Your TTC Strategy 6: Separate Fertility Myths from Fact

Fact: If you have a consistent 28-day cycle, this is probably true since ovulation then will occur around day 14. Many women have cycles that vary from month to month so it is difficult to determine when ovulation is occurring by the dating method. Research shows that if intercourse occurs even one day after ovulation, conception is unlikely to occur since the egg is fertile for only 24 hours. Intercourse three to four days before ovulation is effective, but the most successful time is on the day of ovulation. Using an ovulation predictor kit can most effectively determine when ovulation will occur.

Fact: The most important aspect of conceiving is that the sperm have access to the cervix and that there is no interference by toxic substances. That means that you can use any sexual position that you want, but stay away from lubricants and saliva. If the sperm do not enter the protection of the cervical mucus within five minutes, it is inactivated by the normal acidity of the vagina, which means that lying on a pillow for half an hour is unnecessary.

Fact: Guaifenesin is the ingredient in cough syrup that thins mucus (to help you clear your cough), and is thought to promote fertility when the cervical mucus is "hostile." The only study to support this use was done in 1982 and no studies have been done since. It should be noted that guaifenesin is classified as Category C in pregnancy (the benefits should be greater than the possible risks). If couples use guaifenesin, they need to know that it is often combined with dextromethorphan, alcohol, or antihistamines that can be detrimental to fertility or the fetus.

Fact: Well, logically everyone knows that a woman does not have to have an orgasm to conceive, but does having one help? During an orgasm, blood flow to the pelvis increases and the uterus contracts, which helps the sperm get to the fallopian tubes. Ideally the woman must climax before her partner ejaculates, the thinking goes. It isn’t important whether it is true or not, since it enhances the journey to parenthood!