Emma Barnett, broadcaster, writer, and author, discusses her experience with infertility and miscarriage, challenging the stigma around it. The conversation explores the importance of empathy, the power of writing about infertility and loss, and the challenges faced by individuals with endometriosis and fertility issues in the workplace. They also reflect on the significance of genuine connections and promote Emma's new newsletter.
Infertility and miscarriage can put a strain on a person's mental health and challenge societal norms and taboos.
Work can provide both solace and added stress to individuals undergoing fertility treatments.
Open conversations and support in the workplace are crucial for individuals dealing with fertility issues.
Deep dives
Emma Barnett shares her personal experience of infertility and miscarriage
Emma Barnett opens up about her experience with infertility and miscarriage, challenging misconceptions and taboos surrounding the topic. She discusses the emotional rollercoaster of undergoing multiple rounds of IVF, the strain it can put on a person's mental health, and the pressure to be grateful for what you already have when desiring another child. Barnett also highlights the importance of empathy and understanding when discussing fertility issues and the need for a shift in language to avoid shaming those who are struggling.
The impact of fertility treatments on work and personal life
Barnett reflects on how the process of undergoing fertility treatments, such as IVF, has affected her work and personal life. She discusses the challenges of juggling a demanding job as a broadcaster while dealing with the rollercoaster of emotions, the physical effects of the medications, and the constant uncertainty that comes with each round of treatment. Barnett finds solace in being able to focus on her work and describes it as a form of escape, but acknowledges the toll it can take on her energy and overall well-being.
Breaking through taboos and promoting open conversations
Barnett addresses the importance of breaking through taboos and promoting open conversations about infertility and miscarriage. She shares her decision to write about her personal experience and the emotional catharsis it provided. Barnett challenges societal norms and the shame associated with discussing fertility struggles, emphasizing the need for empathy, support, and understanding. By sharing her story, Barnett aims to create awareness and foster a more compassionate and inclusive dialogue around infertility.
The Importance of Hope and Dealing with Failed Pregnancy Attempts
The podcast episode delves into the emotional rollercoaster of trying to conceive through IVF and experiencing miscarriages. The speaker emphasizes the cruel nature of hope in this journey, and describes how she knows when hope has failed when she starts experiencing period symptoms. She discusses the responsibility of not wanting to crush her husband's optimism and the difficulty of determining when to stop pursuing IVF. The episode also explores the importance of having supportive friendships and a network of women who have gone through similar experiences.
Challenges of Balancing Fertility Issues with Work
The podcast episode highlights the challenges faced by individuals dealing with fertility issues in the workplace. It discusses the difficulty of sharing these personal struggles with coworkers and fear of the impact it may have on one's job. The speaker reflects on the need for support and understanding in the workplace and suggests that looking to indigenous cultures that prioritize community support might offer a potential solution. The episode also touches on the importance of self-care, finding moments of solace, and practicing self-compassion while going through challenging times.
Do you have open conversations at work when you’re in pain emotionally or physically? After going through numerous rounds of IVF, as well as having a miscarriage, broadcaster, writer, and author Emma Barnett wants to re-brand pain as weakness into pain as strength, especially at work.
In this chat with Fearne, she talks through the worries she had that she might be seen as greedy for wanting a second child through IVF when she’d already had a wonderful son by IVF, and how she’s put this shame to bed. They also explore the often cruel language around infertility, and the difference between sympathy and empathy when it comes to difficulties conceiving.