One of the most common topics facing doctors today is the issue of mental health medication and pregnancy. If you are a soon-to-be mother with a mental health condition, getting the right information may be an arduous and complicated task. So today, we’ve asked Dr. Marlee Medora to join us on the show and help us unpack safer ways of finding the right care for pregnant women with a mental illness. Dr. Medora is a Women’s Health Psychiatrist with her own private practice in New York and she begins our conversation by laying out three important tenets that govern how doctors treat pregnant patients who also have ailments to consider. Then, we discuss the dangers of starting a new medication or finishing a chronic course in and around pregnancy, why many women are still unaware of the options that are available to them, our guest’s process for assessing medicinal safety during pregnancy, and how patients can find the right doctors and resources for their particular plight. We also learn about the importance of dismantling stigmas relating to mental health and substance abuse and after taking a closer look at the infertility struggle and the value of self-care, we close with today’s moments of gratitude.    

Dr. Natan Bar-Chama is a board-certified reproductive urologist and has been the Director for the Centre for Reproductive Health at RMA of New York for the past 20 years. His practice is exclusively dedicated to the field of male fertility. During this episode, he shares a summary of his recent presentation at the ASRM Conference, titled Breaking Down Barriers to the Male Fertiltity Evaluation in the Reproductive Clinic: Optimizing New Technology. This episode centers on two elements that the male reproductive analysis is based on, and how evolving technological solutions facilitate the process of extracting necessary information for fertility treatment. We discuss Telehealth assessments, how a couple can assess male reproductive factors through conversation, and how to approach fertility treatment planning. Dr. Bar-Chama also touches on research into testicular surgery and sampling for men. Listen in to hear all this and more!  

Claudia Freedman was recently discharged from RMA of New York, under the care of Dr. Matthew Lederman. She is ten weeks pregnant today! During this conversation, Claudia joins us to share her story of reaching this point despite navigating a very real phobia of needles. Tuning in, you’ll hear all about Claudia’s unexpected struggles to get pregnant, her journey to pursuing fertility treatment, and the apprehension she experienced leading up to the process. Claudia shares tips and tricks that she implemented during the IVF process, how she created a sense of control to combat fear, and how asking questions helped set her mind at ease along the way. We discuss how treatment differs from person to person and some of the valuable wisdom for life and parenting that Claudia gained along the way. Thanks for tuning in!  

Welcome to our annual year-in-review for Fertility Forward! Today, we are delving into the highs and lows of 2023 and what we are looking forward to for next year. In this episode, you will hear what we love about this podcast, our favorite kinds of discussions, the good and bad of 2023, how things have changed in the world of fertility, and so much more! We discuss our goals for 2024 before talking about our self-care rituals and how we can prioritize them. From adapting to seasons, to reading great books, to what we are grateful for from 2023, to the excitement of 2024, this episode has it all so be sure to tune in now! 

If you’re dreading the upcoming holidays, with their awkward conversations and cringe-worthy personal questions, this episode is for you! We are joined by returning guest, Dr. Georgia Witkin to discuss some handy tips and tricks for surviving the holiday season ahead. Dr. Witkin is the Director of Psychological Services and Wellness at RMA of New York and an assistant professor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science at Mount Sinai Medical Center. Tuning in today, you’ll hear Dr. Witkin’s thoughts on why you need to stop “should-ing” and her insights for being discerning about what and with whom you share. She also highlights possible answers you can give to relatives asking questions or making uncomfortable statements about your fertility. Press play to hear these and other helpful suggestions, including the option to opt out this holiday season, and remember: base your expectations on reality and not wishful thinking. Thanks for listening and happy holidays! 

On the show today, we discuss the various meanings of motherhood with our special guest, Dr. Camille Hammond. Dr. Hammond is the Founder and CEO of the Tinina Q. Cade Foundation, otherwise known as The Cade Foundation, a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote awareness of infertility and serve the needs of families struggling with infertility. They provide educational resources and financial assistance to help them grow their families. Join the conversation as Dr. Hammond candidly shares her personal infertility journey and the incredible story of her mother's offer to be a gestational carrier for her triplets. We explore the impact of social media in shedding light on less-discussed topics like infertility and delve into the founding of the Tinina Q Cade Foundation. Discover the Cade Foundation grants for families seeking support and gain insights into the diverse paths to parenthood and the empowering concept that you can define the word "mother" on your own terms. Don’t miss out on this insightful episode, so press play now.  

In honor of Veteran’s Day, today’s episode explores the under-addressed topic of fertility care for active duty and veteran service members, the challenges they are likely to experience, and how to ensure they are better supported as patients. Joining us to discuss this subject is Dr. Samantha Estevez, a Clinical Fellow at Reproductive Medicine Associates of New York, and Katrina Nietsch, a medical student at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. We discuss their fortuitous collaboration before delving into their recent abstract titled, Supporting Our Troops: 20 Years of Fertility Trends Among Active Duty and Veteran Service Members Seeking Fertility Care at a Major Urban Fertility Center. Tuning in, you’ll learn about Katrina’s long history with the military, what led her to medicine, and how she partnered with Dr. Estevez to explore fertility and fertility care within the veteran population. We take a look at the limitations that veterans or active duty service members might experience when seeking specialized fertility treatment and how our guests went about researching this topic. We also reflect on the important role of advocacy and policy initiatives in this area, and how they are pushing the Veterans Association (VA) and government to recognize and address pressing issues facing female service members and veterans. Join us for an eye-opening conversation about an urgent topic that should be receiving much more attention!  

Today on Fertility Forward, we will discuss another research abstract presented at this year’s American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) Conference, titled ‘Spironolactone use in oocyte maturation in patients undergoing oocyte cryopreservation.’ Here to join us in conversation about it are two of the authors, who are also endocrinologists at RMA of New York, Dr. Atoosa Ghofranian and Dr. Kimberley Thornton. Tune in now to hear more about Spironolactone and its uses, where their research question stemmed from including the story behind the interest in this project, highlights from the study’s findings, and more.  

When it comes to accessibility, we’ve made important strides by enacting legislation that enables more inclusive access to fertility care, but there is still a long way to go. Here today to help unpack this important topic is return guest, Dr. Samantha Estevez, a clinical fellow at Mount Sinai and Reproductive Medicine Associates of New York in reproductive endocrinology and infertility. In our conversation with Samantha, we examine the details of key legislative changes in New York State, their impact on LGBTQIA+ couples, and the contents of her new article ‘Breaking down barriers for same-sex female couples building families in vitro fertilization utilization since the enactment of 2021 New York state legislation’. Tuning in, you’ll hear Samantha’s breakdown of the 2017 New York state legislation, how it excluded LGBTQIA+ couples when it comes to family building, and the important ways in which the 2021 legislation changes addresses these shortcomings. We delve into the findings of Samantha’s study, including how the data showed greater inclusivity post-legislation, before reflecting on what this could mean for future advocacy and legislative changes across the US. This type of research plays a pivotal role in ensuring greater fertility access for all. To learn more about these types of legislative changes and why they are so important, be sure to tune in! 

Today, we are joined by Dr. Tamar Alkon from RMA's Mexico City office to discuss her groundbreaking research on embryonic mosaicism and its correlation with spermatozoa recovery in severe male factor infertility patients. Dr. Alkon begins by explaining embryonic mosaicism and shares insights into her research process and findings. The research will be presented at the ASRM (American Society for Reproductive Medicine) conference in October, which signifies a tremendous step in fertility knowledge and understanding! Tune in to hear Dr. Alkon’s conclusions firsthand. 

The system fails women with cancer who want to protect their fertility and joining us today on Fertility Forward is the person on the frontline of this battle, Founder and CEO of The Chick Mission. In this episode, Amanda Rice tells us all about her cancer diagnosis, what made her decide to freeze her eggs, the disappointment she experienced when her insurance refused due to her diagnosis, and how that inspired her to create The Chick Mission. We discuss Amanda’s current status, how she got through chemotherapy, and what she learned from her experience. Young women are also educated about reproductive health in a backward fashion; with the focus being on how not to get pregnant instead of providing them with an essential well-rounded education. Amanda discusses her mission to change that as well as the other important pillars of The Chick Mission before delving into how you can get involved in her organization. Finally, we are reminded of the importance of reaching out for help. To hear all this and so much more, tune in now! 

