Common Misconceptions in Fertility Care

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Couple speaking with a fertility specialist during a consultation at Reproductive Partners Fertility Center in San Diego
Key Takeaways
  • Fertility is not just a women’s issue—male factor infertility is involved in about half of all cases.
  • Age significantly affects fertility, even if you feel healthy and have regular cycles.
  • IVF doesn’t guarantee pregnancy and isn’t the only treatment option available.
  • Lifestyle and diet matter, but they can’t fix all causes of infertility.
  • Seeing a fertility specialist early can improve your chances of success.
Common Misconceptions in Fertility Care

Infertility can be overwhelming, and misinformation doesn’t make it any easier. At Reproductive Partners Fertility Center – San Diego (RPSD), we often meet patients who have delayed care or held onto unrealistic expectations because of common myths. Below, we’re debunking some of the most prevalent misconceptions in fertility care to help you feel informed, empowered, and supported on your journey.
1. Fertility is Only a Woman’s Issue

One of the biggest misconceptions is that fertility challenges are primarily tied to women. In reality, male factor infertility is involved in up to 50% of cases. Common issues include low sperm count, poor motility, or structural problems. That’s why we encourage both partners to undergo testing early in the process.
2. If You’re Healthy and Have Regular Periods, You Should Be Fertile

While overall health and regular cycles are great indicators of wellness, they don’t always guarantee fertility. Egg quality and quantity decline with age, especially after 35. You may still ovulate regularly while experiencing a drop in egg health or other unseen fertility barriers.
3. IVF is the First—and Only—Treatment Option

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is widely known, but it’s not always the first step. Depending on your diagnosis, treatments like timed intercourse, ovulation induction, or intrauterine insemination (IUI) may be recommended before IVF. At RPSD, we personalize every treatment plan to meet your medical needs and goals.
4. IVF Guarantees Pregnancy

While IVF increases your chances, it does not guarantee success. Multiple factors—such as age, embryo quality, and underlying conditions—affect the outcome. That’s why ongoing evaluation and expert lab support are essential to optimize your results.
5. You Have to Try for a Year Before Seeing a Specialist

This advice doesn’t apply to everyone. If you’re under 35, you can try for up to a year, but if you’re over 35, it’s recommended to seek help after 6 months. If you have known conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, or irregular periods, you may benefit from an earlier evaluation. Learn more.
6. Lifestyle Changes Can Cure Infertility

A balanced diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking are all important, but lifestyle changes can’t resolve every fertility challenge. Structural issues, genetic factors, and hormone imbalances often require medical intervention.
7. You Can Wait Until You’re Ready—Fertility Will Always Be There

Modern medicine has expanded options, but age remains one of the most critical factors in fertility. Egg freezing and fertility preservation are excellent tools for those wanting to delay parenthood, but waiting without a plan can reduce options later.

At RPSD, our team of double board-certified reproductive endocrinologists and embryology experts are here to guide you through facts—not fear. If you’re unsure about your fertility or what your next step should be, we’re here to help you understand your options and move forward with confidence.

Schedule a consultation with our fertility specialists in San Diego or La Jolla today.