Leave Your Mark! NIAW April 21-27
Leave Your Mark! NIAW April 21-27
Date: April 20, 2024
Author: ASRM
National Infertility Awareness Week Action Round-Up
April 21-27, 2024, is National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW)!
This year’s theme is “Leave Your Mark.” It’s important that we advocate year-round for a patient’s right to infertility care and a provider’s right to practice, but following the Alabama Supreme Court’s LePage v. Mobile Clinic, Inc. decision, your voice is especially important this week, and we need you to be loud.The World Health Organization estimates that roughly 1 in 6 people worldwide are affected by infertility. This does not include the many LGBTQ+ couples and those that choose to parent without a partner who may need assisted reproductive medical treatments to start and grow families. Founded in 1982, NIAW is observed annually to show legislators and the public that infertility is an issue that affects many and deserves their undivided attention. So, what can you do?
Post to socials.
Posting online and tagging your reps goes a long way. Post your thoughts on or experience with infertility using the tags #NIAW2024 and #LeaveYourMark. Find your reps’ pages, follow, and tag them whenever you post about NIAW.Write to your reps..png?cb=330707)
The quickest way to get your legislator’s ear is to form a relationship with them, and the easiest way to do this is by writing, calling, and tagging. Keep your eyes peeled for our action alerts in your inbox during NIAW. Click the hyperlink at the bottom of each alert to reroute to Voter Voice, where you can easily access and send pre-written messages about infertility bills to your reps, who the site will locate for you. We do the work, your voice is heard. Feel free to add your own flair to the messaging. If you’d like to locate your reps, click here.
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Share your story.
Do you or a patient of yours have a story of overcoming infertility? ASRM wants to hear it, feature it, and share it with legislators. Tell us about your experience here: ASRM Invites You to Share Your Story and Become an Advocate.
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In the wake of the Alabama Supreme Court ruling, we’ve seen just how impactful advocacy can be. Join us May 14, 2024, for a free, all-day interactive event designed to help you connect with your legislators and advocate for your interests across the fertility field. Register here.
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Participate in the Proclamation Project.
Submit a request to your state legislators that NIAW be recognized as an official awareness week to increase public awareness of infertility across the country. Click here to participate in the Proclamation Project.
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Don your favorite orange outfit for infertility awareness on April 24, 2024. Share photos to socials and be sure to tell your friends!
For additional ways to #LeaveYourMark, visit RESOLVE’s NIAW 2024 toolkit, and to follow us on social media click here!
Fertility in the News
Survey shows strong support for increased access to fertility treatments
A new public opinion poll reveals strong support for improved access to In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).
National Infertility Awareness Week 2024: Leave Your Mark
Next week is National Infertility Awareness Week, a federally recognized health observance founded to increase awareness of infertility.
IVF-assisted pregnancies constitute 2.5% of all births in 2022
In 2022, the number of babies born from IVF increased from 89,208 in 2021 to 91,771 in 2022. This means that 2.5% of births in the US are a result of ART.
ASRM provides testimony to Senate Judiciary Committee on threats facing IVF
ASRM shared with the Senate Judiciary Committee the dangers to reproductive medicine nearly two years after the Dobbs decision.
Resources For You
The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) is committed to providing patients with the highest quality information about reproductive care.
Find a Health Professional
Connect with reproductive medicine experts who will guide you through your unique journey. Our search tool allows personalized matches based on location, specialization, and expertise. Take control of your reproductive health with compassionate providers, innovative treatments, and unwavering support.
Search for an Expert
Access to Care
Survey shows strong support for increased access to fertility treatments
A new public opinion poll reveals strong support for improved access to In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).
View the Press Release
National Infertility Awareness Week 2024: Leave Your Mark
Next week is National Infertility Awareness Week, a federally recognized health observance founded to increase awareness of infertility.
View the Press Release
SART Fertility Experts - Advocacy and Reproductive Access
Dr. Cristin Slater and Betsy Campbell from RESOLVE discuss: barriers to infertility care; opportunities to get infertility care; and recent trends. Listen to the Episode
ASRM provides testimony to Senate Judiciary Committee on threats facing IVF
ASRM shared with the Senate Judiciary Committee the dangers to reproductive medicine nearly two years after the Dobbs decision.
View the Press Release
SART Fertility Experts - Access To Care
Learn how a variety of factors such as geography, race, and the availability of comprehensive infertility mandates affect access to effective infertility treatment. Listen to the Episode
A Message from the Office of Public Affairs
ASRM is already pushing for legislation in Congress and the states to protect IVF. It requires resources to analyze and advocate for or against these bills. Help ASRM Protect IVF
ASRM reacts to Alabama legislation
We are pleased that the legislation passed into law by the Alabama General Assembly will at least allow our members in the state to care for their patients.
