When talking about fertility, it refers to the natural ability to conceive or become pregnant and give birth. A person’s fertility generally depends on various factors including biological, genetic, hormonal and lifestyle. If you are unable to become pregnant or conceive even after trying for 1 year, it suggests you may be infertile and you need to see a doctor. Though treatment options are available, misconceptions around them persist. Looking at certain myths and facts of fertility:

1. MYTH: Fertility treatment can guarantee you pregnancy.

   FACT: While fertility treatments can improve chances, success isn’t guaranteed. Multiple factors including age, egg, sperm quality, underlying health conditions etc. may affect and result in negative outcomes. While a lot can conceive in just the first cycle, few may require multiple cycles or alternative solutions.

2. MYTH:  Many people today have a misconception that IVF is the only option of fertility treatment.

   FACT: Many, today, believe that IVf is the only solution to infertility. However, it is not. Multiple options or solutions available, may help you conceive including lifestyle changes, IUI treatment, Ovulation induction. If you are unable to conceive through these methods, thinking about IVF might be a major gamechanger.

3. MYTH: Only females are infertile and fertility treatments are made for women only.

   FACT: No, it is not. Males account for around 40-50% of the infertility cases around the globe. Many fertility treatments including sperm analysis, medications and assistive reproductive techniques are available  for men as well.

4. MYTH: Fertility treatment always bears multiple pregnancy.

   FACT: No. They do not. Though there are chances of multiple pregnancies, it is not always that they result in the same. With technological advancements, modern techniques like Elective Single Embryo Transfer (eSET) helps doctors prioritize safe pregnancies with fewer complications and reduces the risk of multiple pregnancies.

5. MYTH: Age doesn’t matter for IVF treatments.

   FACT: The crucial thing that actually matters before going for an IVF treatment is age. This volatile factor influences reproductive potential in both the genders over time. In general, women over 35 may have lower success rates as egg quality and quantity declines with age. While in men, sperm quality and quantity also declines with age. To conceive at a later age, that’s why doctors suggest freezing your eggs and sperm with a verified fertility clinic or a bank.

6. MYTH: Fertility treatments are very expensive.

   FACT: For an IVF treatment costs generally vary from person to person and procedure to procedure. Other factors influencing cost may include location, Insurance coverage. Today many fertility clinics provide financing options too.

Not just these, fertility and fertility treatments are surrounded by myths especially in India. This is ultimately resulting in people avoiding treatment options and surrendering to a childless future. However,  the right information and awareness can help couples make informed decisions. Want to explore better options for your parenthood journey, visit Dr. Soumya Dash.