NIAW

National Infertility Awareness Week
24 April - 1 May

Although NIAW is being run in the USA, this week: 24 April - 1 May. I'm sure many of us South African woman could use the support and guidance from fellow infertiles.

I found a great link to the Resolve website that deals with 7 things you can do for NIAW. The most important one I think is that you EDUCATE yourself.

Do you need to see a specialist?

According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, you should seek the care of a specialist if you are unable to achieve pregnancy after 12 months of unprotected intercourse and the women is under the age of 35, six months if the women is more than 35 years of age. You should also seek the care of a specialist if you have had more than one miscarriage.

If you answer "YES" to any of these statements talk to your health care professional now regardless of how long you've been trying to conceive. RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association urges you and your partner to take charge of your fertility. Asking questions, educating yourself or your partner, and being your own advocate are the fastest ways to building your family.

* I have painful periods.
* I have irregular periods.
* I can not pinpoint when I ovulate.
* My partner/I have a history of STDs.
* I have an unhealthy Body Mass Index (BMI). (underweight or overweight)
* I have had more than one miscarriage.

Share your story by joining the Making Babies Network, and get in touch with other TTCers. You might be able to help another woman but simply sharing your feelings and advice.