How to Survive Your Friend's Baby Shower When You're Infertile

I am so sorry to hear that you are struggling through this difficult and heartbreaking experience. You sound like a very caring friend and it is admirable that you want to be there for your friend. I think the first step is to acknowledge that it's okay to feel overwhelmed by this situation. Infertility can be a difficult, emotionally charged experience and it is understandable that it would be so hard to be at your friend’s baby shower when you are struggling with your own losses. It might help to talk to someone else about what you are going through. Talking to a counselor, therapist, or other trusted friend can provide a supportive outlet to express your feelings and help you navigate this challenging situation. It may also be helpful to practice self-care in the days and weeks leading up to the baby shower. Self-care can be anything from getting extra rest to participating in activities that make you feel relaxed. If you feel comfortable, it may also be helpful to have an honest conversation with your friend. Let her know how much you care and that you are happy for her, but also let her know that it is hard for you to be around all of the celebrating. You don’t have to go into detail about your personal experiences with infertility if you don’t want to, but it can help to be honest and open with your friend about how difficult the situation is for you. Above all else, take care of yourself. You deserve to take time to process and to be gentle with yourself.