Janet Jackson's Pregnancy Gives Hope for Women with Fertility Issues

Singer and songwriter Janet Jackson is pregnant with her first child at the age of 49 and the news is a spotlight of hope for woman who have struggled with infertility.

Jackson, who will turn 50 in a couple of weeks, is expecting a baby with her husband Wissam Al Mana.

After canceling a tour in April, Jackson posted a message on Twitter telling fans that she and her husband would be planning their family. 

"I have to rest up—doctor's orders—but I have not forgotten about you. I will continue the tour as soon as I possibly can," she said. 

Jackson's news is not only a testimony for people believing to start a family, but it's a reminder that some women struggle to get pregnant.

CBN News spoke with Dr. Linda Mintle, a licensed family therapist, who explains the pain couples feel when they are having difficulty conceiving children. 

"It's this very big emotional roller coaster for a couple, especially for the woman. Hormonally you are constantly in an anticipatory role and then you have your cycle and then you realize its not happening. Then you get somewhat depressed," she said.

Mintle says that for a period of her life she struggled with infertility. 

"People would say its a lack of faith and I had people tell me it was sin in my life," she said. "Dealing with the things that people said was one of the most difficult things," she added. 

Mintle explains that there is often extra pressure from the church on couples to have children. 

"People are constantly asking you and questioning you when are you going to start a family. 'What's going on, why don't you have children?'" she said.  

Mintle and her husband eventually conceived after adopting their first child. 

Mintle advises that the Church should remain sensitive to those who are walking through this issue and she even suggests that there are practical steps that can be taken to show support. 

"I make it a point to find someone in the pew every Mother's Day," Mintle explains. "I'd grab her hand and encourage her and I tell her 'I know this is a tough day, I've been there,'" she said.