Infertility can feel like an emotional roller coaster (the kind with loop-de-loops and zero seatbelts). It’s a wild ride full of highs, lows, and some seriously strange facial expressions. If you’ve been in this journey long enough, chances are you’ve cycled through the full range of “infertility faces.” To lighten the load, here’s a fun—and hopefully relatable—take on the 10 faces we know all too well if we’re battling infertility.
This blog is intended to bring a bit of humor and levity to a deeply challenging experience, but it in no way aims to trivialize the real pain, frustration, and grief that comes with infertility. The emotional roller coaster is valid, and your feelings are important. It’s okay to feel angry, sad, overwhelmed, or all of the above. If you’re struggling, remember that you’re not alone, and seeking support from professionals or support groups can be an important step toward healing.
1. The “It’s My Period… AGAIN?!” Face
This one is a classic. After tracking, testing, and squinting at the faintest line on a test, your period shows up. Oh joy! Cue the scrunched-up face of frustration.
2. The “That’s Not Helpful, Karen” Face
Your friend just told you to “relax and it will happen.” Relaxing?! We can barely relax in a bubble bath, let alone while injecting ourselves with hormones and calculating ovulation. Thanks, Karen. Super helpful.
3. The “Another Baby Announcement” Face
You’re scrolling through social media, minding your own business, and BAM! Another pregnancy announcement. You want to be happy for them, you really do. But also, why does the universe hate you?
4. The “Panic at the Fertility Clinic” Face
You’ve just been called in for your blood work, and suddenly, every appointment, every test result, and every future step flashes before your eyes. Cue the inner freak-out.
5. The “Pretending I’m Okay at a Baby Shower” Face
Your face says, “I’m fine,” but inside, you’re wondering how many cupcakes it would take to numb the pain of being surrounded by endless onesies and baby talk.
6. The “Overly Detailed Ovulation Explanation” Face
When your partner stares blankly as you explain ovulation cycles, fertility windows, and the importance of basal body temperature, you realize this might be information overload.
7. The “Oh No, I Googled My Symptoms” Face
You innocently search “mild cramping during ovulation,” and before you know it, you’re convinced you have a rare disorder no one’s ever heard of. Classic Google-induced panic face!
8. The “Why Is EVERYONE Pregnant?” Face
Is there something in the water? Because everyone you know (and their cousin’s friend’s sister) seems to be pregnant. The bewilderment is real. At least you can still drink some wine.
9. The “I feel nothing” Face
The “I feel nothing” face can be humorously described as having the look of someone who just saw their phone battery hit 1% and thought, “Yeah, that checks out.” It’s the face you’d make when your favorite TV show is canceled and you’re like, “Of course it was.” Imagine an expression that says, “I’ve emotionally retired,” but without the benefit of a vacation. The eyebrows are in permanent “I can’t be bothered” mode, the mouth is set in neutral like it’s waiting for further instructions, and the eyes… well, the eyes are stuck somewhere between “meh” and “what now?” It’s the face of someone who hears, “We need to talk,” and internally responds with, “Sure, just add it to the list of things I’m not excited about.”
10. The “I’m Strong, But OMG This Is Hard” Face
Because at the end of the day, you’re strong. Even when you feel like crumbling, you hold it together and keep moving forward. And hey, it’s okay to let yourself feel all the feelings.
Infertility is no joke, but sometimes, a little laughter is the best medicine. If any of these faces hit close to home, know that you’re not alone in this. Hang in there—you’ve got this!
If you’re at the end of your fertility journey and looking to embrace a life without children, check out Bright Spot Counseling’s Making Meaning After Infertility e-course. The Making Meaning After Infertility e-course is a 12-session, asynchronous program designed for individuals and couples who have decided to stop pursuing parenthood after infertility. Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as its foundation, this course guides participants through the process of acknowledging and navigating complex emotions like anger, guilt, shame, and ambivalence, while helping them build a fulfilling life beyond infertility. Each session includes a video module with weekly homework and supplemental videos, allowing participants to work at their own pace.
Additionally, a monthly support group is available, providing a safe space for participants to share their experiences, offer support to one another, and foster a sense of community as they transition into this next chapter of their lives. Check out our Making Meaning After Infertility Page to learn more.
Looking for More Resources on Healing After Infertility?
-Coping Techniques Guide : https://resolve.org/get-help/helpful-resources-and-advice/managing-infertility-stress/coping-techniques/
