3 Common Fertility Misconceptions Debunked

A recent study determined that a large percentage of women (who were surveyed) were incorrect in their beliefs on a variety of aspects concerning fertility. Much of the advice, sayings and tips about fertility and conception that have been passed down generation after generation have little to no basis in medical fact – but many women are still abiding by these so-called rules when trying to conceive. Here are three very common fertility misconceptions that need to be debunked once and for all:

1. **Having intercourse several times per day increases the likelihood of conception**

Half of the 1,000 women surveyed answered that this statement was true, and they were incorrect in this assumption. Multiple instances of intercourse do not increase the likelihood of becoming pregnant. In fact, the experts behind the study agreed that couples who insist on having intercourse multiple times per day for the purposes of conceiving were imposing unnecessary stress on themselves.

2.  **Anytime during ovulation is the best time to achieve a pregnancy**

This is false. In order to maximize the chances of conception, intercourse should take place before ovulation. Luckily, ovulation can be monitored with at-home tests that can help women detect the hormones that surge before an egg is released.

3.  **“35” is the age in which a women’s fertility begins to decline**

“35” is the age in which women generally believe that issues with fertility can begin, but the truth is, fertility slows down after women hit their fertility peak in their twenties. After your 20’s, fertility starts to slowly decline. In fact, between the ages of 31 and 35 the ability to conceive spontaneously decreases roughly 3% per year. At age 35, the rate in which your fertility decreases begins to accelerate faster.

Regardless of your prior beliefs when it comes to these common fertility misconceptions, if you have been trying to conceive for six months to a year without success, it may be time to consult with a fertility specialist. There is a wide variety of infertility treatment options available should patients find themselves in a position where treatment services are needed.

For more information, or to speak with a fertility specialist to review your specific fertility concerns, please contact the Washington Fertility Center.