The Younger Generation

I know several couples who have recently attempted or will soon attempt a fertility procedure. All of the women attempting these procedures range between 25 and 30 years old. The "reproductively challenged stereotype" is transitioning from the mostly late-30s to mid-40s range to a wider spectrum of ages. Is this the inevitable result of better technology? Are women now more proactive at a younger age because the options seem doable? Even semi-affordable? And fairly effective?

I'm excited to see friends attempting (successfully) to expand their family through IVF and IUI (and adoption!), but it saddens me that so many must go through painful moments to finally meet their child. I've also noticed that because of the infertility struggle, I often pad comments about having another child with "If we have another child . . ." or "If we are able to have another child . . .". I believe (and I hope) the reality of the complexity of creating life will never escape me.

My thoughts and prayers are with my many unnamed friends who are currently on the expansive road to meeting your child. Check out this editorial for a reminder that you're not in this alone:

http://women.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/women/families/article5599066.ece

Many women walk the same road.