Getting through Mother’s Day while navigating fertility treatment

Struggling with infertility on Mother’s Day? FertilitySA shares heartfelt advice on how to honour your journey while protecting your emotional wellbeing.

At FertilitySA, we know that Mother’s Day can stir up complicated emotions — and it’s not always a day of celebration.

For people trying to conceive, Mother’s Day can shine a harsh light on everything that hasn’t gone to plan. Social media overflows with smiling family photos, handmade cards, and breakfast-in-bed tributes. Meanwhile, you're managing a reality that might feel anything but picture-perfect.

Why Mother’s Day can be especially tough during fertility treatment

This day — wrapped in commercial messaging and social expectations — can be an overwhelming reminder of what’s missing. When you're navigating IVF or any fertility treatment, you’re often carrying unspoken grief, uncertainty, or disappointment. And in the lead-up to Mother’s Day, those feelings can feel impossible to escape.

Honouring your journey (even if it looks different)

You don’t have to be holding a baby in your arms to honour your experience. Every injection, every appointment, every brave step you’ve taken — it all matters.

Mother’s Day can be a chance to acknowledge just how much you’ve endured. Many people find comfort in small personal rituals: lighting a candle, journaling, spending time offline, or doing something completely unrelated that brings peace or joy. There’s no right or wrong way to spend the day — what matters most is choosing what feels supportive for you.

Responding to difficult questions with grace

Well-meaning friends or family might say things like, “You’re next!” or “When’s it your turn?” — comments that can sting even when they’re meant kindly. One strategy is to keep your response simple and self-protective. A line like, “Thanks for thinking of us — we’ll share news when we’re ready,” sets a gentle boundary without inviting more questions.

Support is always available

If you’re feeling stuck in sadness, frustration, or emotional exhaustion, it’s okay to ask for support. You don’t have to go through this alone.

Remember this: Mother’s Day is one day in the year — but it doesn’t define your worth or your story. You are enough, exactly as you are.

Need support? FertilitySA offers emotional support through our team of experienced fertility counsellors. If you’re currently undergoing treatment with us, please reach out — we’re here for you.