While the road to conception is quick and easy for many couples, for others it can be a long, painful journey. Even going to a joyous event as a baby shower is extremely difficult for some women who are unable to conceive. They paste on fake smiles and pretend to be happy for the mother-to-be, while deep inside they’re hurting. Many people suffering from infertility are hesitant to discuss their problem with others. That’s why support groups offer a needed service.
Definition of Infertility and Statistics
Infertility is a disease of the reproductive system. About one out of every ten couples suffers from infertility, according to Resolve.com. This problem affects a wide range of groups from various socio-economic levels, races, religious and ethnic backgrounds.
Roughly 30 percent of infertility problems are due to male factors, while about another 30 percent are credited to female causes, notes Resolve. In approximately 20 percent of infertility cases the cause is unknown with the remaining 10 percent due to a mixture of problems in both partners.
Effects of Infertility on Couples
Infertility can strongly affect self-esteem and can leave couples with feelings of being out of control as their plans for parenthood fail to materialize. Because your body isn’t responding properly, your entire life can be placed on hold. Infertile couples face continued disappointments each month when they discover they’re still not pregnant and often don't know how to respond to curious friends and relatives who ask if and when they plan to start a family.
All these experiences can easily lead to depression. Common signs of depression may include fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, irritability, sadness and other symptoms. It’s important to address these emotional issues while trying to solve your infertility problem.
Functions of Infertility Support Groups
Usually support groups are designed to give support for the emotions and feelings of its members. Members should be free to openly share their deepest feelings and most painful experiences without worrying about confidentiality.
They often exchange information and encouragement to others, being a powerful force to those who struggle with similar problems. On the other hand, they should be sensitive to the fact that some people may never conceive and be ready to help these people find acceptance, as well as encourage them to find purpose and joy in their lives regardless whether or not they become pregnant.
Finding an Infertility Support Group
Because most infertility support groups are run by volunteers, many of them are not connected with clinics or medical professionals. Instead, look for a local support group by checking bulletin boards found in doctors’ offices or in hospitals.
Your local press, government offices or adoption centers may also have information. Doing online research is another excellent way to locate a group.
Online Infertility Support Groups
If it’s hard to get to a face-to-face support group, search online and plug into to an internet group. The American Fertility Association has monthly webinars on significant infertility topics, in addition to live chats. Their webinars let people ask delicate questions, in real time, from the privacy of their homes. They also have a toll-free number, 888-917-3777, where you can find support groups, infertility professionals or other information.
The iVillage Health website is another helpful site that gives online support in the form of message boards. When going online just don't give out any personal details until you’re sure the community is trustworthy, although these support groups are generally made up of people who truly want to help others who suffer with the same struggles and only want to encourage others.
Finally, realize that a support group may not be for you. If you have a supportive circle of friends who can help you share your burden then this may be all you need to get you through the painful condition of infertility. On the other hand, if you think you may benefit from bonding with a group, then don’t hesitate to become involved.
Sources
- Bethany: Stepping Stones (date accessed 2/24/2011).
- Inspire: Finding a Resolution for Infertility (date accessed 2/24/2011).
- Resolve: What is Infertility (date accessed 2/24/2011).
Venice Kichura - Venice Kichura is a freelance writer who writes on a variety of subjects. She holds a special passion for topics relating to art and ...
