How to Talk to People About Your Journey With IVF
It can be hard to discuss your struggles with infertility. You might feel embarrassed or upset about the circumstances surrounding your IVF treatments or don’t know how to ask questions people may have for you. If you or a loved one are seeing an IVF specialist, here are some tips to help you talk about it:
What Is IVF?
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a series of medical processes to help those struggling to conceive a baby or prevent genetic problems. Mature eggs are taken from a woman’s ovaries and then fertilized by semen in a lab. A specialist will implant those embryos into a woman’s uterus. IVF is a common method of reproductive technology used in modern medicine.
Talk to Trusted People
Knowing what to expect from others can be challenging as you go through IVF. Fertility struggles are personal and might not be evident to those inexperienced with such treatments.
Some people may have preconceived notions about how IVF works. They may also not understand or respect your reasons for choosing IVF treatments over other options.
Many people going through IVF find support from those close to them. Your comfort level will help determine whom you tell. You can tell people who are close to you. Some may support you if they know you’re trying to have a baby. Others may want to help in any way they can.
Discuss your feelings with your partner or spouse before you proceed. The people you talk to may have already been involved in your fertility journey. If not, you can use this conversation to get their involvement and support.
You might also talk to someone who has been through similar experiences. They can advise you on what to expect during and after the procedure. Trusted family members and friends may offer advice that isn’t necessarily related directly to IVF but still gives insight into how others approach such an issue.
People in your life may have different feelings about fertility treatment from what you feel. Some people may be excited for you and supportive. Others may feel jealous or worried about the emotional and physical toll fertility treatments may take on you.
Some people might not want to talk about IVF, even if they are interested in going through the procedure themselves. If someone brings up their own experiences with infertility, listen carefully but remember that each person’s story may differ.
Dealing With Personal Questions or Rude Remarks
Some people may not know how to talk about it in a way that makes sense to you. You don’t have to answer every question if you feel uncomfortable. If someone asks something that seems like it might be inappropriate, you can evade the comment tactfully.
For example, try saying something like, “I don’t think we’ve had any problems yet.” You can also say, “I’m not ready yet,” or “This isn’t something I want everyone else to know.” You can then change the subject or explain that you’re no longer willing to discuss the matter.
Focus on the People Who Matter
When talking about your journey with IVF, you don’t have to tell everyone everything. You don’t need to tell people how things went or how they should feel about your fertility journey. What you share is up to you.
It can be hard not to share every detail of your experience with others at first. Family members may ask questions that make you uncomfortable. It’s OK to keep those details private. Try not to let anyone pressure you into sharing too much.
Those supporting you may want to know what’s happening and ask questions. If they don’t understand the science behind IVF or don’t want too much information about what happens in your body after the procedure, it might be better not to tell them.
Use a Qualified IVF Specialist
You don’t have to share your fertility struggles with everyone, but you can open up to others in your life if you choose to. If someone asks you questions that don’t seem right, it might not be worth talking about it with them.
Sometimes it may be best to be honest with people you feel comfortable talking to. That way, they can respect your privacy. If you want to go through the treatment, consult a qualified IVF specialist first to know more about the procedure.