Debunking three major misconceptions about infertility

The joy of parenthood has always been a once in a lifetime experience for both men and women. However, for couples trying to conceive, infertility often remains a difficult challenge, and over the years, the issue has become a serious concern due to their changing habits.

In an interview with Zee English, Dr. Garima Sharma, Senior Consultant – Fertility & IVF, Apollo Fertility, Thane dispels common myths about infertility.

According to the Indian Society of Assisted Reproduction, India has a population of 27.5 million infertile people including men and women. Infertility is a taboo topic with a lot of misconceptions and myths attached to it. Even if you think you’re on top of your reproductive health game, you still have a “fact” or two in your arsenal that aren’t entirely accurate.

Wanting a baby and not being able to conceive can be excruciating. The process of getting pregnant isn’t always as straightforward as you’d think. A highly complex condition, infertility.

Despite the fact that medical science has developed a variety of procedures and techniques to help people become pregnant, there are still many myths and misconceptions surrounding infertility.

The fact that we are living in the modern world, infertility myths have restricted the society from thinking beyond it.

So, let’s dispel some common myths about infertility:

Myth #1: Infertility Means Women’s Problems

Unfortunately, society believes that only women are responsible for infertility problems. But, surprisingly, male infertility is just as common as female infertility. According to research by the National Institutes of Health, women account for 30% of infertility cases, while men account for a similar proportion. The remaining 40% of infertility cases are due to mixed infertility, which occurs when both partners have fertility difficulties. Thus, infertility is a people’s problem, not just a women’s problem.

Myth #2: Stress causes infertility

There is no doubt that one feels stressed at some point or the other due to one’s chaotic schedule. While anxiety is likely to cause infertility, stress is not likely to cause infertility. In fact, your nervous system has less to do with infertility than your reproductive system. However, science does not support that claim.

Myth #3: Smoking doesn’t affect infertility

Smoking has always had negative effects on the human body and has multiple effects on fertility in both men and women. Smoking causes a rapid decline in ovarian reserve for women, increases the risk of pregnancy, and reduces the likelihood of a successful outcome of fertility treatment. Therefore, cutting down on smoking is imperative if you are trying to conceive.

Fertility Consultation: A Solution to Bust the Myth

Given the changing lifestyles and demands, infertility has become a major concern when it comes to starting a new family. Thus, if you want to embrace the joy of parenthood, now is the time to dispel these myths and promote accurate information and understanding of the subject. In fact, instead of feeling embarrassed or seeking advice from a friend, it is advisable to consult fertility experts to get more clarity on the best course of action.