Fertility Myths Part 2

by Sandra Sapio on April 24, 2024

Myth #4: You have to try for 12 months before investigating why you're not falling pregnant

The reality is when it comes to trying to fall pregnant, you can investigate causes of possible fertility issues at anytime.

If you have been trying for 6 months with no success, it is a good time to make make an appointment with you Doctor or a fertility specialist to see if there are any underlying causes.

We recommend starting acupuncture, making any lifestyle changes and getting a blood test to check for any deficiencies or imbalances at least 3 months before you start trying.

Of course if you have issues with your cycle, such as too long or too short, painful or non-existent, don't wait until you are trying to conceive.

Getting your menstrual cycle isn't just about having a baby. Your cycle affects your health and quality of life as a whole and is sometimes called the fifth vital sign. So if you are experiencing problems, please make an appointment with a health practitioner today.

Myth #5: Couples with no underlying issues conceive as soon as they start trying

It is true that some couples fall pregnant quickly.

However, it is not often the case. And even if both have no underlying health conditions, there is no guarantee that a couple will conceive in any given month.

In fact, statistics show that there is a 25-30% chance of conceiving each month when aged 35 and under. This drops to 15% between the ages of 35 and 40. After 40 it drops again to 5% and after 43 1-2% each month.

You may be able to help your chances by

• making sure your cycle is regular for you. Keep in mind regular is anywhere between 21 and 35 days!
• knowing your fertile window - when you ovulate and when to try (this is individual and will depend on the length of your cycle)
• addressing any underlying health problems like PCOS and endometriosis
• treating any nutritional deficiencies or genetic conditions like MTHFR
• making necessary lifestyle changes
• seeking regular acupuncture

Myth #6: Age is not a factor in male fertility

It is true that males produce sperm throughout their entire life and can father children at any age. However, this does not mean that their fertility is optimum throughout their entire life.

We often think of the ticking fertility clock relating to women only. But male fertility also diminishes with age.

Males may experience reduced semen volume, lower numbers of sperm and reduction in motility after the age of 45. This means that after the age of 45, it takes longer for a male’s partner to fall pregnant. There is also greater risk of miscarriage, genetic abnormalities and developmental conditions.

If you are a male of any age worried about your fertility, it is important to speak to your health care provider.

Myth # 7: If you've had a baby, you'll easily fall pregnant again

Unfortunately, this is not true.

Previously having a baby does not guarantee falling pregnant easily with a subsequent baby.

Secondary infertility is the term used to describe fertility issues after having one or more previously successful pregnancies.

The causes are exactly the same as primary infertility and can be male or female related. And the feelings of 'why us?' are the same too.

Myth # 8: Having endometriosis means you can’t have a baby

While endometriosis can affect fertility, it does not mean you can’t have a baby.

It is believed that while some women with endometriosis are diagnosed as infertile, around 60-70% of women with endometriosis are fertile.

It is important to seek help from your health professional if you think you have endometriosis (although it can take up to 8 years to get a diagnosis!).

While there is no cure, there are different treatment options that may be suitable for you. At Essence of Health, we may be able to help you with acupuncture and naturopathy.

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