Every April, people across the country come together to raise awareness and provide support to the 1 in 8 couples who struggle with infertility. Despite how common infertility is, there is a lot of misinformation floating around about it. In order to provide support and spread awareness, it is important to have all of the facts. To help, the fertility experts at UNC Fertility Clinic in Raleigh, North Carolina are here to give you six things you need to know in honor of National Infertility Awareness Week.
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Infertility Affects Both Men and Women
Despite the common belief that infertility is a “woman’s problem,” infertility is caused equally by male and female factors. In one third of cases, male factor infertility is the sole cause of reproductive problems. In another third, the problem is due to female factors. The rest of the time, both the male and female contribute to infertility.
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Many Women Don’t Get Treated for Their Infertility
There is a stigma surrounding infertility that often discourages couples from seeking the help they need to build their families. According to RESOLVE, only 44% with infertility go on to seek fertility treatment. This is despite the fact that fertility treatment should be sought after a year of trying to conceive without success (or six months if the woman is 35 or over), decreasing a couples chances of fulfilling their dreams of family.
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Few States Have Laws Regarding Infertility Coverage
Your insurance likely covers most services like primary care and maternity services, but unless you’re in one of these states, chances are it doesn’t cover infertility services. Currently, only sixteen states have laws regarding infertility coverage, meaning that most couples in North Carolina have to pay for treatment out of pocket. If you think this needs to change, contact your representatives and/or participate in RESOLVE’s Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C.
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There Are Multiple Treatment Options Available
When most people think of infertility treatment, their mind often goes straight to IVF (In Vitro Fertilization). But the truth is, only 3% of infertile couples need IVF to conceive. Other options, such as minimally invasive surgery, fertility medications, and intrauterine insemination. To learn more about what treatment option would be best for you, contact us today and schedule an appointment with one of our fertility specialists.
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Infertility Can Impact Those Who Already Have a Child
When most people think of a couple struggling with infertility, they think of a couple struggling to have their first child. But 44% of infertile couples who seek treatment are struggling with secondary infertility – the inability to conceive after already having a child. This is often due to increased age – either on the part of the woman or the man – and the associated fertility issues. If you’re having trouble conceiving a second (or third) child, contact us today at 919-908-0000.
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Those Going Through Infertility Need Support
Infertility can be incredibly stressful, as well as emotionally and physically draining. For those struggling to conceive and dealing with fertility treatment, it is important to have a strong support network. If you know someone who is going through infertility, make sure to let them know you’re there for them. That could mean offering to listen to what they’re going through, offer to distract them with lunch or activities, or just sitting with them.
Spreading infertility awareness and offering support to those struggling with the disease may be something we do during National Infertility Awareness Week, but we should continue to do it throughout the year. If you have more questions about infertility or how you can participate in spreading infertility awareness this month and throughout the year, contact us at 919-908-0000.