For many couples, the journey toward parenthood is filled with hope, excitement, and unfortunately, a lot of confusion. In India, fertility is still surrounded by cultural beliefs, half-truths, and social pressure. Well-meaning relatives, social media, and outdated information often create myths that delay proper diagnosis and treatment.
At Deepa Hospital, Ayyappakkam, known as one of the Best Gynecologist Hospitals in Chennai, doctors often see couples who have lost valuable time because they believed in myths instead of medical facts. This blog aims to clear common misconceptions, educate couples, and help them take informed steps toward a healthy pregnancy.
Why Are Fertility Myths So Common?
Fertility involves both physical and emotional aspects, making people more vulnerable to unverified advice. Some reasons myths continue to exist include:
- Lack of awareness about reproductive health
- Social stigma around infertility
- Overdependence on home remedies
- Fear of medical tests and treatments
- Misinformation on the internet and social media
According to WHO, around 1 in 6 couples worldwide experience infertility at some point. In India, lifestyle changes, late marriages, stress, and health conditions are increasing the need for accurate fertility education.
Myth 1: Infertility Is Always a Woman’s Problem
Fact: Infertility affects both men and women equally.
Medical studies show that:
- Female factors account for about 40 percent
- Male factors account for about 40 percent
- The remaining cases involve both partners or unexplained causes
Low sperm count, poor motility, hormonal imbalance, and lifestyle habits like smoking and alcohol are common male causes. Fertility evaluation should always involve both partners.
Myth 2: Stress Alone Causes Infertility
Fact: Stress can affect hormones, but it is rarely the only cause.
While chronic stress may disturb ovulation in women and sperm quality in men, infertility is usually linked to:
- Hormonal disorders
- PCOS
- Thyroid problems
- Endometriosis
- Varicocele
- Age related decline
Stress management is important, but medical evaluation is essential to identify the real cause.
Myth 3: Irregular Periods Mean You Can Never Conceive
Fact: Irregular periods are treatable in most cases.
Conditions like PCOS, thyroid imbalance, and lifestyle-related hormonal issues can be corrected with:
- Proper medication
- Weight management
- Diet correction
- Stress reduction
Many women with irregular cycles go on to conceive naturally with timely treatment.
Myth 4: Age Affects Only Women, Not Men
Fact: Male fertility also declines with age.
After the age of 40, men may experience:
- Reduced sperm quality
- Increased DNA fragmentation
- Higher risk of genetic abnormalities
Both partners’ ages matter when planning pregnancy.
Myth 5: IVF Is the Only Option for Infertility
Fact: IVF is not the first step for most couples.
Fertility treatment follows a step-by-step approach:
- Lifestyle correction
- Ovulation tracking and medicines
- Hormonal treatment
- IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)
- IVF only when necessary
Early diagnosis can often help couples conceive without advanced procedures.
Myth 6: Healthy-Looking Couples Cannot Have Fertility Problems
Fact: Many fertility issues are invisible.
A person may look healthy but still have:
- Hormonal imbalance
- Low ovarian reserve
- Blocked fallopian tubes
- Poor sperm parameters
Only proper tests can reveal the real condition.
Myth 7: You Must Try for One Full Year Before Seeing a Doctor
Fact: Early consultation is advised in many cases.
Couples should see a gynecologist earlier if:
- The woman is above 35 years
- Periods are irregular
- There is a history of miscarriage
- There are known medical conditions
- The couple has been trying for 6 months without success
Early evaluation saves time and emotional stress.
The Role of Lifestyle in Fertility
Modern lifestyle plays a major role in fertility:
- Excess weight or being underweight
- Poor diet
- Smoking and alcohol
- Lack of sleep
- High screen time
- Chronic stress
Simple changes in diet, exercise, and sleep can significantly improve reproductive health in both men and women.
Why Pre-Pregnancy Evaluation Is Important
Preconception checkups help in:
- Identifying hormonal issues
- Detecting diabetes or thyroid disorders
- Checking nutritional deficiencies
- Reviewing vaccinations
- Assessing genetic risks
At the Best Gynecologist Hospital in Chennai, such as Deepa Hospital, couples receive complete pre-pregnancy counseling and personalized care plans.
How Deepa Hospital Supports Couples
Deepa Hospital, Ayyappakkam, offers:
- Comprehensive fertility evaluation for both partners
- Preconception counseling
- Lifestyle and nutrition guidance
- Hormonal and ultrasound assessments
- Advanced fertility care when required
- Continuous emotional and medical support
The focus is always on early diagnosis, gentle treatment, and guiding couples with clarity and compassion.
When Should You Consult a Gynecologist?
You should consider visiting a fertility specialist if:
- You are planning pregnancy in the next few months
- You have irregular cycles or medical conditions
- You are above 30 and want fertility assessment
- You have been trying without success
- You want pre-pregnancy lifestyle and health guidance
Planning to start your family or facing difficulty conceiving?
Book your Pre-Pregnancy or Fertility Consultation with Dr. Deepa at Deepa Hospital, Ayyappakkam.Take the first step towards a healthy and confident pregnancy journey today.
Conclusion
Fertility myths can delay treatment, create fear, and cause unnecessary emotional stress. Understanding the truth helps couples make informed decisions and seek timely care. With the right medical guidance, most fertility challenges can be effectively managed.
Choosing a trusted center like Deepa Hospital, the Best Gynecologist Hospital in Chennai, ensures that couples receive accurate diagnosis, scientific treatment, and compassionate support on their journey to parenthood.