This week we celebrate National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW)!

Initially established by RESOLVE in 1989 with a mission to change conversations about infertility, NIAW is celebrated for the 33th time. We have come a long way since it was first introduced but there is still tons of work to do.

Here are some facts:

  1. Infertility is real and quite common. It is estimated that 1 in 8 couples struggle with infertility, but in reality the number is probably much higher.
  1. Infertility does not discriminate. It can affect young and old, rich and poor, people of any gender, race, skin color, ethnic background, and religion.
  1. Infertility has many different causes. Most common include lack of ovulation, low ovarian reserve, uterine or tubal disease and male factor. It is important to remember that 30% of cases of infertility cannot be explained based on the knowledge and technology we currently have available.
  1. Infertility is isolating. Many people still do not talk about it and suffer in silence. Fortunately, thanks to more and more people willing to share their stories publicly the topic is becoming less and less of a taboo.
  1. Infertility is physically and mentally draining. It can have a severe negative impact on relationships and families.
  1. Infertility treatments are expensive. They are cost prohibitive for many, although it is encouraging that more and more employers and lawmakers understand the importance of providing fertility treatment coverage.

The first step in fighting infertility is sharing your infertility story and talking to your lawmakers and employers about fertility treatment coverage.

Remember: You have the power and you are not alone! Here @kindbody we hear you and support you not only during NIAW but always.

Dr. Malgorzata E. Skaznik-Wikiel
Dr. Malgorzata E. Skaznik-Wikiel
Malgorzata E. Skaznik-Wikiel, MD is a board-certified Reproductive Endocrinologist. She graduated cum laude from the Medical University of Warsaw in 2002. She then completed postdoctoral fellowship in Reproductive Biology at Harvard Medical School followed by residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Case Western Reserve University and the Cleveland Clinic. She completed her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the University of Colorado where she then served as an Assistant Professor and a Reproductive Endocrinologist. During her time at the University of Colorado she received multiple prestigious grants and awards in the field of Reproductive Medicine. She feels truly fortunate to be able to help her patients to achieve their dreams of becoming parents and realizes that each patient is unique. Her areas of expertise and research include diet and fertility, PCOS, fertility preservation, and access to fertility care. Dr. Skaznik-Wikiel has authored multiple publications in leading peer-reviewed journals and over 55 conference abstracts. She is the current Chair of the ASRM Nutrition Special Interest Group.