Question:

My wife and have been trying to have children from a while, but we have been unsuccessful. Currently, my wife is undergoing a certain treatment and the doctor is very optimistic. I, too, remain optimistic, but a little insurance can't hurt. What sort of prayer would you suggest?

Answer:

Very often, the Rebbe would advise people in your situation to be meticulous in the observance of the laws of Family Purity. If you have not yet committed to observing this mitzvah, now is a perfect time to do so. If you do observe the laws, perhaps it's time for a refresher course. Either way, your local rabbi and rebbetzin will be able to assist you in this matter.

While there is no specific prayer or blessing that addresses your situation, there are three special times for a woman to pray for children: 1) After she immerses in the mikvah, as per the mitzvah of Family Purity, while she is still in the water. 2) After she lights the Shabbat or Jewish holiday candles and recites the blessing, while she is still covering her eyes. 3) While she is making challah.

(Not so coincidentally, these are the three mitzvot that are especially associated with women... Follow this link for more about these mitzvot.)

May I also suggest that you contribute to a charity that provides assistance, financially or otherwise, for couples that are experiencing infertility. Bonei Olam is one such organization that I can recommend. Another, newer organization is the Jewish Fertility Foundation. In the merit of helping other couples have children, may G‑d bless you with your own...

Last but not least, many many suffering from infertility as well as other troubles visit or send a note to the Rebbe's resting place in Queens, NY, asking the Rebbe to pray on their behalf. Many thousands have had their prayers miraculously answered as a result. Click here for more about the Rebbe's "Ohel," including information how to visit or email a blessing request.

I hope this has been helpful.

Chaya Sarah Silberberg,
Chabad.org