Observed annually on the Sunday before Mother’s Day, National Infertility Survival Day is a day that’s dedicated to couples who want to have children but are unable to do so.  Approximately 9% of all men and 11% of women of reproductive age in the U.S has experienced some sort of fertility problem.

It’s been estimated that approximately 15% of couples are unable to conceive even after having a year of unprotected sex. The pain and the grief that these couples experience on a regular basis can not be cured by something as simple as a holiday, but this day does give these couples a chance to express their grief, pain, and frustration and receive some support from all of us.

The History Of National Infertility Survival Day

This holiday was first created in 2004 by Beverly Barna. Beverly was the author of “Infertility Sucks!” and she wanted to create a holiday to honor all of those people who are struggling with infertility. This day has been a holiday that’s been an alternative to Mother’s Day ever since.

Facts About Infertility

Below are some facts we’ve uncovered about infertility that is based on the most recent information available.

• Around the world, approximately 48.5 million couples experience infertility.
• One out of four developing countries is affected by infertility.
• The U.S has an average of 1.87 children born per woman.
• About 85% of couples will be able to conceive during their first year of trying.
• Couples with male partners over 40 are more likely to have problems conceiving.
• Sperm quality generally doesn’t become a major problem for men until after the age of 60-years old.

Observing National Infertility Survival Day

This is a day on which couples who are dealing with infertility can take the time to share their experience with friends, family members, or medical professionals. It’s also a day on which people can take the time to lend an ear to friends and family members who are dealing with infertility themselves.

Another thing that people can do on this day is to organize support groups, learn more about infertility or use the hashtag #NationalInfertilitySurvivalDay to post their stories on the Internet.