Contributing factors to infertility

Infertility Fact: According to the Society of Reproductive Surgeons, “Twenty-five percent of infertile couples have more than one factor that contributes to their infertility” (SRS, “FAQ Quick Facts About Infertility”). Even if a couple is seeking medical interventions, finding healing can be a long, complex process that may or may not end in pregnancy.  

 

Infertility Awareness: To some dealing with infertility, phrases like, “It will happen in God’s timing!” or, “Just relax, you’ll get pregnant when it’s meant to be!” can feel like a dismissal of the pain they’re dealing with here and now. While God does have a plan for their lives, it doesn’t mean they won’t struggle with or question the hardships they experience. Couples dealing with infertility need to be reminded that God’s presence is always with them, and that they are not alone. 

 

Action: Instead of offering spiritual advice or a catch-all phrase, listen first. Simply asking a person struggling with infertility how you can pray for them will go a long way. They may need prayers for an increase in trust for God’s plan, for the gift of discernment, and the grace to process anger, grief, fear, or any other emotion or situation on the roller coaster of infertility. Pray for the intercession of the Holy Family for whatever God has in mind for them. Most importantly, asking how you can specifically pray for someone struggling with infertility lets them know that they are not alone.