When exploring women’s fertility, it’s important to distinguish between facts and myths. There are many misconceptions that can easily be believed. Below are some common fertility myths:

Myth 1: Your egg only has one chance at conception.

Truth: An egg can be fertilized multiple times before it is released from the ovary and expelled from the body. The number of eggs available for fertilization depends on how long a woman has been menstruating and any surgeries affecting her fertility. Women who have had ovarian surgeries or radiation therapy may have fewer eggs available compared to those who haven’t undergone these procedures.

Myth 2: You can get pregnant right after having sex.

Truth: Getting pregnant doesn’t happen immediately after intercourse. The body requires time to prepare for pregnancy, and it typically takes a full menstrual cycle for this process to be completed. Once a woman is in her fertile window, it’s possible to conceive within 1-2 months of discontinuing contraception or using another method.

Myth 3: You need to have intercourse every day to conceive.

Truth: Conceiving doesn’t require having intercourse daily. Some women may not conceive even with frequent sexual activity, while others may get pregnant with less frequent intercourse.

Myth 4: You can’t conceive with low FSH levels.

Truth: There is no single “normal” FSH level. While doctors may test for FSH levels during the menstrual cycle, it’s possible to conceive even with low or mid-range levels.

Myth 5: Having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) means you can’t conceive.

Truth: PCOS is a hormonal condition where the ovaries contain many small follicles instead of one large egg. However, not all women with PCOS experience difficulty conceiving. Many women with mild PCOS ovulate normally and successfully become pregnant, often with assistance like egg donation or assisted reproductive procedures.

Myth 6: You can’t conceive after the age of 35.

Truth: While getting pregnant after 35 might seem challenging, many women do conceive after this age. Women over 35 may have a smaller uterus, making conception more difficult. However, there are methods to enhance fertility even after this age.

Consult with a Doctor

Instead of relying on myths from the internet, it’s better to consult with a doctor. An OB-GYN is a specialized professional who can provide accurate, science-based answers to all your fertility-related questions, ensuring you’re fully informed about your reproductive health.