Just as we always say, knowledge is power, and today’s guest is a massive advocate for getting more information about your fertility to make informed decisions. Dr. Jeffrey Klein is a reproductive endocrinologist and fertility specialist at RMA of New York --  Westchester with a reputation for incredible patient care and a great passion for his work. He joins us in this episode of Fertility Forward to discuss secondary infertility, what it means, why it occurs, why the workup is similar to regular infertility, and so much more! We delve into why open lines of communication and pure honesty are imperative in fertility care before Dr. Klein explains AMH and the differences between egg reserve and egg quality. Fertility is filled with grey areas, and our guest leaves us with words of encouragement to arm ourselves with information about our own reproductive health. Finally, he shares his gratitude for his health! Thank you for listening in.  

Welcome to PCOS Awareness Month here at Fertility Forward! Today we are joined by an incredible naturalistic doctor, Lana Butner to discuss all things holistic PCOS management. Tuning in, you’ll hear about what drew Lana to natural medicine, what PCOS is, how it manifests, the problematic traditional process of diagnosis, and so much more! Our holistic expert offers nutrition and exercise tips tailored to women managing PCOS followed by a illuminating discussion on cortisol and stress in PCOS. We then explore how mindful eating and acupuncture can assist in alleviating symptoms. Finally, Lana talks about her PCOS course and recipe books! You don’t want to miss this one so be sure to press play now! 

Postpartum depression is a topic that is considered taboo among mothers, especially those who have been blessed with a baby following an infertility journey. But the reality is that it is a very real experience and can be managed with a little bit of support and education. Joining us today on Fertility Froward is the incredible author and mother, Jessica Wendi Abel, to tell us about her book, The Little Blue Rocket Ship, her postpartum experience, and why she wants to help families going through depression and anxiety. Our guest tells us all about the inspiration behind her book, why she wrote it from a child’s perspective, and how her eldest son reacted to it. We hear the difference between postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety, how they cross paths, factors that exacerbate these struggles, how they show up differently for different people, and why many women struggle to communicate their feelings. Finally, Jessica shares some words of wisdom for any family going through PPD and PPA before telling us that we can (and should) change our beliefs to suit the needs of our families. To hear all this and to be reminded to ask new mothers what they need, tune in now! To purchase Jessica's book, click here. 

While navigating the fertility journey, women are encouraged to prepare their bodies for the intensive process of IVF. But equally important, is preparing your mind for the complex emotions and difficult challenges inherent to the process. Our guest today, Emily Getz, is the founder of Day 1 Fertility, a unique fertility network designed to support those struggling to bring home a baby. She is also a certified fertility, pregnancy and infant loss coach, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) practitioner, and fellow fertility patient. In our conversation with Emily, she opens up about how she was impacted by her late-stage pregnancy loss, what she has learned about how your mindset can affect your fertility outcomes, and why she is on a mission to redefine the fertility journey. She shares how getting a life coach enabled her to see her journey from an entirely new perspective and how it inspired her to help other women facing the same struggles. We also discuss her 12-week program, the benefits of group coaching, and how she is equipping participants with the tools they need to handle painful moments. To learn more about the important work Emily is doing and the power of community, be sure to listen in! 

“Where are you in your menstrual cycle?” This is something that every woman should be aware of, whether you are trying to fall pregnant, optimize your training schedule, or simply get a better understanding of your body. Unfortunately, education in this sphere is difficult to access, but today’s guest is doing everything she can to change that. Nora DeBora is a preconception health coach, holistic nutritionist, and fertility awareness practitioner. She joins us on the show today to discuss the journey that led her from the corporate HR space to where she is today, how the fertility awareness method (FAM) works, and the importance of employing strategies for calming your nervous system on your fertility journey. She also does a live demonstration of a breathing technique that we should all be doing everyday!  

Today we are joined by two special guest speakers to discuss a very timely and engaging topic. Dr. Eric Flisser is our fellow reproductive endocrinologist and Paxton Maeder-York is the CEO and Founder of Alife Health. Alife Health is a fertility technology company that builds artificial intelligence tools to advance the IVF process. During our conversation today, we dive further into the topic of artificial intelligence and how it can impact the infertility and IVF sectors. Paxton shares the mission behind Alife Health and how AI is currently being used in the healthcare sector. He also explains how algorithms function in different settings and the importance of gathering a diverse data set to battle inequities in infertility care. To hear about the potential of AI to advance not only the IVF process but the patient experience as well, tune in now! 

Surrogacy gives people with fertility struggles the opportunity to have a biological child. However, the idea can feel daunting beyond measure. Today we are joined by the founder of Newborn Advantage Surrogacy, Mindy Berkson. Mindy married her venture capital background with her industry experience, as well as her personal experience as a secondary infertility patient, to help intended families grow their families. In this episode, we find out more about the mother-daughter duo offering well-rounded concierge services to both intended parents and surrogates and learn the ins and outs of surrogacy. Mindy explains everything from the most important criteria when choosing a surrogate and what makes for a strong surrogate candidate, to how surrogacy laws differ state-to-state. Tune in to hear the communication guidelines between intended parents and surrogates, Mindy’s advice for intended parents, and so much more! 

Today, we are excited to welcome Carey Cook to the Fertility Forward podcast. Carey is a holistic fertility coach for LGBTQ+ families who are spiraling into the anxious abyss of expanding their families. With an MA in Counseling Psychology, Carey helps people gain tools to navigate tough decisions, manage big feelings, and avoid common pitfalls. Having gone through her own fertility journey, she became more aware of the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ families when growing their families, ultimately inspiring her individual-based coaching program. In our conversation with Carey, we hear about her personal fertility journey and how she and her wife navigated both the clinic and private embryo donation route, the difference between embryo adoption and donation, and her thoughts on the rollercoaster (of emotions, grief, and trauma) that the fertility journey is. Tune in now, to hear about her work as a somatic therapist, and so much more. 

What if there was a possibility that western medicine can’t do everything our bodies need to create a conducive environment for fertility? Joining us today on Fertility Forward is acupuncturist, Sharon McDermott to discuss how acupuncture and Chinese medicine can contribute to fertility treatment. Tuning in, you’ll hear all about how Sharon’s approach is different from traditional medicine, the importance of advocating for yourself as a patient, why women lack confidence about birthing, and why you need to slow down and evaluate options when making birthing decisions. Sharon then goes on to break down different body and personality types and what food they need specifically, before explaining what Chinese medicine can do in fertility treatment that western medicine is unable to do. Finally, we discuss how Sharon’s treatments can improve sleep. So to hear all about why you need to understand your body and how Sharon can help, tune in now! 

Regular exercise has many benefits for your physical and mental health, but women undergoing fertility treatment are often told that high-intensity activity can actually decrease their chance of becoming pregnant while increasing their risk of ovarian torsion. Fitness fanatics, rejoice! Because we’re here to tell you that there ARE ways to exercise safely throughout your fertility journey. Joining us is Lauren Blandin, a professional ballet dancer turned yoga instructor, medical massage therapist, and registered nurse, but to the community of women that she serves in New York City, she is fondly known as The Fertility Yoga Nurse. Fertility Yoga is a restorative modality created by Lauren that utilizes mind/body techniques to regulate chronic stress, safely manage the physiological changes that occur throughout fertility treatments, and address the isolation that is often experienced during the fertility journey. If you are trying to get pregnant or you’ve had difficulty getting pregnant, Fertility Yoga could be a useful tool to help you on your journey! Tuning in today, you’ll find out what it entails and how it can benefit not only your physical health, but your mental health too, plus so much more. We hope you’ll join us! 

Stigma, shame, isolation, and a lack of patient education are commonly associated with the fertility journey. Today’s guest, Lauren Berson, knows this firsthand from the three years she spent going through failed treatments, a miscarriage, and being provided with false information. A combination of Lauren’s personal and career experiences inspired her to found Conceive, the solution to so many of the pain points of infertility. During this episode, Lauren talks about the types of supportive and educational resources that Conceive offers its members, the benefits of being part of the Conceive community, and the measurable patient outcomes that they are working towards achieving as a company. The fertility journey can take over your life; Conceive can help you take it back. 

