Whether you are trying to have a baby or waiting in the wings for that someone special to come into your life, infertility is bound to crop up in your mind. Some worry they are infertile, whilst others struggle with infertility for years before any success. This leads to many a google search and lots of unsolicited opinions from peers and people you know. A lot of the time, the information provided is a lot of bunkum. But fear not! Infertility is actually pretty common with 1 in 8 couples in the US suffering from infertility issues. On top of this, the taboo around sex life has gradually dropped in recent years which can lead to a much better conversation around issues – you’ll be strolling into a fertility clinic in London in no time. Despite an increase in chat about infertility, much of the information given and circulated to people is often wrong. We are here to rectify that and clear up 7 top myths about infertility!
1. Relax
People often just say ‘relax’. There’s a couple of issues with this. Firstly, it’s easier said than done. It’s like that thing where people say ‘calm down’ when you are mad as if that is ever going to help the situation – unfortunately, sometimes, it’s just not as easy as that. Secondly, whilst it can be psychologically stressful and draining, infertility is also a physical issue. It is a complex health and medical condition, it can’t just be fixed by doing some yoga or going on holiday. This is something that really grinds the gears of those suffering from infertility. Whilst asking someone to ‘relax’ can be of use, it’s not a method to solve infertility.
2. Try harder
Whilst of course infertility is directly related to what happens in the bed, there are many factors outwith the sheets which contribute to infertility. By asking someone to try harder or work better when doing the deed is unproductive and demoralizing. No one should be made to feel like they aren’t doing themselves and more often than not this affects people who can’t undergo fertility treatment for whatever reason. It’s a disheartening myth to say the least.
3. Not just women
More often than not it’s made out that the fertility issue is the females fault. There’s a plethora of women’s health and pregnancy forums related to it and less focus on males. It’s important to remember that the birds and the bee’s is a two way street and it can just as equally be the man’s issue.
4. Fertility issues will lead to the end of a relationship
For many, conceiving and having a child is the natural progression in their relationship. It is coveted for many relationships. This means when that can’t happen or isn’t happening, it’s tough time for all involved. Infertility can lead to a plethora of negative emotions and feelings. It can be tough to take but many couples see it through to the other side and find alternatives. Infertility is not an end for all relationships. Many move on, whether that be through adoption or acceptance.
5. Already got a child
Many assume that because they have already successfully had a child they are now invincible to infertility. Unfortunately, things don’t work like that. Circumstances change and secondary infertility is a very real issue in itself.
6. Your lifestyle doesn’t make a difference
Perhaps the most important factor in infertility is your general wellbeing. Your health makes the biggest difference in infertility. Obtaining a good level of health from eating well to exercise, refraining from harmful substances to ensuring a positive mentality is key when it comes to fertility.
7. Everyone and body is different, you can’t expect everyone’s journey to be the same
Often people giving advice are using their own experience or telling stories of people they know. People regularly mistake this as helpful but forget that infertility is a personal journey. It’s not a ‘one size fits all model’. Everyone’s body and health is different. Likewise, everyone’s journey through infertility is different. It’s personal and it’s worth remembering that.
