With the rapid change in lifestyle to match today’s pace and expectations, one of the more serious effects has been the dip in fertility rates. More and more couples are finding it harder to get pregnant which has led to many false theories and half-truths around the subject of fertility. While if you are facing any issues with getting pregnant, it is best that you consult a fertility expert, we have decided to put to rest some of the myths surrounding infertility right here.
Men don’t have fertility issues
One of the most common and dangerous assumption is that fertility, or the lack of, is solely the woman’s responsibility. For years it was assumed that if a couple is unable to conceive, it must be because the woman is infertile. However, this cannot be farther from the truth. An equal number of infertility issues can be attributed to both men and women. A male fertility test will check for sperm count, hormone levels, and even a physical examination.
Couples who aren’t able to conceive are just not working hard at it
Most people now assume that with the new breakthroughs in medical technology, a couple can get pregnant by using some form of IVF treatment. However, infertility is caused by physiological problems that sometimes do not have any treatment. The aim is to explore the cause of infertility and to see if any treatment can help fix that particular issue.
Boxer shorts and loose pants are a must for healthy sperm
This myth does not seem to go away in a hurry. While it has been circulating for a while now, the University of New York tested this theory and found that the type of underwear had no effect on the health of the sperm.
Vasectomies cannot be reversed
A vasectomy is a simple surgical procedure that is one of the most effective forms of birth control. This surgery is quicker and easier to recover from than female sterilization procedures. Vasectomies are also easy to reverse with studies showing that a majority of men with reversed vasectomies going on to becoming fathers.
Lifestyle plays no part in infertility
As per numerous studies done across the globe, one of the leading causes of infertility is the change towards an unhealthy lifestyle. This includes eating unhealthy foods, drinking alcohol too often, not getting enough sleep and exercise.
Fertility reduces only after the age of 40
With more and more success stories of women getting pregnant in their late 30s and early 40s, it is easy to imagine why women think that they have to be concerned about the health of their eggs after they turn 40. However, women are born with a set number of eggs. These eggs reduce significantly in number in the late 20s and once more after turning 35.
Infertile couples are to be pitied
Learning that you will be unable to conceive can be shocking and will cause intense feelings of shame, anger, sadness, and even depression. However, there are many couples who have moved past their issues of infertility and have tweaked their idea of having a baby. Whether this means that they will not have any children or that they choose to adopt, many happy couples have found that there is a fulfilling and happy life beyond infertility.
If you are struggling to conceive, it is important to visit a doctor, and read up on the various causes which may be contributing to the issue. Steer clear of myths, as they not only affect your emotional state, but may also come in the way of a cure.
