By Jennifer Stremcha, www.ovuline.com

Whether you are new to the Auntie scene or you are a seasoned veteran with nieces and nephews galore, the prospect of having a new one is always exciting. Babies are like little miracles that inspire intense emotions within us: peace, joy, hope, love. It is easy to see then, why the process of trying to conceive (TTC) can be such a whirlwind of emotions, full of excitement, anticipation, frustration, and hopefully at the end, the pure bliss of having a healthy baby.

Sadly however, we don’t all get that storybook ending. There are many reasons why women can be infertile, as well as men, but whatever the reason, the experience of having difficulty in TTC can be extremely stressful.

As a sibling or even a friend, it can be very hard to see someone you care about go through such heartache. After all, it is in our nature to want to protect the ones we love (especially all you Big Sisters out there!). Due to the nature of this particular situation, you may feel powerless to help your sibling. But the good news is there are many ways that you can help! Here are a few suggestions:

1. Find Ways to Help Them Minimize Stress.
If they have other children, offer to babysit so that they can have a romantic evening with their partner. If they have obligations in caring for older family members or community groups, offer to take on some of those responsibilities so that they can focus on their health. Stress can negatively impact fertility, so any way that you can ease their burden will be a huge help!

2. Remind Them to Eat Well and Exercise.
Along with reducing stress, a healthy lifestyle is paramount to fertility. Encourage them to make healthier food choices and join them in physical activity. Go for walks or take fitness classes together. Regular exercise boosts fertility and eases stress for both of you! It’s also a great time to talk through the emotions they may be feeling. If you do not live close enough to meet up physically, try checking in regularly to hold each other accountable.

3. Direct Them to the Right Resources.
Introduce them to fertility tracking programs that can help them identify those precious fertile days each month and maximize their chance of conceiving. Refer them to doctors or specialists that you trust, or ask your friends or other family members about professionals they know. Better yet, surprise them with a fertility kit that includes everything they need to get their baby-making on!

4. Give Them Space When They Need It.
As you already know, TTC can be an emotional rollercoaster. Your sibling may have days that they just don’t feel like talking about it. When you sense that they are distant, simply let them know that you are there for them and let them come to you when they are ready.

5. Listen, Listen, Listen!!!
This cannot be emphasized enough. Really listen to your sibling and let them get all of their emotions out in the open. The very best thing you can do for your sibling is to let them vent and give them your full attention. Even if they don’t say it (or even realize it), this is what they need most from you, so lend them an ear and a shoulder to cry on. And don’t give advice or opinions unless they specifically ask for them.

Your brother or sister will go through many ups and downs in TTC. When you support them in their efforts, you stand to gain not only a niece or nephew but a much closer relationship with your sibling as well. So get out there and earn your “Auntie” stripes!

Photo: graur codrin
Published: March 20, 2013