When You Can’t Have A Baby
Traditionally, married couples are expected to start a family and have children. However, not all couples can conceive easily and naturally. After some testing and prodding, the couple could be given an infertility diagnosis. These couples may not be able to openly share the difficulties of trying to have a baby with family and friends. The lack of awareness and understanding surrounding infertility often leads to feelings of isolation and can strain relationships with loved ones. However, this can be avoided by having open and honest conversations about infertility. Discussing infertility struggles with loved ones can help raise awareness and foster a supportive environment.
Should you break the silence?
Infertility is a common challenge faced by many individuals and couples, yet this topic remains taboo in some spaces and seldom discussed openly. By keeping the struggle private, feelings of grief and isolation may intensify. Worse, mental health and relationships may suffer as a result. To overcome this barrier, couples and individuals need to break the silence and openly communicate the struggles of infertility with close loved ones. Only by sharing these experiences and discussing the physical and emotional toll of infertility can couples receive the understanding and support of family and friends.
Choosing the right time and place
Realizing that the topic of infertility can be sensitive, discussing in an appropriate setting is crucial. Choosing a comfortable and private environment, free from distractions or time constraints, can create a safe space for open dialogue. Everyone involved in the discussion should also be emotionally prepared to engage in the conversation and have the necessary time to process and respond to the information shared. Some couples may tell immediate family members individually, while others may reveal the diagnosis in a group setting. Choose the best option that’s comfortable and effective.
Prepare the facts
The next step in having a conversation about infertility with loved ones is to prepare the facts. Friends and family may have a lot of questions once an individual or couple opens the topic of infertility. Information on the causes of infertility, specialists consulted, available treatment options, treatment timeline, and financial considerations can help provide a comprehensive understanding of the situation. Loved ones aren’t required to know all the details of infertility. Decide beforehand what information will be revealed and what will remain private until more progress is made.
Sharing the physical and emotional toll
Aside from the facts, this is also the avenue for individuals or couples to share the physical and emotional aspects of the infertility journey. Discuss the medical procedures, the emotional rollercoaster, and the impact on mental health. Women may also choose to share the physical pain and discomfort that comes with fertility treatments if this is the next step. By sharing this personal and vulnerable information, loved ones can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those struggling with infertility.
Being open to questions and feedback with grace
After unveiling the challenges of infertility, loved ones should be allowed to provide support and ask questions. This can be the most challenging part of the interaction. Some family members may give advice based on past experience, while others may dismiss the diagnosis. Others may suggest doctors or strategies to improve fertility. Be appreciative of advice but set firm boundaries about advice and support. Trust and follow the information provided by the medical team and take any questions that may arise back to the doctor for more clarification.
Seek out support
Disclosing the diagnosis is a crucial moment for loved ones to express empathy and ask how to best support the family member or friend. When asked, couples and individuals should also be honest about the kind of support needed. This may be in the form of practical help, such as assistance with appointments, or emotional support, like being a listening ear or offering words of encouragement. By being fully open and transparent about all needs and experiences, individuals or couples struggling with infertility can pave the way for more effective support from loved ones.
Discussing the road ahead
After speaking with loved ones, couples have to look at the next steps to start or grow a family. Some may consider fertility treatment, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), to increase pregnancy rates. Others may need donor sperm or eggs, while some couples may discuss surrogacy or adoption. Whatever the route, know that there are options available, and infertility is not a final diagnosis. Talking to loved ones can be a challenging, emotional process. Planning out the course of action can make this difficult step easier.
