Let’s just all agree that word travels fast. And it has been travelling since the beginning of time, still surviving like a rock. Back then, when medical infrastructure wasn’t as concrete as it is now, there used to be certain claims based on past research or traditional medicine. But now as new research is emerging, most of those claims have turned out to be baseless. So, what were medical facts back then, are nothing more than half-knowledge, rumours and myths now. It’s time we banish these myths for a safe and healthy medical future.
When it comes to reproductive health and infertility, there’s no lack of literature or spoken words. But along with them, there are certain myths that affect our understanding and our course of action.
Let’s just face it, infertility is a delicate topic in India. It is not discussed publicly. You can’t call it a stereotype but something people won’t talk about due to the fear of being judged or talked about. All the reasons why myths about infertility are still spick and span. But there remains an essential need to discard them to encourage healthy and sagacious decision-making.
So, today in this blog, we will be busting some of those myths. So, are you here? Because we are, with a wrecking ball to bust these concrete myths.
Birth control can cause infertility
There is no lack of misconceptions about birth control. It is often regarded as the evil Indian women must stay away from. But all of these claims are baseless, and exist because of half-knowledge or are just as a means to control women.
Nevertheless, let’s be a little louder that birth control cannot cause infertility. Even though you will not get pregnant if you’re on birth control, but once you stop using it, you’ll be as fertile as you were before.
Infertility can always be treated
There is no denying that medical infrastructure has only progressed in recent years. However, some diseases or medical conditions still remain uncured. In some cases, infertility can be treated, all thanks to multiple medical procedures such as IVF, insemination, ovulation induction and fertility preservation.
But in other cases, there is nothing you can do about it. It’s best if you accept it and start seeing other options. Talk to your gynaecologist to know more about your condition.
You wouldn’t be infertile if you already have kids
If you have conceived before, doesn’t mean you always will. It is most commonly believed that fertility and pregnancy get easy after the first pregnancy. But it may not always be the case. A few common causes of secondary infertility can be hormonal imbalance due to infections or some surgery that may have affected the ovaries or the fallopian tubes.
You’re highly fertile if you are leading a healthy lifestyle
If you think a healthy lifestyle is all it takes to keep the doctor away, you’re mistaken. Although a healthy lifestyle can reduce the odds of having multiple medical conditions such as heart attacks, cholesterol and high blood sugar, it may not replace treatment if there’s a medical condition that demands attention.
The same applies to infertility. Infertility can be due to medical conditions such as blocked fallopian tubes, ovulation disorders, abnormal sperm conditions and genetic conditions. A healthy lifestyle may increase your chances of conception, but it may not fix the medical issues. It’s best to consult a gynaecologist to get a detailed account of your reproductive health.
Irregular menstrual cycle can mean infertility
If you ask women if they skip their periods, or have irregular cycles, the answer would be in the affirmative. Irregular periods are more common than you think. In some instances, they may point to infertility or some other reproductive issue, but it would not necessarily mean you’re infertile.
Just so you know, sleep disruptions, exercise and stress levels all affect the delicate balance of hormones regulating the menstrual cycle. There is no need to worry. However, if you haven’t had your periods in three months or more, you may want to see a gynaecologist. So, your takeaway is to talk to a gynaecologist but don’t form any conclusions.
Closing thoughts
Knowledge is power. Now that it has been revealed that what you considered facts or heard from people are nothing but misconceptions, we’re sure you would make wise medical decisions. If you are experiencing fertility issues, it’s best to talk to your gynaecologist to seek the best treatment option for you.
