April 23-29 is National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW), and the theme this year is #FindYourVoice. Talking about infertility is important and helps reduce the stigma surrounding women’s reproductive health. Additionally, men also deal with infertility, but, unfortunately, it is not talked about as much. This can lead to couples avoiding talking to their doctors, adding stress to their infertility journey.
The goal of NIAW is to openly address issues that are part of the infertility journey. Additionally, the recognition of this experience encourages support for anyone dealing with fertility issues. Founded in 1989 by RESOLVE, NIAW helps break down barriers and dispel myths that surround infertility.
When misinformation is readily available, companies and lawmakers often make decisions and enforce policies that make it more difficult for people to create or expand their families. This can make an already difficult time even more stressful, and cause couples to feel more isolated during a period in their lives when support would be very valuable.
Bringing the community together, and making sure people have accurate information, are two of the biggest goals of NIAW. Since the yearly event has been around for decades now, it’s expanded its reach and included more ways for people to get involved. Not only does that provide couples with additional support, but it helps encourage people to find their voices and talk about their journeys.
Orange is the color used by NIAW to raise awareness, because orange promotes a feeling of wellness and shared emotional energy, along with warmth and compassion. Increasing the activity and interest around a very important movement like NIAW will help couples now and in the future.
While the right information about infertility is absolutely necessary, the sense of community and understanding that comes from talking about the issue with others is equally important. Couples dealing with infertility need to know what to say to their doctors, when to see a specialist, and that there are others out there who are having the same kinds of struggles.
With National Infertility Awareness Week, more couples have a chance to feel heard and seen, and to bond with others dealing with the same difficult situation. Learn more about NIAW and how you can get involved!