View the Press Release
IVF at the SOTU: Fertility care expected to be major focus at State of the Union
Protecting access to IVF care is expected to be a major theme of the State of the Union on Thursday.
View the Press Release
ASRM Responds to Proposed Alabama Legislation
We are proud of our Alabama members and their patients, who have been such incredible advocates working to motivate their legislators to protect IVF.
View the Press Release
Senate Budget Hearing is Well Timed Following Alabama IVF Ruling
ASRM statement regarding the Senate Budget Committee’s hearing entitled: No Rights to Speak of: The Economic Harms of Restricting Reproductive Freedom.
View the Press Release
ASRM Responds to Senate’s Failure to Pass Access to Family Building Act
We are disappointed by the Senate’s failure to meet the moment and pass federal legislation protecting access to in vitro fertilization (IVF).
View the Press Release
Society of Reproductive Biologists and Technologists (SRBT) Condemns Recent Court Decision in Alabama
The recent ruling by the Alabama Supreme Court that frozen embryos are legally considered people has sparked controversy and concern.
View the Press Release
ASRM Condemns Profoundly Misguided and Dangerous Court Decision in Alabama
In LePage v Mobile Infirmary Clinic, the Alabama Supreme Court made a decision that flies in the face of medical reality and the needs of the citizens.
View the Press Release
ASRM applauds introduction of Access to Family Building Act of 2024
ASRM is thrilled by the introduction of the Access to Family Building Act
View the Press Release
SART Fertility Experts - Single Motherhood
We explore personal experiences that led to the creation of "Single Mothers by Choice" as well as considerations faced by those pursing single motherhood. Listen to the Episode
Access to Care Infographics
ASRM has prepared infographics to illustrate the subject of Access to Care better. View the Infographics
It takes more than one
Why IVF patients often need multiple embryos to have a baby View the advocacy resource
What support for IVF looks like
Bipartisan support for IVF, that is responsible for the birth of over 2% of all babies born in the USA each year, will ensure that families continue to grow. View the advocacy resource
Advocacy Resources
ASRM has prepared resources to help explain and advocate for reproductive rights and the continuation of in vitro fertilization and other fertility treatments. View the advocacy resourcesAdvocacy
SART Fertility Experts - Advocacy and Reproductive Access
Dr. Cristin Slater and Betsy Campbell from RESOLVE discuss: barriers to infertility care; opportunities to get infertility care; and recent trends. Listen to the Episode
A Message from the Office of Public Affairs
ASRM is already pushing for legislation in Congress and the states to protect IVF. It requires resources to analyze and advocate for or against these bills. Help ASRM Protect IVF
Professional and Patient Advocates call for new Fertility Fraud Legislation
ASRM and RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association offer model legislation, call for Congress and the states to prioritize passage.
Read the Press Release
SART Fertility Experts - Infertility Advocacy and Government Affairs
In today's episode, Dr. Mark Trolice interviews Sean Tipton about the fact that many infertility patients do not have insurance coverage for treatment. Listen to the Episode
Take Action Now!
Like you, ASRM is extremely concerned over the decision from the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade and its impact. Learn How Your Can Help
Advocacy Toolkit
The importance of your involvement in the lobbying process, especially at the local level, has never been greater.
View the Toolkit
It takes more than one
Why IVF patients often need multiple embryos to have a baby View the advocacy resource
What support for IVF looks like
Bipartisan support for IVF, that is responsible for the birth of over 2% of all babies born in the USA each year, will ensure that families continue to grow. View the advocacy resource
Reproductive Rights and You
The U.S. Supreme Court’s opinion in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (597 U.S. __, 2022), overturned the nearly 50-year precedent set by Roe v. Wade (410 U.S. 113, 1973), which had recognized a constitutional right to abortion. The Dobbs decision has sparked a litany of changes in state laws across the nation, and more are expected. Protect Your Rights
State and Territory Infertility Insurance Laws
View insurance information by US State and Territory View Insurance Laws by U.S. State
Advocacy Resources
ASRM has prepared resources to help explain and advocate for reproductive rights and the continuation of in vitro fertilization and other fertility treatments. View the advocacy resourcesInfertility
SART Fertility Experts - Environmental Impacts on Fertility
In this episode, the fertility experts discuss the impact of the environment, including air, climate, and chemical exposures on infertility. Listen to the Episode
Survey shows strong support for increased access to fertility treatments
A new public opinion poll reveals strong support for improved access to In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).
