“Knowledge is power and so is a great support system.”
The Infertility Doula
Some people dream of having a child, but are unable to conceive when the time arrives. The struggle isn’t uncommon for men and women. This hits too close to home to Tia Chapinski and Daniella Virijevic, two friends who decided to turn their infertility stories into purpose with the book, The Infertility Doula.
One in 8 people face infertility challenges and are in need of support in the form of resources, support groups, or books to help guide them through trying times. In some cases, such experiences help people to find their own voices.
“You have to be an advocate for yourself. In the beginning you may not know a lot but gather as much information as you can,” said co-author, Virijevic who has been on the fertility journey for 17 years with her husband.
Together, the ladies have learned so much about infertility that they wanted to share with others. Chapinski who dreamed of having a child with her husband until an infertility diagnosis led to an early hysterectomy, is empowered to encourage couples learning to live without biological children.
“Knowledge is power and so is a great support system,” Chapinski said.
In the book, Chapinski and Virijevic help people navigate through the things that are not easy, especially societal pressures to get pregnant, unsolicited advice, living childfree and adoption. Although no infertility journey is the same, the first step is the recognition that support is needed for people to find a successful resolution to infertility.
“I think the more you learn and research will give you comfort. You can figure out your options and learn that you are not alone. You can help raise awareness,” Chapinski said.
“If we break that stigma and talk about it, there’s just so much power in all of our stories,” expressed Virijevic.
For those seeking community and meaning, the Infertility Doula certainly offers more insight into the process of family building. Some key aspects include everything from fertility treatments, and medications to pregnancy.
“This isn’t the club that anyone wants to be in. I would rather be in any other club but at the same time, I feel like we are strong women who are empowering other women to get through this,” Chapinski expressed.