Fertility issues. Luckily we came out the other side (IVF) and our baby is due very soon. But never underestimate how much it can shake the foundations of your world.

Each month becomes an absolute rollercoaster of emotions, and you have absolutely no control. You fill yourself with hope (this month is different, I can just feel it!), only to be absolutely crushed time and time again. You curse yourself. You curse the world. It's the worst place I've ever been in.

  - We both faced the issue head-on and considered every option. Don't keep things in the dark just because the truth is scary. I know a couple who delayed seeking help because they were fearful they might be told they can't have kids. But now they're both 39, so IVF will be much more difficult.
  - Taking time to reflect and keep my negative emotions in check. It's very easy to become bitter & resentful, and begin to hate others. For whatever reason exercise is my "reflection" time.
  - Keeping busy with rewarding hobbies (learning guitar, woodworking, etc), so I had things to look forward to.
  - Spending quality time with my wife that wasn't just about baby-making.
  - Fostering relationships with family & friends. They can be an incredible support network, and the people who really matter will be there for you. But also make sure you're there for them. You're not the only one going through stuff.

The experience has completely changed how I view people around me. You just never know what people are going through.

And never, ever ask a childless couple when they're going to have kids.