Fertility Support

One in eight couples in the United States and Israel experience fertility challenges, which can raise emotional, halachic, marital, and medical issues.

In response to these challenges, Nishmat has partnered with Gefen Fertility to train Yoetzet Halacha Fertility Counselors.

Please see here for our list of resources for couples experiencing fertility challenges, and for those who seek to build awareness and sensitivity.

Please see here for our page on Pregnancy Loss and Neonatal Loss.

Here is a list, courtesy of Gefen Fertility and Yesh Tikva, of ways to be supportive of couples who may be facing these challenges:

• Be a friend, listen when they speak, and offer a shoulder to cry on if need be.
• Unless requested, avoid sharing advice or tips on how to increase chances of conception.
• If someone shares their story with you, try not to bring it up every time you see them.
• Assuring people that everything will be okay is generally not comforting, as only God knows the outcome. Rather, assure your friend or family member that no matter what the outcome, you will be there for them in any way that he/she needs.
• When giving an honor such as being a Kvatar at a Brit Mila, be sensitive on how you ask and realize that although this is a beautiful custom, it may be painful for some.
• For parents and grandparents of those navigating infertility: Be sensitive to your child/grandchild’s challenge. Asking them when they will give you a grandchild is hurtful and a reminder of their struggle. Do not push your children to share information about their fertility challenges and treatments that they are not comfortable sharing and be sure to ensure that your children feel special in their own right and no less important to you even though they have not yet given you a grandchild.