If you didn’t know, this week is National Infertility Awareness Week. Infertility is a journey no one expects to take, and yet, for millions of couples, it’s a reality filled with uncertainty, frustration, and hope. My husband Kyle and I have been navigating infertility treatments for the past two years, which is why I’ve been MIA for so long, and let me tell you– it’s been a ride. A ride I don’t recommend (0/10 stars). But even in the hardest moments, we’ve found comfort in the love and support of family and friends.

One question I often hear is, “How can we support you? We want to help but don’t want to overstep.” The truth is, just being there to listen and offer encouragement means the world. Infertility is a physically and emotionally taxing process, and even the smallest gestures– like sending a kind message, a thoughtful card, or a small care package– can turn a tough day into a hopeful one. With that in mind, I’ve put together this IVF gift guide featuring thoughtful and practical ideas for anyone looking to support a friend or loved one through infertility treatments. Whether you’re looking for meaningful gifts for women going through IVF or simply ways to show you care, these ideas can help make the journey a little easier.

Gifts for Women Going Through IVF

Gift Cards and Flowers

Before diving into specific gift ideas, I want to acknowledge that IVF is all-consuming. It’s physically, emotionally, and financially draining, and many people don’t realize just how many doctor’s visits, injections, and procedures are involved. That’s why gift cards, which are sometimes seen as impersonal, are actually one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give.

During IVF treatment, many women experience bloating, fatigue, and discomfort, especially as their ovaries expand (to the size of an orange!) from stimulation meds. The last thing they want to do is cook dinner or run errands. That’s where DoorDash and Uber Eats gift cards come in handy. Kyle and I were incredibly grateful for the ones we received during treatment. They allowed us to focus on rest and recovery without worrying about meals. Also, for those with pets, a Rover gift card (or an offer to help with pet care) is another thoughtful option, especially on procedure days.

And no matter the outcome, flowers can be a powerful gesture. When our second egg retrieval failed, two of our best friends sent a beautiful bouquet. We both cried. Their simple yet meaningful gesture said, “Take your time, we’re here for you.” That’s what your friends going through infertility need, y’all. Don’t get caught up in finding the perfect words or buying the perfect gift– just do something to make them feel loved, seen, and understood. 

IVF Gift Guide: 12 Thoughtful Gifts

While IVF gifts are never necessary, I know that gift giving is a very real love language. So, if you want to go beyond gift cards and flowers, here are a dozen thoughtful IVF gifts to consider–

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12

1. IVF Affirmations Deck– I love this thoughtful affirmations deck because IVF is an emotionally intense and often unpredictable journey. What I didn’t fully understand before starting treatment was just how many checkpoints there are– each with the potential to bring hope or heartbreak. Cycles can be delayed or even cancelled after discouraging lab results. Embryos may not develop as expected. And sometimes, even with everything going “right,” a transfer just doesn’t work. Throughout it all, the emotional toll is constant. That’s why having a daily source of encouragement and gentle reminders that infertility doesn’t define your worth can be such a meaningful gift.

Note: If this particular deck is out of stock (or if your loved one hasn’t yet committed to IUI/IVF specifically), these general infertility affirmation cards are a beautiful alternative.

2. Super Tonics Recipe Book– Many fertility diets cut out alcohol, caffeine, and excessive sugar. This book offers delicious mocktail and tonic recipes that fit within those guidelines. I highly recommend the booze-free hot toddy and rose hibiscus tonic!

3. IVF Era Sweatshirt– Comfy, cute, and perfect for T-Swift fans, this cozy sweatshirt is perfect for everything from early morning monitoring appointments to transfer day lounging. I love that it adds a little humor and empowerment to a process that could use more of both.

4. Large Supplement Organizer– Most IVF patients take a long list of supplements. A cute and functional organizer makes managing them much easier. My supplement list grew too large, so I ended up purchasing this XL pill organizer and then adding a vinyl monogram to make it cute. 

5. Cozy Slippers– While fuzzy socks are a popular IVF gift, slippers get even more use– before, during, and after treatment.

6. “Soon” Bracelet Set– This sweet “soon” bracelet set just warms my heart. Infertility can be so discouraging, and a visual reminder of why they’re on this journey can provide hope on even the toughest days.

