When couples in the High Desert region start trying to have a baby, they are willing to try anything in order to conceive as fast as possible. While many of these efforts won’t hurt your chances of conceiving a child, they aren’t necessarily going to help either. The following will help women in Victorville understand the most common myths surrounding conception.
What Are Some of the Most Common Conception Myths?
MYTH: You are only fertile during your 20s. FACT: While many women are most fertile during their early to mid 20s, that does not mean that women who are older will struggle trying to conceive. It is not until age 35 that a woman is considered to be of advanced maternal age, and even then it may not be difficult for her to conceive. Talk with your doctor about your age and fertility status if you are concerned.
MYTH: You should get pregnant right away. If you do not, you are likely going to struggle with fertility. FACT: Couples only have about a 15 percent chance of conceiving each month. This means that it can take up to a year for a normal, healthy couple to conceive. If you have been trying for more than a year without success, you might consult with your OB/GYN to see if any additional measures need to be taken.
MYTH: You should not drink while trying to conceive a child. FACT: You should not drink in excess while trying to conceive, or really at any time. However, up to 2 drinks per day is totally fine. This is a point in your life where you should be able to relax, have fun and enjoy this special time with your partner. Moderate alcohol consumption will not inhibit your ability to conceive.
MYTH: Avoid exercising while trying to conceive. FACT: Exercise is good for you, and you should not avoid it. If you are continuing your regular exercise program, it will not prevent you from conceiving. Note that excessive exercise can lead to a disruption in the menstrual cycle, which can make it more difficult to conceive. Talk with your gynecologist about your personal exercise routine.
MYTH: You can determine your baby’s sex by timing intercourse a certain way. FACT: There are no studies that have proven gender selection methods through intercourse timing to be effective. In fact, trying for a particular gender and timing intercourse accordingly can actually have a negative impact on your ability to conceive, as some couples avoid highly fertile days in hopes of having either a boy or a girl.
The process of trying to conceive is an exciting and fun time for many couples, but it can quickly become stressful. Try not to let these myths and other myths surrounding conception get to you. Remember, stress plays a major role in your ability to conceive. Take this time to enjoy each other’s company, relax and have lots of fun. It’s likely that, within the year, you will be expecting that tiny bundle of joy you’ve been dreaming of.