an appendectomy and found that 39 per cent became pregnant within a decade.
Now, that doesn’t mean the surgery actually boosts fertility. But it does mean you don’t need to worry about it harming your chances. So if you’ve had it done, you can totally relax.
Myth 6: Being on the Pill for Too Long Delays Pregnancy
If you’ve been on the contraceptive pill for years, you might worry that it’ll take forever to get pregnant once you stop. But that’s not the case.For most women, fertility returns quickly after stopping the pill. Some ovulate right away, while others might take a month or so. Your past pill use won’t hold you back from starting a family.
Myth 7: Boxers Are Better Than Briefs for Male Fertility
This is mostly a myth. Heat from tight underwear, hot tubs, or even laptops on the lap can temporarily reduce sperm count, but the effect of underwear choice is usually too small to really affect fertility.Myth 8: An Egg Can Be Fertilised for Two Days After Ovulation
Some people think that once an egg is released, it can be fertilised for up to two days, giving you a wide window to conceive.That’s not true. An egg is only viable for 12 to 24 hours after ovulation.
However, sperm can survive in the body for up to three days. So having sex just before or during ovulation gives you the best chance. Paying attention to ovulation signs can really help you figure out the right days.
Myth 9: Myth: All Lubricants Are Safe for Conception
You might think it’s fine to use lubricants or even saliva when trying to conceive.But the thing is, most lubricants (including water-based ones) can slow sperm movement by 60 to 100 per cent within an hour. Saliva can also harm sperm activity.
If you do need a lubricant, stick to fertility-friendly options that won’t affect sperm.
Myth 10: You Need an Orgasm to Get Pregnant
No, that’s not true. Orgasms can be a great bonus, but they’re not needed for conception. Sperm can reach the egg without any extra help from an orgasm, so there’s no need to put pressure on yourself to climax every time.Myth 11: The Average Couple Conceives Within Three Months
Many assume that getting pregnant happens quickly. But the truth is, conception can take time.Even for couples with no fertility issues, it can take up to 12 months of trying to get pregnant.
Myth 12: You Can’t Get Pregnant During Your Period
It might sound strange, but you can actually get pregnant during your period.Ovulation doesn’t always happen on a set schedule, and sperm can live in your body for up to three days. So if you ovulate early, having sex during your period could lead to pregnancy.
Myth 13: Men Don’t Have a Biological Clock
A lot of people believe men can father children at any age, while women have a ticking biological clock.The truth is, men do have a biological clock, though it’s slower than women’s.
Older men may face fertility challenges due to lower testosterone, reduced sperm quantity, and weaker sperm motility.
Myth 14: You Can Wait Until You’re Pregnant to Cut Back on Caffeine
You’re wrong if you think caffeine only matters once you’re pregnant. It’s important to know that heavy caffeine intake can affect fertility and increase the risk of early miscarriage.So while you’re trying to conceive, it’s best to keep your caffeine intake in check.
Myth 15: Alcohol Only Affects Women’s Fertility
There's a myth that only women need to cut back on alcohol when trying to conceive, and men can drink freely.But it's not true. Alcohol affects both partners. Too much alcohol can lower testosterone and affect sperm production in men.
Most old wives’ tales about getting pregnant aren’t true. Some habits and timing can influence fertility, but most myths have no real proof. Focusing on healthy habits and staying informed will help much more than following every tip you hear.
You’re not alone in your journey when trying to conceive. Join our supportive community to connect with others, share experiences, and find encouragement every step of the way.
FAQs on Old Wives' Tales About Getting Pregnant: Myths vs Facts
- Can stress affect how quickly you get pregnant?
Yes, high stress can sometimes affect ovulation patterns, which may make it harder to conceive. - How long should you try before seeing a fertility doctor?
Most doctors suggest seeing a specialist if you’ve been trying for a year with no success. If you’re over 35, you may want to check after six months.
