Fertility problems are more common than many people expect. Many of my patients are surprised to learn that about 1 out of 6 people and their partners will have trouble conceiving.
The facts behind fertility issues can be complicated. Infertility can have a mix of causes and can affect one or both partners.
But when it comes to fertility myths, you can be sure there are plenty to go around.
Rumors, myths, and misinformation about fertility can lead to delays in getting effective care — and the help you need to start or grow your family. Here are six fertility facts to counter some common misunderstandings:
1. Getting older isn’t the only thing that can make it hard to get pregnant
Getting older indeed is one of the most common causes of infertility for both partners. Difficulty becoming pregnant increases as you reach your mid-30s. As people age, the quantity and quality of their eggs or sperm slowly decline, making it less likely that an egg will become fertilized.
However, age is just one of many factors that can make it challenging to have a baby. Other common causes of fertility problems include:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This disorder can affect the release of eggs from the ovaries. It’s a leading cause of maternal infertility.
- Damaged fallopian tubes. These can prevent eggs from reaching the uterus. A previous pelvic infection is one possible cause.
- Problems with the uterus. For example, growths in the uterus, called fibroids, can prevent sperm from reaching an egg.
- Conditions that affect sperm quality or quantity. Examples of these conditions can include undescended testicles, infections, hormone disorders, congenital conditions, diabetes, or enlarged veins in the scrotum.
- Pelvic adhesions. Scar tissue from past infections or surgeries, such as appendicitis, can cause certain reproductive organs to stick together.
2. Maintaining a healthy weight can help you conceive
People often ask me if having a high BMI causes infertility. And the truth is that it can contribute to fertility problems for either partner. If you have a high BMI, losing just 10% of your body weight may help improve your fertility.
It’s important to note that a low BMI can make conception difficult, too. If you have an eating disorder that causes you to be underweight, or if you follow a very low-calorie diet, you could be at risk for having a low BMI that may cause fertility problems.
3. IVF is often not the only option
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART). In IVF, eggs collected from ovaries are fertilized by sperm outside the body in a lab. After the fertilized eggs develop into embryos, they are placed inside the uterus.
Generally, this advanced procedure is for people who have tried other infertility treatments unsuccessfully.
Depending on the cause of the fertility problem and other factors, other potential treatment options may include:
- Medications. Your doctor may recommend medicines that trigger ovulation. Medications may help manage other health conditions that might affect fertility.
- Surgery. For example, surgery can unblock fallopian tubes or treat endometriosis.
- Lifestyle changes. Certain changes, like being at a healthy weight and quitting smoking, can help people become pregnant.
4. For healthy sperm, avoid hot tubs, saunas, and chemicals
Heat can negatively affect sperm counts. So, if you’re trying to conceive, you may want to limit how often you soak in a sauna or a hot tub.
That’s just one of several lifestyle choices you can make to preserve the quantity and quality of your sperm while you’re trying to have a baby. Here are a few more things you can do:
- Don’t smoke. Smoking is linked to lower sperm counts. If you need help quitting smoking, let your doctor know.
- Avoid or limit alcohol. If you drink alcohol, consume moderate amounts. That’s one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men.
- Steer clear of toxic chemicals and metals. Lead, pesticides, and other toxic chemicals may affect the health of your sperm. Use the proper protective equipment if you work with these substances at home or on the job.
- Don’t use cannabis. It may impair how the sperm moves, making it harder for the sperm to reach and fertilize an egg.
5. There’s no one magic food for fertility — but a healthy diet may help
Regarding diet and fertility, the jury is still out regarding the impacts of specific foods on fertility. I recommend that my patients follow a healthy, balanced diet of fruits and vegetables, iron, folic acid, and other nutrients.
Both partners should also take a daily multivitamin, which has been linked to increased fertility.
And while it won’t boost your chances of getting pregnant, remember that a daily prenatal vitamin containing 400 micrograms of folic acid is recommended to help prevent certain birth defects.
6. You shouldn’t wait long to seek fertility help
I typically recommend that you see a provider if you’ve been trying to conceive for 12 months. But if you’re over 35 and were assigned female at birth, you shouldn’t wait longer than six months before making an appointment. Because fertility declines with age, difficulty getting pregnant after age 35 is more likely to indicate a fertility issue. But at 35 or older, it’s not too late to have a baby.
I also want to point out that you can see a provider anytime you are concerned about your ability to conceive. For example, I recommend seeing a provider if you have a history of conditions that can affect fertility, such as:
- Irregular periods
- PCOS
- Cancer
- Testicular problems
- Endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease
Specialists at Temple Health provide expert treatment and support for people experiencing fertility challenges.
To make an appointment with a Temple fertility care provider, call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) or schedule an appointment online.
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