Myths about Getting Pregnant

There are many misconceptions about conceiving a baby, and yet such notions can seem all too real if you are trying to conceive but have as of yet had no luck. Many women believe that by merely having unprotected sexual intercourse they can easily become pregnant; however, this is not always the case. The process of conception is one that is complex and there is no guarantee that fertilisation will occur even if you do have unprotected intercourse.

The various myths about getting pregnant are discussed below:

Myth: Ovulation occurs every 14 days of your menstrual cycle

Fact: Every woman’s menstrual cycle is different and not every woman will ovulate on the 14^th day of their cycle. Some women have a longer menstrual cycle than others, which can last anywhere from 30 days or more. It is therefore important to find other means of calculating ovulation when trying to conceive, such as an ovulation calculator which can be done online or one of many tests you can purchase from reputable pharmacies.

Myth: You cannot get pregnant again if you are currently breastfeeding

Fact: Many women who have already had a baby make the mistake of using breastfeeding as a means of contraception; however, although breastfeeding may reduce the chances of getting pregnant there have been many women who have become pregnant while breastfeeding. Breastfeeding should therefore not be used as a form of contraception.

Myth:It is only women who suffer from fertility problems

Fact: Men and women are both susceptible to fertility problems, and it is by no means purely confined to women alone. If you have been trying for a baby for more than a year but to no success, then it is best to consult your doctor. They will be able to assist in the discovery of whether one or both of the partners involved have a fertility problem.

Myth: Having sexual intercourse a lot increases the chances of conception

Fact: Many couples think that the best way to get pregnant is to have sexual intercourse every hour or every day; however, this is not recommended. The best way to improve chances of conception is to have sexual intercourse at 24-48 hour intervals. Having intercourse a few days prior to and while ovulating may also increase the chances of conception. Also, refrain from using lubricant as this can actually kill sperm.

Myth: Once you stop using birth control you can instantly become pregnant

Fact: Birth control methods will often leave its effects on the body for some time, and you cannot guarantee that merely by stopping using birth control you will be able to get pregnant straight away. This is because it may take some time for your body to recapture its normal ovulation process.

Myth: If young and healthy you should have no problems getting pregnant

Fact: Being healthy is of course advantageous but there is still no guarantee that you will become pregnant. Being young doesn’t mean that you will not suffer from fertility problems, just as being over 35 doesn’t mean you will automatically suffer from fertility problems. Whatever your age a trip to the doctor before trying to get pregnant is always advised.

Myth: It should only take a month or two to fall pregnant

The length of time it takes to fall pregnant depends on the individual couple. It is only those who have been trying for over a year without success who should seek advice from an experienced doctor to discover if there are any underlying problems.