Our group's family topic covers abortion, birth control and infertility. The first feelings that I feel when I hear or think about these issues is just...sadness. I don't think anyone usually talks about these in an overly positive way. Especially on the thought of abortion- I cannot think of a single movement so evil or ungodly. I have never heard an argument for abortion that has even half justified it, and though I am respectful to the clause of women, I fight against abortion heatedly. If I experienced any of these (infertility, for example) I would most likely turn to the advice and comfort of my mother first, she being the original example to me of dealing the difficulties of parenting and child-rearing. I suppose I would attempt IVF or seek help from other fertility clinic methods, and if they prove unsuccessful, possibly adoption. For spiritual assistance I would turn to the scriptures, as there are more than a few examples of infertile women putting their trust in the Lord and experiencing medical miracles. I would also review my own personal patriarchal blessing and the promises it speaks of, that if I remain faithful, I will receive a family of my own. Some close friends of mine back in my home ward dealt with fertility struggles for about four years. They kept praying for children and obeying their covenants and eventually, with time, they became pregnant with twins, a boy and a girl. Their children just celebrated their first birthday last week.
If someone close to me was suffering from infertility and asked for my help, I would share with them the following links.
First, this excerpt from the Ensign that follows the experiences of four couples unable to have children. This article is so important because it really focuses on taking the blame of being infertile off yourself and your own perceived shortcomings. https://www.lds.org/ensign/2011/04/faith-and-infertility?lang=eng
Next, I would share with them a link to finding "Infertility Support Groups Near Me". This would help the couple feel less alone in their struggles, and provide insight from other people dealing with the same issue that I would feel inadequate to provide (as I've never experienced this).
https://resolve.org/support/find-a-support-group/
Next I would show them Hebrews 10: 32 & 35
"32. But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions;
35. Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward."
These scriptures are truly inspiring to me when going through trials because they give a sense of hope and enlightenment, which hopefully would remind the couple to "Keep trying. Keep trusting. Keep believing. Keep growing. Heaven will be cheering you on, today. Tomorrow. Forever." (Jeffery R. Holland)
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