Infertility's Common Thread

What is the common thread that links all of those suffering from infertility? The realization that you are not alone. Learn more about the "Common Thread" project here.

Infertility is a disease which can leave those affected feeling very isolated in today's society, with its strong emphasis on parenthood being a marker of "adulthood" and the notion that without kids, one does not have a "real family."

A women this condition can often feel alone and disconnected from friends and family who don't understand what she is going through: emotionally, physically and possibly financially if she is pursuing treatment or adoption. Even a simple trip to the supermarket or department store can be difficult for such a woman, when it seems like everywhere she turns, all she sees are pregnant women, mothers with toddlers in tow, or happy families of children and parents out enjoying the day. The internet is a good source of support for the infertility community on-line, yet away from the computer and in the "real world," it can be hard to find similar refuges of help and understanding - or even simply moments of not feeling "so alone".

The Common Thread Project (TCTP) began as a way for those who are currently or have in the past coped with infertility to subtly but surely find each other in the day-to-day, real world. A simple thread tied around the wrist the color of the pomegranate fruit is a way to mark one's membership in this often painful and ignored sisterhood. If you've defeated the disease and are now pregnant or have a happy and healthy child (and if so, congratulations!), wearing the thread can help show other women currently struggling that there is hope for success to be found - and so they know, if they see you, that you understand their pain and struggles.

This page is dedicated to providing more information on this unique awareness campaign. It includes links to several products including jewelry you can wear to join in the movement, and resources to infertility support communities and other information on-line. Of course, you will also find out where to get the "official" thread of TCTP for the simplest way to take part!

Have You Heard of The Project Before?

How Much Do You Know About This Campaign?

cross-section of a pomegranate fruit

hotblack at morguefile

What Does the Pomegranate Have To Do With Infertility?

The Symbolism of the Pomegranate Fruit

What does the pomegranate fruit have to do with infertility (IF)? The fruit's link to TCTP, as well as the mission statement for the project, is explained at The Stirrup Queens' History of Infertility's Common Thread, posted by Lollipopgoldstein in September of 2006:

About The Common Thread Project

Get The Common Thread for Yourself!

The Official Yarn for the Project, Available from Amazon

DMC 115 3-814 Pearl Cotton Thread, Dark Garnet

Only $7.28

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DMC 115 5-814 Pearl Cotton Thread, Dark Garnet, Size 5

Only $2.18

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DMC 116 8-814 Pearl Cotton Thread Balls, Dark Garnet, Size 8

~~$7.49~~ $3.29

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You can order the "official" thread of the Common Thread Project via Amazon. It's #814 by DMC. You don't need to be an expert crafter to use it and wear it; just cut the size you need and tie it to your right wrist. That's all there is to it!

Infertility Awareness Jewelry on eBay

Other ways to wear - and show - your support

Infertility Support Communities On-Line

Where To Find Information and Support

These are just a few of the resources and communities on line where you can find out more about infertility, and find support from others who have been through the challenges of IF in the past - and the present.

RESOLVE - the National Infertility Association
Discover great resources to learn more about IF, the resources available to you, find support from professionals in the field and learn more about the facts - and myths - about this condition.
999 Reasons to Laugh at Infertility
Infertility may not seem like a "laughing matter", but sometimes a little humor is needed in order to get through the difficult times. You'll surely find reasons to smile or at least nod in agreement as this site tackles common myths and annoyances,
The Stirrup Queens
A great blog and community resource for those dealing with IF. Learn about everything from IVF to adoption and share in common stories of finally reaching your goals in life.
Infertility Awareness on Facebook
A great Facebook community for sharing, complaining and dealing with the day-to-day struggles of IF.
Gateway Women
Currently my favorite blog, website and community for women who find themselves "non moms" whether by circumstance, IF or other situations.