n . i . a . w

Well, I am coming in at the tail end of this.. but just wanted to get some informaiton out there.  For those of you that aren't aware.. this week is National Infertility Awareness Week, it is a time to raise awareness about infertility, the fact that it is a disease that affects both men and women alike, and that approximately 7.3 million (yes.. MILLION) people suffer from it.

For more information please visit the Resolve.org website (either by clicking here or the link to the left).  Also check out these Myths and Facts about Infertility from the Resolve website.

Infertility 101:

Myth: Infertility is nature's way of controlling population.


Fact: Zero population growth is a goal pursued in a time of world overpopulation, but it still allows for couples to replace themselves with two children. Individuals or couples can certainly elect the option to be childfree or to raise a single child. Infertility, for those who desire children, denies them the opportunity to choose.

Myth: Perhaps this is God's way of telling you that you two aren't meant to be parents!


Fact: It is particularly difficult to hear this when you are struggling with infertility. You know what loving parents you would be, and it is painful to have to explain to others that you have a medical problem.

Myth: Why don't you just forget it and adopt? After all, there are so many babies out there who need homes!


Fact: For many, adoption is a happy resolution to infertility. But choosing how to build your family is a very personal decision. Learning about all the ways to build a family can open your eyes to options you may not have thought of as a possibility. Education is key to finding resolution.

Myth: It's all in your head! Why don't you relax or take a vacation. Then you'll get pregnant!


Fact: Infertility is a disease or condition of the reproductive system. While relaxing may help you with your overall quality of life, the stress and deep emotions you feel are the result of infertility, not the cause of it. Improved medical techniques have made it easier to diagnose infertility problems.

Myth: Don't worry so much -- it just takes time. You'll get pregnant if you're just patient.

Fact: Infertility is a medical problem that may be treated. At least 50% of those who complete an infertility evaluation will respond to treatment with a successful pregnancy. Some infertility problems respond with higher or lower success rates. Those who do not seek help have a "spontaneous cure rate" of about 5% after a year of infertility.

and my personal favorite:

Myth: If you adopt a baby you'll get pregnant!


Fact: This is one of the most painful myths for couples to hear. First it suggests that adoption is only a means to an end, not an happy and successful end in itself. Second, it is simply not true. Studies reveal that the rate for achieving pregnancy after adopting is the same as for those who do not adopt.