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It isn't always easy to know how to support a friend or loved one who experiences infertility. It can be truly difficult to know how best to offer support. Asking how they'd like to be supported is our first suggestion, but reaching out with a thoughtful or practical gift can certainly be appreciated.
The Unofficial Dos and Don'ts
If you are thinking that a gift is a good idea, here are some guidelines that we suggest:
Dos
- Recognize that infertility is very personal. Humorous or whimsical gifts may not be appreciated by everyone.
- Consider your relationship with the recipient. Are you in the "inner circle" or a co-worker? This is a good indicator of how personal or specific to get.
- Play it safe. If ever in doubt, "thinking of you" is a pretty safe approach.
Don'ts
- For-when-you-get-pregnant gifts. Not recommended for anyone. At any time. Ever.
- Nothing for a future baby. Save that for after a pregnancy is confirmed.
- Anything never-give-up themed. Sometimes people need to decide to stop treatment and move on because it is the best decision for them.
- Give anything advice-related. Skip the self-improvement books or supplements that your best friend's sister used. Unsolicited advice (in any form) is never a good idea.
So what might work? Here are some of our suggestions for gifts that someone on a fertility journey who may be trying to conceive, undergoing treatment like IUI or IVF, may find helpful or touching.
IVF WTF?!: An Adult Coloring and Stress Relief Book
$12.99
Buy Now
Attatoy Plush Uterus
$17.99
Buy Now
Heating Pad for Injections
$25.99
Buy Now
Pineapple Ankle Socks
$10.00
Buy Now
Grow Through What You Go Through Mug
$18.00
Buy Now
One in Eight Infertility Awareness Shirt
$23.00+
Buy Now
IVF Meds Bag
$20.17+
Buy Now
My Fertility Journal
$19.95
Buy Now
Blankiegram Hugs Blanket
$34.99
Buy Now
You Are Loved Mug
$16.00
Buy Now
Morse Code Hope Bracelet
$16.98
Buy Now
Thinking of You Care Package
$26.99 +
Buy Now
Do you know of a product we should consider? Let us know about it.