Many people are under the impression that couples therapy is a last resort solely associated with divorce. Our guest today joins us to share the true goal of couples therapy and its role in helping couples achieve relationship satisfaction and a greater connection with themselves and one another. Dr. Stephanie Simon is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in perinatal mental health and couples therapy. She has a doctorate from PGSP Stanford PsyD Consortium and a wealth of clinical experience. Her current focus is on helping couples overcome the challenges that accompany infertility, fertility treatment, pregnancy, and postpartum. In this episode, she shares her experiential approach to couples therapy using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and insight into navigating the challenges of fertility treatment as a couple. Tune in to find out why couples therapy may just be the best gift you could ever offer yourself and your partner and why it’s so vital that we destigmatize it as a society. 

These days it’s easy to take for granted our ability to communicate instantly, often across vast distances, with people we’ve never met before. But back in 1981, without the internet or email to rely on, finding a like-minded community was far more challenging. And yet today’s guest, Jane Mattes, was able to do just that when navigating the intimidating territory of single parenthood at the start of the 1980s, a time when being a single parent was far more taboo than it is today. The small community of women that Jane became a part of went on to become the non-profit Single Mothers By Choice (SMC), an organization which has since provided thousands of women with an invaluable support system. In our conversation, Jane talks about her journey as a single mother, why she is so proud of the SMC community, and how her work as a psychotherapist has overlapped with her work at SMC. We discuss the three categories of women who seek the support of SMC while also unpacking some of the key questions that single mothers grapple with, like telling children about their origin story and how to approach dating as a single parent. Jane has been a key player in an extraordinary movement that has impacted thousands of lives. To learn all about her incredible journey and the inspiring work over at SMC, be sure to tune in today! 

Today on Fertility Forward, the podcast, we have the honor of hosting Lindsay Nakash. She is a registered dietician who is renowned for optimizing patient health with accessible and convenient nutritional support. With extensive experience providing critical nutrition therapy to patients with a variety of different medical conditions including diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, GI disorders, and hypertension, she’s with us today to talk about making peace with your food. Lindsay shares her transition into the fertility world as a registered dietician and her favorite aspects of working with this population. She shares a story about fertility she experienced and some of the reasons she wanted to become a dietician. She talks about her experience in Italy as a nutrition student and how that impacted her greatly. For all this and more, don’t miss out on this episode with Lindsay Nakash! 

We are taught that food should be our primary source of vitamins and minerals and while that is true, there is no shame in taking supplements to support your health; especially when pregnant or trying to conceive. Joining us today on Fertility Forward is the nutrition specialist, Casey Seiden, to discuss how supplements can fill gaps in your nutritional needs. Tuning in, you’ll hear all about why supplements are important, and the difference between prenatal and multivitamins. Learn why you should take prenatal vitamins before you plan on becoming pregnant, why we need to be mindful of the potential inability to absorb folic acid, and how anemia affects pregnant women. Casey also talks us through some of the most important supplements to take before delving into how our needs change after the age of 35. There is a common misconception that supplements should be taken first thing in the morning and in this episode, Casey explains that different supplements need to be taken at specific times of the day to optimize their absorption. Finally, our guest encourages us to accept the fact that we may need to take supplements to be as healthy as we can be. To hear all about how you can enhance your fertility journey, your pregnancy, and your life as a whole with supplements, tune in now! 

Finding balance and welcoming that balance into your life will help you create a lifestyle that leads to being a healthy person while also having room for the indulgences and other “good” parts of life you don’t want to miss out on. Our guest today is Katie Dewhurst, the founder, and CEO of Hello Balance, a health and wellness company helping millennial women optimize their health through food. She’s a certified functional medicine health coach and nutritionist, a cookbook author, and the founder of the Hello Baby Prenatal Nutrition course. Her health coaching approach is based on the latest science and research and is not about restriction, diets, or rigid lifestyles, but about eating more of the right foods. It doesn’t have to be boring and it will heal the body from the inside out. As listeners tune in to today’s episode, they’ll hear from Katie all about nutrition and lifestyle factors as they relate to fertility, trying to conceive, and pregnancy. We discuss blood sugars and why balancing them is an integral part of finding balance in your health journey. She also shares details about her Prenatal Course and what participants can expect to learn. For all this, and so much more, don’t miss this episode of the Fertility Forward podcast.  

Our guest today is Regina Townsend, an award-winning youth librarian, infertility advocate, and founder of The Broken Brown Egg, an internationally recognized reproductive health blog and non-profit organization. She’s passionate about bringing light to the nuance of infertility in the African-American community, and the unique needs of teens and adults, and believes in connecting people to resources they need to make informed decisions. She has most recently, authored a book called Make IF Make Sense, a part memoir part guided journal, with the goal of empowering readers to push through to the goals they have in mind for their family-building or reproductive health journey. As you tune into this episode, you’ll hear about the inspiration for her book, what her infertility journey was like, and her experience navigating through the wrong doctors to find the right one. We talk about the intertwined nature of infertility and mental health and why it’s okay to admit that things may suck! Her heart is to put forth a resource that brings ease to other people’s journeys through guidance and support. You don’t want to miss this insightful conversation, so start listening now! 

The health of your immune system can gravely affect your fertility and ability to become pregnant. Joining us today on Fertility Forward is specialist Dr. Daniel Stein, to talk about how immunology affects fertility care. In this episode, you will hear all about immunotolerance, how a functioning immune system is beneficial to pregnancy, when your immune system affects your ability to carry a pregnancy and how to know, as well as how to test for any immune system issues affecting your fertility. We also discuss why blood tests may not be helpful, how to spot treatments that aren’t going to do much good, and how to identify any issues you may have. Dr. Stein goes on to explain his passion for immunology research before delving into the importance of selecting the right healthcare professionals to help you through this journey. Lastly, as always, we share some things we are grateful for as we approach the holiday season. So, to hear all about how a functional immune system can support pregnancy and fertility care, tune in now!Key Points From This Episode:Welcoming back today’s guest, Dr. Daniel Stein to discuss immunology.The importance of having a functional immune system during pregnancy. Why women can develop immunotolerance. How to know if you cannot carry a pregnancy because of your immune system. The imperative bacteria in the uterus that is needed for a successful pregnancy. Why blood tests may not indicate what is happening with natural killer cells in the uterus. The potentially unhelpful immunology treatments to look out for. The deep dive Dr. Stein is doing on immunology research. The importance of using board-certified, reputable programs and how to access that data.How you can know if you have these immune issues when trying to conceive or before. How acupuncture can reduce stress and why it may help with fertility treatment.Dr. Stein tells us why he is grateful for his ability to walk. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Daniel Stein on LinkedInDr. Daniel Stein on TwitterDr. Daniel Stein on InstagramRMA of New YorkRMA of New York on TwitterRMA of New York on InstagramRMA of New York on YouTubeRena Gower LinkedInRena Gower InstagramDara Godfrey LinkedInDara Godfrey Instagram Fertility Forward on Instagram

The health of your immune system can gravely affect your fertility and ability to become pregnant. Joining us today on Fertility Forward is specialist Dr. Daniel Stein, to talk about how immunology affects fertility care. In this episode, you will hear all about immunotolerance, how a functioning immune system is beneficial to pregnancy, when your immune system affects your ability to carry a pregnancy and how to know, as well as how to test for any immune system issues affecting your fertility. We also discuss why blood tests may not be helpful, how to spot treatments that aren’t going to do much good, and how to identify any issues you may have. Dr. Stein goes on to explain his passion for immunology research before delving into the importance of selecting the right healthcare professionals to help you through this journey. Lastly, as always, we share some things we are grateful for as we approach the holiday season. So, to hear all about how a functional immune system can support pregnancy and fertility care, tune in now!

“The beauty of being a human is that you’re never done growing.” These are the words of one of our hosts, Rena. In this episode, we take a moment to pause and reflect before looking ahead.  We discuss how we’re going to approach the new year as we strive to grow, change, and evolve into better versions of ourselves. Tuning in, you’ll hear what we hope to achieve in 2023, from overcoming negative self-talk and being kinder to ourselves to challenging the labels we often use to define ourselves. You’ll learn about the power of "I am” declarations, the value of setting healthy boundaries, and why it’s good to limit the amount of negative content we consume or people we spend time with. You’ll also discover some great book and podcast resources that we have gained so much from. To start 2023 on a great note, take a moment to pause and reflect with us today! 

