Ivf

by Brigid Moss

'By seeing fertility issues through the eyes of 23 real women, it will show you that you're not alone and help you to make the decisions about treatment that are right for you. It's an infertility lifeline.' Emma Cannon, Fertility Expert. 'I don't know how long you've been trying for a baby, which fertility investigations or treatments you've had, or what your chances are of getting pregnant. You could be thinking about having IVF. You might be a veteran IVF-er who's had multiple cycles, or you may be just starting out on your first cycle. Whatever your situation, this book is for you. If I think back, I can still feel the feelings of inadequacy, shame and loneliness that I felt when I couldn't get pregnant. That was my motivation for writing this book, and the 22 amazing women's stories and experiences -- and mine -- that will help you cope with every key moment and decision you may face along the way. Hopefully, this book will show that, for every desperate moment, and heart-breaking test result, or difficult decision you face, someone has probably been there before. And she's here -- and happy -- to share her story.' Brigid.

320 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2011

Reviews

[Littlemissjahs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been recommending this book to my entire support group from the moment I began reading it. When I got my diagnosis that ivf was our only option, I was ruined, I had no hope. I stumbled onto this book, and threw my tears, new hope emerged. Not all of the short stories related to me at all, but they all share one common thing - hope. Every family persevered through such difficult and draining times, and ended up with the one thing we all want, a family. I cannot speak highly enough of this book.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really lovely and compassionately written book, filling a neglected gap. Books on the technicalities of fertility treatments are a dime a dozen, but books offering emotional support are harder to find.

I didn't read all of the stories, only the ones I related to personally (probably about 7 out of 20+). Each person's story is briefly introduced by the editor, and then wrapped up with some informative commentary on a particular topic the woman's story featured (PCOS, male-factor infertility, etc) and, if you are in the UK, resources.

Of note: The book is open-minded enough to include a same-sex couple's story, and a single-mother-by-choice's story. There are 20+ stories, and there is probably at least one story every reader can relate to (I was surprised to find my own situation mirrored in the editor's experience, which she relates in the introduction).

There are no miracle cures promised, no false hopes pressed on you, no religious preaching. Just sincere compassion and empathy from people who have gone through the IVF experience (with various degrees of success).

Personally I found it a really helpful and positive read.

Tip: Get comfortable and cozy in a private spot, with a box of tissues handy, before reading.

[Eliza Genang · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written in the UK and a few years old but still relevant to this Australian reader. Real stories eloquently told and artfully contextualised. I liked the calm reflective tone and was grateful that it wasn't at all sensationalised. I probably wouldn't recommend it to fertility treatment newbies, most of the stories are of long and painful journeys, but among the stories there is a good diversity of experiences and treatment outcomes. I especially appreciated the inclusion of stories of people who had been through treatments but remained childless.

[Christa Eker · Rating 3 out of 5]

I gave this book a 4 star as in 'I liked it' … it's well worth the read just to ask yourself some questions about your emotional state and what if scenarios … I can see myself dipping in and out of it again should any of the circumstances detailed in the book come up during our treatment.