Ten myths about assisted reproduction and fertility that are not true

There are many myths about assisted reproduction and fertility that continue to circulate, often fueled by misinformation, social media, or word of mouth. With such an overwhelming amount of content online, it’s crucial to distinguish accurate medical facts from misleading or sensationalized information.

At URE Centro Gutenberg, we always advise speaking to a fertility specialist before relying on search engines or non-expert opinions. Clear, honest communication with your doctor is key to understanding your own fertility journey and avoiding the trap of common myths.

Let’s break down 10 common myths about assisted reproduction and fertility that are simply not true.

“Birth control pills affect fertility”

False. Birth control pills do not cause infertility. You only need to stop taking them with enough time, following your doctor’s advice, when trying to conceive. It doesn’t matter how long you’ve taken them—your fertility is not damaged.

“If I have regular periods and normal check-ups, I’m fertile”

Not necessarily. A healthy body and regular periods at 44 or 45 years old do not mean you’re still fertile. In fact, fertility significantly declines even by age 39–40. Getting pregnant naturally with your own eggs at 44 is extremely unlikely—even with assisted reproduction.

Age is a critical factor in fertility, both naturally and in treatments. The older you are, the lower the chances of success.

“Fertility medication causes cancer”

There’s no evidence for this. Multiple studies confirm that hormonal medication used in fertility treatments does not cause cancer. Side effects can occur, but these vary by individual tolerance.

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) treatments involve very mild or no medication. IVF treatments use more intense hormonal therapy to retrieve multiple eggs, but it’s done under close medical supervision.

“Assisted reproduction guarantees twins”

No. Clinics today aim to reduce the risk of multiple pregnancies due to their potential complications. While twins can happen, it’s far from guaranteed.

At URE Centro Gutenberg, our goal is always to achieve the birth of a healthy baby. That’s why we often recommend transferring a single embryo—made easier with advanced technologies like the Embryoscope—to lower the chances of twins.

“I can choose my baby’s sex through assisted reproduction”

Not in Spain. Gender selection is prohibited unless a serious sex-linked genetic disorder is present, such as hemophilia. In those rare cases, Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) may be used to avoid transmission of the condition.

“Assisted reproduction always works”

Unfortunately, no. Despite major advancements, success is not guaranteed. Any clinic promising a 100% success rate is not being honest. Check published success rates by age group—results with a woman’s own eggs decline as age increases.

“If I conceive through IVF, I’ll have a premature birth”

Not true. Prematurity is more often linked to age, multiple pregnancy, or health factors—not IVF itself.

“Women produce eggs every menstrual cycle”

Absolutely false. Women are born with a finite number of eggs, which age over time. In every cycle, some eggs are lost, and quality declines with age—affecting both chances of conception and risk of genetic issues.

Unlike men, who continuously produce sperm, a woman’s egg reserve is fixed from birth.

“More days of abstinence equals stronger sperm”

Wrong. Long abstinence can actually lower sperm quality. Doctors typically recommend 2–5 days of abstinence before IVF or IUI treatments to ensure optimal sperm count and motility.

“Infertility is always the woman’s fault”

Not at all. Male factors also contribute to infertility. Low sperm count, poor mobility, or even a complete absence of sperm can impact fertility. Some cases can be treated with advanced techniques, while others may require donor sperm.

Still, age remains the most critical fertility factor for women, especially as more people delay parenthood. At URE Centro Gutenberg, our patients’ average age is now around 38.

Have you heard any of these myths about assisted reproduction and fertility? Now you know they’re not true. Still have questions? Visit our FAQ section for more information or speak directly to one of our specialists.