When couples are trying to get pregnant, they often receive well-meaning but outdated advice from elders. Many fertility myths have been passed down through generations, leading to confusion and stress.

To clear up common misconceptions, Dr. Kunzang Dolma, a Fertility Specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Bangalore, explains the truth behind fertility myths and how modern reproductive medicine can help couples navigate their journey to parenthood.

Myth 1: You Must Lie Down After Intercourse to Get Pregnant

Truth: There is no scientific evidence that lying flat or raising your legs after intercourse increases pregnancy chances.

Why? Sperm cells move towards the egg almost immediately after ejaculation. The key to conception is timing intercourse around ovulation, not post-intercourse positioning.

Myth 2: Certain Foods Can Instantly Boost Fertility

Truth: No single food can guarantee pregnancy.

While a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals supports reproductive health, fertility depends on various factors like age, weight, and overall health.
Instead of focusing on “fertility superfoods,” couples should maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid processed foods.

Myth 3: Stress is the Main Cause of Infertility

Truth: While stress can affect hormone levels and menstrual cycles, it is rarely the sole cause of infertility.

Many couples conceive despite high-stress levels, while others struggle due to medical conditions like:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Endometriosis
Low sperm quality

Managing stress is important, but if conception doesn’t happen, a medical evaluation is necessary.

Myth 4: Women Over 35 Cannot Get Pregnant Naturally

Truth: While fertility declines with age, many women conceive naturally in their late 30s and early 40s.

Thanks to advancements in reproductive medicine, options like:
Egg freezing
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)
...have made pregnancy possible even at an older age.

However, planning ahead is advised, as egg quality and ovarian reserve decrease with age.

Myth 5: Men’s Age Doesn’t Affect Fertility

Truth: Male fertility also declines with age.

Studies show that older men have higher rates of sperm DNA fragmentation, which can:
Reduce embryo quality
Increase miscarriage risk

Like women, men should maintain a healthy lifestyle and undergo fertility check-ups if planning fatherhood at an older age.

Myth 6: IVF is Only for Couples Who Cannot Conceive Naturally

Truth: IVF is not just for infertility—it can be used for:

Unexplained infertility
Blocked fallopian tubes
Male fertility issues
Genetic conditions
Fertility preservation (egg/sperm freezing)

IVF is a medical breakthrough that helps couples increase their chances of conception, even when other methods fail.

Final Thoughts: Trust Science, Not Myths

Fertility myths have misguided couples for generations, but separating fact from fiction is crucial.

Consult fertility specialists for the right guidance.
Rely on scientific information, not outdated beliefs.
Make informed choices about reproductive health.

When it comes to fertility, knowledge is power—and making the right decisions can make all the difference.