November 2nd is World Fertility Day, and it’s a time to bring awareness to fertility and some of the issues millions of people face each year. However, just because there is a designated day to fertility, doesn’t mean people can’t highlight it year-round. Women’s health is historically put on the backburner, so having open awareness can help women and couples get the care they need on their journey to family planning. Having open conversations and creating a safe space for people to share their experiences can create waves for people who are lost. The fertility journey is different for everyone and health education needs to be more accessible on a regular basis.
This time of year is especially important to support women and couples no matter what their fertility journey looks like. As the holiday season approaches, some people are surrounded by families and friends who have questions. Many times family members ask things like, “When will we see a new baby in the family?” or “Have you guys started trying for a baby?” These types of questions are oftentimes in good nature, but you never really know what someone is going through. Before asking these questions, think about how it could be received. If someone you know is having fertility issues, this could be a tough conversation and can make people feel isolated during a time when people are supposed to feel connected. Studies show that 6.7 million people have trouble conceiving a child each year, and the natural fertility rate is only at 20%.
“Trying to conceive a child can be one of the most vulnerable experiences couples go through. The fact that 1 in 6 are affected by infertility shows that it’s a common problem and that’s why this day is so important. It highlights the struggles that people go through, helping them feel not so alone in their journey,” says Proov CEO Amy Beckley.
Now this is not to say that people should beat around the bush when it comes to fertility, but if you ask questions and have a conversation you should be ready to provide support and love no matter what. When a couple is experiencing infertility, they might be confused and frustrated. It’s important to be an active listener for them and potentially provide them with resources that could help.
This World Fertility Day is so important because not only can it help those personally struggling with infertility get the resources and information they need to try new family planning avenues, but it can help educate those around them. Awareness is important for society as a whole, and can create a community of compassion, support and understanding.
“Women’s health education is so often put on the backburner. This day also provides solutions for couples and access to resources that will help them navigate this journey. Whether it’s fertility testing, holistic measures or even IVF treatment, there are ways for women to conceive, but they don’t know what they don’t know. When we amplify awareness and education we are highlighting different avenues couples can take to be proactive about their fertility,” Beckley says.
Fertility and infertility does not just happen one day a year, but all 365 days. It’s good to have a day to bring awareness to these topics, but people should be educating themselves and having conversations more often than just that one day a year. Couples experiencing fertility issues are going through a tough time and having people around them who understand their struggles and will be there for them no matter what makes a difference. Women’s health is often stigmatized and the more people learn about it, the more accessible solutions will be for everyone.
As the holiday season comes around the corner, think about how educating yourself could make a difference for family and friends around you. Sometimes people don’t know what they don’t know, but taking action and learning about infertility solutions can spread information and awareness. Being an educated resource for your family and friends can help steer them in a potential direction that works for them, and shows that you are there for them through thick and thin. Women’s health education is the greatest gift this holiday season.
