Inequality in treating infertility

Published on Wednesday 22 August 2007 12:43

INFERTILITY Network UK is a national charity and the largest organisation in the UK offering support and advice for those experiencing fertility problems.

One of our goals is to help couples make informed decisions throughout the process. Another is to provide emotional support. Whatever help is needed, we will endeavour to provide it and show the way forward.

Infertility is a very real illness and one which can affect every part of daily living. It has a huge impact on the very quality of life for those who suffer from it. The emotional and psychological impact is huge and Infertility Network UK works continuously to raise awareness of all issues surrounding infertility and its devastating effects.

There is a desperate need for equality of state-funded fertility treatment to be made readily available by health providers and recognition of infertility to be seen as a real health need which deserves treatment. Unfortunately, that is not always the case - there are different levels of service that are far from consistent throughout the UK.

The National Infertility Awareness Campaign, which is led by Infertility Network UK and supported by other organisations, including The British Fertility Society and The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, has worked tirelessly for that equality.

Infertility Network regional staff work with parliamentarians, clinicians, support groups, individual patients and many other interested parties to raise and maintain awareness of all the issues, and act as patient advocates.

As the new regional organiser for Scotland, an essential part of my role will be to visit clinics throughout Scotland, liaise with staff on patient issues and represent their views.

Another aspect of my role is to provide moral support and advice for existing Infertility Network UK support groups and members. I also co-ordinate activities within the region by meeting with individuals, local groups, relevant agencies, hospitals and clinics.

Support groups can be of enormous benefit to infertility sufferers. They are a vital source of emotional support, where couples can meet others in a similar situation, share experiences, gain information and encourage one another.

Just to know that help and support is there is reassuring in what sometimes feels like a very long and lonely road. The emotional impact of infertility affects not only those who suffer from it, but also friends and relatives who see and share the difficulties. This is why we also invite them to contact Infertility Network for advice and support.

As an organisation, we continue to give the message that infertility is not just a lifestyle issue but an illness which causes a great deal of distress and should never be underestimated.

We would like to expand our network of support groups in Edinburgh and the Lothians and if anyone would like to find out more, then please give me a call on 01292-471 670 or e-mail [e-mail]

Karen Bray was appointed as the regional organiser for Scotland of Infertility Network UK earlier this month.