Are you trying to conceive, yet burdened with this pressure from your family and in-laws?
Trying to conceive (TTC) is already a deeply personal and emotional journey. But when pressure from family or in-laws is added to the mix, it can become overwhelming.
This pressure during this period you are trying to conceive often comes in the form of subtle comments, repeated questions, or even well-meaning but insensitive advice.
I was there.
When I was trying to conceive, one of my husband’s cousins asked me if I had gone to check my stomach.
I cannot tell you I understood what exactly I should be checking for at the time. I felt that unusual overwhelming pressure, but I was calm.
For many women, this pressure adds stress, guilt, and isolation to an already difficult season.
Here are practical and faith-based ways to overcome that pressure and protect your peace:
1. Understand Their Perspective—But Set Boundaries
Sometimes, family members don’t realise how hurtful their words can be.
Really, they may be speaking from their own cultural expectations, personal experiences, or concern.
Understanding this doesn’t excuse the pressure—but it can help you respond calmly instead of reacting emotionally.
👉 Tip: Kindly but firmly let them know that this is a sensitive topic.
Say something like: “We appreciate your concern, but we’re walking through this privately for now. We’ll share when we’re ready”.
2. Create A United Front with Your Partner
If the pressure is coming from in-laws, it’s important that your husband supports and protects you emotionally.
Talk openly with him about how their comments make you feel, and work together on how to respond as a couple.
👉 Tip: He can gently speak to his family on your behalf, making it clear that you’re both handling this journey together and don’t want outside pressure.
3. Avoid Unnecessary Conversations
You don’t have to answer every question.
You don’t owe anyone an explanation about your fertility journey.
Politely changing the subject or steering conversations away from the topic is perfectly okay.
👉 Example: If someone asks: “When are you having a baby?” you can respond:
“We’re focused on our health and well-being right now. How’s work and family?”
4. Lean On God, Not On People’s Timelines
I will share a story with you. After my husband and I got married, we decided to take time to bond, I was not aware I will have to fight hormonal imbalance.
Months down the line, we decided to try for a baby. Getting pregnant became a tough walk. I had to go for test and I found I had high prolactin.
It was hard to tackle. The more I took medicine for it, the more it rose.
Indeed, at the time, I was very stressed. Life in Lagos and doing a 9-to-5 job.
I leaned on God for insight into what to do and I got it.
You see, the world may try to put you on a clock, but God works in His perfect timing.
Trusting God doesn’t mean you won’t feel pressure—but it means you can find peace in knowing that your story is not delayed, it’s being beautifully written.
👉 Bible Verse:
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1
If you want to see what I did to overcome the high prolactin, read my story: How I Treated Hormonal Imbalance And Gave Birth To ‘Near Twin’
5. Find Support In Safe Spaces
Really, you’re not alone. Join support groups, whether online or in-person, where other women are going through similar journeys.
Have You Read: TTC: 6 Things You Should Not Say To Persons Trying To Conceive
Having people who understand can help you release stress and remind you that your feelings are valid.
Also, you can learn one or two hacks from people who are willing enough to share.
6. Focus On Your Mental And Emotional Health
Pressure while you are trying to conceive can lead to anxiety, sadness, or even depression. Be kind to yourself.
Take time for self-care—whether that’s journaling, taking walks, praying, or talking to a counselor.
👉 Remember: You are more than your ability to conceive. You are whole, valuable, and deeply loved just as you are.
7. Pray For Strength And Wisdom
Ask God to give you wisdom to handle conversations with grace, strength to walk through this season with hope, and peace that surpasses understanding.
When you pray, things happen that should not have happened if you did not pray.
Takeaways
While you are trying to conceive, the pressure from family and in-laws may not stop immediately, but you can choose how you let it affect you.
Guard your heart, protect your peace, and trust God with your journey.
Your worth is not defined by a child—but your faith, courage, and love during this season speak volumes.
You are not alone. You are seen. And you are deeply loved.