When you’re trying to conceive, everyone suddenly seems to become an expert. Friends, relatives, random forums—they all have advice, theories, and plenty of so-called “facts.” But what if a lot of that information is actually just… wrong? In this deep dive, we’re busting the top 10 fertility myths that could be doing more harm than good.

With insights from medical professionals, fertility specialists, and people who’ve been through it all, we’re separating science from superstition—because when it comes to your fertility journey, you deserve the truth.

What Are Fertility Myths and Why Are They So Common?

Before we jump into busting specific beliefs, let’s ask the big question: why do fertility myths spread so easily?

It often comes down to a lack of comprehensive education, cultural taboos, and just good old-fashioned storytelling. People share what they’ve heard, what worked for their cousin’s friend’s sister, and over time, it gets repeated so much that it begins to feel like fact.

But in a world where fertility treatments have advanced dramatically and we understand so much more about reproductive health than ever before, it’s time to challenge those outdated ideas.

Myth #1: “You Can’t Get Pregnant After 35”

Let’s start with one of the most widespread and fear-inducing myths.

Yes, fertility can decline with age, especially after 35—but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to conceive. Many women in their late 30s and even early 40s have healthy pregnancies. What’s true is that egg quantity and quality do decrease over time, but this decline varies widely from person to person.

Medical advancements like IVF, egg freezing, and embryo testing have changed the game. If you’re 36 and trying to conceive, don’t panic. A consultation with a fertility specialist can offer clarity, not guesswork

Myth #2: “Men Don’t Have a Biological Clock”

Here’s a sneaky one. While it’s true that men remain fertile longer than women, it’s a fertility myth to assume that age doesn’t affect male fertility at all.

Studies show that sperm quality—especially motility and morphology—can decline with age. Older paternal age has also been linked to increased risk of autism and schizophrenia in offspring. So yes, men have a “biological clock” too—just a different one.

Myth #3: “If You’re Healthy, You Shouldn’t Have Fertility Problems”

This one is particularly misleading. Being fit, eating well, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is great for overall wellness—but it doesn’t guarantee fertility.

Conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, thyroid disorders, or unexplained infertility can affect even the healthiest individuals. That’s why this is one of the most frustrating fertility myths—because it can make people feel like their struggle is somehow their fault. It’s not.

Myth #4: “Having Sex Every Day Boosts Your Chances”

Logic would suggest that more sex equals more chances, right? Not quite.

Having sex too often, especially several times a day, can actually reduce sperm count temporarily. On the flip side, waiting too long can mean missing your fertile window. The sweet spot? Every other day during your most fertile week—usually around days 10–16 of a typical 28-day cycle.

Tracking ovulation can be your secret weapon here. Apps, ovulation predictor kits, and temperature tracking are all great tools.

Myth #5: “Birth Control Causes Infertility”

This one’s particularly persistent. Many people worry that long-term use of hormonal birth control (like the pill, patch, or IUD) will make it harder to get pregnant later.

Here’s the truth: once you stop using birth control, your cycle typically returns to normal within a few weeks to months. While some forms of birth control might delay your period a bit longer, there’s no solid evidence that it causes permanent fertility issues.

Of course, if your period doesn’t return within 3–6 months, it’s worth checking in with your doctor. But don’t blame the pill—that’s one of the oldest fertility myths in the book.

Myth #6: “Stress Is the Main Reason You’re Not Getting Pregnant”

Now, to be fair—chronic stress does affect your hormones. But it’s overly simplistic (and even a bit dismissive) to claim that stress alone is the culprit behind infertility.

Stress can disrupt ovulation, especially when it’s intense or long-term, but fertility involves a complex interplay of hormones, cycles, anatomy, and timing. Saying “just relax and it’ll happen” isn’t just wrong—it can be incredibly hurtful.

So let’s drop this fertility myth and replace it with better advice: manage stress for your own well-being, not because someone told you it’s the only thing standing in the way of conception.

Myth #7: “You Can’t Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding”

Breastfeeding can delay the return of your menstrual cycle—especially if you’re exclusively nursing. But it is not a reliable form of birth control.

Ovulation can occur before your first postpartum period, which means pregnancy can happen without warning. Many women are surprised to discover they’re pregnant again while nursing their newborn.

This myth isn’t just inaccurate—it can lead to unintended pregnancies. So unless you’re planning to conceive again soon, consider a backup method of contraception.

Myth #8: “IVF Guarantees a Baby”

We wish this one were true. IVF (in vitro fertilization) is a groundbreaking and often life-changing treatment, but it’s not a guarantee.

Success rates depend on many factors—age, embryo quality, underlying health conditions, and even uterine receptivity. For women under 35, success rates are higher (around 40–50%), but those numbers decline with age.

Some couples may need multiple cycles, while others may not succeed even after several attempts. IVF offers hope, but it’s not a magic bullet—and setting realistic expectations can make a big difference emotionally.

Myth #9: “It’s Always the Woman’s Fault”

This fertility myth is as outdated as it is unfair. Fertility challenges are shared nearly equally between men and women. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, roughly 30% of infertility cases are due to male factors, 30% female, and the rest are a combination or unexplained.

Sperm quality, motility, and count can all impact fertility, and men should be evaluated just as early in the process as women. Fertility is a team effort—not a blame game.

Myth #10: “If You Already Have a Child, You’ll Have No Trouble Conceiving Again”

Welcome to the frustrating world of secondary infertility—when a couple has trouble getting pregnant after previously conceiving without issue.

Secondary infertility is more common than many realize. Age, health changes, or new medical conditions can all play a role. It’s emotionally complex because people often assume you’re already “lucky” to have one child—so what’s the big deal?

But the pain of wanting another child and not being able to conceive is very real. This myth minimizes that struggle—and it’s time to retire it for good.

Fertility Myths: Why Debunking Them Matters

So, why go through all this myth-busting? Because false information leads to unnecessary anxiety, delays in treatment, and a whole lot of guilt.

By challenging fertility myths, we open the door to more accurate diagnoses, healthier conversations, and informed decision-making. The truth is, every fertility journey is unique. What works for one couple may not work for another—and that’s okay.

What You Can Do Instead of Believing the Hype?

Now that you’ve got the real scoop, what’s next?

1. Educate Yourself

Stick to reputable sources—think peer-reviewed studies, fertility clinics, and board-certified OB-GYNs. Avoid anonymous online forums when it comes to medical advice.

2. Track Your Cycle Accurately

Apps and ovulation kits are great tools—but they’re not one-size-fits-all. Learning to recognize your own patterns is key.

3. Get a Fertility Evaluation Early

If you’ve been trying for a while (typically 12 months under 35, or 6 months over 35), consider a fertility workup for both partners.

4. Talk Openly with Your Partner

Fertility challenges can strain relationships. Open communication and mutual support make a huge difference.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Seek Help

Whether it’s a fertility clinic, a counselor, or a support group, help is out there. You don’t have to navigate this alone.

Final Thoughts: 

If you’ve made it this far, give yourself credit. You’ve taken a huge step toward better understanding your body, your options, and your power.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to fertility. But with facts, support, and science on your side, you’re in a much stronger position to make informed, confident choices.