#NIAW Let’s Talk About Infertility Awareness and Support

It’s National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW), which is an advocacy week founded by Resolve, the National Infertility Association, to bring awareness to Infertility as a public health issue. Acknowledging infertility as a public health issue strengthens the significance of infertility to those who do not understand what infertility is and how difficult it can be for individuals and couples.

Let’s take a step back and ask some important questions.

What is infertility exactly?

In general, infertility is defined as not being able to get pregnant (conceive) after one year or longer of unprotected sex. For women over 35, the time span for trying to conceive unsuccessfully is decreased to six months.

What causes infertility?

While there are many causes, here are some common ones: a history of cancer and cancer treatments, fibroids, PCOS, endometriosis, low sperm count and/or quality, older age and the most frustrating underlying cause is labeled as “unknown”.

Who does infertility impact?

Statistics show that 1 in 6 couples are impacted by infertility. The odds are you or someone you know is struggling with infertility.

What can be done to treat infertility?

Often people are quick to assume that IVF is the only infertility treatment option; however, this is not the case. Other typical types of treatment include oral medication, intrauterine insemination (aka turkey baster), acupuncture, herbal medicine, functional medicine practices, and in-vitro fertilization. There are also different types of providers who can offer fertility treatment but the best place to start is with your OB-GYN.

How can you get help if you are struggling with infertility?

- Online resources
Resolve
Fertility IQ
Reproductive Facts

- Support groups
While infertility is being talked about more in the news and social media, people still feel isolated while in this struggle.  Groups can be a healing place for people to connect and get support from peers.

-  Individual counseling
A mental health provider can provide the one-on-one support for those struggling with infertility issues. Providers who are trained in reproductive health issues understand the various treatments and emotional impacts of these treatments.

- Couples counseling
Couples counseling is a resource for couples to talk through options when they are at a crossroads. The couple can also receive support as a unit when they are handling disappointments in their fertility journey.

If you or someone you know would benefit from any of these supportive resources, you can read more about the individual counseling and support group I offer. If you would like to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation, email me here.