Debunking Five Common Fertility Myths

Fertility is a subject that often attracts myths, speculation and outdated advice. For people who are trying to conceive, this can lead to unnecessary worry and confusion. Understanding what is true and what is not is an important step in approaching fertility with clarity and confidence. Below are five common myths and the facts that set the record straight.

Myth One: Fertility is only a women’s issue

The idea that fertility difficulties are the responsibility of women alone is still widespread but it is not true. Research shows that roughly one third of fertility problems are linked to women, one third to men and one third to a mixture of factors or remain unexplained. Male fertility can be affected by sperm quality, lifestyle choices, medical conditions and age. When couples face challenges it is important for both partners to be assessed rather than focusing solely on the woman.

Both partners should be proactive about their reproductive health. If conception is taking longer than expected, it is wise for men as well as women to undergo fertility testing. And both make joint lifestyle improvements.

Myth Two: Age only matters for women

It is well known that a woman’s fertility declines as she gets older, particularly after the age of 35. What is less often discussed is that age can also affect men. As men age, sperm motility and DNA quality can decrease, which may impact both the likelihood of conception and pregnancy outcomes. While men generally remain fertile for longer, age is a factor for both sexes and should be considered when planning a family. 

If age is a concern, speaking to a fertility specialist can provide insight into options such as fertility testing, egg or sperm freezing, or assisted reproductive techniques. To find out more, read this blog.

Myth Three: Timing intercourse around ovulation guarantees pregnancy

Tracking ovulation and aiming for the so-called fertile window can certainly increase the chances of conceiving, but it is not a guarantee. Ovulation can vary from month to month and is not always as predictable as cycle tracking apps suggest. Stress, illness, changes in weight and other factors can all influence when ovulation occurs. Using ovulation predictor kits, seeking professional advice or combining different tracking methods can give a clearer picture, but no method can promise immediate success.

Use ovulation predictor kits or a combination of tracking methods to better understand the fertile window, but try not to rely on any single method. Maintain regular intercourse (every 2–3 days throughout the cycle) to maximise opportunities, rather than only focusing on predicted ovulation days. To learn more about the fertile window, read this blog.

Myth Four: Lifestyle choices do not make much difference

Lifestyle plays a more significant role in fertility than many people realise. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, recreational drugs, poor diet, lack of exercise and unmanaged stress can all affect both sperm and egg quality. On the other hand, positive steps such as maintaining a healthy weight, following a balanced diet rich in nutrients, sleeping well and managing stress can all help support reproductive health. Small, consistent changes often make a meaningful difference.

Focus on shared healthy habits. Supporting each other in these changes can improve fertility and overall well-being. To learn more about the role of epigenetics in fertility, read this blog.

Myth Five: Conception should happen quickly if everything is normal

There is a common belief that if you are healthy and trying at the right time you should become pregnant within a month or two. In reality even for couples with no fertility problems the chance of conceiving in any given month is around 20 to 25 per cent. This means it can take several months of trying before success. Healthcare professionals usually suggest seeking advice after twelve months of trying if under 35, or after six months if over 35. Knowing this can help reduce unnecessary anxiety during the process.

Be patient and manage expectations, several months of trying is completely normal. If conception does not happen within the recommended timeframe, seek medical advice early. In the meantime, keep the focus on maintaining good health and reducing stress rather than counting each unsuccessful cycle as a failure.

Fertility is complex and deeply personal. By separating fact from fiction you can approach the journey with greater understanding and less pressure. If you are concerned about your fertility or feel uncertain about what is normal the best step is to speak with a qualified healthcare professional. Reliable information and early guidance can make the path forward clearer and more manageable.