Talking Fertility

Over the years, I’ve come across some really bizarre fertility tips. Not that I ever needed to use them because I’m a member of the “anyhowly touch also get pregnant” club. Most of the time, we’re trying to figure out how not to get pregnant because contraceptives? Um, ewww. If not for the fact that we’re considering having a fourth kid, one of us (ahem, not me) would be going for a vasectomy. In any case, that’s definitely happening after #4.

One time, when one of the husband’s colleagues heard that I was pregnant with Kirsten 4 months after Truett was born, she shouted “WAH, YOU ARE VERY FERTILE!” across the entire office. Followed by a very awkward silence all round.

But it’s something I’m very thankful for though. I’ve always wanted kids and I don’t know if I’d be able to cope with the agony of wanting a baby and not being able to have one. We have some very dear friends who have been trying for a baby for years without success and every time we talk about babies, I just want to give them a great big hug and send some baby magic their way.

On some level, fertility is not something most of us talk about. Partly because it’s so painful for those who are trying for kids and there isn’t very much we can say or do to make them feel better. Which is not to say that we shouldn’t talk about it, because when done in a sensitive way with much love and tact, sharing the right information can sometimes be helpful.

And I’m not talking about crazy myths like eating more oysters and bananas (although they are delicious). Or doing a handstand slash raising your legs in the air for 20 minutes after the sexytime (unless you want to work those abs, then go for it). Or drinking cough syrup before sex (one way train to woozy-town). Or go missionary instead of other slightly more creative positions (I shall not elaborate on this one). Or just relax and you’ll get pregnant. Honestly, if I was trying for a baby and someone gave me that kind of advice, that someone would have been popped in the face.

The good news is that there are several available and effective options for infertility treatment these days. In fact, modern fertility treatments have been proven to work really well. (YEAH SCIENCE!) The common misconceptions regarding fertility treatments is that it’s very expensive and ineffective but with subsidies and government co-funding (of up to 75% of the cost), it is now easier to seek medical help.

It can be a stressful process if you’re trying for a baby and it definitely helps to consult a healthcare professional plus get the right information on issues related to fertility at websites like Fertility Asia (supported by Merck Serono), where you’ll be able to get clear answers on common fertility questions and tips that might actually help.

And here’s sending some love your way.