Conception Confusion

Many women have (bad-pun alert) misconceptions about the best ways to get pregnant. Gynecologist and Parents advisor Hilda Hutcherson, MD, reveals the facts behind a few of the most common fictions.

Myth: Having too much sex could hurt your chances of conceiving.
Truth: Don't let this rumor ruin your fun. Unless your husband has been diagnosed with a low sperm count, you two can get busy whenever (and wherever) the mood strikes.

Myth: The best time to try for a baby is the day you ovulate.
Truth: You're actually more fertile during the five days preceding it. Use an ovulation kit to predict the day, then aim to have sex at least every other day for the five days up to it.

Myth: Using lube makes it harder to get pregnant.
Truth: Some studies suggest that lubricant can slow your guy's swimmers, but most couples shouldn't stress over it. "If you're having fertility issues, your doctor may recommend using Pre-Seed, a brand that doesn't affect sperm," says Dr. Hutcherson.

Originally published in the April 2009 issue of Parents magazine.

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