Fertility Folklore Fun

Are You Superstitious?

By Shel Franco

After visiting a shrine, a woman finds out she is pregnant. She swears that touching an ancient statue can be credited with the miracle growing inside of her. Thousands of miles away, another woman recites the words of a special prayer. Weeks later, she, too, will discover she is "with child."

Is it coincidence? Science would probably say, "Absolutely!" While there is no proof that these stories of miracles brought forth of folklore have any truth to them, it never hurts to try.

Carved into the chalk bedrock above Cerne Abbas, Dorset (England) is a 180-foot figure – unmistakably male. Although little is known about the carving's origins, plenty of speculation exists about its current mystical powers. When a couple claimed to have become pregnant after spending the evening on the carving, people from far and wide began flocking to the figure for fertility.

If you're looking for a unique vacation spot, this might be your place. Just keep in mind that the giant is now off limits to walking on – or "sleeping" on.

To learn more about Cerne Abbas and its famous figure, visit the village's Web site.

In 1995, Ripley's Believe It or Not! in Orlando, Fla., got more than they bargained for out of a couple of statues meant only to decorate the entrance. Ripley's claims that hundreds of women, including members of their own staff, became pregnant after touching the statues.

The statues are on display at the museum's headquarters in Orlando, Fla. They are available to viewers by appointment only. You can call 407-345-8010 to schedule a visit.

Want to see more?

• Chinese Medicine and Fertility: An Ancient Discipline
• Organic Conception: Using Nature to Boost Your Fertility
• Trouble Conceiving? Get the Right Medical Care!
• Talk about it!