PCOS is a problem faced by many women today. Joining us in conversation is Nicole Holness, a registered dietician nutritionist, and an international board-certified lactation consultant with a focus on PCOS, fertility, pregnancy and postpartum, which has led to her own brand, Holness Nutrition. Join us to hear the story of how Nicole came to focus on fertility and PCOS before we dive into the four categories of PCOS and their related treatments. We explore the role of diet in improving fertility and reducing PCOS symptoms and talk about stress management along with some practical tools that you can implement today. Customization is absolutely necessary for every PCOS patient, and Nicole explains why this is her approach, as well as gives us her perspective on Inositol and where you can find it naturally. Thanks for tuning in to today’s jam-packed episode with another inspiring guest. 

The expense of infertility treatment is a costly one. It is even more costly when you are an underrepresented minority with minimal benefits and advocacy. Dr. Brent Monseur, an endocrinologist and LGBTQ+ community member, is here to discuss a fascinating and important topic by sharing some of their research, data, and findings. We hear the benefits of their research and how, despite being a small sample size, the information and data collected mirrors what Dr. Monseur believes is the nationwide situation. As an advocate for better coverage, insurance benefits, and health care, we understand why Dr. Monseur is pro-insurance reform, believes in highlighting health disparities, and provides education for everyone. Plus, we hear what their future holds with empowering and providing the LGBTQ+ community with access to safe, informative family planning. 

Transgender patients are still a largely marginalized group, but thanks to people like Dr. Atoosa Ghofranian, more and more research is being done to improve their medical experience. Dr. Ghofranian is a fourth-year obstetrics and gynecology resident at the Icahn school in New York with an interest in improving IVF outcomes and expanding access to ART in underserved communities. She joins us today to talk about the study she’s presenting at ASRM, “Assisted Reproductive Technology Treatment Outcomes in Transgender Males with History of Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy.” Tune in to hear about the objectives and reassuring findings of this critical study!

Today we are joined by Dr. Chelsea Canon to discuss her latest abstract entitled “Reproductive Outcomes in Single Euploid Embryo Transfer Cycles is Independent of Whether the Embryo Originated from a Fresh or Cryopreserved Oocyte”. Dr. Canon will be presenting this research at the upcoming American Society for Reproductive Medicine Expo but feels it is important to share it with patients too. Our guest is a third-year fellow in reproductive endocrinology and infertility at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City and Reproductive Medicine Associates in New York. As more and more women are using eggs that were previously frozen, this has enabled the collection of data that we can use to help people make more informed decisions when deciding on how to preserve fertility. In this episode, Dr. Canon explains the difference between freezing eggs and freezing embryos and whether or not it matters if you use frozen or fresh eggs when creating embryos. If you have questions when it comes to fresh versus frozen, tune in today! 

Welcome to the 100th episode of Fertility Forward! Joining us today is the award-winning Dr. Samantha Estevez to discuss her research and mission to make fertility care more accessible for members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Dr. Estevez explains some gender terminology to us and talks about who falls within the gender diverse category before telling us why we need to be educated on how people express gender identity. Next, we discuss how transgender and gender-diverse patients are affected by fertility care, why fertility preservation is important, the lack of fertility resources available to patients who have transitioned and why, and how finances and insurance affect gender-affirming care. We also delve into why training healthcare professionals in LGBTQIA+ diversity and sensitivity is essential. The hosts even learn a new term today; TGD (transgender and gender diverse.) Finally, we all share what we are grateful for, and Dr. Estevez tells us how happy she is making the world a better place through her research. Thank you for tuning in!

Knowledge is power, and you are your best advocate. Sharing her story on the podcast today is former patient Caitlin Zikoyanis, who underwent genetic IVF to eliminate the BRCA 2 gene. Tune in today to hear her story of successfully removing risk from her children’s lives through fertility treatment with RMA’s Dr. Matthew Letterman. Learn from what she would do differently and where she found her best support, and hear us bust a myth about recessive genes. Find out how genetic IVF can completely eliminate BRCA, and what Caitlin would like anyone dealing with the same issues as her to know. At the same time, they navigate the minefield of fertility treatment and cancer. As always, we finish with a moment of gratitude from each of us. Thanks for tuning in!

In this episode of Fertility Forward, we are joined by our newest member of RMA New York, reproductive endocrinologist, Dr. Rachel Danis. Listening in, you will hear all about Rachel’s professional journey from her passion for how REI hits home for her as a woman, to why she chose reproductive endocrinology. Next, we delve into the new drug Elagolix, how it is helpful for women with endometriosis, why Rachel wanted to do research and studies on it, and what she discovered through her research process. Rachel also shares the side effects of the drug before talking about her goals to expand much-needed fertility care to Brooklyn during her time at RMA. As usual, to end off, Dr. Danis tells us what she is grateful for today. So tune in now to welcome Dr. Rachel Danis and hear more from her! 

Knowledge is power, so listen to your body. Ovarian cancer, one of the many cancers plaguing our society, is often hard to diagnose because of its range of different signs, symptoms, and risk factors. Our guest today on the Fertility Forward podcast is Pamela Esposito-Amery, the co-founder, CEO, and board member of Tell Every Amazing Lady About Ovarian Cancer Louisa M. McGregor Ovarian Cancer Foundation also known as T.E.A.L.®. As you tune into the podcast today, you’ll hear from Pamela about how T.E.A.L.® came to be, why resources for ovarian cancer were limited, her sister’s journey, and much more. Make sure you don’t miss out. Tune in today! 

Welcome back to another episode of Fertility Forward. Today we are joined by a very special guest who is both a reproductive specialist and someone who has struggled with infertility, Dr. Jenna Friedenthal. Tuning in you’ll hear about Jenna’s experience with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), her biochemical pregnancy experience, and how the treatment affected her partner. She also shares how she was able to navigate her own struggles while supporting her patients going through similar journeys. Jenna tells us what it was like to work with women whose biggest dream is to be pregnant as a visibly pregnant woman and why she shared her own experiences with them. And lastly, we express gratitude for our beautiful miracle daughters. To hear all about the light at the end of the infertility tunnel, press play now! 

Gender identity is a biological phenomenon! Here to discuss transgender care today is the executive director of the Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery at Mount Sinai Health System, Dr. Joshua Safer. Tuning in you’ll hear about Dr. Safer’s illustrious career in health care, how he ended up in transgender care, and how the CTMS program started. We also discuss why gender identity falls under the diagnostic category of sexual health and why it is still classified under the mental health code. Next, we talk about how the CTMS program has evolved, what Dr. Safer has learned from his patients, how treatment is customized, and where Dr. Safer sees this field going in the future. Finally, we look at how fertility affects transgender care before we all share what we are grateful for today. To hear all of this and be inspired to get educated on gender identity, join us now! 

Believe it or not, the new legislation surrounding abortion laws will have an impact on fertility care and IVF. Today on Fertility Forward, we are joined by hope counselor, Kimberly Thornton, and lawyer and owner of Reproductive Possibilities, Melissa Brisman, to discuss exactly how Wade vs. Roe will affect fertility care. Tuning in, you’ll hear how the reduction of multiples may be problematic under the new legislation, the differences in different states, how ectopic pregnancies will fit into abortion trigger laws, and the balancing act of deciphering laws when we aren’t able to determine when life begins, and how fertility companies and resources will be affected. We also discuss why we still have a voice and can advocate for change. To find out why hope is not lost, press play now! 

Today, on Fertility Forward, we are joined by a true hero in the world of fertility rights. Risa Levine is an attorney, a volunteer advocate for expanding fertility rights, and a Fierce Women’s Health and infertility advisor. We discuss what the overturn of Roe v. Wade means for fertility and IVF, with Risa offering us a definition of trigger laws, the differences between safe or blue states and red states, and how these trigger laws could potentially impact fertility care. She enlightens as to on why there aren’t immediate concerns about fertility and IVF while warning us about the long-term concerns that could potentially plague fertility care in the wake of Roe v. Wade being overturned. We also discuss the importance of advocacy, getting involved in any way you can, and calling out those who are ‘hurting’ women and thanking those who are ‘helping’, as well as why everybody is impacted by this new legislature. To find out how you can advocate for women’s reproductive rights, plus so much more, tune in today! 

