Finding community, people who “get it”, when you’re struggling with your fertility is so crucial to your journey. From the stress of navigating the physical and emotional strain of infertility to beginning treatment and hoping for that successful outcome, connecting with others going through what you are provides a lifeline. No matter where you find yourself on your fertility journey, there is a community for you.
What Type of Community is Right for You?
There are three basic versions of community support groups. They are:
- In-Person Peer Support Groups: You and others who are going through the same type of experience come together, and one of your peers leads the discussion.
- Virtual Support Groups: These groups meet in an online forum and are also typically peer-led.
- Professional-Led Support Community: These are groups that are facilitated by mental health professionals.
Because there are so many different aspects of infertility and treatment for overcoming your diagnosis, there are support groups individualized to your specific concerns. Some people prefer the convenience of virtual support groups, and others get more from in-person meetings. Communities led by a professional are another personal preference for some. Many churches also have faith-based support communities for those struggling with infertility.
A Support Group for Every Step of The Way
Each individual on their fertility journey has a unique path. That’s why you’ll find communities dedicated to different topics. There are general infertility groups as well as those that cover situations like newly diagnosed infertility, secondary infertility, IVF, donor conception, gestational carriers, pregnancy loss, LGBTQ+, pregnancy after treatment, and so on.
The Benefits of Finding Your Community for Your Fertility Journey
A diagnosis of infertility and the struggles that come with it are overwhelming. It’s a natural reaction to want to hide away from everyone while you process it. No matter what type of community you choose on your fertility journey, there are benefits.
- Forming Connections: The tendency to want to isolate is natural for many people, especially in the beginning. But forming connections with others going through, or who have been through similar experiences, helps you feel less lonely. Talking with peers who understand can also provide perspective.
- Sharing Knowledge: One of the benefits that comes from finding your community is the shared knowledge. From ways to deal with the stress and emotions you feel to finding comfort while going through treatment to book recommendations, the fellow travelers you meet on your fertility journey offer a wealth of knowledge and experience.
- Feeling Safe to Share: Well-meaning friends and relatives don’t understand the fertility journey unless they’ve been down your same road. Your loved ones encourage you to share, but you may not feel as though you can be as open and honest as you need to without judgment. Finding your support community means you’re free to be who you need to be and share what you need to share.
There are many resources available to you to help find your community. Resolve: The National Infertility Association provides information about in-person, virtual, and professionally led support groups throughout the US. You can also ask our team at LA IVF for referrals.
If You Have Questions, We Have Answers
We are here to answer any questions you may have. Just reach out to LA IVF today, and let’s begin your fertility journey.
Here are some of the more common concerns and questions surrounding infertility. Click on the link to find the answers.
Should I consider freezing my eggs?
How do I find a sperm or egg donor? What about a surrogate?
When should I stop trying naturally and consult with a fertility doctor?
