Don’t ignore infertility

Infertility affects 7.3 million people in the U.S. This figure represents 1 in 8 couples, or 12% of women of childbearing age. 

(2002 National Survey of Family Growth)

National Infertility Awareness Week

This week is National Infertility Awareness Week.   In 2010 National Infertility Awareness Week became a federally recognized health observance by the Department of Health and Human Services.  The goal of NIAW is to raise awareness about the disease of infertility and encourage the public to understand their reproductive health. 

Don't Ignore Yourself

Do you plan on having a baby someday?  So many of my friends are in their 30s have not yet even considered thinking about having a baby.  It breaks my heart.  Granted a lot of them will go on to realize they want children and have no problems conceiving.  But I fear that many of them will try to conceive only to find out the heartbreak of infertility.  They have waited too long.

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after 12 months of trying to conceive.  If you are over the age of 35, the time of trying to conceive is reduced to 6 months.  It is important to see a specialist, or a Reproductive Endocrinologist, or in some cases your OB/Gyn or urologist for a complete fertility work-up and diagnosis.

Don't Ignore Infertility Support

If you suffer from infertility, you don't have to suffer in silence.  Don't be afraid!  Don’t ignore infertility support available.  Infertility may seem like lonely road, but but you don't have to travel it alone. Join an online infertility forum or local support group to find a warm, welcoming environment.  If you live in Erie, PA, please don't be afraid to come to a New Blossoms New Life Support Group meeting.

Don't Ignore It: Talk About Infertility

Don’t ignore opportunities to talk about infertility.   Do you blog? Tweet? Teach a health class? Have a book group? Take advantage of opportunities in your daily life to share information about or bring attention to the cause of infertility.

What You Can Do

Don’t ignore the impact of making a donation. Every cent donated donated helps bring needed programs and services to women and men with infertility. Sign up for the Walk of Hope or create your own fundraising event in your location.

Don’t ignore legislation affecting infertility patients.  Educate legislators about the disease of infertility and how it impacts people in their state.  Several pending and existing laws encroach upon the rights of the infertile to freely build their families. Help change policy and protect your rights by writing to your representative or attending RESOLVE's Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C. on April 25.

More Information

http://www.resolve.org/infertility101
(Basic understanding of the disease of infertility)

http://www.resolve.org/national-infertility-awareness-week/about.html
(About NIAW)