Many couples still believe that owning cats or being exposed to their fur can make it difficult for women to conceive. This myth even leads some to choose to keep their pets away while trying to conceive. However, is this belief true?
In fact, there's no scientific evidence that cat fur can cause infertility or difficulty conceiving. Fertility is influenced by various factors, such as the condition of the reproductive organs, hormonal balance, age, egg quality, and even the quality of the partner's sperm. So, why are cats often associated with pregnancy?
Myth: Cat Hair Causes Difficulty Getting Pregnant
The notion that cat dander can cause infertility is a myth. Cat dander does not contain substances that can damage the uterus, ovaries, or inhibit fertilization. As long as both men and women are in good reproductive health, owning a cat will not reduce the chances of conceiving.
Therefore, if pregnancy has not occurred, the cause should not be directly linked to the presence of a pet cat.
Fact: The Real Risk is Toxoplasmosis Infection
Cats are often associated with pregnancy due to the risk of toxoplasmosis, an infection caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii . However, it's important to understand that not all cats carry this parasite. The risk is higher in cats that frequently hunt or consume raw meat.
Toxoplasmosis is not transmitted through cat fur, but through contact with infected cat feces, consumption of undercooked meat, unwashed vegetables or fruit, or contaminated soil.
To date, there is no evidence that toxoplasmosis is a direct cause of infertility. However, if infection occurs during pregnancy, it can increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, or impaired fetal development. Therefore, women who are planning a pregnancy or are already pregnant should practice good hygiene to reduce the risk of infection.
What Are the Real Causes of Difficulty Getting Pregnant?
Difficulty conceiving is more often caused by reproductive system disorders than by owning cats. Common causes include ovulation disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, blocked fallopian tubes, hormonal disorders, and decreased sperm quality in the male partner.
How to Prevent the Risk of Toxoplasmosis?
Cat owners don't need to panic or immediately separate their pets. The risk of infection can be minimized by washing hands after handling cats, using gloves when cleaning litter boxes, cleaning cages daily, avoiding raw meat, consuming thoroughly cooked meat, and washing fruits and vegetables before consumption.
When Should You Consult an Obgyn?
If you're trying to conceive or are having difficulty conceiving, consult an obstetrician and gynecologist (OBGYN). Your doctor can perform reproductive health tests, such as ovulation evaluation, transvaginal ultrasound, hormone testing, and even fallopian tube testing if necessary. An examination of the male partner is also often necessary to assess sperm quality.
Conclusion
Cat dander does not cause difficulty conceiving . This myth is not supported by scientific evidence. What you should be wary of is toxoplasmosis, which is generally transmitted through infected cat feces, undercooked food, or contaminated food, not cat dander.
Don't let myths hinder your pregnancy plans. If pregnancy hasn't occurred or you have concerns about your reproductive health, consult an obstetrician and gynecologist (OBGYN) immediately. An early evaluation can help identify the cause of your difficulty conceiving and determine appropriate treatment to increase your chances of a healthy pregnancy.
This article was written by Dr. Lisa Puspadewi Susanto, Sp.OG, FICS (Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).