Watch Our Labor of Love

Our Labor of Love is a 2010 documentary film directed by Elaine McMillion Sheldon and Susan Bedusa. The movie follows the journey of several couples who struggle with infertility, and the hurdles they face when trying to conceive. The film is divided into three chapters, each focusing on a different couple. The filmmakers begin by delving into the couple's motivations for having children, as well as the various methods of conception they have tried. Many of the couples in the film have experienced numerous failed attempts at conceiving, and have turned to alternative forms of treatment, such as IVF or sperm donation.

The first chapter of the film introduces us to Hope and Eric, a couple from Texas who have been trying to have a baby for several years. Hope underwent several unsuccessful rounds of IVF, and became dependent on prescription drugs to deal with the stress and anxiety of trying to conceive. Meanwhile, Eric struggled to come to terms with his own infertility issues, which had been caused by a bout of cancer he had suffered as a teenager. The couple's struggle to conceive is depicted in a raw and honest manner, as they share their deepest fears and frustrations with the camera.

The second chapter of the film focuses on Mandy and Steve, a couple from West Virginia who have also been struggling with infertility. Mandy has a condition called Asherman's syndrome, which makes it difficult for her to conceive naturally. The couple decided to explore the option of sperm donation, and documented their interactions with potential donors in a lighthearted and funny way. However, as they embark on the process of artificial insemination, they begin to realize the emotional toll that infertility is taking on their relationship.

The final chapter of the film follows Crystle and Billy, a couple from Kentucky who are also seeking fertility treatments. Crystle had previously conceived through IVF, but had suffered a miscarriage, which left her feeling devastated and lost. Billy, meanwhile, struggled to deal with the emotional demands of fertility treatment, and found it difficult to connect with Crystle during the process. However, as the couple embark on a final round of IVF, they begin to find hope and strength in their love for one another.

Throughout the film, the audience is introduced to a range of fertility experts, including doctors and nurses, who provide valuable insight into the world of infertility treatment. We also meet several other couples who are struggling with similar issues, and share their stories of hope and resilience.

One of the strengths of this film is its honesty and unflinching portrayal of the emotional toll that infertility can take on individuals and couples. The filmmakers do not shy away from depicting the darker aspects of this journey, including the financial strain, personal sacrifice, and profound despair that many people experience during the process of trying to conceive.

At the same time, the film is also a celebration of the human spirit and the power of love to overcome even the most difficult challenges. By the end of the movie, the audience is left with a deep sense of respect and admiration for the couples featured in the film, who have shown incredible courage and resilience in the face of infertility.

In conclusion, Our Labor of Love is a powerful and moving film that sheds light on the often-overlooked issue of infertility. It is a must-see for anyone who has struggled with this issue, or knows someone who has. The filmmakers have done an excellent job of capturing the emotional complexity of this journey, while also providing valuable insight into the science and technology behind fertility treatments. The result is a film that is both informative and deeply human, and one that is sure to inspire and touch audiences of all kinds.