For many individuals and couples going through infertility issues and the stressors often associated with fertility treatments, the answer is clear — join a support group.  Whether it’s online or in person, this kind of community often becomes a “safe haven” of sorts for men and women dealing with infertility matters.

However, that doesn’t mean that a support group — OR that every support group — is going to fit the bill for you.  If you’re not sure if you want to join a group, ask yourself these questions:

• Do you feel comfortable talking about your (or a partner’s) infertility matters or — even if you don’t discuss your own personal issues — hearing about others’ fertility concerns?  If the answer is “no”, a support group might be extremely uncomfortable for you.  However, you may find one-on-one therapy to be valuable.
• Are you willing to devote time to a support group?  Maybe a support group sounds great theoretically, but you honestly know that you’ll spend a fraction of the time you should on attending meetings, whether in person or virtually.  Though that isn’t a definite reason not to join, it may hinder your experiences as a support group member.
• Are you willing to allow yourself to be open to a group setting?  Some people simply do not wish to be around those they do not know while discussing their personal issues.  Of course, if you can bring a trusted friend or family member with you to your group, you may be able to alleviate some of those worries.

Remember that regardless of whether or not you’re currently ready for an infertility support group, you can always change your mind in the future.  After all, it’s your experience to share… or not.