Myth or reality?

  • The reproductive capacities of men are not affected by aging.

    FALSE: The quantity and quality of sperm cells decline with age.

  • Infertility is a problem that only involves women.

    FALSE: Nearly half of infertility cases are due to male causes.

  • It should be easy to get pregnant.

    FALSE: On average, a fertile couple has a 15 to 25% chance of conceiving every cycle.These chances decline with age.

  • Infertility is rare.

    FALSE: One in six couples face infertility.

  • Some foods help couples conceive.

    TRUE and FALSE: There are no magic foods, but a healthy diet that is varied and rich in omega-3 fatty acids and anti-oxidants can help.

  • Using oral contraceptives (the pill) for several years reduces the chances of getting pregnant.

    FALSE: The pill has a short-term effect. Ovulation returns to normal a few weeks after the pill is stopped.

  • Alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes interfere with fertility.

    TRUE: Coffee and cigarette smoking reduce fertility in women and alcohol increases the risk of a miscarriage. Alcohol and smoking reduce the quantity and vitality of sperm cells in men.

  • It’s a good idea for a woman to keep her legs in the air for several minutes after having intercourse to avoid any loss of sperm.

    FALSE: After lovemaking, the fluid that is discharged from the vagina does not interfere with the chances of conceiving; the sperm cells move very quickly and travel rapidly through the cervix.

     

  • Some sexual positions are more effective than others in increasing the chances of getting pregnant.

    FALSE: Penetration and ejaculation are necessary to conceive. The sperm cells know the way to the uterus, regardless of the position.

  • To know when she is ovulating, a woman can take her temperature.

    TRUE: The basal body temperature (BBT), which is the lowest body temperature taken in the morning before getting out of bed, drinking or eating, is at least 0.4°C after ovulation. The egg can be fertilized within 24 hours of ovulation. If the BBT chart is used to synchronize your sexual relations, it’s recommended to have intercourse frequently well before ovulation and to continue at least three days after the temperature spike. Since the temperature can rise after a lack of sleep, an infection or alcohol consumption, this technique is not always precise. Discuss it with your doctor.

Find more questions in our FAQ