It is estimated that one in six couples worldwide are affected by infertility and yet, it’s a problem that is rarely discussed and surrounded by misconceptions. Infertility and fertility treatments are confusing and intimidating enough without having to navigate through fiction vs fact, so let’s talk about several of the most common myths associated with infertility and treatments.
1. Infertility is a Woman’s Problem
Since it is the woman in the partnership who actually gets pregnant, many assume that the cause of fertility issues is with the female partner. That simply is not true. According to that National Institute of Health, of couples who seek medical intervention with the struggles to conceive, in about one third of cases the problem lies with the female partner, while in another one third the issue is male factor. The remaining cases may be unexplained or due to factors with both partners. If struggling to get pregnant, it is important for both partners to receive testing to identify a diagnosis and receive effective treatment.
2. Infertility Is Always Treatable
If only it was! Many infertility diagnoses are treatable with medication protocols, treatments, and surgeries but there are cases where the intervention just doesn’t work. It can be devastating when you aren’t responding to treatment, or the outcome isn’t what you had planned, but this doesn’t need to be the end of the road. There are always new paths to consider on your journey to becoming a parent.
Related Read: Self-care during an IVF cycle
3. Infertility Can Be Cured By Relaxing
If you are trying to get pregnant you have likely received the well-meaning but somewhat tone-deaf advice to “just relax”.
While reducing stress and finding ways to manage anxiety is recommended when you are trying to get pregnant, stress alone is likely not the reason you are struggling to conceive, and relaxing is not a cure or effective treatment for an infertility diagnosis.
Stress reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, journaling, and acupuncture can be effective in improving mind and body health which can have a positive impact on your fertility but likely will not ‘cure’ an infertility diagnosis.
4. Infertility Is Rare
The World Health Organization recently announced that one in six couples globally face challenges while trying to conceive. You may feel alone and isolated watching what seems to be everyone you know get pregnant while you wait for your turn, but many women and couples suffer from infertility, and often in silence.
Related Read: How Fertility Struggled Impact Our Lives
5. If You’ve Already Had a Baby, You Can’t Be Infertile
Secondary infertility is defined as not being able to get pregnant again after the birth of one or more children without fertility treatments. About 12% of women suffer from secondary infertility while trying to grow their families.
After a successful pregnancy, concerns about not getting pregnant may be dismissed, causing a delay in treatment. Secondary infertility can also be very isolating since a woman who already has a child may be reluctant to seek support.
There are lots of myths and misconceptions surrounding infertility so it’s important to seek out a trusted resource such as your doctor or fertility coach when you are gathering information. It’s important to have facts and accurate information while you are making decisions and navigating your fertility journey.
I would love to help you navigate this challenging road and make the journey more positive. Schedule a chat today and follow Positive Fertility on Instagram for daily support and inspiration!
