A LARGE-SCALE study has revealed significant misconceptions about fertility awareness among women actively trying to conceive (TTC).
Researchers analysed responses from 97,414 women in the UK who completed an online health assessment about their menstrual cycles and knowledge of ovulation. Alarmingly, 41% of respondents could not correctly identify the fertile window, the key days in a woman’s cycle when conception is most likely.
Knowledge was particularly low among younger women, those from non-White ethnic backgrounds, and women with irregular cycles. Even among participants who described their cycles as “regular,” many misreported their actual cycle length—further compounding misconceptions.
Women with previous pregnancies were more likely to correctly identify their fertile window, suggesting that lived experience may fill some of the educational gaps. Still, widespread misunderstandings persist, regardless of age or background.
“These findings highlight a pressing need for improved fertility education,” the authors wrote. “Providing accurate, accessible information on menstrual cycles and ovulation timing could reduce time-to-pregnancy and lessen reliance on costly fertility treatments.”
With infertility affecting around 1 in 7 couples in the UK and fertility rates at an all-time low, researchers stress that empowering women with accurate reproductive knowledge is a crucial step in supporting informed decision-making and improving reproductive health outcomes.
Reference
Wainwright E et al. Fertility awareness in 97,414 women trying to conceive: gaps, misconceptions, and implications for reproductive education. Reprod Health. 2025;DOI: 10.1186/s12978-025-02079-x.
