I have had requests to make this forum closed because of the sensitive information shared in here.

I have also had requests to make this forum open because of the camaraderie needed for those who deal with IF issues.

I'd like to leave it open to you...


**ETA
IF is currently SAO.

From my perspective, people suffering from IF can find us and lurk until they become comfortable with it and able to post. It is my belief that people who become a "poster" in the IF forums will become a member in order to continue friendships they've made in the IF forum. Besides that, there aren't many people here in the IF forum, this might help add more interest. Just my thoughts...

I know it is hard to share personal info, but going thru IF without support is hard too! I had some great supportive friends to help me, but it wasn't until I talked with someone else with same issue that I felt like someone really understood what I was going through. Now, two of my friends are dealing with IF issues and I think I have been able to help them, feel better about their situations. It is a rough road to go down and I think it definitely is essential to have people in your corner who understand what you are dealing with and let you know you are not the only one! I hope this forum can stay open, I know people sometimes say very insensitive things regarding IF and it is hard enough to deal with, without some awful comment, but hopefully the good support outweighs any negativity.

I can totally understand both sides of it.

Closed: I belong to another site that has closed the IF section to anyone that isn't TTC. I thought this was a good thing. My sister is pg with her second and has been married 21 months. This is hard for me, because I've been TTC and battling IF for nearly 5 years now. Sometimes I need a place to vent (not bad stuff like tearing them apart..but about the pain) and it's nice to know she won't be able to read it..because I, in no way, want to make her upset or have her feel bad for getting pg so easily.

Open: I do agree that it might bring in more people. When I go to new sites, I check out their TTC and IF sections. If I like them and/or find support there, then I'll join.

I think it should stay open..

I know I lurked here a lot before I knew I had secondary infertility issues. I think it is a subject people need to know about and at least they can read information even if they aren't comfortable posting yet. It is all about education. I don't see how this is any more personal than other areas really.

I think if the people who post there regularly are comfortable having it open, then it should be open. I lurk in there to support those in there (particularly Suzi and Brenda). But it's hard for an outsider to really understand what they are dealing with. Leaving it open will draw in more people who can relate.

Was this forum ever opened? Just inquiring about staus - seems no one else is interested in voting.

It wasn't and I guess I need to come back for clarification.

I am guessing that you'd like registered users to be able to post in this area after the 30 day/25 post limit is reached. And NOT that guests would be able to see the threads in this area. Is that correct?

I think that's fair - to require a visitor be registered to view the threads. Thanks for allowing the IF users a say in the access of these threads, Sheila!! :aok: