1 in 6: You Are Not Alone
Infertility is a disease that affects between 48 million couples and 186 million individuals globally.
1 in 6: You Are Not Alone
Infertility is defined by World Health Organization (WHO) as the inability to conceive after a year or longer of unprotected sexual intercourse. Infertility affects approximately 10-15% of couples globally in their lifetime (1,2). A disease, yet it leaves most feeling misunderstood, criticized, questioned, alone, and shamed.
It's a statistic you never think you’ll be part of, but it can affect anyone. Infertility changes you. It changes your relationships, your self-esteem, your body image, and more. It's lonely, scary, overwhelming, devastating, and exhausting. There are no quick fixes. There is nothing simple about it. It's a physical, mental, emotional, financial battle and rollercoaster that can consume you.
This week is Infertility Awareness Week. We want to encourage anyone comfortable to share their story or a fact about infertility to help raise awareness, educate, and change the conversation surrounding infertility, and to also let others struggling know they aren't alone. Community and hearing stories from others who get it can really help you feel less alone on this journey. To join the conversation, visit The IVF Warrior on social and tag @the.ivf.warrior and #1in6NotAlone so we can share your posts throughout the week, too!
I Am 1 in 6
Medical Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider or qualified medical professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this blog.
References
WHO. Global prevalence of infertility, infecundity and childlessness. World Health Organization, 2015. [Accessed June 2022]
Greil AL. Infertility and psychological distress: a critical review of the literature. Soc Sci Med 1997;45:1679–704. 10.1016/s0277-9536(97)00102-0 [Accessed June 2022]
