Myths

Fact: Studies show that this idea doesn’t truly hold up. There are cases where couples tried to have kids but didn’t succeed with treatments. Surprisingly, some of them later got pregnant without any fertility treatments, even after adopting. As such, the belief that adopting breaks the spell of infertility doesn’t have strong evidence behind it.

Fact: There is always a solution for infertile couples. As long as they can produce an egg and sperm, pregnancy is possible. Assisted Reproductive Technologies such as IVF and ICSI can help them to fulfill their wish for a baby. Even sterile couples who cannot produce eggs or sperm can have a baby through egg donation or sperm donation programmes.

Fact: A retroverted position of the uterus by itself does not cause infertility. 20% of women have retroverted uteruses. According to a study in 1952, women with an uncomplicated retroverted uterus who underwent surgical correction had fewer pregnancies compared to women with an uncomplicated retroverted uterus and left uncorrected. A retroverted uterus by itself should not be an indication for surgery.

Fact: Most of them do. Some obese women with hairiness and irregular menses suffer from polycystic ovarian symptom (PCOS), which is associated with infertility. Most of the time, this condition can be cured by medical treatment alone.

Fact: Painful periods do not cause infertility. However, the cause of painful periods (such as endometriosis) may result in infertility. In fact, for most females, regular mild pain on the first day usually signals that the cycle is ovulatory, which is a healthy sign.

Fact: Women experiencing irregular periods often endure longer and less frequent menstrual cycles. As a result, the window of ‘fertile’ times in a year decreases, potentially reducing the chances of getting pregnant. Fortunately, medical treatments are available to address this issue, offering a solution to enhance fertility and increase the likelihood of conception.

Fact: Many pelvic infections can exist in women without symptoms, and they will silently cause irreversible damage to the tubes.

Fact: There could be a temporary impact on fertility in the initial 12 months after discontinuing oral contraceptives, but they are not likely to cause long-term infertility issues. Statistics show that by the end of two years without contraceptives, 80% of women will have had children. This figure increases to 87% after three years and further to 89% after four years. Importantly, the rate of returning to fertility is comparable to women who used other contraceptive methods, such as the intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD).

Fact: Typically, fertility pills can only help those with uncomplicated hormonal disorders such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). They cannot help those who have tubal or uterine problems. There is no single cure for all infertility. You must identify your cause of infertility before you can decide on the best treatment.

Fact: While it’s true that fertility drugs stimulate the ovaries to release more than one egg simultaneously, raising the likelihood of a multiple pregnancy (4%), the majority of women using these drugs still experience singleton pregnancies. Contrary to the common misconception, the occurrence of multiple births is not a certainty with fertility drug usage.

Fact: D&C serves as an investigative procedure and does not contribute to improving fertility or aiding in conception.

Fact: Contrary to this belief, D&C does not harm the womb. In the context of investigating infertility, only a small portion of the uterine lining is removed for examination. The entire uterine lining is naturally replaced during the subsequent menstrual cycle. Therefore, the idea that repeated D&C weakens the womb and reduces fertility is not grounded in factual evidence.

Fact: Infertility can result from factors related to both men and women or a combination of both. Among couples facing infertility, 30% is attributed to male factors alone, another 30% to female factors alone, and 30% involves a combination of both male and female factors. Hence, among couples dealing with infertility, 60% of men experience some form of infertility-related challenges. It’s essential to recognise that both partners play a role in fertility, and the issue is not exclusive to women.

Fact: There is no relationship between blood group and infertility.

Fact: In reality, a man’s fertility is determined by the quality of his semen and is not directly tied to his sexuality or virility. In simple terms, the ability to achieve pregnancy depends on the quality of sperm rather than the frequency or duration of sexual activity. Being virile does not necessarily guarantee the production of high-quality semen, emphasising the importance of assessing sperm quality for successful conception.

Fact: Semen is primarily composed of seminal fluid (90%). The true measure of fertility lies in the sperm count, which can only be accurately evaluated through microscopic examination. The volume and thickness of semen, on the other hand, are not direct indicators of fertility. It’s essential to understand that while excessively low semen volume may result in a reduced total sperm count, the primary focus for assessing fertility should be on the sperm count itself rather than the overall thickness or volume of the semen.

Fact: Sperm count can fluctuate and is influenced by factors such as the duration of abstinence, recent physical condition, and medications. It’s important to recognise that sperm count is not a static measure, and various factors can impact its levels over time.

Fact: In human reproduction, a mature egg can only be fertilised by sperm after ovulation. Ovulation is a self-regulated process that typically occurs once in each menstrual cycle, usually around the 14th day. For optimal chances of conception, intercourse is most effective when it happens three days before and one day after ovulation. Understanding the timing of ovulation is crucial for those trying to conceive.

Fact: It’s normal for some semen to leak out after intercourse. However, this doesn’t significantly impact the chances of pregnancy. There is typically enough sperm in the ejaculate to reach the womb and fallopian tubes, where fertilisation of the egg takes place. The natural process of conception is robust enough to overcome the leakage of some semen.

Fact: While excessive masturbation or frequent intercourse may result in a temporary reduction in sperm count and semen volume, it rarely leads to infertility. The male reproductive system can produce sperm continuously, and the body can replenish sperm reserves over time. Occasional abstinence or moderation in sexual activity is advised for optimal sperm health, but it’s important to note that infertility is typically not a consequence of regular sexual activity.

Fact: Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is essential for overall well-being, and it can contribute to reproductive health as well.

Fact: While religion can provide emotional support and foster a positive mindset, it’s important to recognise that addressing physical issues, like blocked tubes or absent sperm, often requires medical intervention rather than relying solely on faith. A comprehensive approach that combines faith with appropriate medical care can offer the best support for fertility challenges.

Fact: Advanced Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) aren’t necessary for every couple struggling with infertility. In fact, around one-third of infertile women can achieve pregnancy with the guidance of a skilled fertility doctor, without resorting to pills, surgery, or ART. Another one, a combination of clinical procedures and medication may be sufficient. The remaining one-third might require more intricate investigations and surgical interventions. Only a small percentage, approximately 10% of infertile couples, may find advanced ART necessary for their specific situation. It underscores the importance of personalised and targeted approaches to fertility treatments.