There’s a lot of information floating around out there. Get the scoop on what’s true, and what definitely isn’t, right here.

LET’S SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT…

MYTH: IF YOU TAKE BIRTH CONTROL PILLS, YOU HAVE A GREATER CHANCE OF INFERTILITY OR BIRTH DEFECTS.

  • Don’t worry! Previous birth control use has not been shown to cause either.

MYTH: WHEN YOU ARE TRYING TO DETERMINE WHEN OVULATION OCCURS, START COUNTING FROM THE DAY YOUR MENSTRUAL BLEEDING ENDS.

  • When determining your ovulation cycle, the first day of the menstrual cycle is the day you begin bleeding, also known as “Day 1.”

MYTH: IF YOU’D LIKE TO INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF HAVING A BABY GIRL, MAKE SURE TO HAVE SEX IN THE MISSIONARY POSITION.

  • The fact of the matter is that gender is typically left to chance! Sperm can be considered “male” and “female.” Each ejaculation will consist of half and half, but they each have equal chance of fertilizing the egg.

MYTH: LYING STILL OR TILTING YOUR HIPS AFTER SEX WILL INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF CONCEPTION.

  • This won’t increase your chances of conception. Sperm are mobile and are built to swim on their own, regardless of position.

MYTH: STRESS CAUSES INFERTILITY.

  • Not directly, although extreme stress can cause you to miss your period. Also, stress can lead to a lower sex drive or habits that impact your body negatively like difficulty sleeping or unhealthy diet.

HERE ARE THE FACTS

KNOWING WHEN YOU OVULATE IS KEY

Knowing your ovulation cycle will help you pinpoint your most fertile days, so that you and your partner can plan to try!

YOU’RE MOST FERTILE JUST BEFORE YOU OVULATE

Okay, it sounds counter-intuitive. Sperm can survive in the female uterus for several days. But after ovulation, the egg only lives one to two days. You may be able to increase your chances of conception if the sperm is waiting to greet the egg when it arrives. For most, it’s best to have sex between five days before ovulation and two days after.

EAT HEALTHY

While there aren’t specific diets that are proven to increase your chances of conception, it is helpful for trying women to eat a diet that is well balanced. Make sure the things you consume include the nutrients and vitamins you need to be in great shape.

CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

Your doctor will help you make sure your health is in order and advise you on matters such as medications, ovulation and helpful tips.