In honor of June being national infertility awareness month 2023, we want to shed light on the millions of people affected by infertility and provide education to those unaware of this condition.
Dealing with infertility is an incredibly challenging and emotionally taxing journey, often filled with unseen battles. During the month of June, we hope to provide understanding and support for those facing this deeply personal struggle. Words can hold immense power, and even well-intentioned comments can cause pain or frustration.
Through mindful communication, we can create a safe, empathetic environment for those experiencing infertility.
Contact us online today to get more free adoption information now.
5 Things You Shouldn’t Say to People Struggling with Infertility
Infertility is a complex topic that many should approach with empathy and compassion. Understanding how to provide support to those going through this difficult journey can help provide a sense of comfort. Although some of these comments may seem harmless, it can have an emotional toll on those experiencing infertility.
1. “Just relax and it will happen”
Comments like this can create even more stress for an infertile couple, particularly for women. She may feel like she’s doing something wrong when, in fact, there’s a physical problem preventing her from becoming pregnant. While stress can impact fertility, infertility is a complex medical issue that often requires professional intervention.
Suggesting relaxation as a cure can oversimplify the situation. It can invalidate the emotional and physical struggles the couple may be experiencing. Infertility can be hard on couples, so it’s best to listen and provide support when needed.
2. “Enjoy your alone time while you can”
While this may seem like a harmless comment, it can belittle the pain and yearning infertile couples may be experiencing. Suggesting that they can simply enjoy their alone time can overlook the deep emotional longing that they may have to nurture and raise a child on their own.
Infertility can be a distressing experience, and by telling them to enjoy their alone time, it can downplay the gravity of their grief and frustration. This can make an infertile couple feel unheard and invalidated. Instead of making comments like this, try to provide a listening ear and show support.
3. “You’re lucky you don’t have kids, they’re a handful”
Even though this comment may be coming from a place with good intentions, it can invalidate the emotions of those struggling with infertility. Individuals or couples experiencing infertility often have a deep desire to become parents. Suggesting that they are lucky to be without children can overlook a parent’s heartfelt longing for a child.
These types of comments can undermine the grief and emotion infertile couples may be feeling. Although it may not be your intention, it can make light of their pain and may make them feel isolated or misunderstood.
4. “Why don’t you try IVF?”
Infertility treatments vary widely, and what works for one person may not work for another. Recommending specific treatments or offering unsolicited advice can put pressure on those experiencing infertility. It can also put pressure on the person and can oversimplify the complexities of their situation.
Because most insurance doesn’t cover IVF treatments, many are unable to pay for the out-of-pocket expenses. Bringing this up can further remind them that they’re financially unable to go through with these treatments. IVF treatment is a deeply personal and private matter that should only be discussed with healthcare professionals.
5. “Everything happens for a reason”
While you may intend to provide comfort to those experiencing infertility, it can minimize the individual’s pain and invalidate their feelings. Telling someone that everything happens for a reason can unintentionally make them feel powerless or that they lack control over their own lives.
Each person’s experience with infertility is unique, with its own set of circumstances, emotions and challenges. Assuming that there is a universal reason behind their struggle overlooks their difficult journey. When comforting someone about their infertility struggles, try to respect their unique circumstances rather than making generalized statements that may overlook their situation.
By avoiding these five common statements, we can create an empathetic and supportive atmosphere for couples or individuals experiencing infertility. If you’re interested in learning more about the adoption process, then contact us online now to get more free information.
