National Infertility Awareness Week: Facts, Myths, And Support Resources

Infertility affects millions worldwide. However, despite significant advances in medical treatments for infertility, many individuals and couples face significant barriers to care. National Infertility Awareness Week is an annual campaign that seeks to expand access to fertility treatments. Below, explore the realities of infertility, find helpful resources for accessing treatment, and encounter some ways you can support people who are experiencing infertility. 

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What is National Infertility Awareness Week?

National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW) is a federally recognized health observance that aims to raise awareness about the necessity of equitable fertility care access. Founded in 1989 by RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, NIAW has been officially recognized by the Department of Health and Human Services since 2010. 

The World Health Organization estimates that one in six people is affected by infertility globally, and in the United States, reproductive medicine is inaccessible for many families. Treatments are costly and often excluded from any insurance coverage. In many states, reproductive health care remains geographically limited, with disparities in the availability of fertility clinics and specialists. Furthermore, infertility treatments often require taking significant time off work, which can create financial and logistical barriers to care. As such, millions of families are unable to pursue treatment to have children.

During National Infertility Awareness Week, individuals and organizations work together to address these problems and advocate for those building families with assisted reproductive medical treatments. 

Understanding infertility

Infertility is a medical condition that affects the ability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term. This condition is typically diagnosed after a year of unprotected intercourse without achieving pregnancy or six months for women over 35. Infertility can affect males, females, and intersex individuals, and overcoming infertility often requires extensive diagnostic testing, treatments, and medical procedures. 

What causes infertility?

In females, infertility can be linked to medical conditions, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis, blocked fallopian tubes, or age-related decline in egg quality or quantity. Male infertility is also common and can be caused by issues like low sperm count, poor sperm quality, or blockages in the reproductive tract. In some cases, doctors may not be able to identify a specific cause.

Available treatments for infertility

Advances in reproductive medicine have made various treatments available to help families overcome infertility, including but not limited to the following: 

• Medications: Hormonal treatments may stimulate ovulation in women or improve sperm production in men.
• Intrauterine insemination (IUI): IUI is a procedure where sperm is placed directly into the uterus to improve the chances of fertilization.
• In vitro fertilization (IVF): IVF is a process in which eggs are retrieved from the ovaries, fertilized in a laboratory, and then transferred to the uterus.
• Surgical options: Surgical options include procedures to address physical issues like blocked fallopian tubes, uterine fibroids, or varicoceles in males.
• Third-party assistance: Options like egg donation, sperm donation, and surrogacy can provide additional pathways to building a family.

The BetterHelp platform is not intended to provide any information regarding which medication or medical treatment may be appropriate for you. The content provides generalized information that is not specific to one individual. Do not take any action without consulting a qualified medical professional.

Infertility: Myths vs. Facts

Misconceptions about infertility can create unnecessary stigma and confusion for those experiencing it. Below are common myths to be aware of and the facts that dispel them. 

Myth: Infertility occurs due to the woman’s reproductive health

Fact: Infertility can be caused by a wide variety of factors in either the person with the sperm or the egg. Research shows that, in one-third of infertile couples, the issue lies with the male partner; in another third, the problem can’t be identified or is with both the male and female. Additionally, while the age of the female partner is widely recognized as a critical factor, paternal age can also impact fertility, including reduced sperm quality and an increased risk of genetic problems in children. In addition, people who are intersex can experience infertility due to their intersex identity or challenges in their reproductive system.  

Myth: Stress causes infertility

Fact: While stress can influence overall health, it is rarely the sole cause of infertility. Rather, hormonal imbalances, structural issues, genetic factors, and other medical issues are typically the primary causes of infertility. While some studies have found that stress can impact the success of fertility treatments, a 2011 meta-analysis of 14 studies involving nearly 3,600 women concluded that “emotional distress caused by fertility problems or other life events co-occurring with treatment will not compromise the chance of becoming pregnant.”

Myth: Adoption is a readily available option for those experiencing infertility

Fact: Adoption can be a worthwhile option for those seeking to grow their family, but it brings its own set of challenges. The process can be lengthy, costly, emotionally challenging, and involves important ethical considerations. Furthermore, for many parents, having biological children remains a deeply personal and important goal, and approaching adoption as a “last resort” may not be an appropriate resolution to their fertility journey. Existing children are not items to fill a gap or to be used to fulfill a dream. Children in foster care often have extensive trauma and family challenges, and you may want to go through training for trauma-informed childcare first. Studies show that adoption is inherently a form of trauma, so the ethics behind adopting to solve a fertility issue are shaky. 

