Navigating infertility can be both daunting and filled with misconceptions. In a landscape where everyone has an opinion (whether based on facts or not), it's crucial to unravel the truth. From the general timing of fertility decline to the impact of lifestyle choices, understanding the facts can empower you on your journey toward parenthood. Below are five myths about fertility debunked for you. :)

1. Myth: Fertility only declines significantly in women after age 35.
Truth: While it's true that fertility does decline as women age, the decline actually begins earlier. Women are most fertile in their 20s, and fertility gradually decreases in their 30s, with a more rapid decline after age 35. However, male fertility also declines with age, although less dramatically.

2. Myth: Infertility is always the woman's fault.
Truth: Infertility can be caused by factors related to either partner or both. Issues such as low sperm count, sperm motility, or structural problems in the reproductive organs can affect male fertility. Additionally, factors like hormonal imbalances, ovulation disorders, and reproductive tract issues can contribute to female infertility. It's important to approach infertility as a couple's issue rather than placing blame on one partner.

3. Myth: Having sex every day increases the chances of conception.
Truth: While it's true that having sex regularly can improve the chances of conception, there's no need to do it every day. Healthy sperm can live inside a woman's body for up to five days, so having sex every two to three days during the fertile window (typically around the time of ovulation) is sufficient for most couples trying to conceive.

4. Myth: Lifestyle factors don't significantly impact fertility.
Truth: Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol consumption, and stress levels can all influence fertility in both men and women. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, limiting alcohol intake, avoiding smoking, and managing stress, can help optimize fertility.

5. Myth: Infertility treatments always involve expensive and invasive procedures.
Truth: While some infertility treatments, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), can be expensive and invasive, there are many other options available depending on the underlying cause of infertility. These may include fertility medications to stimulate ovulation, intrauterine insemination (IUI), or surgical procedures to address structural issues.