Myths about conceiving and fertility

Being unable to conceive is even more frustrating when friends and family start questioning the couple's impotence and lifestyle - as is often seen in close knit communities. While Indians are slowly opening up to the idea of adoption, a wide majority remain fixated on natural childbirth as the only entry into parenthood. But before pointing fingers at each other and before the floodgates of unsolicited advice open, every couple must gain awareness about conception and childbirth; especially when it comes to the myths that surround conception. You may have tried everything; your patience is running out but do not fall victim to these unscientific statements. Soothsayer says: Women are the ones with fertility issues, while men rarely have any problems. Voice of science: Impotence affects both the genders equally. 40 percent of infertility affects men, as it does women, with nearly 20 percent being a mixture of male female factors. It is also a myth to believe that men who abuse drugs are infertile. Soothsayer says: You should have sex as often as possible. Voice of science: The day of and days around ovulation is the most fertile period. You can have sex everyday and you may still not conceive. The chances are 20-30 percent, if you have sex on the day of your ovulation. Plus, the sperm count may be low. Soothsayer says: You are destined to be pregnant if you have sex for 14 days after your menstruation. Voice of science: Most women do not have a 28 day cycle so the period of ovulation is inconsistent with most women. Hence the 14 days rule does not exist, it was a myth born out of the calendar method. But if you have the perfect cycle, you will not ovulate at the same time. Soothsayer says: You are most fertile when your temperature on the BBT chart is high. Voice of science: Basal Body Temperature chart and Ovulation go hand in hand. It is handy to know if you have ovulated as well as to detect anovulatory cycles (difference in menstrual intervals and regular ovulation). But the BBT chart cannot predict ovulation, by the time you get into action, ovulation may have passed. Soothsayer says: If you had no problems conceiving your first child then conceiving the second child is not a problem. Voice of science: Lady luck may not shine on you te second time. When you're trying hard to conceive the second time and it seems tougher than the previous time, it is called secondary infertility. Soothsayer says: There is something wrong if you can't conceive in the first few months of trying. Voice of science: Well you are only infertile if you have tried for a year. Healthy couples should conceive within this time frame. Soothsayer says: If you have never used birth control pills you are fertile and will conceive without a glitch. Voice of science: Stress and other external factors can play havoc if you are trying to conceive. There are no symptoms to suggest that you or your partner is unhealthy. Soothsayer says: You can't treat infertility. Voice of science: Many couples believe if you're impotent you are stuck with this condition for life. This notion keeps couples away from seeking medical help. Irregular periods too can be controlled with medical consultation. Soothsayer says: Medical treatment will cost you big bucks. Voice of science: There are different types of infertility treatment, some are costly and some suit your pocket. Seek professional advice before deciding for or against infertility treatments.