Top 10 Fertility Myths with Dr. Marika Raff and Dr. Lee Caperton

Dr. Marika Raff • October 24, 2024

Fertility is a deeply personal journey, and with so much information circulating online and through word of mouth, it’s easy to get caught up in myths and misconceptions. That's why Dr. Marika Raff and Dr. Lee Caperton, experts from Caperton Fertility Institute, are here to set the record straight by debunking the top 10 fertility myths that may be holding you back or causing unnecessary confusion.

Watch the video below to learn the truth behind these common fertility myths!

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the myths they discuss:

1. Women Can Get Pregnant Anytime During Their Cycle

This is one of the most common misconceptions. Dr. Raff explains that a woman can only conceive during a small window around ovulation, and tracking your ovulation can be a crucial tool for increasing your chances of pregnancy.

2. Age Doesn't Affect Fertility Until After 40

While fertility does decline more sharply after 40, Dr. Caperton shares how it actually begins to drop in a woman's early 30s, with noticeable changes by 35. Understanding your fertility timeline is important for making informed decisions.

3. IVF is Only for Women Who Can’t Conceive Naturally

Many believe that in vitro fertilization (IVF) is a last resort, but Dr. Raff clarifies how IVF can be part of many fertility plans, from male infertility factors to genetic screening and more.

4. Stress Causes Infertility

Stress is often blamed for fertility problems, but Dr. Caperton dives into why stress, while important to manage, is not a direct cause of infertility.

More Myths Covered:

  • If you've had one child, you won't have trouble conceiving again.
  • Infertility is always a woman's issue.
  • Birth control causes long-term infertility.
  • Lifestyle choices don’t affect fertility.
  • And more...

Through these expert explanations, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what’s fact and what’s fiction, empowering you to make more informed choices about your fertility journey.

At Caperton Fertility Institute, we believe in providing our patients with compassionate, personalized care tailored to their specific needs. We know that fertility is complex, and every individual and couple’s journey is different. If you have any questions or concerns about your fertility, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.

Watch the full video above to learn more from Dr. Marika Raff and Dr. Lee Caperton!

For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit Caperton Fertility Institute. We’re here to help guide you through your fertility journey with the expertise and support you deserve.

Caperton Fertility Institute – Your Fertility Experts in Albuquerque, NM and El Paso, TX

Understanding Fibroids and Fertility

By Dr. Lee Caperton • October 7, 2025
Uterine fibroids are a common diagnosis among women of reproductive age. While many fibroids are harmless and cause no symptoms, others can interfere with fertility and pregnancy. At Caperton Fertility Institute , we help patients understand how fibroids may affect reproductive health and provide personalized treatment options to optimize fertility outcomes. What Are Uterine Fibroids? Fibroids, also known as leiomyomas , are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop in or on the uterus. They can vary greatly in size, number, and location. Depending on where they form, fibroids are classified into several types: Submucosal Fibroids: Grow into the uterine cavity Intramural Fibroids: Develop within the uterine wall Subserosal Fibroids: Form on the outer surface of the uterus Pedunculated Fibroids: Attached by a stalk extending from the uterus How Fibroids Can Affect Fertility Not all fibroids impact fertility. However, certain types and locations are more likely to interfere with conception, implantation, or pregnancy progression. Submucosal Fibroids: These are most likely to affect fertility because they distort the uterine cavity, which can prevent implantation or increase the risk of miscarriage. Intramural Fibroids: When large, these fibroids can change the shape of the uterus and affect blood flow, potentially reducing the chances of successful embryo implantation. Tubal Blockage: Fibroids located near the fallopian tubes can obstruct sperm or egg movement, preventing fertilization. Cervical Fibroids: Although rare, fibroids near the cervix can hinder sperm entry into the uterus. Common Symptoms of Fibroids Fibroid symptoms vary widely — some people experience significant discomfort, while others have no symptoms at all. Common signs include: Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding Pelvic pain or pressure Pain during intercourse Frequent urination or constipation Recurrent pregnancy loss or difficulty conceiving For many patients, fibroids are first discovered during a fertility evaluation or routine pelvic exam . Diagnosis and Treatment Options At Caperton Fertility Institute , we use advanced diagnostic imaging such as ultrasound and MRI to assess fibroid size, number, and location. Once diagnosed, treatment is tailored to your fertility goals and overall health. Treatment options include: Medical Management: Hormonal therapies to reduce symptoms and fibroid growth. Surgical Options: Myomectomy to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus. Minimally Invasive Procedures: Hysteroscopic or laparoscopic surgery for faster recovery and minimal scarring. Our approach is designed to preserve fertility whenever possible while alleviating symptoms and improving uterine health. Hope After a Fibroid Diagnosis A fibroid diagnosis doesn’t mean you can’t conceive. Many patients with fibroids go on to achieve healthy pregnancies — especially with proper evaluation and treatment. At Caperton Fertility Institute , our experienced fertility specialists in Albuquerque, NM , and El Paso, TX , provide compassionate, individualized care for every patient. We’ll guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and the next steps toward achieving your dream of parenthood. ✨ If you suspect fibroids may be affecting your fertility, schedule a consultation today. Let’s take the next step together toward your fertility goals.

