Hubby and I got married when we were 31. All of our siblings had families, and we were surrounded by dozens of nieces and nephews. One of us was really anxious to start having lots of babies right away. Since the other one wanted to wait a while, we compromised and waited about six months before trying.
Six months turned into a year filled with so many pregnancy tests I lost count, sex that felt more like a chore than a pleasure, misguided advice from my primary care doctor, pointless temperature taking (it was always the same), and a devastating miscarriage.
The worst thing was probably the whole year's worth of questions and comments: Why haven't you guys had a baby yet? We thought you'd be pregnant by now. You'd better hurry up and start having babies if you want to keep up with your husband's family. Aren't you guys planning on having a family?
I was so ashamed to admit that we had been trying, but it wasn't working. Since nothing was found to be wrong with my husband or his ability to produce sperm, I felt like it was all my fault. I felt broken, and I didn't feel like there was anything I could do about it or anyone I could talk to.
On the same day that I visited one of my best friends and her new baby in the hospital, Hubby and I had our first fertility appointment. Five months and thousands of dollars later, we were pregnant with twins. It took me years to finally admit that we experienced problems.
Today, with the popularity of blogs focusing on fertility, we know that there is no shame in admitting that a couple is experiencing fertility issues. In fact, a CDC study found 10.9% (6.7 million) of women ages 15-44 have impaired ability to get pregnant or carry a pregnancy to term. 1 in 6 couples are unable to conceive after 12 months of trying (National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development).
Every time we had an appointment with the fertility doctor, I was terrified someone would see me and know that we were struggling to get pregnant. If there would have been more home options a decade ago, I definitely would have tried them.
I recently heard about an over the counter device that can be used as a first step for couples experiencing infertility. It is called The Stork OTC. The Stork OTC, the only conception assistance device cleared by the FDA for over-the-counter sales to consumers without a prescription, uses an established and effective conception technique—cervical cap insemination—which helps with many common fertility difficulties. With The Stork OTC, consumers finally have an easy, drug-free, economical conception aid they can use at home, without a prescription. You can watch a demo video and learn more about how it is used at www.storkotc.com.
I must disclose that I have never used this product. However, I really wish that The Stork OTC had been around when Hubby and I were trying. I can say with certainty (and not just because I am being compensated for this post) that I would have tried it. It appears to be a sensible and easy first step to use in the privacy of one's own home before heading out to seek more costly and invasive procedures at a specialist's office. It is now available online and in CVS/pharmacy stores.
If you are on Twitter and want to learn more about The Stork OTC, come participate in a Twitter chat hosted by The Motherhood and The Stork OTC where you will also have a chance to win one of five $50 CVS Pharmacy gift cards. Join us on Thursday, January 15 at 12:00 pm EST. You can also follow The Stork OTC on Facebook.
I am giving away a trial device to one reader. Just comment below - it can be anything. You don't have to tell anything too personal (because believe me, I know how hard it is). Just indicate your interest in winning. I will pick a winner totally at random. Honestly, I will put all your names in a jar and have my little fertility baby - my 11 year old - pick a name. Then watch for my comment notification from Disqus. If you don't reply within 24 hours, I will pick a new winner. The product will be sent to you directly from the hosts at The Motherhood. Enter by January 22.
Having a baby and becoming parents are wonderful experiences. Let The Stork OTC give you some help and hope when you need it.
This post was brought to you by The Motherhood and The Stork OTC. I have not used this product, but am endorsing it as something that I would try in my opinion.
The contest is over. The winner is Nicole Dziedzic. I wish everyone could win. Prayers and healthy thoughts to you all!!!
The contest is over. The winner is Nicole Dziedzic. I wish everyone could win. Prayers and healthy thoughts to you all!!!