Everyone’s IVF journey is different. Here with us today to discuss the ups and downs of their experience are Rokia and Tina. We discuss why they chose RMA to assist them in creating a family and why they felt it was important that they both felt they were a part of the process. Next, we look at the research that goes into IVF planning and why it can only help you to a certain extent before discussing the dangers of ‘Dr. Google.’ We talk about the most difficult part of the process for them so far, the genetic testing their one viable embryo had to have, the hormones that affected their relationship, and how they have been each other’s support system and are closer as a result. Finally, we discuss the importance of selecting a doctor that is right for you, especially in the virtual world we live in today and we take a look at Rokia and Tina’s future as parents. Tune into Fertility Forward to hear more! 

Everyone’s fertility journey is different, and this is particularly true for members of the LGBTQ+ community. Joining us today for Pride Month are two very special guests, Finn Brigham and Dr. Juliet Widoff from Callen-Lorde. Dr. Juliet Widoff is an internist with a specialization in HIV care. She has been a primary care provider in a myriad of settings, and, for the bulk of her career, she has been providing services primarily to the LGBTQ+ communities. Finn Brigham is the Director of Project Management at Callen-Lorde and has extensive experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, HIV-positive individuals, people experiencing homelessness, and individuals affected by mental illness and substance use. In this episode, we discuss the various barriers to care that LGBTQ+ people face in reproductive health, as well as the lack of support around fertility and parental rights for LGBTQ+ families. Our guests explain why it’s important to start the family planning conversation with people of transgender experience early on in their transition process, how LGBTQ+ families differ from the nuclear heteronormative family, and the challenges faced by ‘queer spawn’. Tune in to stay informed and find out where to find support, if you feel misunderstood by the medical field and the world at large. 

Struggling with infertility and trying to conceive can often feel lonely and isolating. If only there was a simple and practical guide for those on this journey. Well, now there is! Join us today for an intimate conversation about Rena Gower’s new book, Infertility 101: A Quick & Concise Guide to the Club You Never Wanted to Join, which touches on a diverse range of topics and materials that those struggling with infertility may be grappling with. In this episode, Rena shares how she channeled her personal experience into writing the book, how she hopes to destigmatize the topic of infertility by empowering those going through it to share, and why she is so wary of toxic positivity, as well as who the book was written for. She also offers some journaling prompts, practical mindfulness exercises, and resources to help you stay grounded and ease anxiety along the way. A useful tool for individuals, partners, friends, and family, Infertility 101 provides an inside look at what those on their infertility journey may be facing, so make sure to tune in today to learn more!

Today on the Fertility Forward Podcast, we welcome a very special guest, Elizabeth Carr. Elizabeth was the very first baby born, in the United States, via in vitro fertilization! Elizabeth has been in the media since she was 3-cells old and is a passionate advocate for those fighting for fertility rights. From battles over insurance coverage to educating doctors on how to interact with patients going through fertility treatments, to advice for parents on how to talk to children about assisted reproduction technologies. She is proud to share her voice and story in order to fight for those who may not be able to fight for themselves. As a dynamic speaker, Elizabeth’s passion lies in education, from helping companies craft fertility benefits packages, and parental leave policies, to keynote speeches, to sitting one-on-one with people facing fertility questions head-on. Tune in to hear more about this remarkable story, you don’t want to miss out! 

We often hear questions about ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) and its role in fertility. So to answer them, today we are joined by Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility Specialist Dr. Matthew Lederman, who operates from the new RMA of New York clinic in Westchester. Dr. Lederman explains what ICSI is and how it can help to improve fertilization rates in male-factor infertility. Tuning in you’ll hear what three parameters they look at when doing a semen analysis and how ICSI differs from traditional IVF. We cover the role of ICSI when there is no sperm in the ejaculate, why they do the ICSI for patients who are having PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Testing), and the role of PGT in the success rates of fertilization. You’ll also hear why ICSI is used to fertilize eggs that have been frozen, what ZyMōt is, and how it works, as well as insight into the prevalence of unexplained infertility issues. For some fascinating insights from an empathetic expert on all things ICSI, tune in today!  

Traditionally, infertility has been seen as a woman's issue, to the point where even infertility centers focus predominantly on the female evaluation. But we all know that it takes two to tango: not only does this impact women's mental health in an already stressful situation, but it also doesn't acknowledge the impact that sperm quality has on miscarriages or the health of the child. Today we are joined by two experts who are here to talk about a really exciting initiative called Project AIM, which addresses this issue and brings access and inclusion to men. Returning guest Dr. Natan Bar Chama from RMA, and Dr. Barrett Cowan, a reproductive urologist and the founder of Posterity Health, share with us the really exciting work Project AIM is doing, as well as the advantages of the at-home kit that they have created. We discuss the vast psychological benefits that such telehealth provides, including compassionate and supportive care around an issue that can feel sensitive or shameful for many men. The conversation also covers the importance of simultaneous evaluation at the onset, not only because time is of the essence, but also because it creates a bridge between the couple that supports the mental health of both partners. To discover more about where and how you can get this kit and begin your journey today, tune in, and let's dive in.  

There is a growing consumer awareness about the negative health impacts of various commonly-used chemicals, but not many people link this to their fertility. When Dr. Jenna Hua was facing her own fertility struggles, this is exactly what she did, and she has not looked back. As a dietician, environmental health scientist, and founder and CEO of Million Marker, Jenna is an expert on the toxins we are exposed to every day. She founded Million Marker to give consumers insights into our own health so that you can start making the changes that policy will take decades to implement, today! Join us for this fascinating episode to find out what endocrine-disrupting chemicals are, how they affect our health, and why they continue to be used by industry. Jenna gives some great tips on the simple changes you can implement straight away to start lowering your toxin load, and why taking baby steps is important when you start. We find out what you can expect when you take the Million Marker test, and why establishing a baseline is key. We also learn what the literature says about toxins and human health (correlation not causation), and why the dietary education provided to medical doctors is insufficient. So, to find out how to optimize your fertility journey and overall health through avoiding toxins, tune in today!

The COVID-19 pandemic has not made things any easier for pregnant women, or those who are planning to conceive. Pregnant women are at higher risk for severe infection from COVID-19 as well as an increased likelihood of ICU admission, deaths, preterm labor, stillbirth, and other complications. While the development of COVID-19 vaccines has posed its own questions, due to its novelty, a new study offers robust reassurance that vaccines are not only safe for pregnant women and their fetuses, they are also a beneficial protective measure. Today on the show we speak with Dr. Devora Aharon about her most recently authored manuscript Early Vitro Fertilization, and Pregnancy Outcomes After COVID-19 Vaccination, and its findings. Tuning in you’ll hear Dr. Devora describe which vaccines were included in the study and why, how the data was collected, and why their findings are so robust and trustworthy. To learn more about the details of the study and why pregnant women can feel safe getting vaccinated, make sure you tune in today!

The dialogue around infertility is filled with cultural myths and enduring stereotypes that significantly shape the experiences of Black women. As a result, there are few spaces for marginalized individuals to discuss their fertility struggles and, as today’s guest explains, this could actually be impacting their access to care. For this thought-provoking discussion about Black fertility, we welcome recurring guest, Dr. Tia Jackson-Bey, a dedicated Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility Specialist at RMA of New York. Dr. Jackson-Bey recently gave a talk at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai on ‘The Black Fertility Myth’ as part of their Diversity Rounds and, in today’s episode, she shares some of her research with us, from what the Black fertility myth is to who it affects, how it has evolved, and how it impacts fertility and reproductive health. We also touch on why infertility or the decision to go child-free can be more isolating for some cultural groups than others, the connections that modern gynecology has with the enduring legacy of slavery, and the importance of bias training in continuing education for medical professionals. Dr. Jackson-Bey also shares some resources for those who wish to learn more. Make sure not to miss this important conversation that encourages us to embrace discomfort and address our biases with Dr. Tia Jackson-Bey!