Honoring Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month 🤍

By Dr. Marika Raff • October 7, 2025
Every loss is unique. Every story matters. Every life is remembered.
Blonde woman in red sweater smiles while using a laptop and tablet at a cafe table.

Egg Donor FAQ

By Dr. Kelly Caperton • September 19, 2025
1. What is egg donation? Egg donation is the process by which a healthy woman donates her eggs to help another individual or couple conceive a child. These eggs may be fertilized through in vitro fertilization (IVF) and implanted into a recipient’s uterus or frozen for future use. 2. Who can become an egg donor? At Caperton Fertility Institute, we welcome egg donors who meet the following criteria: Ages 19–30 Physically and emotionally healthy Non-smoker, non-drug user Regular menstrual cycles No history of genetic or reproductive disorders Willing to undergo medical and psychological screening Able to commit to the time and responsibilities of the donation process 3. Why do people need egg donors? Egg donors help individuals and couples who are unable to conceive using their own eggs due to: Advanced maternal age Genetic conditions Medical treatments like chemotherapy LGBTQ+ family-building Unexplained infertility 4. Is egg donation safe? Yes. Egg donation is a common and generally safe medical process. It involves hormone injections to stimulate the ovaries and a minor outpatient procedure to retrieve the eggs. Risks are low but can include mild discomfort, bloating, or temporary side effects from medication. Serious complications are rare. 5. Will donating affect my fertility? No, egg donation does not impact your long-term fertility. Women are born with thousands of eggs, and donation uses only a small number that would naturally be lost in a normal cycle. 6. Is egg donation painful? Most donors report mild discomfort similar to menstrual cramps. The egg retrieval procedure is done under light sedation, so you won’t feel pain during the process. Recovery typically takes 1–2 days. 7. Will I be compensated? Yes. Caperton Fertility Institute offers generous, ethically guided compensation for your time, effort, and commitment. The amount is discussed during your initial consultation and complies with all legal and medical guidelines. 8. How long is the egg donation process? The process generally takes 6–10 weeks from initial screening to egg retrieval. It includes: Application and screening Medical and psychological evaluations Legal review Hormonal stimulation (approx. 10–14 days) Egg retrieval procedure 9. Can I still work or go to school during the donation process? Yes. Most of the process can be scheduled around your routine. However, you'll need to attend several clinic appointments and take medications on a strict schedule. During the last week, you'll need to reduce physical activity. 10. Will my identity be kept confidential? Absolutely. Donor confidentiality is strictly maintained. You can choose to remain anonymous, open, or semi-open, depending on your preferences and the recipient’s needs. 11. How do I get started? To begin the egg donor application process: Visit our Portal Fill out a questionnaire Our donor coordinator will contact you for next steps 12. Can I donate more than once? Yes, eligible donors can donate up to six times, as recommended by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). Each cycle is spaced out for your health and safety.
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