Fertility myths, checked against the evidence
Fertility comes wrapped in advice from family, friends, and the internet. Here are 22 common beliefs, checked against the evidence — each with a calm verdict and what's actually true instead.
Written by Fertility Decoded. Reviewed by D R, MS (OBG), FRM. Review date: 31 August 2026.
Search or browse in the myth checkerFamily & culture
Read the full Family & culture guide- Myth“If a couple can't conceive, it's the woman's problem.”
- Myth“Adopt a child and you'll conceive naturally afterwards.”
- Myth“Time the transfer to an auspicious date and it's more likely to work.”
- Myth“Fasting, vrat, or the right ritual will cure infertility.”
- Myth“A woman must orgasm, or lie with her legs up after sex, to conceive.”
- Partly true“Irregular periods mean you're infertile.”
- Partly true“You can't get pregnant while breastfeeding.”
- Myth“A past abortion or years on contraception causes infertility.”
Behaviour
Read the full Behaviour guide- Myth“Stay on bed rest after the transfer so the embryo sticks.”
- Myth“Just relax and it'll happen — stress is why you can't conceive.”
- Partly true“You must avoid sex completely during IVF stimulation and the two-week wait.”
- Partly true“You can't exercise, climb stairs, or lift anything after a transfer.”
Treatment
Read the full Treatment guide- Partly true“IVF babies are less healthy than naturally conceived babies.”
- Myth“IVF always means twins.”
- Myth“IVF injections use up your eggs and bring on early menopause.”
- Myth“Frozen embryos are weaker than fresh ones.”
- Partly true“IVF is only a last resort.”
- True“Age is the biggest factor — and IVF can't fully undo it.”
Sources last reviewed . Sources on each myth's entry.