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The Embarrassing Truth

Conception Facts You Need to Know But Are Too Afraid to Ask

By Gwen Morrison

"I have never heard of a study confirming the use of egg white as a lubricant in aiding fertility," says Dr. Kurtzer. "Clearly, the use of lubricants like KY-jelly can affect the sperm and adversely affect fertility. The best lubricant is your own vaginal secretion, so give some time for foreplay and the arousal period."

"Strictly speaking, women can not become pregnant while menstruating," says Dr. Rodi. "The problem arises when a woman is having some bleeding that is associated with ovulation, and she misinterprets the bleeding as an early period."

"In general, women should only douche when instructed to do so by a physician," says Dr. Rodi. "It should be avoided mid-cycle, during the time of ovulation, if a woman is attempting pregnancy. That said, I do not want anyone to get the impression that douching reduces the chance of pregnancy and should not be considered contraception."

Don't be afraid to ask your doctor or nurse questions. If you are uncertain about anything to do with your infertility, it is better to get the straight answers. Educating yourselves can save years of frustration and disappointment. With knowledge, there is power.

Want to see more?

• Decisions, Decisions: Which Conception Path is Right for You?
• Answers to Your Pregnancy Test Questions
• Ten Myths About Conceiving
• Talk about it!