By Sophie Cohen
When someone you love is facing infertility, having hope in difficult times doesn’t always come easily. But with empathy, love, and community, hope can take root—and with care, it can grow.
You don’t need perfect words or all the answers to be a meaningful part of their support system. What matters most is your presence and your willingness to walk alongside them with compassion. Even small acts of kindness can plant seeds of comfort and connection.
Start by simply being present. Sometimes the greatest gift is your willingness to listen. Let your friend share whatever they’re feeling — sadness, frustration, hope, or uncertainty — without trying to fix or reframe it. Resist the urge to offer quick comforts or comparisons. Instead, hold space for their truth. Words like “I’m here for you, whatever you need,” or “You don’t have to go through this alone,” can be powerful reminders that they’re not facing this in isolation.
Taking time to understand what infertility really involves shows deep care. It can include complicated medical procedures, hormonal treatments, physical strain, emotional ups and downs, and the financial pressure that often comes with it. When you learn more about what they’re going through, you help lighten their emotional load — and show them they are seen and supported.
Respect is essential. Some friends will want to share every step; others may hold their story close. Both choices are valid. Let them set the pace. Avoid questions that feel invasive or judgmental. Instead of pushing for details, let them know, “You can talk to me about anything, or nothing at all. I’m still here.”
Be mindful of how everyday moments can feel different through the lens of infertility. Baby showers, pregnancy announcements, or even casual conversations about children may stir pain. You don’t have to walk on eggshells — just be thoughtful. A gentle heads-up before an event, or a kind message saying, “You’re always welcome, and always loved,” can help them feel included without pressure.
Little gestures can have a great impact. A check-in text on the day of a procedure, a meal dropped off during a tough week, an offer to drive them to an appointment, or a night out to simply laugh — all of these say, “I’m with you.” Infertility can be exhausting, and your consistency can provide comfort during uncertainty.
Supporting someone through infertility doesn’t require big, dramatic efforts. It’s in the small, steady ways you show up that healing begins to take root. Through compassion, patience, and presence, you become part of their hope — and that’s something truly meaningful.
No one should face the struggles of infertility alone. As a friend, you have the power to be a steady source of support, helping to nurture hope even through the most difficult times. Not by offering solutions, but simply by being present with care and compassion.
Sometimes, though, support from friends and loved ones isn’t enough, and that’s okay. When the journey feels especially challenging, it’s essential to have access to resources, guidance, and a safe space to discuss your thoughts.
Seeds of Hope, a program of JCS, offers support and resources to individuals, couples, and families in Greater Baltimore, experiencing infertility and family building challenges. Seeds of Hope receives support from Michelle & Ira Malis Philanthropic Fund, Marilyn & David Carp, and Ashley Strauss in Memory of Levi’s Legacy. For more information, visit jcsbaltimore.org/fertility-journeys.
Sophie Cohen is Program Coordinator of Seeds of Hope at JCS.
Jewish Community Services (JCS) provides programs and services for people of all ages and backgrounds, helping them achieve their goals, enhance their well-being, and maximize their independence. To learn more, visit jcsbalt.org or 410-466-9200.
