Why a Collapsing Building in China Reminds Us That Fertility Journeys Can Feel Just as Unstable
Have you seen the viral video of that five-story building collapsing into a river in southern China? If not, it’s one of those moments that catches your breath—watching a structure you assume to be solid suddenly give way beneath its own weight and slip into the water. You can find the full video and story here.
At first glance, what does a physical building collapse have to do with fertility? More than you might think.
When Solid Ground Suddenly Shifts—Fertility’s Emotional Earthquake
Imagine you’re standing on what you believe is firm ground, your plans and hopes carefully stacked like floors in a building. Whether you’re trying natural conception or exploring home insemination methods, you expect a certain level of control and predictability—until suddenly, the ground shifts beneath you. For many, infertility and fertility challenges create that same gut-wrenching feeling of instability and uncertainty.
Just like the flash floods triggered the sudden collapse of a seemingly stable structure, unexpected hurdles—failed cycles, fluctuating health, or uncooperative biology—can throw even the most hopeful fertility journeys into disarray. And just like the building’s collapse was invisible before the sudden failure, many fertility struggles are silent battles that friends and family may not immediately see.
Finding Stability in the Midst of Chaos
So how do we rebuild, or support those rebuilding, when fertility feels like a shaky foundation? Here are some thoughts:
Acknowledge the instability: It’s okay to admit you’re shaken up. Emotional turbulence isn’t a weakness—it’s a natural response.
Seek tailored solutions: Just like engineers wouldn’t try to rebuild without studying why the building failed, addressing fertility challenges requires understanding your unique situation. For example, some men deal with low sperm motility or volume, and others face entirely different issues.
Consider home-based options: The rise of at-home fertility solutions, like the kits from MakeAMom, offers a way to regain control and rebuild confidence in a private, comfortable space. Their kits are designed to address specific needs, whether that’s low motility sperm or vaginismus, and are reusable and discreet—offering a practical and affordable alternative to clinical insemination.
Prioritize mental health: The emotional rollercoaster of fertility can wear you down. Talking openly, seeking counseling, or connecting with communities who