National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW), observed annually in April, serves as a crucial reminder of the millions of individuals and couples facing the challenges of infertility. As it stands, 1 in 6 people struggle with fertility, meaning millions of people struggle to have the family they desire every single year.
Founded in 1989 by RESOLVE, NIAW aims to:
Enhance public understanding that infertility needs and deserves attention.
Ensure that people trying to build a family know the guidelines forseeing a specialist.
Educate lawmakers about how infertility impacts people in their state.
This year, NIAW’s theme is “Empowering YOU to change the conversation,” a theme we are especially proud of as Grain Fertility was built to help empower fertility patients through their data. We invite you to join us, RESOLVE, and others as we work to raise awareness, promote understanding, and offer support to those on the journey to build their families.
Understanding Infertility
Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse (or six months if the woman is over age 35) or the inability to carry a pregnancy to term. It's a complex medical condition that affects approximately millions of individuals and couples in the United States, yet it unfortunately remains shrouded in stigma and misconceptions. Unfortunately, infertility treatment is often not covered by insurance, meaning patients often have to spend tens of thousands of dollars to attempt to have a child, placing additional burdens on people who have gone through so much.
Breaking the Silence
One of the most significant barriers individuals face when dealing with infertility is the silence that surrounds it. Due to societal pressures, shame, and lack of understanding, many people suffer in silence, feeling isolated and alone in their struggles.
NIAW aims to break this silence by encouraging open conversations about infertility. By sharing stories, experiences, and information, we can challenge stigma, dispel myths, and foster a supportive community where individuals and couples feel heard, understood, and validated.
After founder Joe Cody and his wife started to talk about their own infertility journey, they were surprised how many friends and family came forward to tell them about their own experiences. Whether or not their voices helped others feel more comfortable talking about their experiences publicly or not, they all now had individuals and a community to talk to.
Building Support
Support is a vital component of navigating the emotional, physical, and financial challenges of infertility. Whether it's through family, friends, support groups, or professional counseling, having a strong support system can make a world of difference.
During NIAW, there are a number of webinars, in person events and social media campaigns to provide resources, share information, and connect individuals with support networks. You can find events through RESOLVE’s NIAW calendar at https://www.infertilityawareness.org/niaw-calendar.
Taking Action
As we recognize National Infertility Awareness Week, let's commit to taking action to gain a better understanding of Infertility:
Educate Yourself: Take the time to learn about infertility, its causes, treatments, and emotional impact. Knowledge is power, and understanding can help break down barriers and foster empathy and compassion. Grain Fertility Premium Users gain access to exclusive webinars, 1:1 private consultations with our Patient Empowerment Coach Kim, a fertility nurse and educator of 5+ years.
Listen and Validate: If someone shares their infertility journey with you, listen with an open heart, offer validation, and avoid making assumptions or offering unsolicited advice. Sometimes, a listening ear and empathetic response can make all the difference. If you need help or advice on listening and validating someone’s journey, you can check out RESOLVE’S resource at https://resolve.org/get-help/helpful-resources-and-advice/infertility-and-relationships/for-friends-and-family/.
Connect: At Grain Fertility we are proud to connect people with organizations that are working to help, including support groups. You can find organizations we work with and support at https://www.grainfertility.com/partners.
Speak Up: Use your voice to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and advocate for policies and practices that support individuals and couples struggling with infertility. You can offer your support and share your stories by attending RESOLVE Advocacy Day, held virtually on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. If you cannot attend Advocacy Day, you can send a letter to your Member of Congress, share your story on social media with #NIAW2024, or join RESOLVE’s Advocacy Network to stay up to date on the ways to help the community.
Offer Support: Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues who may be dealing with infertility. Offer your support, lend a listening ear, and let them know they're not alone in their journey.
National Infertility Awareness Week serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, strength, and courage of those facing the challenges of infertility. By breaking the silence, building support, and taking action, we can create a more understanding, compassionate, and inclusive society where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered on their fertility journey.
If you are looking to learn more about infertility; whether for yourself or a loved one, our patient empowerment coaches are here to help you and navigate your journey. They will help you prepare for your upcoming consultations with your provider and they will provide resources tailored to your individual needs. Our PEC's are committed to supporting you throughout your fertility journey. You can become a Premium member and take advantage of a risk free two-week trial by signing up today at https://app.grainfertility.com/signup.