The Top Five Fertility Myths

Fertility issues affect both men and women alike. For one-third of couples the issue is related to the female, for another third, it's related to the male partner and then for the other third, both partners have a fertility issue. If you are experiencing problems getting pregnant, it's important for both partners to undergo health checks.

It's a woman's problem

Fertility issues affect both men and women alike. For one-third of couples the issue is related to the female, for another third, it's related to the male partner and then for the other third, both partners have a fertility issue. If you are experiencing problems getting pregnant, it's important for both partners to undergo health checks. The earlier you're diagnosed, the more likely you are to go on to have a baby.

I found it easy first-time round, so I won't have any problems falling pregnant again

It's really not uncommon for women to suffer from 'secondary infertility'. If a couple has been trying unsuccessfully for up to a year, I would recommend they visit a fertility expert who will be able to investigate their situation and help them get to the bottom of what might be wrong. There can be a number of issues which cause secondary infertility including a declining ovarian reserve from the ageing process or more serious complications that can occur as a result of a previous pregnancy such as infection and blockage of fallopian tubes.

Age is just a number

Age is the single most important factor when it comes to fertility in women. The key to fertility is a woman's ovarian reserve ie. the availability of healthy eggs. A decline in 'ovarian reserve' means that not only do the ovaries have fewer eggs to offer, but the eggs they do have are of poorer quality. The challenge for many women choosing to have their first child mid-30s or later is that as part of the body's natural ageing process, a woman's eggs age too. This can lead to infertility and/or miscarriage. The 'best' time for women to have children is between the ages of 20 and 35 years of age. Fertility decreases dramatically after the age of 35 and earlier in some ethnic groups.

I should get pregnant within a month

Many of us spend a significant part of our life trying not to get pregnant and then are surprised when it doesn't happen straight away when we want it to. In reality, most women will fall pregnant within a year of trying. I recommend that if you are aged 35 or older, give yourself around 6 months before seeking help. If you're younger, then you may want to try for up to 12 months before going to your GP for advice.

All couples are entitled to at least one round of IVF on the NHS

Sadly, access to IVF treatment on the NHS has hit a record low. Under health service guidance those with fertility problems under 40 years should be offered up to three cycles of IVF. Yet for a long time now, those of us working in the field of fertility are deeply concerned by the impact of cuts. Also, if your partner has a child from a previous relationship, you may find that you aren't eligible for any help.

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