June is the month dedicated to fertility. For this reason we want to talk and, above all, dismantle the main myths related to infertility. These, who perpetuate stigmas, blame and misinformation about this disease and all that it entails for women and couples who want to start a family. In this way we will be helping to create an environment of support, empathy and trust for those who face the path of assisted reproduction. Below, we present and disprove X myths about infertility, both female and male.
The origin of infertility is in the woman
The reality is that the cause of infertility can be in both the woman and the man. There are even cases in which a pathology of unknown origin is due. It is known that currently around 800,000 couples suffer from it. In 30% of the cases the origin is in the woman and in another percentage in the man. In 20% of cases it is due to pathologies in both members of the couple and in the rest the origin is unknown.
If you have been a mother you will continue to be fertile
The fact that in the past there has been a good reproductive capacity is not an indicator of fertility in the present or in the future. As you already know, the main cause of infertility in women is age. Therefore, there are cases in which in the time that passes between having the first child and the search for the next one, what we know as secondary infertility.
Women are only infertile at an advanced age
Although it is true, as just mentioned, that advanced age in women is the most important cause of infertility, it is not the only one. There are a number of other causes:
- endometriosis
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
- premature ovarian failure
- Ovulation imbalances
- Anomalies in the reproductive system
- Pathologies in the fallopian tubes
These factors can, by themselves, be the cause of female infertility. But, it must also be taken into account that some of these, together with age, make it a complex case of infertility, but not impossible.
Male fertility does not decline over time
Although it is true that it is not the first cause of infertility as in the case of women, age is also a factor of infertility in men. Despite the fact that men are capable of continuing to produce sperm over the years, it is this passage of time that affects their quality and quantity. In addition, age also affects the concentration of spermatozoa, their motility -the ability to move- and their morphology -shape and structure-. Consequently, the ability to fertilize the egg may be affected, lowering fertility rates.
On the other hand, the passage of time can also be related to the appearance of genetic alterations in spermatozoa.
Sexually transmitted diseases do not affect fertility
Infertility is probably one of the worst consequences of suffering from an STD.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease: can affect the fallopian tubes, forming obstructions or scar tissue, making it difficult for the fertilized egg to reach the uterus to implant.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV): it can be accompanied from genital warts to changes in the cervix, which can lead to cervical cancer. HPV is not a direct cause of infertility, but the surgical or radiotherapy treatments necessary to address its consequences are.
- Syphilis: This infection, if not treated or done properly, can damage internal organs, with negative consequences such as miscarriage.
The main reason for infertility is stress
Although stress can negatively affect a person’s health and well-being, in general, it has not been shown to date that it is a reason for infertility. Although this condition can affect a woman’s hormonal cycle, a direct relationship with the inability to conceive has not been established. At IVI we are aware that emotions play an important role in an assisted reproduction process. For this reason, in all our clinics we have Emotional Support Units, in which a psychology team specialized in reproductive medicine will provide patients with the necessary tools to face the treatment.End of the form
Feeding and fertility are not related
In general, leading a healthy lifestyle affects both female and male fertility. Healthy and balanced eating habits will help the reproductive function to develop in optimal conditions.
- Maintain a healthy weight or BMI: An inadequate weight, whether it is low or high, can negatively affect fertility. Being overweight or obese can negatively affect ovulation and semen quality. On the other hand, a low weight can be a cause of amenorrhea.
- There are certain nutrients that it is essential to include in the daily diet and that are closely related to reproductive health. Make sure you have adequate levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, iron, vitamins D, E and C; zinc and folic acid. In addition, include foods rich in antioxidants, thus preventing free radicals from damaging eggs and sperm.
- Finally, maintain adequate levels of hydration. This helps protect cervical mucus production in women and semen quality in men.
Regular menstrual cycles are synonymous with fertility
Having regular menstrual cycles is not a definitive indicator of a woman’s reproductive capacity. It is important to know that, although the menstrual cycle and, therefore, ovulation, is taking place regularly, there may be other factors that are altering fertility.
The first step to fulfill your dream of being a mother
Whatever your case, if you are trying to get pregnant and you suspect that there may be a fertility problem, at IVI we can help you. The first step will be to carry out an adequate diagnosis of fertility, which allows our specialists to establish the most appropriate treatment to fulfill your dream of being a mother. You can get in touch at 900847300 or by filling out the form to request an appointment at IVI and our team will call you.
