So you've decided it's time to have a baby. You stop taking your birth control and start having tons of fun with your partner :) Like most people you probably assume that you'll be pregnant within a few months. But that's not what happens. The months slowly start to drag on with your period showing up right on schedule.
At this point you're probably confused, anxious, maybe even getting a bit angry. One of the most helpful things you can do for yourself is to find a place that you're comfortable going to for information and support. Unfortunately, there are millions of us that are struggling with fertility issues throughout the world. Thanks to the internet we are now able to connect with each other in ways that previous generations never even dreamed off. These men and women are wealth of information and really are worth their weight in gold!
One of my favorite forums to go to is thebump.com. This site covers every aspect of pregnancy and you can find boards for just about whatever circumstance fits you. The members are fantastic! It doesn't matter if you have questions they will gladly share their knowledge. If you just want to rant, they will let you go and possibly rant right along with you :)
Another one of my favorite sites is Attainfertility.com. They operate fertility clinics across the country and offer a lot of information and support for anyone dealing with infertility. They also have a very active facebook page. The admins make sure the page is very welcoming to all fans.
Unfortunately, only 15 states in the US require that health insurance companies provide infertility coverage in the plans they offer. This is just one part of the overall problems in our healthcare industry. Resolve: The National Infertility Association works to education the public and our government about fertility and family planning issues. They also offer support groups, pharmacy programs, information about national, state and local legislation, and much more.
Infertility can be a dark, depressing, and stressful road to take. However, you have to remember you're not alone and there are others out there that help you stay sane. It's taken me a long time to learn that lesson.
Also, don't be afraid to seek professional help if it getting to be too much. While it's normal for some days to be worse than others, if they are all becoming bad and your depression keeps growing get the help you need before it gets out of your control.
There is always a light at the tunnel to find. Some us just have a longer tunnel to travel than others :)
If you're dealing with infertility please comment below with your favorite places to go for support or information.
