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Talking About Infertility

Telling Family and Friends

By Gwen Morrison

(INCIID)."

Realizing that there are ways to educate family members about the issues that are important to you can help alleviate some of the stress revolving around your infertility. Having an ally who is sensitive to the nature of infertility can be instrumental during times when you need support.

"Our family was a big support during our miscarriage," says Brenda Collins* of Allenwood, N.J. "Of course there were some ignorant comments made about my active lifestyle (I exercise on a regular basis and am a pesco vegetarian). We found that the people who just listened were the ones that were most helpful. No one has the right answers."

Since her miscarriage, Collins has had three unsuccessful intrauterine insemination (IUI) procedures. "I have found it extremely helpful to share on the...discussion board and be proactive in educating myself on all aspects of infertility," she says. "These girls are able to relate to the ups and downs of conceiving. Nothing is sacred between us, and there is a sense of intimacy we all share, yet the anonymity is something we also desire."

Collins feels that being knowledgeable about infertility helps her to provide the right information to those people closest to her – those who she chooses to share her struggles with.

Want to see more?

• "Dear Sandra...": A Letter from a Friend
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• Healing the Mind, Healing the Body
• Check out our Article Library.
• Talk about it!