Dear Reader,
This week is National Infertility Awareness Week. Infertility is the medical term for when you can’t get pregnant despite having frequent, unprotected sex for a least a year for most couples. Infertility may happen because of a health issue with either partner or a mix of factors that prevent pregnancy.
Infertility can be lonely and stressful. If you and your partner are struggling to have a baby, you’re not alone. Millions of people around the world face the same challenge.
Research shows that many women who are being treated for infertility experience as much stress as women who have cancer or heart disease. And women don’t suffer alone. Infertility is associated with significant distress, anxiety and depression for both men and women who are trying to conceive.
Infertility can cause feelings of grief, anger loss, denial, shock, numbness, guilt and shame. All of these feelings are normal. Treatment for infertility is physically, emotionally and financially exhausting.
There’s good evidence that social support can help reduce the stress and anxiety associated with infertility. Tomorrow, on April 24, wear orange to show your support for those who have or are struggling with infertility. | 