7. “You Are So Pretty” Shower Steamers– IVF meds can cause bloating, acne, and a slew of other un-fun side effects. These steamers offer a refreshing pick-me-up. Package them as a stand-alone gift or put them in a self-care gift basket!

8. Collapsible Foot Spa– The perils of infertility can and should be offset with healthy doses of pampering! I actually bought this foot bath well before treatment but used it heavily during and after! I love that it’s collapsible and can be easily brought on trips if travel is required for treatment. 

9. Wearable Blanket– Like a cozy hug in blanket form, this is a perfect gift for IVF recovery days. My best friend bought this for me years ago, and now it’s my go-to gift for everyone– new moms, friends, and fellow infertility patients alike. 

10. Medicine Tackle Box– Organizing IVF medications can be overwhelming. Honestly, when we first received my stimulation medications, overwhelm doesn’t even begin to describe the feeling. There were injector pens, injection needles, mixing needles, vials of medication, vials of sterile diluent, Q-caps, and so much more. This tackle box keeps everything in one place. Also, if you want to go the extra mile, throw in some first aid essentials, like Arnica gel (prevents bruising), a vibrating ice pack (#11 on this list!), and small gauze pads, too!

11. Buzzy Bee Vibrating Ice Pack– At the risk of giving you mild sticker shock, thousands of women agree that this vibrating ice pack is well worth its $45 price tag! It combines vibration with ice pain-blocking techniques to provide instant pain relief from injections. Plus, it’s absolutely darling, great for future kiddos, and comes in a cute ladybug design, too!

12.  Spoonful of Comfort Gift Box– Just like meal delivery gift cards, food gifts are always a good idea. Spoonful of Comfort basically specializes in comfort food and makes the most amazing soups, rolls, and cookies. Plus, the packages themselves are precious and will put a smile on even the most grief-stricken faces!

More Ways to Support a Friend Going Through IVF

If gifts aren’t your thing, there are still many ways to support a loved one through their IVF journey. Here are a few–

• Make note of important dates! It means the world to get “Good luck!” and “We’re thinking about you!” texts on retrieval and transfer days. Marking these dates on your calendar shows you’re invested in their journey and are actively supporting them, even from afar. This small gesture can make a huge difference during such an emotional time.
• Be direct and empathetic. If you polled women with failed IVF cycles, the biggest friend/family faux pas is invalidating their grief. Be mindful that they’re processing a devastating loss. Instead of offering platitudes (like “Well, you can always adopt!” or “Don’t worry, it’ll happen someday!”), acknowledge their pain. Try saying, “This downright sucks, and I’m so sorry you’re going through this.” Just listening and showing understanding will go a long way.
• Resist the urge to offer medical advice (unless explicitly asked). It’s so tempting to say, “Well, this worked for my coworker, so you should try it, too!” But the truth is that every woman’s infertility journey is dramatically different. Instead of offering advice, try your hardest to simply listen and let them share their feelings. Relegate the medical advice to fertility care teams and allow them to make the decisions that are best for their own bodies.
• Don’t forget about partners! While they aren’t on the receiving end of the injections or wearing the surgical gown, their anxiety, pain, hope, and joy are just as real. IVF is an emotional rollercoaster for both parties, so make sure to check in with their partner, too. Creating a safe space for them to vent, share frustrations, and talk about their fears is equally important.
• Offer practical help. Sometimes, the best way to support someone is by offering hands-on assistance. Offering to drive them to appointments, picking up groceries, or just helping with small household tasks can relieve some of the stress that comes with IVF. Practical support can make their day-to-day life a little easier, giving them more energy to focus on their emotional well-being.

---

IVF is an incredibly personal and often heartbreaking journey, but the support of friends and family can make all the difference. Whether it’s through one of my favorite gifts for women going through IVF, a heartfelt text, or simply listening without judgment, your kindness and encouragement can provide comfort in ways you may never fully realize.

Also, if you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences, feel free to leave a comment. While we prefer to keep the more personal aspects of our journey private, I’m always happy to offer support or lend an ear to anyone who’s going through something similar. There’s always strength in numbers, and I’d love to hear from you (Infertility Week or not)!