Infertility and Endo

According to RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association (http://www.resolve.org/site/PageServer?pagename=lrn_wii_endo), “infertility is prevalent in women 30-40 years of age, though it can begin in the late teens and early twenties” and “about 40% of patients with endometriosis will experience some degree of infertility.”

Since infertility is so common in endo patients, I thought it might be helpful to write about it for this post.

One book on the topic of infertility I’ve heard good things about is: Waiting for Daisy by Peggy Orenstein:

Here are some comments on the book by members of an infertility support group:

“So different from every other infertility book I have read. So personal…”
“ More than just a slice of her life and journey, you really develop a connection to her experience.”
“ So all consuming, infertility is life shaping.”
“ Reminded me of how easy it was to lose track of the baby and focus only on the pregnancy.”
“ If you are at the point in your journey where you need to regroup or reconnect, hearing the details of someone else’s journey will help you get off your personal island.”
“ Such a personal account, I could relate to the ups and downs.”

To be honest with you, I have not read this book myself but I decided to include it here because I have heard such positive feedback about it. Those endo patients experiencing infertility may find this book helpful.

If you are experiencing infertility, I would look for an infertility support group in your area. The RESOLVE organization may be able to help you locate a support group near you. Just check their website (above) to see if there is a support group in your area.

There are also counselors/therapists available who have special training in infertility and miscarriages. Therapists can be very helpful if you’re experiencing infertility as an endometriosis symptom. If you are looking for such a therapist, generally contacting the nearest good-sized teaching hospital in your area is a good way to find a Marriage and Family Therapy unit with therapists specially trained in this area.

Infertility can be emotionally draining. Try to find someone else near you who is going through it. Talking with others who understand can really be helpful!

This article was posted by Jeanne via "Jeanne's Endo Blog" at www.endendoat.blogspot.com.