National Fertility Awareness Week 2023 begins on 30 October to 5 November – and World Fertility Day on 2 November. It’s the perfect opportunity for individuals, organizations, and communities to come together and address the challenges and stigma surrounding fertility issues. Infertility is a deeply personal and often misunderstood topic, affecting millions worldwide.

This year, the UK’s NFAW #Forward4Fertility campaign is to encourage a more open and supportive dialogue about fertility. Here we discuss how you can raise awareness in Fertility Week to help move #Forward4Fertility.and World Fertility Day to raise global awareness.

1. Educate Yourself

The first step in raising awareness about fertility issues is to educate yourself. Understand the basics of fertility, including common causes of infertility, the emotional toll it can take on individuals and couples, and available treatment options. Visit the Fertility Network UK website and other reliable sources to gather information and resources. Being well-informed will empower you to engage in meaningful conversations and support those facing fertility challenges.

2. Share Stories

One of the most powerful ways to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around fertility is by sharing personal stories. If you or someone you know has experienced fertility struggles, consider sharing your journey on social media, blogs, or other platforms. By sharing your story, you can help others feel less alone and offer hope to those going through similar experiences. Remember, real-life stories have the power to create empathy and understanding.

3. Use Social Media

Social media platforms are a fantastic tool for spreading awareness and mobilizing support. During Fertility Week, use the hashtag #Forward4Fertility to join the conversation and for World Fertility Day #worldfertilityday and #ivfstrongertogether. Share informative posts, statistics, and personal stories to engage your followers and encourage them to learn about fertility issues. 

4. Host Virtual Events

In the digital age, hosting virtual events is an effective way to raise awareness. Organize webinars, panel discussions, or Q&A sessions featuring experts in the field of fertility. These events can provide valuable information, answer questions, and create a community for those affected by infertility. Promote your virtual events on social media and encourage participation.

5. Advocate for Change

Advocacy is a powerful way to drive change and raise awareness. Write to your local representatives, healthcare organizations, and policymakers to emphasize the importance of accessible and affordable fertility care. Advocate for better insurance coverage for fertility treatments and increased support for research in this field. Your voice can make a difference in improving fertility care for all.

6. Organize Fundraising Activities

Fundraising activities are an excellent way to support organizations that help those dealing with infertility can be empowering. Consider organizing virtual or in-person fundraising events, such as charity runs, bake sales, or online auctions. The funds raised can help provide essential services and resources to individuals and couples struggling with infertility.

7. Reach Out to Local Media

Getting the local media involved can significantly boost awareness efforts. Write press releases or pitch stories related to Fertility Week and the #Forward4Fertility campaign to local newspapers, radio stations, and television channels. Sharing personal stories and highlighting the importance of breaking the stigma around fertility can capture the media’s attention and reach a wider audience.

8. Educate Your Community

Engage your local community in discussions about fertility awareness. Organize workshops or informational sessions at community centers, schools, or workplaces to educate people about fertility issues, their emotional impact, and available resources. Increasing knowledge at the grassroots level can create a more empathetic and supportive environment.

9. Be a Supportive Friend or Family Member

If you have friends or family members dealing with fertility challenges, be a source of support and empathy. Listen without judgment, offer assistance when needed, and understand their emotional journey. Sometimes, someone needs a compassionate friend to lean on during difficult times.

10. Join our community.

When you are diagnosed with infertility, it can often feel like you are the only person who can’t conceive naturally. The reality is, though, that 1 in 6 people across the globe is experiencing fertility issues.

National Fertility Awareness Week 2023 and World Fertility Day are opportunities for us all to come together and make a difference in the lives of those affected by fertility challenges.

By educating ourselves, sharing stories, using social media, hosting events and supporting organizations like Fertility Network UK, RESOLVE USA, IFAASA SA, Fertility Matters Canada, L.O.V.E Foundation Nigeria, Fertility Kenya, Fertility Matters Australia, advocating for change, organizing fundraisers, engaging with local media, and educating our communities, we can raise awareness and change people’s lives.

Let’s break the stigma, provide support, and create a more empathetic and inclusive world for everyone facing fertility issues

Together, we can make a meaningful impact during this year’s UK Fertility Week and World Fertility Day.