The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that approximately 6 percent of American women aged 15 to 44 suffer from infertility. A further 9 percent of men report that they have been to a doctor about infertility. The statistics are not the only ones that show difficulty in conceiving.
Despite its widespread prevalence, infertility remains a subject many couples fear, regardless of whether or not they have recently married. Some couples go so far as to conceal their infertility problems. This can lead to misinformation and myths.
Infertile couples can find myths about infertility damaging. They can also be hindered by it. We will be discussing some common myths about infertility among couples in this article.
- Myth 1 – Infertility is a woman’s fault
According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), about one third of infertility problems are caused by issues affecting the male reproductive system. One-third of infertility issues are caused by the male reproductive organ, while one-third stem from the female reproductive parts. Another third comes from both parties or unknown causes.
- Myth 2 – The couple should try harder
According to Dr. Susheil Mabusher, an expert in infertility at the Duke Facility Center, Durham, approximately half of couples who undergo infertility treatment succeed. The success rate of couples undergoing infertility therapy depends on the individual cases and the type or infertility issues they face. It doesn’t matter how hard they work. Couples need to understand that their efforts don’t always translate into success when it comes to conceiving. There is no reason for them to feel they have to do everything to get pregnant.
- Myth 3 – Age does not affect men’s fertility.
According to Dr. Mark Surrey (reproductive surgeon and medical director at Southern California Reproductive Center), it is true that women will experience a decline in fertility from the ages 32-37, with as high as 50%. But infertility problems are not only for men.
Specialists have indicated that men will experience a decrease in their semen volume and motility at 40.
- Myth #4: Infertility is not something you need to worry about if you have already had a child
It is also a common misconception that infertility problems can be prevented once you have given birth. Statistics show that around 30% of infertility happens after having a first child. This means that couples might have difficulty conceiving after having a baby.
- Myth 5: Your health doesn’t affect your fertility
Your fertility is directly related to how well you are doing. Diana Ross, co-chair of National Preconception and Health Care Initiative, stated that healthy living positively impacts fertility.
- Myth 6 – Every fertility journey is the same
It is also not true that infertility affects every couple on the same path. Every couple is unique and each path has its own set of consequences.
Conclusion
These problems are common among couples. It is important to consult your doctor before you take any action. There are many options available to help couples conceive. These include in-vitro fertilisation (IVF). Surrogacy may be an option for some couples. Knowing the facts is crucial to help couples navigate their way through the next phase of their fertility journey.
