How to Discuss Fertility with Your Partner 

Fertility is a sensitive subject for many people who are trying to conceive. It is important to know how to discuss your concerns with your partner in order to have peace of mind during what can be a stressful time. Although the topic may be uncomfortable or even upsetting, you need to have discussions regarding your options, concerns and needs. Here’s a look at the best ways to approach the subject of fertility when having this important conversation.

Start the Conversation

After trying to conceive for an extended period of time with no success, be sure to openly address the subject with your partner. Have a conversation with your partner discussing any concerns, fears or requests you may have.

If you think you want to make some lifestyle changes to promote healthy fertility naturally, offer a plan to partake of diet or fitness changes together as a team.

Fertility can be a mentally trying time for couples, in addition to addressing your concerns with each other be sure to also address the fact that the issues you are having have nothing to do with how you feel about your relationship. The other person needs to know that no matter what happens, they are loved just the same. Many people tend to feel as if they are being blamed for issues that are out of their control, and this adds unnecessary tension to an already stressful situation. Let your partner know that this will not affect your relationship in a negative way and that you are there for each other.

Let Your Partner Know That You Are in This Together

Whether your fertility struggles are diagnosed or TTC is simply taking longer than expected, the last thing you want is for your partner to feel alone in the process. Reassure them that you are in this together, and you are there for each other when the other person needs to talk or needs comforting. Let your partner know that you won’t abandon them during this tough time and that you will do whatever it takes to make them feel better.

Face Your Fertility Issues as a Team

Don’t think of your fertility struggles as one person’s issue or problem, think of it as both people’s challenge. Consistently use words such as “our,” “we” and “us”. Go to as many appointments together as possible. If you choose to talk to friends or family, make sure both partners are present for the conversation. Having both people included ensures that one person is not left behind or in the dark and that the other person does not carry all of the burdens.

Decide How Long You Will Keep Trying Before Seeing a Professional

You need to discuss this and decide as a couple your plan of approaching further fertility options. Typically, the recommended timeframe before meeting with a specialist is six months to a year. Don’t leave the decision completely up to one person. You both need to be involved and make the decision together. Be sure to stress this when having a discussion to go this route with your partner.

In addition, have a discussion regarding what methods you are willing to do to have a child. Are you willing to try IVF? Or simply oral medications and supplements to induce ovulation? Both partners need to be comfortable with the decision and both need to be on the same page when it comes time to make decisions.

This is a tough time in the lives of both partners, however, by having the proper discussions, you can find the right way to approach it. By approaching the issue as a team, you will come out of it stronger and be able to better make decisions about moving forward in the future.