View the Press Release
National Infertility Awareness Week 2024: Leave Your Mark
Next week is National Infertility Awareness Week, a federally recognized health observance founded to increase awareness of infertility.
View the Press Release
ASRM reacts to Alabama legislation
We are pleased that the legislation passed into law by the Alabama General Assembly will at least allow our members in the state to care for their patients.
View the Press Release
IVF at the SOTU: Fertility care expected to be major focus at State of the Union
Protecting access to IVF care is expected to be a major theme of the State of the Union on Thursday.
View the Press Release
ASRM Responds to Proposed Alabama Legislation
We are proud of our Alabama members and their patients, who have been such incredible advocates working to motivate their legislators to protect IVF.
View the Press Release
Senate Budget Hearing is Well Timed Following Alabama IVF Ruling
ASRM statement regarding the Senate Budget Committee’s hearing entitled: No Rights to Speak of: The Economic Harms of Restricting Reproductive Freedom.
View the Press Release
ASRM Responds to Senate’s Failure to Pass Access to Family Building Act
We are disappointed by the Senate’s failure to meet the moment and pass federal legislation protecting access to in vitro fertilization (IVF).
View the Press Release
Society of Reproductive Biologists and Technologists (SRBT) Condemns Recent Court Decision in Alabama
The recent ruling by the Alabama Supreme Court that frozen embryos are legally considered people has sparked controversy and concern.
View the Press Release
ASRM Condemns Profoundly Misguided and Dangerous Court Decision in Alabama
In LePage v Mobile Infirmary Clinic, the Alabama Supreme Court made a decision that flies in the face of medical reality and the needs of the citizens.
View the Press Release
SART Fertility Experts - Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and Implantation Failure
"I can get pregnant, but I can't stay pregnant," is echoed by patients with recurrent pregnancy loss. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Wellness and Fertility: Diet, Sleep and Exercise
Drs. Timothy Hickman and Rashmi Kudesia discuss the links between lifestyle and fertility. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Navigating IVF as a Couple
Mary Casey Jacob, PhD is interviewed by Dr. Daniel Grow, and together they explore the emotional and practical support that couples need. Listen to the Episode
Male Fertility Journey
About 20% of infertility cases are due to a male factor alone. Another 30% involves both male and female factors.
View the Patient Journey
Female Fertility Journey
If you've been trying to get pregnant for more than a year, you may have infertility. Infertility is a disease of the reproductive system that impairs one of the body's most basic functions: the conception of children.
View the Patient Journey
SART Fertility Experts - Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition that can affect many facets of a person’s life, from pelvic pain to struggles with infertility. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Candace discusses her experience with infertility, IVF, multiple pregnancy losses and ultimately a successful delivery with Dr. Julia Woodward.Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Financial Aspects of Infertility Treatment
“I know what treatment I want and need to do, but how can I afford it?” This is a common question infertility patients often ask themselves. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Infertility Advocacy and Government Affairs
In today's episode, Dr. Mark Trolice interviews Sean Tipton about the fact that many infertility patients do not have insurance coverage for treatment. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Your Infertility Nurse: Partner in Your Care
Infertility nurse practitioner and health coach Monica Moore explains the essential role of the infertility nurse in the IVF process. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - IVF: Cycles of Hope and Heartbreak
Does stress cause infertility or is it the other way round? Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - RESOLVE and Infertility
Due to the unique stress of infertility, patients often look for resources and support in addition to those provided by their medical provider. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Safe Surfing: The Pros and Perils of Social Media
Dr. Kenan Omurtag, MD joins host Dr. Mark Trolice to discuss the use of social media in the field of infertility. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - What is an REI?
