Fertility Myths and Facts: What Affects Your Chances of Conceiving
Common beliefs about getting pregnant, sorted into what is true, what is unproven and what to do instead.
Before you use this guide: This is general educational information, not an individual medical assessment. We do not identify a clinician reviewer on this page, so please confirm personal health decisions with your doctor, midwife or paediatrician.
When you are trying for a baby, everyone has advice. Some of it is helpful, and some of it only adds pressure. Here is what is known about the most common beliefs.
Myth: everyone ovulates on day 14
Day 14 is an average for a 28-day cycle. Many women ovulate earlier or later, and the day can change from cycle to cycle. Paying attention to your own pattern is more useful than relying on a fixed day.
Myth: lying with your legs up after sex helps
There is no good evidence that this makes pregnancy more likely. Sperm reach the cervix within minutes. You can get up whenever you like.
Myth: certain positions improve your chances
No sex position has been shown to raise the chance of conception. Choose whatever is comfortable for you both.
Myth: having sex every day lowers sperm quality
For most men with a normal sperm count, daily sex does not harm fertility. Sex every two to three days throughout your cycle is a good way to cover your fertile window without pressure.
Myth: fertility problems are usually the woman's
Fertility problems are shared. Issues with sperm contribute to a large share of cases, and in many couples more than one factor is involved. This is why both partners are usually assessed.
Myth: only a woman's age matters
Female fertility does decline gradually from the early thirties and more quickly after about 35. But men's fertility also tends to decline with age, although more slowly.
Myth: you will get pregnant straight away after stopping contraception
Some women do, but for most couples it takes a few months. After stopping the pill, many women ovulate within weeks. After a contraceptive injection it can take several months longer for fertility to return.
Myth: stress alone is the reason you are not pregnant
Severe stress can affect your cycle and sex drive, but everyday stress is rarely the only cause of difficulty conceiving. Please do not blame yourself. It can help to look after sleep, eat well and make time for things you enjoy.
What does help
- Having regular sex, about every two to three days
- Taking folic acid before you conceive, as your doctor advises
- Stopping smoking, limiting alcohol and keeping to a healthy weight
- Getting a pre-conception check-up
- Seeing your doctor after about a year of trying, or after about six months if you are 35 or older
Trusted resources to read next
These public health resources provide additional information. Guidance can vary by country, so prioritise advice from your own care team and local health service.
- NHS: Pregnancy — Evidence-based information on planning a pregnancy and early care.
- NHS: Trying for a baby — Guidance for people who are planning to conceive.
This content is for general information only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and every baby is different. Always talk to your doctor, midwife or paediatrician about your own situation, and seek urgent care if you are worried.