Talking Infertility Myths with Bobbie Thomas
I recently enjoyed afternoon tea with Bobbie Thomas, (Style Editor for NBC's TODAY show) and Dr. Owen Davis (President of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)) in connection with National Infertility Awareness Week (April 24-29).
Note: I was invited as media to this event. However any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.
During out tea time we discuss the topic of infertility, some myths surrounding this issue and how women (and their husbands/partners) can become more informed about their health.
Bobbie shared about the issues surrounding her infertility (body image, relationship stressors, being in the public eye while going through something so personal) and how she felt facing the treatment repeatedly until the success of having her son.
“When my husband and I decided to start a family, I didn’t anticipate how difficult it would be. I planned for so many things in my professional life, but it hadn’t occurred to me to plan for my personal dreams as well,”.
“It’s never too early to start having conversations about fertility and to find a trusted doctor who can provide you with the real facts and help you make the best decisions, whether you’re planning to start a family now, or think you may want to in the future.” Bobbie Thomas said.
While I knew that some women faced infertility, like many of you, I didn't know exactly what caused it or what these woman could do. Some people say having a baby later in life is easy, if you’re healthy and in good shape.Or, that issues with fertility are usually the woman’s fault.
There's SO many old wives tales and misconceptions surrounding fertility.
To help me learn fertility facts, I spoke with Dr. Owen Davis about some myths/misconceptions. Dr. Own stressed that more people should become informed. Ask your doctor questions, speak with other women and couples dealing with fertility concerns and above all gets the facts!
To help those looking for REAL answers to the infertility questions, Ferring Pharmaceuticals has launched Fertility Facts: Know More. Start Asking, campaign (www.myfertilityfacts.com) which features:
- An interactive quiz to test fertility knowledge
- Information on common fertility myths and the actual facts infographic
- Tips for speaking with doctors about fertility
- Resources to support a friend or loved one facing infertility
- A behind-the-scenes look at what happened when Bobbie invited two women diagnosed with infertility to receive style makeovers and to talk candidly about their experiences
The Fertility Facts campaign was created in collaboration with the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, and encourages people to learn the important facts about fertility by establishing an open dialogue with a trusted physician on the topic.
If you or someone you know wants to learn more about Fertility, I hope you'll use this resource.
About the Author
16 comments
I am so thankful I never had trouble getting pregnant, but it's so great that there is help and support out there for moms who do have issues.
ReplyDeleteWe tried fro 8 years before having our son. He is truly our little miracle baby.
ReplyDeleteI have watched friends go through this difficult time. It is good to know there are options, information, and support out there for women to reach out to.
ReplyDeleteI know several women going through infertility and it is heartbreaking.Good to know there is information out there for them.
ReplyDeleteI didn't have trouble, but both of my sisters did. They wound up giving birth two weeks apart, and had gone through very different methods of getting pregnant. I'm so relieved and happy for them. It's truly difficult.
ReplyDeleteoh this is such a huge issue for people that have to deal with it -I did, as it can do a number on you. I am happy to say I got one and I am grateful for her.
ReplyDeleteHaving credible information available for families that are experiencing infertility is extremely helpful. The add support system is also comforting.
ReplyDeleteThank you for bringing awareness to this issue. We struggled for awhile before we had our first baby.
ReplyDeleteThis is such a sensitive subject with women. I am so happy to hear the conversation being open and awareness being brought.
ReplyDeleteI have a friend who's going through infertility problems. I'll have to share this with them. I've never had problems getting pregnant but know that it's difficult for others.
ReplyDeleteIt's times like this where I realize my wife and I with our 6 kids are really fortunate. Good article here with lots of great info...
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this, I have friends who are going through this.
ReplyDeleteIt can be a huge part of life when struggling with fertility. I'm so glad to hear all this info.
ReplyDeleteI can understand the disappointment that infertile women would feel about not being able to conceive. I am glad to see there is help for them.
ReplyDeleteWhat a hard thing to face. I haven't had to but one of my friends is facing it now and it's just heartbreaking.
ReplyDeleteA friend of mine is struggling to conceive. I'll pass this along to her.
ReplyDelete