As technology and medical research have advanced, many myths about fertility and pregnancy have been debunked. However, myths still abound, leading to unnecessary worry and confusion for women who are trying to conceive or who are already pregnant. Here are some common myths and the real facts behind them:
Myth: You can only get pregnant on ovulation day.
Fact: While ovulation day is typically the best day for conceiving, sperm can live inside the female body for up to five days. This means that a woman can still become pregnant if she has sex several days before ovulation.
Myth: Lifting your legs after sex can increase your chances of getting pregnant.
Fact: This myth likely originated from the mistaken idea that gravity would help the sperm reach the egg more easily. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
Myth: Men don’t have a biological clock, so they can father children at any age.
Fact: While it is true that men can continue to produce sperm throughout their lives, age does have an impact on the quality of the sperm. Older men are more likely to have sperm with genetic abnormalities, which can increase the risk of birth defects and other complications.
Myth: If you have a regular period, you must be ovulating normally.
Fact: While regular periods do suggest that a woman is ovulating regularly, there are other factors that can affect fertility. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and other medical conditions can interfere with ovulation, even if a woman has regular periods.
Myth: Miscarriages are always caused by something the mother did wrong.
Fact: Miscarriages are, unfortunately, common and can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic abnormalities and other medical conditions. In most cases, they are not caused by anything the mother did or did not do.
Myth: You should have sex every day when trying to conceive.
Fact: While sex every day can increase the chances of conception, it may not be necessary or even practical for many couples. It can also decrease sperm count if done too often. Most experts recommend having sex every 2-3 days during your fertile window.
Myth: Pregnant women should avoid exercise.
Fact: Exercise is generally safe for pregnant women and can even help them have a healthier pregnancy. However, it is important to talk to your doctor about what types of exercise are safe for you and to avoid activities that could be dangerous.
Overall, it is important for women (and men) to educate themselves about their fertility and pregnancy. By knowing the facts and debunking the myths, you can make informed decisions and feel more confident about your reproductive health.
