Bookmark these virtual support groups on your TTC journey

The old adage goes, “It takes a village to raise a child,” but we sometimes forget that trying to conceive (TTC) requires just as much community support. 

“One of the biggest hurdles surrounding infertility and miscarriages is that individuals or couples can feel very isolated during their journey,” explains Temeka Zore, MD, FACOG, fertility specialist at Spring Fertility. “Support groups can take the isolation away that surrounds infertility and give individuals and couples a community to find shared experiences and successes.” 

According to the CDC, 1 in 8 couples struggle with infertility and 1 in 4 women are impacted by miscarriages. For those trying to conceive, the journey to starting a family with children can be unique, but it does not have to be solitary.

Access to digital communities, Instagram pages or online forums are just a few avenues that make finding support easier, especially during pandemic times. 

For those looking for nuanced support: Modern Fertility

While Modern Fertility is known for their at-home fertility tests, their Modern Community is open to anyone, whether you’ve purchased a test or not. (Modern Fertility was acquired by Ro). The Community exists behind a log-in page, which ensures privacy, and is broken into different groups that cater to those trying to conceive, those struggling with fertility challenges, those navigating loss, or those just thinking about their fertility in general. 

When joining any online support group, Dr. Zore encourages you to keep in mind: 

“The number one thing is that you feel supported, that there is no judgment and that you feel you are in a safe space to share your journey or learn what others have been through.”  

For those grieving a miscarriage and not ready to participate: I Had A Miscarriage

Grief brings many ebbs and flows into someone’s daily life. While miscarriages are highly common, that doesn’t make them easy to navigate. 

@IHadAMiscarriage, psychologist Dr. Jessica Zucker started her Instagram account based on her own grief and has since cultivated a safe space for anyone else living through similar experiences. Dr. Zucker’s Instagram account is a great alternative for anyone who is wanting to feel seen in their grief, but maybe is not ready to join a more intimate, active online community. 

For those looking to compare notes: Fertility Out Loud

One of the biggest benefits of a healthy, positive online community is that it offers a peek into others’ experiences. While everyone is walking their own TTC paths, it can feel comforting to know that you’re not the only one going through all the ups and downs. 

As you’re searching for a group or community that fits your needs, Dr. Zore recommends zeroing in on prioritizing spaces that respect and support your mental health. 

“Groups where there is a lot of negativity or where you feel like you are being judged should be avoided,” explains Dr. Zore. “Additionally, if you notice that someone without a medical degree starts giving medical advice or is trying to sell a product claiming improved pregnancy rates, [that] would be a red flag.” 

Fertility Out Loud’s digital community makes it easier to compare notes during your TTC journey. Scroll through and save the posts that are most relevant to your own experience—with no pressure to contribute unless you’re up for it.

A note from Motherly

No matter what digital community or platform you choose, their existence serves as a reminder that there are many people who have decided to turn to community during their own TTC journey. You get to decide when, how and to what degree you share your own. 

“If you are not ready to share your journey, that’s OK,” notes Dr. Zore. “You should never feel pressured to share your story if you’re not ready. Be open to the experience of others sharing their journey and you may find that these individuals and their stories are more relatable to you than you think.” 

In closing, the journey to conceive is profoundly personal yet universally shared among those in the TTC community. This narrative reaffirms the power of support groups and the importance of community engagement in providing solace and understanding. As each individual navigates their unique path, the collective wisdom and shared experiences found in TTC support groups offer invaluable comfort and guidance. Whether you choose to actively participate or simply observe, these communities stand as beacons of hope and solidarity. They remind us that while the path to parenthood can be winding and fraught with challenges, no one needs to walk it alone. Engaging with a community can transform the TTC journey from an isolating ordeal into a shared voyage of hope and mutual support.

FAQ: TTC community and support

What is the TTC community?

The TTC (Trying to Conceive) community refers to a network of individuals and couples who are in the process of trying to become pregnant. This community often includes those who face fertility challenges, those experiencing miscarriages, and those seeking emotional and informational support during their journey to parenthood. It is a supportive space where members share experiences, advice, and encouragement.

How can TTC support groups help during the fertility journey?

TTC support groups provide a platform for sharing personal stories, exchanging tips, and receiving emotional support from others who understand the challenges of fertility struggles. These groups can help reduce feelings of isolation by connecting members with others who are facing similar challenges. They often offer resources such as information on fertility treatments, coping strategies for stress, and ways to manage the emotional impact of TTC.

Where can I find TTC support groups?

TTC support groups can be found in various forms including online forums, social media platforms, hospital and clinic resources, and community groups. Websites like Fertility Out Loud, Modern Fertility, and social media accounts like @IHadAMiscarriage offer digital spaces that cater to different needs within the TTC community. Additionally, fertility clinics often have information on local support groups or can recommend online communities.

What should I consider when joining a TTC support group?

When joining a TTC support group, consider the tone and atmosphere of the community. Look for a group that promotes a positive, supportive environment without judgment. Avoid groups where misinformation is spread or where members push unsolicited medical advice or products. It’s important that the group makes you feel safe and supported in sharing your experiences and receiving feedback.

Is it OK to just observe in a TTC support group if I’m not ready to share?

Absolutely, it’s perfectly fine to observe and not actively participate in a TTC support group if you’re not ready to share your personal journey. Many people find comfort and gain insights just by reading others’ experiences. When you feel more comfortable, you can start engaging more actively, but there should never be pressure to share more than you are ready to.

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