American women are not well informed about the optimal conditions for conceiving a child. One-quarter don’t know that obesity and smoking can reduce fertility, according to a survey.
How are babies made ? All parents have once faced this question. It seems that not all of them are able to answer precisely. Indeed, reproduction remains a mystery for the majority of American women. The results of a survey conducted by the Yale School of Medicine (Connecticut, United States), published on January 27 in Fertility & Sterility, reveal that preconceived ideas are legion regarding fertility and conception in women of reproductive age.
Better to have sex before or after ovulation ?
The survey looked at knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and practices regarding conception, pregnancy and health issues surrounding conception. If women say that 40% are concerned about their ability to reproduce, they are more likely to ignore the recommendations to increase the chances of success. Prejudices multiply when we approach this question. Half of the participants believe that more intercourse maximizes the possibility of impregnating. On the other hand, they are only a minority to know that the report before ovulation is more effective than after.
1 in 5 women ignore the impact of mother’s age
A quarter of those surveyed do not know that sexually transmitted infections, obesity, smoking or even irregular periods can reduce fertility. Age at the time of conception also affects the chances of success, as well as the development of the child. The older the expectant mother, the greater the risk of miscarriage and chromosomal abnormalities. Again, one in five women does not know.
“This study, on the one hand, highlights the gaps between women’s knowledge about their reproductive health, and on the other hand, highlights their concerns which are often not raised with professionals. It is important that these conversations take place in this volatile family landscape, ”says Dr. Jessica Illuzzi, lead author of the study. Despite these concerns, only half of women discuss reproduction with a health professional. Many also do not consult a gynecologist sufficiently.
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