Seven Easy Ways to Support Family and Friends Undergoing Infertility Treatment

Did you know that one in eight couples struggle to conceive due to infertility? Infertility treatment can be a difficult subject to discuss, even with family and friends, so it’s understandable why many are surprised to learn just how common infertility can be. Unfortunately, even those with the best intentions can say things that are unintentionally hurtful. Many common, knee-jerk reactions to an infertility diagnosis or fertility treatment plan can go awry, including these common responses:

Why can’t you just adopt?

Isn’t in vitro fertilization (IVF) expensive? What if it doesn’t work?

You just need to relax and take a vacation, then it will happen.

My cousin says you don’t need to take hormone injections.

You’re so lucky that you don’t have kids, you’ll be able to sleep in.

Even if well intentioned, these comments can be hurtful and undermine a person’s decision about their path to parenthood. The time, energy, and financial commitment to infertility treatment is serious and is not taken lightly by couples or individuals who wish to have a baby. Having these choices questioned, even casually by close friends or family, can discourage fertility patients from wanting to share their journey.

Fortunately, there are plenty of actions you can take to support family or friends undergoing infertility treatment. Chelsea Fertility of New York City has outlined seven easy ways to show your support for the infertility community.