How to Start an Infertility Support Group

People who are struggling with infertility often feel as if they are alone. Because many couples choose to keep their fertility struggles private, those struggling with infertility issues often feel isolated. An infertility support group can help you realize that you are not alone and offer you emotional support as you face this painful chapter in your life. If you are not able to find an infertility support group, consider starting one up yourself. Here is how to start an infertility support group.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Organizational skills
• Enthusiasm

1. Decide what type of infertility support group you would like. Will the focus be on emotional support or education about fertility treatment options? Will the support group have a religious focus? Will both genders be welcome or only women?

2. Create a flyer. Explain the focus of your infertility support group in the flyer so that people will know what to expect. Be sure to include your contact information on the flyer.

3. Advertise that you are building an infertility support group. Running an advertisement in a charity's newsletter, such as in a church newsletter, is good place to start. Post the flyers in public places, such as at your local library. Also, tell everyone you know that you are starting an infertility support group so they can pass along this resource to their family and friends.

4. Screen the people who respond to the advertisements. Ask them about their experiences and what they are seeking in an infertility support group. Be open to their suggestions without losing sight of the type of infertility support group that you want to start. Also, make sure that each person sounds like a good fit for what you have in mind.

5. Hold an initial meeting. Spend this time encouraging all participants to get to know one another. Cover ground rules, such as confidentiality and commitment to attending meetings regularly. Also, make sure that everyone has the same vision for what this support group will be like.

6. Schedule future meetings. Work together as a group to determine the best time and place to meet on a regular basis.

7. Commit to the infertility support group. The support group will only be successful if the participants commit to attending regularly. Lead by example and come to every meeting unless an unavoidable conflict arises.

Tips & Warnings

• Group dynamics change when different people attend the infertility support group meetings. Strongly encourage each participant to commit to attending each time. When people who do not come regularly show up to a meeting, other members might feel uncomfortable about sharing personal information with a "new" person present.
• Confidentiality is key in running a successful infertility support group. The members need to know that what is said in the meeting will not be repeatedly elsewhere. Having each member sign a confidentiality agreement can help emphasize the importance of maintaining confidentiality.
• Your enthusiasm can go a long way toward getting the infertility support group started. The more excited you are about this new venture, the more excited your members will be.