Telling friends and family about starting IVF or IUI

We told family after a few months on infertility treatment. We had started to get questions about us having babies so we chatted and decided it would be easier for close family to know. It also helped with support too. We sadly had a chemical pregnancy three weeks ago and it meant that everyone was there for us when we needed them.
When we told them we just came out with it to be honest. I don’t remember how we started the conversation I think it was along the lines of ‘we’re having trouble conceiving’. All our family have been really supportive and by us speaking up we found out my brother in law and partner are also struggling too. So we have each other as a support too.
I did speak with work as I needed time off for scans and appointments. I work for the NHS and can honestly say they have been the best. I’ve had all my scans and appointments paid so I’ve not lost any money or had to use any holidays either. The staff are really supportive and have really looked after me when I've

We told family and friends once we had done a few tests. We have still kept things private and mentioned where we are as and when we feel we want to. It helps to talk. It will be surprising once you do how many people you hear are also in the same situation in your area and it could be someone you have connections with.

Following as I think my partner and I will be in a similar situation soon 🥲 x

My close friends knew we were trying from quite early on, so I’ve had people to talk to about it most of the way through trying. When we were about to start treatment we told my parents, we just kind of came out with it at the end of a video call with them. It has been really helpful to have a few people who know to turn to. People aren’t always great at talking about this stuff though, so be aware that not all comments will be helpful or make you feel good.

I told my work not long before we were about to start treatment, mainly because I have a physical job and use power tools, so needed to be able to avoid certain things at certain times. They’ve been great, very supportive and I also get 5 days leave for treatment, which is handy.

I would suggest not telling people exact dates of things as you’re then likely to get messages or questions on those days, and you may just want to be left alone and not feel that you have to reply or be reminded of things. Xx

Hi there! We’re very open about our fertility journey, so we told friends and family before we even started. Our fertility clinic is 12 hours round-trip, so I also told work once my appointments got more frequent and I was less available/taking time off work.

Admittedly, everyone was incredibly supportive in the beginning. But after 2.5 years of IVF, I do sense people are starting to get “tired” of updates. I was pretty disappointed by how my friends and family handled my miscarriage in August. I don’t know what I was expecting, but it felt like I just got one “I’m so sorry” text and then no follow-up to see how I was doing- physically or emotionally.

I think that, for those who haven’t experienced infertility or miscarriage, they truly don’t understand what an emotional rollercoaster it is and how long it can take. While I’m glad they’re aware of what I’m going through, I do wish people educated themselves a bit more on how to delicately treat the various hurdles we go through. ✨✨

Just started the IUI process last wk & I’ve told our friends & family. But they’ve known that we have been trying for over a yr so they are very excited for us. We’ve decided on not telling them when the actual IUI day will be. I don’t really want them checking in during the TWW & we’d really love to surprise them if the IUI works!

We decided not to tell anyone and we are just about to do our first transfer. My husband said we should at start but I didn’t want pressure of people asking for updates and if it’s bad news I don’t need everyone feeling sorry for me. Will only make it worse. My family will never understand as none of them had issues.

I talk to a friend in work about it. She’s in same situation so can relate but I have not told my work. I just tell them I need a few days off for an operation and they don’t ask x

We told my parents and my mother in law about the process we are in, they were very supportive! I didn’t tell my work cause I feel that it’s personal and I don’t want it going around to everyone!