Barren But Not Ashamed: A Kandid Chat on Infertility

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On this episode, I had the pleasure of having the long overdue kandid chat about the highly stigmatized topic of infertility. I am joined for this important discussion by speaker, transformational coach, bestselling author of "Overcoming the Emotional Stigmas of Infertility: Barren But Not Ashamed," and Founder of Heart Desires Fulfillment Coaching LLC, Frances Jones.

The stats

In the US, 19% (about one in five) of heterosexual women aged 15 to 49 years old, with no prior births, are unable to get pregnant after one year of trying. Additionally, 26% (about one in four) of the women in this group have difficulty getting pregnant or carrying a pregnancy to term.

Key Takeaways

• People experiencing infertility often face stigmas, embarrassment, shame, and fear of judgment and criticism.
• Many people who have not personally experienced infertility do not fully understand the daily struggles of those who are dealing with it.
• Infertility can be caused by a variety of factors such as heavy cycles, health issues like cancer, or other factors that can damage the body
• It is important to be aware of what is happening in the body and to do research and talk to doctors earlier if having children is a desire
• Infertility can have a negative impact on the mental health of individuals concerned, causing emotions such as negativity, anger, heartache, and withdrawal
• Male factors can cause infertility about half of the time

Action points for coping with infertility: 

Give room for truthful and open communication; discuss the emotions and experiences of each individual involved.

Dos and Don'ts when talking with someone trying or struggling to conceive:

• Do consider the receiver of the message, ask the person if they are willing to talk and how they want the conversation to go.
• Do ask how you can support them and check in with their emotions and willingness to talk about their struggles, do not force the conversation.
• Don't tell them to relax, it's not helpful and not what they need to hear.
• Don't ask when they're going to have kids, if they want kids or why they don't have kids, this is hurtful and insensitive.
• Do have compassion and sensitivity in your conversation and avoid giving unsolicited advice
• Keep in mind the person's state of mind and timing, it could be the right message but not the right time.

Keep in mind that everyone faces challenges, but there is hope and a light at the end of each one. Keep pushing forward, maintain your belief, and remember that nothing is impossible for you. The outcome may not come in the way that you expect, but with persistence and belief, you will find the peace, happiness, love, and hope you are seeking!

Guest contact info

Frances Jones

https://www.heartdesirescoaching.com/

https://www.instagram.com/heartdesirescoaching/?hl=en

https://twitter.com/heartdesiresfc

https://web.facebook.com/heartdesirescoaching/?_rdc=1&_rdr

https://www.tiktok.com/@author.francesjones

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