Myth: Young people don’t need to worry about infertility

Fact: While older people may be more likely to experience fertility issues, many parents conceive later in adulthood without issue, while many younger parents struggle to conceive. A person’s medical history can impact fertility even during peak reproductive years, and in some cases, young couples may struggle to conceive even with no known medical issues. Furthermore, young adults may feel pressured to delay parenthood due to financial constraints, relationship issues, or career goals, making infertility a concern even for younger people.

Myth: Lifestyle changes can resolve infertility

Fact: While fertility doctors often recommend that prospective parents adopt healthy lifestyle habits to increase the chances of treatment success, these changes alone may not resolve fertility problems caused by medical conditions. Certainly, healthy eating, sleep, and exercise habits can play a role in conceiving and carrying a healthy pregnancy, as well as in managing stress and managing mental health throughout the fertility journey. However, these changes alone may not be enough to overcome fertility issues. 

Overcoming infertility: Support & resources

Infertility can be a challenging journey, but there are numerous resources and support systems available to help. If you or someone close to you is struggling with infertility, the following resources may be valuable:

Medical professionals

Experts generally recommend that couples consult a medical professional after one year of trying to conceive without success or after six months if the intended gestational parent is over 35. The process typically begins with diagnostic testing for both partners to identify potential causes, followed by a tailored treatment plan that may include medications or medical procedures. 

Financial support options

The cost of infertility treatments can be overwhelming, but financial support options are available. Many fertility programs offer financing plans or payment options. Additionally, grants and scholarships can offer access to reproductive health services for couples who may not have the means to cover fertility treatments themselves.

Infertility support groups

Infertility support groups can be a source of emotional support and inspiration for individuals and couples facing fertility challenges. These groups, often available locally and online, offer a safe space to share one’s experiences with people who understand. You can find an infertility support group through non-profits, internet forums, and faith organizations.

Mental health professionals

Infertility can be mentally and emotionally challenging. Failed treatments, miscarriages, and financial strain can be overwhelming, potentially leading to deeper mental health issues. With therapy, however, many find relief from the psychological impacts of infertility. A mental health professional can offer a space to process emotions and develop coping strategies for navigating the fertility journey with resilience and clarity.

Support and advocacy: How to help those trying to conceive

National Infertility Awareness Week can serve as a time to consider how you can support people trying to conceive. Your compassion and advocacy can make a difference for those seeking to build their family:

Educate yourself about infertility

Understanding infertility is the first step in offering meaningful support. Learn about the medical, emotional, and financial challenges it poses and the available treatments. Reproductive health organizations can be a source of valuable information. You might also consider reading or listening to personal stories of those affected by infertility. Your knowledge and empathy can be a foundation for providing thoughtful and compassionate support to those navigating this challenging journey.

Offer your support

Offering emotional and practical support is another effective way to ease the burden of infertility. Doing so might involve creating a safe space where your friend or loved one can open up or helping out with daily chores or errands. If you are able, you might also consider offering financial support to help offset the costs of expensive infertility treatments. 

Encourage infertility-friendly policies in your workplace

Advocate for a fertility policy at your place of work. The policy could include paid time off (PTO) for medical appointments and treatments, bereavement leave for miscarriages, and comprehensive benefits for infertility treatments, including IVF. Flexible work arrangements and mental health support can also help create a more compassionate and family-friendly work environment.

Join advocacy efforts

Lawmakers often play a vital role in expanding access to reproductive medical treatments. Lend your advocacy by supporting infertility bills, such as the HOPE with Fertility Services Act, which seeks to make reproductive medical treatments more accessible and affordable. Participate in campaigns and engage with organizations advocating for better policies to ensure equitable fertility care for all.

Find professional mental health support through your fertility journey

Connect with a compassionate counselor

Mental health support for those affected by infertility

Infertility can accompany significant mental and emotional challenges. Prolonged or invasive medical treatments can be stressful and physically exhausting and are often accompanied by long periods of uncertainty. Treatment failure — including miscarriage — is common, which can be both traumatic and discouraging. With therapy, however, many individuals and couples are able to successfully cope with the challenges of infertility. Research indicates that cognitive-behavioral therapy may reduce depression, anxiety, and stress related to infertility while improving overall well-being and quality of life for women going through this journey.

If you face barriers to in-person care, you might try an online platform. With an online therapy platform like BetterHelp, you can connect with a licensed mental health professional and attend convenient sessions. Online therapy has been proven to be as effective as in-person sessions and is particularly beneficial for those managing the emotional demands of infertility alongside busy schedules or limited local resources. Start prioritizing your mental health by matching with a therapist.

Takeaway

National Infertility Awareness Week highlights the importance of understanding infertility and supporting those affected. This April, you can make a difference by advocating for equitable access to fertility care, driving change in the workplace, and offering meaningful support to friends or loved ones who may be affected. If you need support throughout your fertility journey, consider seeking guidance from a therapist online or in your area.