Help! I Invited My Coworkers Into a Very Personal Part of My Life. Now I Really Regret It.

Dear Prudence is Slate’s advice column. Everyone is very family-oriented and loves kids, so usually when people get married, it’s not uncommon for a teacher to ask something along the lines of: When are you going to have a baby? Therefore, I told a few work friends that we were starting the process of trying, and when they would ask how it was going, even though I was starting to get frustrated, I would still make some jokes like, “Winter break is coming—maybe we’ll get a little Christmas surprise!” Unfortunately, now it’s been almost two years with no results. I’ll make an announcement when there’s some news to be shared.” What I really want to say is, “Will you please stop asking about my reproductive health?” But that’s very rude, especially since I’m the one who opened the door to this side of my life. So many people struggle with infertility—even Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz and his wife have talked openly about their difficulties!—it’s really time to get with the program.