Infertility has a huge impact not only on the couple’s relationships, but also on all areas of a person’s life. It is challenging life-crisis that can make a person feel overwhelmed and confused. Yet, the first step towards overcoming infertility is understanding it.
This article aims to help you stay informed and challenges widespread myths about infertility.
Infertility is the inability of a sexually active, non-contracepting couple to achieve pregnancy in one year.
Myth 1: Infertility is a women’s problem, and men don’t have infertility problems.
Fact: Infertility is not one gender’s fault. In fact, infertility is only a female problem in about 35% of the cases. It is a male problem in about 35% of the cases, a c
ombined problem of the couple in 20% of cases, and unexplained in 10% of cases. It is important tha
t both the husband and the wife be evaluated during the check up.
Myth 2: Infertility is a psychological problem, and not a physical one.
Fact: Infertility is a disease or condition of the reproductive system, and not a psychological disorder. Friends and family may suggest that taking a vacation and decreasing your stress levels will help you get pregnant; however, it is not known whether high levels of stress can prevent pregnancy or affect a woman’s chance of conceiving. Stress and deep emotions may be caused by infertility, and not the cause of it. However, managing stress will improve your overall health and provide a better quality of life.
Myth 3: Everyone gets pregnant easily. 
Fact: If you are facing difficulties getting pregnant, you are not alone. In fact, 15% of couples have troubles getting pregnant.
Myth 4: A patient should not take a break from infertility treatment for any reason.
Fact: Continuity in treatment is important, but sometimes it might be necessary to take a break to get the needed rest and energy for the next steps. However, it is important to always consult your doctor.
Myth 5: You’ll eventually get pregnant if you’re just patient. Couples who try enough will eventually get pregnant.
Fact: Infertility is a medical problem that needs evaluation and may need treatment. Those who do not seek help have a “spontaneous cure rate” of about 5% after a year of infertility.
Understanding how your body works as well as learning about infertility will help you feel more in control.