Fertility: Sex and Conception - Breaking Down the Myths

When it comes to fertility, sex, and conception, there are many myths and misconceptions that can cause confusion and anxiety for couples trying to conceive. Let's debunk some common myths and provide you with the facts to help you on your journey to parenthood.

Myth 1: You Can Get Pregnant Any Time You Have Sex

Fact: Your chances of getting pregnant increase if you have sex three to four times a week. Ovulation typically happens around 14 days before your next period, but this can vary depending on your unique menstrual cycle. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for 2/3 days, so having regular sex will increase your chance of conception.

Myth 2: Irregular Periods Mean You Can’t Get Pregnant

Fact: While irregular periods can make it more challenging to get pregnant as it is an indication that you are not ovulating every month, they do not mean you cannot get pregnant. Your chances of conception will increase if you have sex 3-4 times a week.

Myth 3: You Need to Have Sex Every Day to Conceive

Fact: Having sex every day may lower your chances of conception, can even cause stress, decrease sperm count and may lead to discomfort. It is better to have intercourse every other day to maximize your chances of conception. 

Myth 4: Certain Positions Increase Your Chances of Conception

Fact: There is no scientific evidence that specific sexual positions increase the likelihood of conception. What matters most is that sperm is deposited near the cervix, which happens naturally during intercourse.

Myth 5: Infertility Is Always Due to the Woman

Fact: Infertility affects both men and women equally. About one-third of infertility cases are due to male factors, one-third to female factors, and the remaining third to a combination of both, or for unexplained causes.

Both partners should undergo evaluation if there are difficulties conceiving or if there are already known medical, health issues that could impact fertility.

For couples who aren’t sure, we recommend a Fertility Health Check to ascertain whether there may be any issues which may cause problems. 

Myth 6: You Can’t Get Pregnant During Your Period

Fact: While it's less likely, it's still possible to get pregnant during your period especially if you have prolonged spotting as sperm can live in the female reproductive tract for a couple of days allowing for the possibility of conception.

Myth 7: Age Doesn’t Affect Male Fertility

Fact: While men can remain fertile longer than women, age can still impact male fertility. Sperm quality tends to decrease with age (early to mid 40’s), leading to lower sperm count, motility, and an increase in DNA fragmentation and damage caused by lifestyle and environmental factors, all of which can affect conception and increase the risk of miscarriage. 

Myth 8: Stress Doesn't Affect Fertility

Fact: High levels of stress can impact hormone levels and menstrual cycles, potentially affecting ovulation and fertility. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, and healthy lifestyle choices can support your fertility health.

Myth 9: You Should Wait a Year Before Seeking Help

Fact: While it's true that many couples conceive within a year, you should seek help sooner if you are over 35 or have known fertility issues or if you have a family history of early menopause. If you’ve been trying to conceive for six months without success, consulting a fertility specialist can help identify and address potential issues. In fact, the newer approach is to have a preconception reproductive health check before trying to conceive.

Myth 10: Fertility Treatments Always Lead to Multiple Births

Fact: While fertility treatments like IVF and IUI can increase the chances of multiple births, advances in technology and protocols have reduced this risk. Your fertility specialist will work with you to minimise the chance of multiple pregnancies, whilst maximising your chance of a healthy singleton pregnancy.

Conclusion

Understanding the facts about fertility, sex, and conception can help dispel myths and reduce anxiety for couples trying to conceive. 

Remember that every couple's journey to parenthood is unique, and it's important to stay informed, seek professional advice when needed, and support each other through the process. With the right knowledge and approach, you can increase your chances of achieving a healthy pregnancy.

If you would like specialist advice from our Fertility Expert, Dr Koita, she is offering a 3-month programme of coaching for couples to give you the best practical advice and strategies to try to conceive naturally. You can learn more about our Prep4Pregnancy Programme here.