When I tell people that I’m a fertility specialist, I often hear the following, “I don’t know why so many people need IVF. Why don’t they just don’t adopt.”
When I hear things like this it makes me work even harder to make sure my patients have support systems in place when riding the roller coaster of fertility treatment.
Here are some ways to surround yourself with supportive and positive people:
1. Google the terms, “fertility message board.” You are going to find a number of sites filled with women that are going to be there for you during your treatment. Find a message board that you find easy to use and find peoplegoing through the same type of treatment as you. This may help distract you during the stress of fertility treatments.
2. Consider finding a fertility buddy online. There are many internet sites out there that will help match you up with someone going through the exact same thing that you are. http://www.tcoyf.com/forums/ is an example of one of those sites.
3. Facebook. Yes, facebook has many fertility resources that you may find helpful. There are support groups out there for you depending on your diagnosis. Create a facebook profile if you don’t already have one. Put the word “infertility” into the search engine and see what comes up. Find a group that you feel comfortable joining.
4. Your doctor’s office. Yes – your doctor’s office is part of your support system. Reach out and ask questions. I’m amazed by the questions that women post on the fertility message boards because I feel that the questions should have been answered before the patients walk out of their doctor’s office, not posted on a message board for others to answer. Your doctor’s office will also know psychologists, psychiatrists, acupuncturists, hypnotherapists and massage therapists in your area that are used to working with fertility patients.
5. If you haven’t been going to a fertility doctor and feel like you need to see one but are limited by geography – don’t worry. A fertility doctor can take care of you remotely. Make a phone consult with a doctor that seems like a good fit for you.
6. Resolve. http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/RESOLVE-The-National-Infertility-Association/57774720835?ref=ts Resolve is the national infertility association that provides many resources including local support groups. Check out their website and facebook group and see if you can find useful information.
7. Blog! Yes, you can blog too. A blog is a great way to keep an online journal about your journey. You will gain followers who are on the same path to motherhood who can be a source of support for you. There are a number of websites that will guide you. https://www.blogger.com/start is one of the easiest sites – and it’s free.
I hope this helps.
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