Friends, Family and Your Infertility

It’s Thursday with Sharon at Attain® IVF Customer Care.

Good Afternoon, everyone! August has arrived and if you have plans that include some R and R, enjoy!

Well, the phones are busy here at the Attain® IVF Call Center and today I want to reach out and give a hug to those of you who have called us, will call us, read this blog and everyone else in between. (((((Hug)))))

Maybe you’ve heard the following questions from others; do you have a family, how many kids do you have, you’re how old? Ouch! The struggles of infertility seem to bring out both the best and worst with family and friends and makes one realize just how much information you are willing to share and what types of situations you are willing to put yourself in (or not).

Before you tell others about your struggles to have a baby, I’ve noted some suggestions offered by callers in similar situations:

• Decide (with your partner) which details are to be shared with others and which details are just “off limits”.
• Decide which people you feel comfortable sharing information with and those you don’t.
• Deciding whether and whom to tell in your workplace can be tricky. Trying to work around appointments can lead to more stress, so consider telling one key person at work. If you feel comfortable speaking with your HR Department, then by all means fill them in.
• Think about social events (certain holidays, baby showers) that may be difficult to handle and whether you will attend.
• You will undoubtedly get unsolicited advice; even if given with good intentions. Think of a response that works best for you; you may consider saying “that is not helpful for me to hear right now.”
• If you are waiting for results from a treatment cycle, consider only speaking with those that are emotionally open and available for you.

The bottom line is to remember to take control, take care of yourself and preserve your emotional energy. This too shall pass, as they say.

Until next time, all my best.