National Infertility Awareness Week 2020

Why have a National Infertility Awareness Week?

National Infertility Awareness Week, also known as NIAW, was founded by RESOLVE, a foundation that supports those going through infertility. NIAW was created as a way to bring awareness to infertility by educating the public. The more people understand infertility and the challenges that come with it, the more likely people are willing to donate to scientific research. Infertility is complex and the reasons for being infertile vary from person to person. But recent research and new treatments have allowed people to pursue parenthood that previously would not have been able to. Some people choose not to have fertility treatments, discontinue treatments and live child-free. It’s important to have open dialogs and for people to feel supported whether someone chooses fertility treatments, adoption, fostering, or living child-free.

Infertility advocates can discuss with lawmakers topics that are important to improving the science and laws regarding fertility treatment. They can also advocate for topics relating to adoption and foster care. Writing to your congressman or becoming a RESOLVE infertility advocate are some of the ways to make a meaningful impact on the different subjects that are important to those experiencing infertility.

Credit: infertilityawareness.org

When is National Infertility Awareness Week for 2020?

For 2020, National Infertility Awareness Week is being held April 19th – 25th. Each year the dates are slightly different but it is normally held for one week in every April.

I thought October was National Infertility Awareness, what is the event in October called?

The month of October is National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month. October 15th is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, where people honor the babies they lost. The Wave of Light is a worldwide event on October 15th, at 7pm where each timezone lights a candle to remember their babies, creating a wave of light across the world. There are different events held during October for National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness including support groups that come together as a group to remember the babies they lost. There are also different charity walks to help raise funds for pregnancy and infant loss research. Women who have lost a child during pregnancy or in infancy can also participate in National Infertility Awareness Week.

What events happen during National Infertility Awareness Week?

There are many local and national events that take place during NIAW. One of the biggest fundraising events to support infertility research is the Walk for Hope. This walk can also be done virtually for 2020, which is a great way to stay safe during this pandemic while also still fundraising for NIAW. This year there is a Virtual Summit being held by Beat Infertility where different speakers will present on various topics relating to infertility. Check out some of the other events on the calendar page of infertilityawareness.org.

Credit: infertilityawareness.org

What are some ways I can talk about infertility?

There are so many different ways to talk about infertility. You can share your story anonymously online, talk to a trusted friend or family member, create artwork, record your story on YouTube, make a podcast, or even make a social media post. Sharing a news article about infertility is one way to begin the conversation online with friends and family. Many people find that once they talk to someone supportive, they begin to feel less alone. It can be very healing to talk about your struggles as well as what you have learned. As we learn from each other we can all build each other up. You might be surprised how many people in your life are also dealing with infertility or know someone who has experienced infertility.

Where can I get support?

Look into infertility support groups locally, nationally, and worldwide. There are infertility support groups that are also being done online during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sarah’s Laughter is a national infertility support group and has recently did an infertility group held virtually on both a national and local level. RESOLVE is an excellent resource for both in-person support groups as well as online information that helps connect people who experience infertility.