Infertility is not something that is talked about openly in the way that other issues are. There seems to be a sense of embarrassment around infertility for some people, and perhaps that is because it is an issue that is closely associated with sex, and therefore a topic of conversation that some people find difficult to encounter. However, infertility, like any other medical issue, is a natural and normal part of our lives. It is not something that we should shy away from talking about, but at the same time it is a private and intimate issue. Join us as we take a look at the pros and cons of openly talking about infertility.
Cons
Let’s get these out of the way first.
Awkward conversations
You might find it difficult to bring the topic up in conversation, especially if you have not told your friends and family members that you are trying to conceive. Awkward conversations around fertility seem to be more prevalent between male friends as discussing the best ICSI treatment centre or the ins and outs of IVF are unlikely to be regular pub conversations.
Advice
This may seem like an odd one to have on a list of cons, as getting advice is key when it comes to battling infertility. However, there is also the possibility of becoming saturated with the advice given by well meaning friends and family.
Pity
The word that none of us want to hear when it comes to our friends and family.
Infertility is upsetting – true.
Infertility is stressful – true.
Infertility means that you will never have a family – false.
The pity that often results from openly talking about infertility can change your relationship with people around you because of their lack of understanding about the issue that you are facing.
Pros
Let’s take a look at the reasons why it is good to share what is on your mind.
Support
Infertility and the processes that it brings into your life can be stressful and upsetting. If you are looking to become a single parent, then telling those closest to you can create a network of support that you are really going to need. Those who are looking to parent with someone else, can also benefit from having someone to talk to who is not as close to the problem as you and your partner are.
Advice
You will be surprised to learn how many people in your social and family circle have their own experience of infertility, and their advice may well be very welcomed during your own journey.
Awareness
Raising awareness and breaking the ‘taboo’ of infertility are important as they will allow others to be open and to seek the support that they need. In sharing your own story, you will be supporting family and friends who may well find themselves in a similar position to you.
Understanding
Once those closest to you know what you are going through, they will be better able to be sensitive to your feelings and actions, and this can be helpful and supportive during such an emotional and stressful time.
We’re very proud to bring you this feature in association with Fertility Plus. For more features, please pay a visit to our lifestyle page.
