Making the decision to have a baby is probably the most significant milestone a couple can go through. But, sometimes it can be a little more difficult than expected to get that positive pregnancy result, and people trying to have a baby may have to resort to all manner of advice from various sources.
But much of the advice out there, whether you heard it from a sister or a pal, is not founded on any truth. So, here are some of the myths around fertility and the real facts behind the old wives’ tales…
1. Infertility is just a woman’s problem
Historically, when infertility was discussed, it was generally assumed that the issue was with the women’s inability to conceive. This could not be further from the truth. Infertility can affect both men and women. Some men have low sperm counts or reduced motility. Sperm can be tested to find out exactly what the issue is and treatments are available if necessary. Infertility is a medical condition, it's not a sexual disorder.
2. I’ve already had a baby – I’ll definitely be able to conceive again
Some couples who have already had a baby don’t expect that they will encounter any fertility problems in the future and are surprised when they have difficulty conceiving. Fertility issues can arise even after giving birth. Factors such as age, diet and drinking habits, lack of exercise and increased stress can lead to difficulties in getting pregnant. Don’t worry if a second pregnancy isn’t happening for you straight away. If you are concerned in any way have a conversation with your Doctor, who will advise you on the best course of action.
3. It’s ok to smoke as long as I give up during pregnancy
If you have been smoking in the run up to your pregnancy, chances are the damage has already been done. It is not good enough to say that you will stop once you know you are pregnant. The long-term effects of smoking don’t simply cease as soon as you stub out that last cigarette. If you are thinking about having children stop smoking immediately. Smoking has been proven to be a major cause of infertility and the longer you continue the habit the more likely you are to have problems conceiving.
4. If I prop-up my legs with a pillow after sex, it increases my chances of getting pregnant
This one has been doing the rounds for quite some time. Unfortunately, there’s no science to prove its validity. Sperm heads for the cervix within seconds of ejaculation so gravity won’t be of much help to you. However, if it is something you want to try, go ahead and do it. It won’t have any negative implications but just be aware that realistically it won’t make much difference.
5. Being on the pill for too long will delay pregnancy success
The contraceptive pill does the job it is meant to do – it inhibits fertility in the short term. The pill is also used by women to regulate naturally irregular periods and to treat acne. Coming off the pill won’t have the same effect on all women. For some, normal cycles will return immediately, and it may take a little longer for others. But there is no evidence to suggest that being on the pill reduces a woman’s long term ability to conceive when does come off it.
6. Having an orgasm will release eggs and make pregnancy more likely
While it’s definitely a major plus in the baby making process, having an orgasm does not release eggs. What it does do is allow the uterus to contract and, in theory, this helps the movement of sperm. Obviously the more relaxed you are in the bedroom, the better, but if you focus too much on the need to orgasm chances are you’ll be too tense to enjoy what should be a pleasant experience. Of course, the man needs to orgasm in order to have any chance of conception.
7. Sperm live for only a few hours
The lifespan of sperm varies from man to man, but in general sperm can survive in utero for about 48 hours. Most pregnancies occur after intercourse that has taken place one or two days previously. In some cases sperm can survive for up to 96 hours but that is a rarity. If you want to get pregnant, the best time to have sex is one or two days before ovulation.
Declan Keane is a Senior Clinical Embryologist and Founder of ReproMed, one of Ireland’s leading fertility clinics. Declan has worked at the forefront of Irish reproductive health for over 23 years and was involved in establishing IVF treatment centres at the National Maternity Hospital and at the Rotunda in Dublin, before founding ReproMed in Dublin, Limerick and Kilkenny. ReproMed offer a comprehensive range of natural and assisted conception options to couples and individuals who want a family.