When one starts IVF and fertility treatments, it can be a lot to take in. There’s tons of jargon to familiarize yourself with and seemingly endless academic articles on every topic imaginable. This can be especially overwhelming when you are presented with embryo options and you don’t know which one to choose, or whether the single option you’re being presented with is worth pursuing. Here to help us make sense of embryo grading and offer much-needed peace of mind is Christine Briton-Jones, a clinical embryologist and Director of Laboratory Services at Reproductive Medicine Associates of New York (RMA of New York). In our conversation with Christine, we discuss the intricacies of embryo grading and why it requires years of experience to fully grasp its nuances and the subjectivity involved. Tuning in you’ll hear Christine break down how the day of an embryo affects its grading, what each of the letters represents in embryo grading, and why a C grading is something to celebrate. Be sure to tune in to learn about the intricacies of embryo grading and why it merely serves as a snapshot of the process, and why that should make you feel hopeful.

One of the hottest topics in IVF is mosaic embryos, but not many of us understand what this means, or how mosaic embryos happen. Joining us in conversation is genetic counselor at RMA New York, Teresa Cacchione. Teresa’s position at the junction of science and reproductive medicine gives her unique insight into the latest research and clinical outcomes of mosaic embryos in IVF, and she shares this expertise today. We discuss how mosaic embryos are formed, debunk common myths surrounding them (no, age is not a factor!), and dissect how the testing to identify a mosaic embryo works as well as its shortfalls. Using simple analogies, Teresa brings this hot topic within easy understanding of anyone with a high-school biology background, and shares some comforting statistics on the birth outcomes should you choose to transfer a mosaic embryo. The goal of a genetic counselor is to enable you to make an informed choice, and Teresa certainly provides answers to all sorts of questions in today’s fascinating episode.  

Women from Latina and African-American communities are the least likely to seek medical advice when struggling with infertility. Today we talk to community leader, businesswoman, advocate, professor, writer, and mother, Dr. Anna Flores Locke about her new book (Body Betrayal: Understanding and Living with Infertility) and how she came to terms with her fertility struggles as a Latina woman. We hear how the COVID-19 lockdown allowed Anna the time to finally put her experience into writing, and how this was cathartic for her. We break down the stereotypes that are responsible for African-American and Latina women seldom seeking fertility advice, and how family members within these communities unknowingly commit reproductive microaggressions. Tune in to find out how to include men in the fertility conversation, and why Anna feels infertility is simply like a detour during a car journey. Join us to hear why acceptance of things out of your control is key to your recovery, and how to handle your body betrayal. 

From a career in finance before her foray into food, facing her fertility battles and more, join us as we talk to the inspirational Chloe Lafosse. Chloe launched her flagship zero-waste café, Ancolie, and her plastic-free vending machines, Fresh Bowl, in 2016… And then embarked on her pregnancy journey in 2017! After suffering two miscarriages and subsequently throwing herself into her work, Chloe realized that this was not a sustainable route to motherhood. By taking a step back, opening up to friends and family, and starting a blog, Chloe reached a healthy space, and she talks to us today about what this looks like. We dive into how making healthier choices for the environment can positively affect your health, and how making small changes in your own life can influence those around you. Find out what Chloe is doing to lift the taboo on discussions around reproductive health and her exciting plans for creating a community and safe space where women can open up about their fertility struggles. Don't miss out on this engaging episode! 

When you are consumed with negative thoughts or going through a difficult time, it can be really hard to pull yourself out of these thought patterns. Although there are so many affirmations and self-help apps out there, when Leo Skepi was going through a challenging period in his own life, none of these platforms resonated with him, and so to solve this, he created his own. Positive Focus helps interrupt and replace thought patterns. The app helps sends messages that stimulate and prompt you to think help you gain self-awareness, and improve your overall mental state. In this episode, Leo shares his journey of developing the app and talks about some examples of messages on the app. We dive into how he comes up with the notification quotes and where he draws inspiration from. This app is just in its fledgling stage, and we are sure there is so much more to come. Tune in to hear it all. 

Trauma affects people in different ways. Just because something is not traumatic for some else, doesn’t mean it won’t be traumatic for you. Talking to us today about acknowledging trauma, and Post Trauma Growth is psychotherapist Joelle Rabow Maletis. Joelle’s focus in this episode is on learning to shift from being a victim to a warrior, by choosing to take ownership of your trauma and honoring the impact a traumatic event has had on you. By asking, “So what?”, Joelle teaches us to give space to the trauma, but to also move forward. We cover the biochemical reactions that underpin the three fear responses, and how to tackle each one. From great tips on how to ground yourself, to advice for fellow therapists on treating skeptical patients, this episode contains a wealth of information for all aspects of your life. Tune in to find out how to turn trauma into growth, without dismissing the trauma!

Mental health struggles are stigmatized and when women are pregnant or become mothers, these issues are almost completely overlooked. Dr. Emily Watts specializes in women's mental health and perinatal psychiatry and applies a holistic approach to the care of her patients. She sees the interplay between the physical, mental and social wellbeing of her patients as vital to their overall health. In today's episode, Emily explains how those on medication for their mental health can navigate conception and pregnancy. There is a not a universal answer and it depends on individual factors and circumstances. We talk about the prevalence of mood and anxiety changes during all stages of pregnancy and Emily walks us through some of the lifestyle changes she typically recommends. Our conversation also touches on the importance of sleep, challenging the idea that moms need to do it all, and normalizing speaking about mental health during pregnancy. Tune in to hear it all! 

A growing awareness that you don't need to have a partner in order to become a parent is changing the narrative about parenthood. Today’s guest to discuss this topic is Dr. Rachel Gerber, a reproductive endocrinologist, infertility specialist, and board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist who cares for patients at RMA of New York’s Eastside and Westchester offices. In this episode, we discuss all aspects of single parenthood by choice or single motherhood by choice (SMC), from selecting a sperm donor to considerations regarding disclosure, artificial insemination, and fertility preservation, as well as the importance of prioritizing your mental health and finding a good support system. Hopefully, this conversation will inspire those who are thinking about becoming a single parent by choice and enlighten those who are unfamiliar with some of the nuances of this powerful journey. Tune in today!

The month of September is PCOS Awareness Month and, in today’s episode, we are joined by Dr. Lucky Sekhon, OBGYN and fertility specialist based in New York City, to discuss polycystic ovarian syndrome and her unconventional approach to the disorder. We also dive a little deeper into the emotional impact of PCOS and the loss of control that patients often feel when diagnosed during their fertility journey, with Dr. Sekhon emphasizing the importance of reframing it as an ‘alternate state of being’ rather than a disease. We also share our expertise in nutrition, mental health, and physical health, weighing in on the roles that whole foods, perspective, and exercise play in the treatment and management of this confusing and complex alternative state of being. Tune in today to learn more!

The COVID-19 vaccine is raising a lot of questions and anxiety, but it is particularly pertinent to those with a special interest in fertility. On today’s episode, we talk to Dr. Lucky Sekhon, OBGYN and fertility specialist based in New York City. We kick off our discussion by acknowledging that pregnant women are a vulnerable population when it comes to COVID before discussing the misinformation crisis that has emerged and some of the myths surrounding pregnancy and fertility. Dr. Sekhon gives us an overview of the three vaccine options available and shares what studies have shown about vaccination during pregnancy: that more than not having a negative impact on pregnancy and fertility, the vaccine will have a positive, protective impact on pregnant women. She touches on some of the risks involved in contracting COVID during your pregnancy and draws us to the disturbing statistic that less than 20 percent of pregnant women are vaccinated in the US. Dr. Sekhon recognizes a parallel in terms of hesitance with the HPV vaccine in relation to fertility and highlights the importance of trusting public health experts, even though politicization makes this harder. In summary, her advice for pregnant women is that, the sooner you get vaccinated, the better. We hope you join us to hear all this and more today. 

So often when women struggle with their fertility, they are told to follow treatments that may not work for their bodies. Perhaps they are told to lose weight or live healthier, but for many women, this is not enough. Melissa Groves Azzaro is an integrative dietician who helps women with hormone imbalances, PCOS, and fertility issues regain their periods and get pregnant naturally. Through her functional approach to figure out the root cause of infertility issues, Melissa is able to tailor nutrition, supplement, and lifestyle plans to meet her clients’ needs. In this episode, we talk about what PCOS is and the various ways it can manifest. Because it is a syndrome, it can present itself differently in everyone and we get to her some great nutritional advice for those who have the condition. Of course, there is no universal diet or lifestyle plan, but there are some principles that can help women across the board. Our conversation also touches on the importance of balance, some supplements Melissa typically recommends to her patients, and the value of using a food-first approach. Tune in today to hear it all.

