We’re here to help women have a better journey to conception, right? Well, we think there’s no better way to achieve this (aside from creating products to cut through the BS) than by giving you, the ttc community, some inspiration from women who have been, or are, navigating the pain of infertility themselves.

For this International Women’s Day, we gathered advice, acumen, and some words of wisdom from a few of our favourite fertility figures, plus the women behind the scenes at OVUM. 

“Learning the power of self-compassion was my biggest superpower in my trying to conceive voyage. I stopped berating myself for finding it hard before I had any treatment; I knew it was normal for pregnancy announcements to be a gut punch; I said no to baby showers if I didn’t want to go. Self-compassion led to safety, which led to strength and, finally, the transformation of my experience. Start with self-compassion and you’ll always succeed.” Alice Rose, Fertility Mindset Coach and founder of Fertility Life Raft

“Infertility can be so isolating. Find a way to share - talk to a friend, find your tribe online, or simply just start writing down how you’re feeling. There’s a sense of control in putting pen to paper. It helps.” Gabby and Emma, hosts of the Big Fat Negative Podcast

“Trying to conceive can feel all-consuming, but it’s important to remember who you are outside of that. Your worth isn’t defined by your reproductive organs. Take time for yourself, do what you can to maintain a life that brings you joy.” Amber Izzo, IVF campaigner and host of the Am I Ovary Acting? podcast

“To begin with, I didn’t share my ttc struggles with others as it felt like everyone around me was conceiving in the blink of an eye and not facing the issues I was. This simply wasn’t true, and once I decided to be completely open with others the support that came my way was immense. It was everything so I think sharing when you’re ready is one of the best things you can do.” Jenny Wordsworth, Founder of OVUM

“If you are struggling to conceive, make sure your partner is properly tested as well, his testicles examined and a simple blood test to check his hormones. And what about HIS diet and lifestyle. Remember it takes two to make a baby and it’s not all about you” Melanie Brown, Nutritional Specialist in Fertility, IVF and Pregnancy 

“Through the ups and downs, remember progress is made one step at a time. Stay positive, and patient and have trust in the process. Your journey is unique, but you’re never alone.” Dr. Phoebe Howells, Co-Chief Medical Officer at OVUM

“Knowledge is empowering. Take the time to learn about fertility, different treatment options, and what can be done to improve the chances of conception. Understanding the process can help people feel more in control and proactive” Dr. Katherine Joseph, Co-Chief Medical Officer at OVUM

“Don’t be afraid to feel every feeling on your fertility journey - the anger, the envy, the hope, the despondence. I guarantee every person going through this will have felt these things at one point, so remember you are not alone. We often put so much energy into being strong or simply acting in a ‘socially acceptable’ form of upset, but infertility can take you to some pretty ugly places, and that is ok. You will come out the other side a more rounded, grounded person, but don’t beat yourself up if you can’t be the best version of yourself right now. Let the ugly crying commence, and know there is a whole community of people who totally get it and will hold your grief and hurt In whatever form it takes.” Coni Longden-Jefferson, Reproductive Health Writer and Co-Founder of Nixi Body underwear

“The scales do not determine your worth. You are absolutely deserving of receiving all the fertility care and support you need to grow your family right now." Nicola Salmon,  Fat-positive fertility specialist and host of the Fat and Fertile podcast

“Hope can be hard to hold onto when trying to conceive. If you're struggling, let a trusted loved one take over while you work your way back to it. Remember that everything you feel en route is valid and doesn't define you.” Seetal Savla, Fertility Advocate and Writer

“Every fertility journey is unique, and while the outcome can be uncertain, remember you have done the best you can.” Eloise Eddington, Founder of The Ribbon Box 

So, whenever you’re looking for a reminder in trying times, return to our favourite quotes here. Conception can be stressful, but we’re here to help every step of the way, even if it’s something as simple as taking comfort in the written word.