Here are a few common misconceptions regarding both fertility and infertility. If there’s something else on your mind and that is bothering you, visit “Ask the Doctor” and write to us.

• Infertility is primarily a woman’s issue
  Infertility affects men and women equally. In fact approximately 40% is male factor, 40% is female factor, and in 20% of cases it’s a combination of factors or unexplained. If a couple is having trouble conceiving, it’s important that both undergo a fertility workup.

• Infertility is a psychological problem.?
  Actually, a specific physical problem is found in 80 to 90% of all cases of infertility.

• Being infertile is a sexual problem.?
  In fact, most couples with infertility do not have any problem having intercourse.

• Sports don’t affect male fertility
  Sitting on a bicycle saddle for more than 30 minutes at a time, especially if wearing tight bicycle shorts, raises scrotal temperatures and temporarily affects sperm production. It’s the raising of scrotal temperatures that is mostly to blame. This is why it is ill-advised for men to frequent the hot tub or sauna when hoping to conceive. Even sitting with a laptop on your lap for prolonged periods may decrease sperm counts. The key is to take frequent breaks from sitting, and when cycling, choose a seat that's not too hard or narrow.

• The use of lubricants during intercourse aids conception
  Lubricants decrease friction, which increases the pleasure of sex, but they won’t help you get pregnant. In fact, using lubricants can actually be counterproductive as they can interfere with sperm motility and may have ingredients that are toxic to sperm. The same is true for lotions.

• Only if you have irregular menstrual cycles do you require treatment
  Just because you have a regular cycle doesn’t guarantee that all’s fine with your fertility. A number of underlying issues may hamper conception

• Good health equates to a fertile couple
  Fact: Yes, a good diet, nutritional supplements, exercise and healthy lifestyle are all recommended to get your body baby ready. However it doesn’t mean you’ll be able to conceive easily. An underlying condition, such as a structural issue or blocked fallopian tubes, fibroids, polyps and even blood clotting disorders can all compromise your fertility.