Supporting a Fertility Journey

If your partner, a friend, or a loved one is having fertility treatment, it can be difficult to know how to best support them, but there are lots of simple ways you can help and share their journey. By understanding their experiences, taking the time to listen, and keeping them relaxed and reassured, you can support them every step of the way.

It might help to learn more about their treatment. We have lots of information about all our fertility treatments on our website, and we can also provide you with leaflets and other literature at your local clinic. You’re also welcome to come with your partner to appointments or join them at support counselling sessions.

Also, it’s important to remember that fertility treatments can sometimes be emotionally draining, and as a result they might need a little more patience and understanding from you than usual. Try your best to stay open and talk as much as possible, support counselling at Care may also help with this.

If your loved one is having to make some lifestyle changes as part of their treatment, such as stopping smoking, reducing their caffeine intake, or drinking less alcohol, you can help them by joining in any changes they make. By making these small changes together, they might find it easier to get used to the new routine.

Guiding and supporting someone through fertility treatment can be difficult, and it’s important to look after yourself during this time. You might find it helpful to talk to others who are supporting their friends and family through treatment, you can use the Care Forum, or other popular IVF support forums.

You can also join your partner at their support counselling appointments, and you are also welcome to speak with one of our specialist fertility counsellors by yourself. These confidential appointments can help you both to talk through the way you’re feeling in a safe, confidential place, and our specially trained counsellors will support you. Many of our patients find that, by sharing their experiences and feelings, they feel closer and more able to deal with whatever they might face on their journey.