Experiencing fertility problems or going through fertility treatment may be stressful or upsetting for you and your partner.
It may help to:
- talk to your GP or fertility specialist - they may be able to recommend professional support such as counselling
- talk to your family and friends
- join a support group
Getting counselling
Your GP or fertility specialist can refer you or your partner for counselling.
You can also pay for private counselling. You do not need a referral for private counselling.
Mental health supports and advice
Family and friends can help
Talking about your fertility problems can be hard. But talking helps people understand what you're going through.
Family, friends and colleagues can give you support and encouragement.
It may help to explain how you feel and what they can do to help.
Talk to other people who have fertility problems
It may help to talk to other people who understand your experiences.
Support and information is available from the National Infertility Information and Support Group (NISIG).
NISIG offers both online and in-person support.
Tips for coping with fertility problems
Coping with fertility problems can be hard. It's important that you take care of yourself.
Do
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learn about your options - get information from your GP or fertility specialist to help you make the right choices for you
-
talk to your partner and explain how you feel
-
get counselling
-
talk to your family and friends
-
join a support group
-
have sex just for fun
-
continue activities you enjoy - regular hobbies can be a helpful distraction
How to support someone with fertility problems
There are a few ways to help someone who experiences fertility problems or has fertility treatment.
Do
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let them know you care and are there to listen
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focus on their feelings
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keep them involved in your life
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take care when speaking about your own pregnancy or children
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respect their privacy
Don't
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do not try to solve their problem - it can be more helpful to feel heard than to hear suggestions
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do not compare their situation with someone else - everyone's experience is different