FINDING SUPPORT DURING FERTILITY TREATMENT

People don’t always know what to say or do when someone they love is experiencing fertility problems. Be clear about what you need—and what you’d rather not hear—so that they can support you in meaningful ways.

• Set boundaries

Your partner might not want to share as much as you do. Decide as a couple how much you want to tell people about your fertility journey

• Plan your responses

Think about how you’ll respond to questions about treatment. Keep your answers short and sweet if you don’t want to have a long conversation about the subject

• Adjust your expectations

Your loved ones want to help, but if they haven’t been through the same experience, they might say something hurtful without meaning to. Be patient, and try to communicate your feelings without assigning blame

It might help to talk to other people on a similar journey. They can answer questions and share their experiences, including tips on how to move forward, suggested reading materials, or recommendations for a fertility counselor if you don’t already have one.

Find a support group near you at Resolve.org

Talking with a fertility counselor, either with or without your partner, can be helpful and reassuring. A counselor can guide you through different treatment choices, assist you with decision-making, and help you communicate with your partner.  It’s also less stressful and time-consuming to make decisions with the help of an objective third party.

Fertility message boards are a great place to connect with a community of people going through an experience similar to yours. Here you can ask questions, read about success stories, and gain practical advice on every step of your fertility journey.

Join the GLOW community