Support Network.

The one thing that has absolutely amazed me about the IVF process is the incredible support network of women, at various parts of their journey, that fills the internet.  I first heard about PGD by reading an incredible blog called A Survivor's Guide to Huntington's Disease, for which I can't explain how grateful I am.  Without this blog I would have no idea about the process involved but more importantly I probably wouldn't even know it was an option.  I would never have known to get started early because it would be nearly 2 years before we actually got the treatment phase.  This blog is just one of many that I've read regarding IVF and the journeys of couples becoming families and they have all been invaluable.

When I had questions about the process, what to expect, if my side effects were normal or how to get the injections just right I googled it and I came across forum after forum full of women sharing their stories, tips and support with others.

In the last few days I have joined a group on Facebook and already spoken to many amazing women.  It's a place where they can share their journey (whatever stage they may be at), get support and advice, provide support and share their experiences with others, look for a friendly chat when they've had a loss or negative test and equally share their positive tests, when they finally get what they've been waiting for.  Everyone is very mindful of one another and is aware that just because they had good news today, it doesn't mean someone else didn't have bad news.  Posts are all dealt with sensitively and I have seen nothing but inspirational women.

Most people going through IVF may not know anyone who has already been there or is currently doing the same so having people to talk to who know, to some extent, what you're going through is a brilliant feeling.

The thing that amazes me about all of these social media outlets is that there is nothing but support.  Most forums or Facebook groups you visit, about any topic, have major arguments going off everywhere.  People don't agree with other people's opinions and they just open their mouths before they've thought about what they're saying.  In the IVF community there is none of that.  You celebrate and commiserate for each other and there's no time for putting other people down or having petty arguments.  Everyone understands so there is no judgment.  Nobody makes insensitive comments because they know what you're going through - even if their story is completely different.

It really makes me want to celebrate being a woman and whist I'm sure we'd all rather be able to conceive naturally, I'm so proud to be part of such a community and these women have become an important part of my life.