How to Support a Loved One During National Infertility Awareness Week and Beyond
Posted on April 23rd, 2025
In April, we dedicate a week to raising awareness about infertility, known as National Infertility Awareness Week® (NIAW). If you have a loved one who is experiencing infertility, you may feel unsure about how to offer your support without overstepping boundaries during such a challenging time. Fortunately, there are many ways you can help them on their family-building journey, both during NIAW and beyond.
What Not to Say
Sometimes, it is easier to decide what to say by identifying what should not be said to someone facing infertility. Common phrases that are well-intentioned but can ultimately do more harm than good include:
- "Just relax." Although this advice comes from a good place, it inadvertently places blame on the person trying to conceive. One cannot simply "just relax" their way to a successful pregnancy.
- “Just do IVF.” While in vitro fertilization (IVF) is an effective treatment for infertility, not every patient needs it. It also isn’t a simple solution, and there’s no guarantee it will work for everyone.
- “Just adopt.” This advice simplifies the complexities associated with adoption, including financial, emotional, and logistical aspects. It also suggests that adoption is merely a backup plan for those who are unable to have biological children.
- “Everything happens for a reason.” This phrase is often used to comfort someone during difficult times. However, it can minimize the pain they may be feeling and reinforce their greatest fear of never being able to have a baby.
Tips for Providing Support
There are several ways to offer genuine emotional and practical support to a loved one who is struggling with infertility. Here are some suggestions:
- Validate their feelings
- Ask questions without making assumptions
- Be sensitive when discussing your own pregnancy or children
- Check in frequently and keep them involved
- Offer distractions to help them cope
If you're uncertain about what your loved one needs, ask them directly. Sometimes, simply listening to their concerns can help them feel heard and supported. It’s also important to educate yourself. RESOLVE, the National Infertility Association that established NIAW, offers various resources for individuals facing infertility and their loved ones.
Aspire HFI and Infertility Support
Infertility is a complex issue that impacts not only those experiencing it but also their loved ones. At Aspire HFI, our team of fertility specialists is dedicated to assisting families at every stage of their family-building journey. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment at our Houston, Willowbrook, Cypress, Katy, Sugar Land, Pearland, The Woodlands, Memorial City, Beaumont, Kingwood, or Clear Lake locations.
