Arabic version: التنقل في محادثات حول العقم والإجهاض
Vicky Levens returned to work the day after her third miscarriage, only to encounter hurtful comments from her managers. One manager remarked that at least she was early in her pregnancy, while another criticized her appearance. Shocked by the insensitivity, Vicky, 29, from Belfast, resigned from her job, highlighting the emotional toll of such experiences.
According to BBC News, Vicky’s story is not unique. Many individuals facing infertility and miscarriage report receiving misguided yet well-meaning advice from friends and family. Phrases like “it’ll be your turn soon” or “just hold on to hope” often do more harm than good, leaving those affected feeling isolated during their struggles.
Kay, another woman who spoke on Woman’s Hour, shared her experiences with insensitive remarks. She recalled a close friend advising her to prepare for the possibility of miscarriage while she was about to start IVF. Such comments can contribute to the stigma surrounding infertility, making it a taboo subject for many.
Chloe Cavanagh, 26, currently on the NHS waiting list for IVF, described the embarrassment and sense of failure she feels when discussing her infertility with others. Asiya Dawood, 42, from a British-Pakistani background, noted that women in some South Asian communities face intense scrutiny if they do not conceive soon after marriage, leading to further emotional distress.
Experts emphasize the importance of having open conversations about infertility. Joyce Harper, a professor of reproductive science at University College London (UCL), stated that sharing experiences can help manage the emotional complexities associated with fertility treatments. Clinical psychologist Dr. Marie Prince encourages individuals to seek support from counselors and to communicate their needs to friends and family.
Support can come in various forms, from simple check-ins to remembering important dates. Elena Morris, 29, from South Wales, who received tremendous support from her loved ones, noted that small gestures, such as texts expressing care, can significantly alleviate feelings of loneliness. As conversations about infertility become more common, many hope to break the stigma and foster a more understanding environment for those affected.