Choosing to follow a healthy diet should be pretty straightforward, right? But with all the information available to us online it can often be difficult to know which sources to trust, especially when they contradict one another. Here to shed some well-informed light on the topic is registered dietician nutritionist, and certified diabetes educator, Lily Nichols. Lily is a researcher and author of two books Real Food for Pregnancy and Real Food for Diabetes. She is also the co-founder of the Women’s Health Nutrition Academy. Her work is deeply informed by her passion for evidence-based prenatal nutrition. In our conversation with Lily, we hear about how she first became curious about the nutritional guidelines set for pregnant women and how her research exposed their inaccuracies. We cover a range of misunderstood foods and nutrients for pregnant women, such as vitamin A, vitamin D, liver, and fish, and hear how to safely benefit from them. Lily explains the deficiencies that result from a vegan diet and how to prevent them with adequate supplementation. She also shares her tips and tricks for incorporating healthy, but potentially unpalatable food into your diet slowly. We wrap up by hearing a little bit about Lily’s plans and gain insight into the tremendous amount of work necessary for writing a book on diet and nutrition. For all this and much more, tune in today! 

Many parents who pursue donor-assisted reproduction often feel alone in their journey, but the truth is they usually share the same fears. Today we welcome back Nancy Kaufman, a licensed clinical social worker, and psychoanalyst who has been practicing in New York City for over 30 years. Nancy works with individuals, couples, and groups dealing with infertility and parenting after infertility. For the past 15 years, she has led The Third Party Parenting Network, a support group for those pursuing donor-assisted reproduction with an emphasis on issues related to disclosure. Today we discuss the value of walking through this process with a support group. Nancy sheds light on some of the common fears held by members of her support group, such as fears surrounding the rejection of a parent by a child who was conceived with the help of a donor, fears that a child is going to be genetically related to a lot of other children, and the tension that may arise between parents when one shares DNA with the child and the other does not. We discuss the importance of asking the question “Do I really want to be a parent?” and talk about how being a parent and having a genetically related child are not the same thing. To hear why you should disclose the truth about using a donor to your child from a young age, tips on how to navigate your child’s questions about the donor, and information about where you can find support for the challenges you face in your family journey, tune in today!

Today, we speak with holistic nutritionist and women’s wellness expert, Erin Parekh, who specializes in guiding women to nurse themselves on their journey to and through motherhood. You’ll hear the story of how Erin’s own fertility journey sparked her special interest in women’s wellness and the pivotal moment when she realized how little clinics offered to those on a fertility journey. We touch on stigma and the role of communication to connect people, Erin’s self-care tools, and reframing the all-or-nothing mindset. Erin believes that mindset is an essential part of building holistic wellness and we talk about the importance of a gratitude practice, looking at the whole picture, and finding what works for you, personally. We talk about the role that nutritional knowledge can play in reducing stress during your fertility journey, and Erin reveals that the time she’s had to herself while her husband is on a business trip has been grounding and necessary. We hope you join us to learn from Erin’s theoretical and personal knowledge today! 

So much of women’s health is based solely on conventional medicine, leaving little room for other evidence-based methods. Today we talk to Dr. Anna Barbieri who has a passion for truly personalized patient-centered care for women from preventative care to complex gynecologic issues. Dr. Barbieri is a board-certified gynecologist with additional training in integrative medicine. She completed a residency in OB-GYN at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City, where she is now an assistant clinical professor and a member of the Mount Sinai Center of Excellence for Menopause and Integrative Gynecology. Together with Dr. Suzanne Fenske, Dr. Barbieri is a co-founder and physician at TārāMD, an innovative gynecology practice in New York City. Dr. Barbieri believes that the patient is the most important member of their healthcare team and she partners with them to help them maintain or restore optimal gynecologic health. Today, she dispels some of the many misconceptions about integrative healthcare and lists some of the evidence-based methods that she uses in addition to conventional medicine, such as nutrition, behavioral and lifestyle changes, stress reduction techniques, and acupuncture. Tune in to find out the three things you should keep in mind at your next annual appointment and how integrative healthcare can help you take control of your health.Key Points From This Episode:An introduction to Dr. Anna Barbieri and some of her background in healthcare.How TārāMD was established out of a passion for a holistic approach to women’s health.TārāMD’s focus on gynecology beyond fertility and how it is different from other practices.   Some of the evidence-based methods they use in addition to conventional medicine. Other team members include a nutritionist, health coach, and acupuncturist. The role of educating women on good health practices in their practice. Why the patient is the most important member of their healthcare team.Why women should not be afraid to ask questions.The prevalence of alternative treatments used by women and how few discuss this with their doctors.Dr. Barbieri dispels misconceptions about integrative health. How this school of thought relates to hormones and conditions like PCOS.How PCOS is not a fertility issue but a lifelong condition that needs to be treated as such.Why your annual check-up is not about the pap smear.Dr. Barbieri’s gratitude for the discovery and awareness that so many people share really positive goals.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Anna Barbieri TārāMD Mount Sinai HospitalThe North American Menopause Society Dr. Suzanne FenskeRMA of New YorkRMA of New York on TwitterRMA of New York on InstagramRMA of New York on YouTubeRena Gower LinkedInRena Gower InstagramDara Godfrey LinkedInDara Godfrey InstagramFertility Forward on Instagram

Every child will eventually ask the question, “Where do babies come from?” Your answer will have a lasting impact on the way they think about what it means to be part of a family, especially if they were adopted or conceived with a donated sperm or egg, also known as third-party reproduction. Today’s guest believes that compassion, love, and honesty are critical in helping families come to greater acceptance, understanding, and celebration of their journey with third-party family building. Lori Metz is a psychotherapist, licensed clinical social worker, certified case manager, and a Board Certified TeleMental Health Provider, as well as an author and the host of the LIFE Podcast. Lori specializes in infertility and works with individuals, couples, and groups to identify what might be interfering with their ability to move forward in achieving what they want. In this episode, Lori shares some of the exciting projects she has been working on, including her recent title, I Dreamed of You: The Story of an Egg Donor Baby, and the petition she has created to normalize third-party family building in healthcare. Tuning in, you’ll learn why this initiative is essential, the emotional impact it will have on those who have built their families using this option, and how to advocate for yourself and your family, as well as a whole lot more! We hope you’ll join us.Key Points From This Episode:Lori shares the process of writing her book and the topics she has addressed in it.The secrecy often associated with donor-assisted reproduction and Lori’s advice for parents.The three paths of a donor-conceived fertility journey: mother’s, father’s, and child's.Why Lori believes that every case is unique; there is no one-size-fits-all solution.Empowering parents with the understanding that they bring children into the world with love as the starting point of normalizing third-party reproduction.Understanding the important differences between secrecy and privacy.Hear about the petition Lori created to normalize third-party family building in healthcare.The impact that this initiative will have on families who have chosen third-party reproduction.Emphasizing the importance of listening to the needs of patients. Why infertility is such an important issue and of the isolation many people feel.Lori encourages anyone going through donor-assisted reproduction to write their story.Hear why Lori believes that DNA does not make a family.Gratitudes to close the show: Lori shares why she is grateful for Rena and Dara.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Lori MetzLori Metz on LinkedInLori Metz on TwitterLori Metz on InstagramLIFE PodcastTia Jackson-Bey on InstagramRMA of New YorkRMA of New York on TwitterRMA of New York on InstagramRMA of New York on YouTubeRena Gower on LinkedInRena Gower on InstagramDara Godfrey on LinkedInDara Godfrey on Instagram

