National Infertility Awareness Week

October 19-25 is National Infertility Awareness Week.

Infertility can be a major life crisis. The infertility experience involves many hidden losses for individuals, their loved ones, and society as a whole, including:Loss of the pregnancy and birth experienceLoss of a genetic legacy and loss for future contributing citizens of the next generationLoss of the parenting experienceLoss of a grandparenting relationshipLoss of feelings of self-worthLoss of stability in family and personal relationshipsLoss of work productivityLoss of a sense of spirituality and sense of hope for the future
Because infertility often involves major personal life issues and decisions, it is often experienced as a private matter, and is not ordinarily discussed in public forums. The personal nature of the infertility experience contributes to the failure of society to recognize infertility as a disease thus creating a lack of sound knowledge about infertility.
The Hidden Effects of Infertility on Self-Esteem and Relationships
Infertility has a strong impact on self-esteem. Suddenly your life, which may have been well planned and successful, seems out of control. Not only is the physical body not responding as expected but it feels as if your entire life is on hold. Facing the disappointment of not becoming pregnant month after month can lead to depression. Studies have shown that infertility depression levels can rival those of cancer. - From the RESOLVE website
More than 5 million people in the United States experience infertility. In 35% of the cases, a male problem in 35% of the cases, a combined problem of the couple in 20% of cases, and unexplained in 10% of cases.
Currently only a handful of states require coverage for infertility treatment.
We need to do our part to spread accurate information. Infertility is a medical condition that requires medical treatment. We need to do our part to lobby for insurance coverage in all states; Write your state and federal representatives. Visit Resolve and see how you can help.

Thanks to AK_Sapphire at Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Pregnancy for the gorgeous button! Please feel free to save the image and post it on your own blog with the link to NIAW 08! Spread the word.