National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW) is April 23-29, 2023.
Infertility Awareness
Like many other women at the start of my journey, I had no idea how to find support for my infertility struggles. But along the way, I found ways in which I could become more than just a number. I discovered resources for myself and also discovered ways I could help others.
Below are 10 specific ways to promote infertility awareness.
How to Get Involved
1. Share your own story of infertility.
If you have struggled with infertility of any kind, share that journey and help to bring awareness to the cause.
2. Reach out to someone you know.
If you know someone struggling with infertility, take the time to connect with them! Let them know you’re willing to listen and to support them in their struggles.
3. Find the support you need.
If you are struggling to find support yourself, reach out to a family member or friend for help. It may seem daunting at first, but can be worth it to receive care from others.
4. Join a virtual support group.
If you’re not ready to share your story with family and friends, join a virtual support group until you feel prepared for that next step!
Facebook has many different groups that you can join. These groups help to provide online forums for sharing information, asking questions, and just getting some friendly advice from someone who has been there.
5. Attend a local support group.
A few years ago, I went for the first time to meet with some local girls to share our experiences. I was so nervous about what to expect that first meeting, but I am so glad I did it.
We now have a private Facebook group to support each other in our journeys. If you are not aware of groups in your area, reach out to me and I can help you find some great ones!
6. Share a Facebook or Instagram post about infertility.
You can find many different posts online that would coincide with this movement. Search for #infertility and see how many posts you can share to show your support.
7. Start a Twitter thread that highlights infertility.
Use the hashtag #infertility to start the conversation!
8. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and be an advocate for your health!
I know that throughout my journey to a diagnosis, I saw at least three different doctors before I finally got the help I needed. If you are not sure of how to go about this, reach out to me. I can share my journey and what I did to get help!
9. Search for infertility non-profits in your area or throughout the United States, and like their Facebook and Instagram pages.
Your one page like might be the one someone needs to see in order to become more familiar with these organizations. Here are a few of my favorites: Waiting In Hope, Embrace Bravery, Moms in the Making, and I am Fruitful.
10. Create a care package for someone you know who is struggling to start a family.
You can find infertility devotionals online, send some chocolate, purchase a fun coffee mug, or write a card of encouragement. Anything to help bring some joy to their season of waiting.
These are just a few ways that you can show you care about this diagnosis that impacts so many.
Statistics show that 1 in 8 couples struggle to start a family.
This could be your family member, friend, or coworker.
Chances are someone within your inner circle has either dealt with this issue or is still facing it. You can be a comfort in their storm and a hope to their waiting. Do your part to positively impact someone!
And for more information on local infertility support, see our Infertility Resources in Fargo & Moorhead.