These experts in infertility lead IVF programs, perform reproductive surgery, and perform research to enhance the field of reproductive medicine. Listen to the Episode
Infertility: an Overview (booklet)
Infertility is typically defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after one year of unprotected intercourse. View the booklet
Optimizing Natural Fertility
Before attempting pregnancy, a woman should make sure she is healthy enough for pregnancy by adopting a healthier lifestyle and taking prenatal vitamins. If she has a medical or genetic condition or risk of one, she should seek advice from a medical professional before conceiving (becoming pregnant) View the fact sheet
Optimizing Male Fertility
About 20% of infertility cases are due to a male factor alone. Another 30% involves both male and female factors. View the fact sheet
Male Fertility and Infertility - a patient education video
Male Factor Infertility is responsible for about 30% of infertility cases and can contribute infertility to an additional 20% of cases. Watch Video
Infertility
Infertility is the result of a disease (an interruption, cessation, or disorder of body functions, systems, or organs) of the male or female reproductive tract which prevents the conception of a child or the ability to carry a pregnancy to delivery. Watch Video
Basic Infertility Evaluation
Dr. Roger Lobo of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine discusses the various methods to evaluate infertility. Watch Video
Fibroid Tumors
An educational video that answers patient questions about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and management of uterine fibroids. Watch Video
Infertility Treatments
Dr. Roger Lobo of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine discusses the various treatments for infertility. Watch Video
Understanding Fertility
In this video series, Dr. Roger Lobo explains the basics of infertility, including causes, treatments and coping methods. Watch Video
Surviving the Roller Coaster Emotions of Infertility Treatment
The experience of infertility is a rollercoaster of hope and disappointment. Treatment presents an opportunity for hope as well as a new set of challenges. Watch Video
Age and Fertility (booklet)
Generally, reproductive potential decreases as women get older, and fertility can be expected to end 5 to 10 years before menopause. View the Booklet
What is Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL)?
This is a condition when a woman has 2 or more clinical pregnancy losses (miscarriages) before the pregnancies reach 20 weeks. View the fact sheet
Endometriosis: Does It Cause Infertility?
When tissue like the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus (endometrium) is found outside the uterus, it is termed “endometriosis.” View the Fact Sheet
What is Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (Also Called Premature Ovarian Failure)?
When a woman’s ovaries stop working before age 40, she is said to have premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). View the fact sheet
What is intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)?
A procedure called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) can be done along with in vitro fertilization (IVF) if a sperm cannot penetrate the outer layer of an egg. Read the Fact Sheet
Acupuncture and Infertility Treatment
Acupuncture is an alternative medical treatment that involves placing very thin needles at different points on the body. View the Fact Sheet
What is In Vitro Maturation (IVM)?
In vitro maturation (IVM) is when a woman’s eggs are collected and matured outside the body. This is done as part of an in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure. View the fact sheet
Male infertility evaluation: what do I need to know?
Infertility is the inability to achieve pregnancy after one year of unprotected sex. View the fact sheet
Saline infusion sonohysterogram (SHG)
Saline infusion sonohysterography (SIS or SHG) is aprocedure to evaluate the uterus and the shape of the uterine cavity. View the fact sheet
Sexual dysfunction and infertility
Sexual dysfunction is a problem in a person’s sexual desire, arousal, or orgasm. View the fact sheet
Testosterone use and male infertility
Testosterone (also referred to as “T”) is a hormone produced in men by the testes (testicles). View the fact sheet
What are fibroids?
Uterine fibroids (also called myomas or leiomyomas) are benign (noncancerous) tumors of muscle tissue found in the uterus. View the fact sheet
Hyperprolactinemia (High Prolactin Levels)
Prolactin is a hormone produced by your pituitary gland which sits at the bottom of the brain. Read the fact sheet
Stress and infertility
It is not clear how exactly stress impacts fertility. Read the Fact Sheet
Defining Infertility
Infertility is “the inability to conceive after 12 months of unprotected intercourse.” View the Fact Sheet
Fertility Rights and Responsibilities
Can a fertility program or clinic deny treatment to patient(s) if there is concern about the ability to care for the child(ren)? Yes. Fertility programs can withhold services if there are signs that patients will not be able to care for child(ren). View this Fact Sheet
Infertility Counseling and Support: When and Where to Find It
Infertility is a medical condition that touches all aspects of your life. View the fact sheet
Smoking and infertility
Most people understand that smoking increases the risk for heart, vascular, and lung disease. View the fact sheet
Coping With Infertility
Dr. Roger Lobo of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine discusses various methods of coping with infertility. Watch Video
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition in which endometrial tissue, which normally lines the uterus, develops outside of the uterine cavity in abnormal locations. Watch Video
Causes of Female Infertility
Dr. Roger Lobo, of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine explains the causes of female infertility. Watch Video
Causes of Male Infertility
Dr. Roger Lobo, of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine explains the causes of male infertility. Watch Video
Diagnostic Testing for Male Factor Infertility
When a couple has trouble having a baby, there's about a 50-50 chance that the man has a problem contributing to the pregnancy.View the Fact Sheet
FAQ About Infertility
Infertility is not an inconvenience; it's a disease of the reproductive system that impairs the body's ability to perform the basic function of reproduction. Learn the facts
FAQ About the Psychological Component of Infertility
Infertility often creates one of the most distressing life crises that a couple has ever experienced together. Learn the facts
Mary Dolan's Story
I was diagnosed with diminished ovarian reserve/premature ovarian failure at 28 years old.
Read the story