One in six couples in Canada struggle to build their families. Infertility is the inability to conceive after having regular unprotected sex, after one year for women who are under 35 years old or after six months for women over 35 years old, the inability to contribute biologically to a conception, or the inability to carry a pregnancy to a live birth.
The challenge
Infertility is complex. It can affect your self-identity, self-worth, life goals, and relationships. The sense of loss, the grief, and the financial burden (the average cost of fertility treatment is $15,000) are obvious. The not-so-obvious challenges: time off work, navigating a social life when friends and family are announcing pregnancies, and the heartache that comes month after month with negative pregnancy tests.
Finding support
It’s important to have a support network to lean on when you’re feeling frustrated, sad, or defeated. Joining a fertility support group can connect you with people who understand how you’re feeling because they’ve been there, too.
If you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone! Take advantage of Fertility Matters Canada’s free online and in-person support groups.
Connect with us today!
On Instagram @fertility_canada, Facebook @fertilitymatterscanada, or our website FamilyMatters.ca.
