Infertility and Public Health Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Infertility and Public Health - Essay Example First of all, family members are less likely to ask uncomfortable questions at family social functions if they know that a couple is having trouble conceiving. Second, friends and family can better understand the tendency not to attend baby-related parties or gatherings if they know about the infertility. Gurevich (2008, pg. 1) claims that, "Perhaps the number one benefit of sharing is getting support. When you feel ill from some fertility medication you're taking, or down when your period comes and you have another negative pregnancy test, being able to call up your sister, cousin, or friend can really help." In this particular case, the couple is suffering from some of the pitfalls that can occur when a couple decides to tell their friends and family about their infertility problems. Their family wants to be helpful, but they are not exactly sure how to do so. They are reacting the best way they know how, but it is making the couple uncomfortable. The family members are trying to 'fix' the problem, but the advice is not based on sound medical research. Trying to tell family and friends can also result in blaming or causing extreme discomfort any time the subject of babies is brought up. As an infertility counselor, I would make three suggestions to the couple regarding this situation.