I saw this and thought of you... - Fertility Network UK

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I saw this and thought of you...

Nodds profile image
4 Replies

I saw something written (about something other than fertility) and realised that it was just as relevant to us and our fertility journey; so I thought that I would share it. I can't take the credit for crafting it, but it resonated with me, and hopefully with you too.

The only one who can really understand how much infertility has changed you, is someone else with infertility.

The grief you feel is not validated, accepted nor understood by those around you, even in the medical community, because it's often just as invisible as the infertility you live with.

Unless you have experienced infertility, its almost impossible to understand or relate to because after all, generally you 'look ok'.

You can get so caught up in needing people to understand how it feels, especially those closest to you and when they can't, it can feel like such a blow to the spirit and even, like a betrayal.

So let go of the need for them to understand.

They can't, not truly.

Focus instead on what is most important; that they respect the new boundaries that you now need to put in place, to protect your health and your energy.

Be as factual as you can, without needing to justify your choices. Do not apologise for the infertility because it is not your fault.

Instead, clearly explain what you can and cannot do.

If you get caught up in needing them to understand, it will end up damaging your relationships because you feel hurt, unloved and judged. Which will make you put even more emotional distance between you and make you feel even more alone.

You know how you feel.

You do not need to convince anyone else.

People who love you will be willing to respect the boundaries you set and any limitations you have when you communicate with them clearly and consistently.

You are worth it and you absolutely deserve it.

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Nodds profile image
Nodds
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4 Replies
Hope4usall profile image
Hope4usall

Very true. I often feel my family don't have any idea how I truly feel because I 'look okay' even when I try and explain it but I'm not okay. I am drained emotionally and my heart is broken from my miscarriage in January and will never be mended. My family and most of my friends haven't been through this, thank god, so can never truly understand. That resonated with me, so thank you xx

Charleexn2 profile image
Charleexn2

Wow what an amazing post, it honestly brought tears to me eyes. So accurate x

Yammie1973 profile image
Yammie1973

Very true indeed...more so if you have a mother with Alzheimer's, understanding some bits but then completely forgetting most of it a very short time later. We have told no-one outside of the family as it is just too much hassle to explain things and justify decisions etc.

hannahding profile image
hannahding

This is soo true. People can never understand our journey. No matter how much one tries to understand they cant. It's usually the sympathy that they have for us. I guess this is when the forum comes handy. It makes you realize that you are not the only one. There are others who are fighting through the struggle.

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