WORKING THROUGH WORRIES

26 August 2024

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Let’s Talk Infertility – Why Conversations About Infertility Matter

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While infertility is a deeply personal and painful subject, staying silent can make an already challenging journey even lonelier and more difficult. Opening up about infertility positively impacts the well-being of those affected and helps create a more supportive and informed society. This openness makes individuals feel less isolated and more empowered in their journey.

Turning isolation into connection

Thankfully, the internet and social media have become a haven for those seeking support and information about infertility. A quick search reveals a plethora of blogs and articles, transforming the landscape from having no information to an abundance of resources.

Responding to concerns about Singapore's low fertility rate of less than one, there has also been a significant increase in public conversations about infertility. This topic is now addressed in the news, on TV shows, in movies, and even by celebrities willing to share their struggles.

Trying-to-conceive communities, such as Fertility Support SG, have become more active both offline and online in raising awareness of this common problem. Founded in 2020 by a group of women facing infertility, they created a community where couples could get accurate information, share experiences, and gain support during these challenging times.

SG Women's Festival 2024 SG Heroines Award Winner Jasmine Tay shares the same sentiment. She and her husband, Daniel Hu, created an Instagram account, @husmarried, dedicated to their infertility journey until the birth of their daughter, Darra Hu, in 2022.

"We know that infertility can be a taboo topic and a lonely journey, which is why we decided to share our story. We hope that by opening up, we can provide comfort and support to others who may be going through a similar experience," says Jasmine.

Navigating infertility in the Workplace

Having fertility discussions at work can be challenging, as people often worry about colleagues' or managers' reactions and how it might impact their careers. The decision to disclose information about your fertility journey in the workplace is personal and depends on your personality and the nature of your professional relationships. However, it can be beneficial for scheduling recurring appointments, requesting extra time off, and balancing out-of-office commitments.

When discussing your fertility journey at work, it is important to plan your approach carefully. Think about your interaction beforehand and clarify your hopes or expectations for the conversation before you meet with your manager. Avoid bringing up your fertility struggles for the first time in a casual setting, like the office pantry or over lunch. Instead, schedule a private meeting with your manager to ensure a focused and respectful discussion.

Share only what you are comfortable with, and tailor the details to fit the circumstances. Be as honest as you feel you can be without overstepping your personal boundaries. If you are supporting a loved one through a fertility journey, the same rules apply, as you may want to accompany your partner during procedures and scans for emotional support.

Creating a safe space to keep the conversation about infertility alive

Lengthy fertility treatments can have serious emotional, physical, and financial impacts on a woman and her partner.

Creating a safe space encourages open dialogue, where individuals can share their journeys without fear of judgment. It is a space where their experience is validated, and their emotions are heard and respected.

Ref: https://www.ivf.com.au/blog/talking-about-infertility-a-guide

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