There’s plenty of information out there on the health challenges that accompany being overweight, but being underweight comes with its own set of challenges, especially on a fertility journey. In today’s episode, a previous guest, Nicole, visits us to talk about her journey with weight gain and nutrition. She gets real about the role of being underweight as a factor in her fertility journey and tells us about the window you need to be in to support your fertility journey. We touch on false perceptions around weight and health, and how receiving positive feedback on being thin can have a negative impact. Nicole introduces us to the metaphor of a spider web to illustrate food fears and food avoidance and gives us some insights into her own history with food aversions. Next, we dive into the essential role of fat in satiety, and the dangers of faking your health, before exploring the impact that peers and parents can have on food perceptions. Nicole gives us her thoughts on control as a driving force for food choices, the power of being open-minded, and why magazines, shows, and social media should also be showing how diets work. Self-talk is our next topic, and we discuss its impact on those around us, as well as why we all know what it means to be willing to pursue something, for ourselves. We talk about why you should get rid of everything that encourages poor habits, until you don’t have to and what it means to change your perspective to eat intuitively. In closing, Nicole tells us why it is important for her to be an open book and wants to help others, and why she is so thankful for the progress she has made on her journey. Key Points From This Episode:The lack of information around being underweight and the impact on fertility. How being underweight was a factor in Nicole’s fertility journey.The role of weight and the window you have to be in to support your fertility journey.False perceptions around weight and health.The metaphor of a spider web to illustrate food fears and food avoidance.The role of fat in satiety.Nicole’s lush, thick hair as a testament to her good health.Why eating low-calorie, ‘filler’ foods, doesn’t support nutrition.The impact that peers and parents can have on food perceptions and over or under-eating.Control as a driving force for food choices and the power of being open-minded about food. Why magazines, shows, and social media should also be showing how things work.Thoughts on self-talk and how it influences those around you. Why we all know what ‘willing to pursue it’ means for ourselves.Nicole’s sister’s positive perspective on weight fluctuations.Changing your approach to eat intuitively.Why Nicole considers herself to be an open book and wants to help others. Why Nicole is thankful for her progress.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:RMA of New YorkIntuitive Eating by Evelyn TriboleMount Sinai HospitalFertility Forward on Instagram

Part of what makes people in the US feel so alone after a miscarriage is that we have no cultural rites of passage to help us make sense of this experience. In 2017, Angela Elson’s article, The Japanese Art of Grieving A Miscarriage, was published in the New York Times, and we are so grateful to welcome her onto the show today as our guest. Angela’s piece is one of the most poignant articles about miscarriage and we recommend it to so many of our patients, so to get the opportunity to spend this time with her was really an honor. In Angela’s article, she chronicles her experience with a miscarriage and her journey of finding out about the Japanese custom that uses the Jizo figure to steward unborn babies into the afterlife. Angela got herself a Jizo statuette and talks about how she involved it in her life after her miscarriage. She describes the way it helped her turn her loss into something tangible and how this provided her with a way of processing it. We talk about the strangeness of American customs around grief and morning when it comes to miscarriages and the importance of having effective methods to share as well as process trauma. Our conversation also covers the relationships between friends and how we can learn to help each other through pain in the best possible ways. Be sure to tune in and hear Angela’s inspiring story today.Key Points From This Episode:Angela’s experience with miscarriage and what prompted her to write her piece.The use of the Jizo figure in Japanese culture to steward stillborn children into the afterlife.Customs around pregnancy and miscarriage in the US versus Japan.Bizarre values around how to respond to miscarriages depending on when they happen.How the Jizo figure has helped Angela share her experiences of her miscarriage.The need to have more conversations around miscarriages and how this custom can help.Differences in how men and women grieve and how this affects relationships.The need to have tangible ways to express things as far as processing them.Advice from Angela for people who are going through a miscarriage.Other methods Angela used to process her grief and the need for more social support.The reality that having a successful pregnancy does not erase what happened.How to support your friends and how to show your friends how to support you.Angela weighs in on one thing she is grateful for right now.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:‘The Japanese Art of Grieving A Miscarriage’RMA of New YorkMount Sinai HospitalFertility Forward on Instagram

Although rich in knowledge, many fertility professionals simply cannot relate to the lived experience of the complexities of a fertility journey. On today’s episode, we speak with fertility specialist and business development director at fertility benefits management company, Progyny, Julie Hunt, who suffers from PCOS and has been through two egg-freezing cycles. She shares her background and the unique role she has taken up at Progyny. We consider the three factors that accompany infertility; financial, physical, and emotional stress, and Julie tells us how Progyny serves its people by providing support for their fertility journey along with their overall wellbeing. Next, we dive into the educational components of a fertility journey and the importance of factoring in all elements of fertility as a service provider. Julie walks us through her decision to freeze her eggs twice and lets us know how her own experience has enriched her work, highlighting the importance of access to egg freezing for transgender patients. She shares her struggles with PCOS and why she switched from client advocacy to business development at Progyny, and finishes up by telling us why she is so passionate about the inclusive, life-changing work that Progyny does. We hope you join us today for a wealth of knowledge on fertility benefits from someone who is truly in the know!Key Points From This Episode:Julie Hunt’s background and unique role at Progyny.What the team at Progyny do.How to advocate for yourself and your needs by being brave in your approach.Find out how Progyny is working to erase the stigma around infertility.The three factors that accompany infertility: financial, physical, and emotional stress.How Progyny serves its people by providing support for their fertility journey and their overall emotional wellbeing.The educational component of a fertility journey.The importance of factoring in all elements of fertility as a service provider.Who Progyny’s products are available to.What led to Julie’s decision to freeze her eggs.How Julie’s experience has helped her understand the importance of egg freezing.The importance of access to egg freezing for transgender patients.Hear about Julie’s journey with PCOS.The importance of education around fertility and the necessity of support.Why Julie switched from client advocacy to business development at Progyny.Why Julie is passionate about the inclusive, life-changing work being done at Progyny.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Julie Hunt on LinkedInProgynyRMA of New YorkMount Sinai HospitalFertility Forward on Instagram

When Gena Jaffe had a baby using her wife’s egg, she learned that even though the baby was genetically her wife’s, only she, as the woman giving birth, was considered the legal parent. Gena discovered just how much confusion and misinformation is out there concerning the legalities of LGBTQ+ families, even among lawyers. As an entrepreneur and lawyer herself, as well as a mom who has gone through fertility treatments to conceive two children, Gena has a wealth of knowledge on both fertility treatments and the legal implications relating to them. It was this expertise that led her to establish Connecting Rainbows, an organization that helps those in the LGBTQ+ community start, grow, and protect their families by offering legal and fertility resources. Today on Fertility Forward, Gena sheds light on some of the confusion around what the law actually says about LGBTQ+ families. Hear about what second-parent adoption is and why you may need to do it, the importance of having a will, and things you need to know before using a sperm donor. She also shares her advice and encouragement for anyone starting out on their own fertility journey, so be sure to tune in today!

Each fertility story is unique and deserves to be heard. Today’s guest, Nicole, is not only a powerful warrior in the fertility space, but she is also a single mother by choice, a speech-language pathologist who works in numerous positions, and she is even getting her doctorate! In this episode, Nicole talks about her decision to become a mother despite not having a partner. She opens up about the sperm donor process and the complexities that come with making a life-altering decision such as this. All parents, no matter what their family structure looks like, need support, and we talk about the value of community and finding friends in unexpected places. There are numerous support groups and online forums for you to be a part of. Nicole also talks about the importance of speaking openly about the different forms families can take, why we should all be following our happiness, and her passion for the fertility community, which has given her so much. Nicole is the embodiment of a woman who leads with love and an open heart and shows us that we truly can have it all!

The importance of balanced blood sugar levels on both fertility and pregnancy is often overlooked. For this reason, today on Fertility Forward, we discuss blood sugar regulation, gestational diabetes mellitus (or GDM), and polycystic ovarian syndrome (or PCOS) with regard to pregnancy and fertility. We are joined by an expert in this field, Casey Seiden, who is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator at the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Associates in Manhattan. She helps women optimize nutrition during preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum, and also manages the Gestational Diabetes Program that receives referrals from doctors across New York City. She is also the owner of Casey Seiden Nutrition, a private practice that specializes in women's health and diabetes, as well as the author of the cookbook Meal Prep for Two. Casey discusses the impact of unbalanced blood sugar on our hormones and efforts to get pregnant. She explains what gestational diabetes is, what risk factors may make you more prone to it, what you should be aware of before getting pregnant, and the long-term risks of this for both mom and baby. Whether you are pregnant or not, learn some tips to help you balance your own blood sugar, find out why avoiding carbohydrates is not the answer, and hear why it’s okay to indulge in a nice dessert from time to time. For all this and more, tune in today!

Everyone’s fertility journey is different. Unfortunately, there is a lot of stigma around fertility issues and not a lot of support available to those who are dealing with them. Kristyn Hodgdon is on a mission to change this. The organization which Kristyn founded, The Fertility Tribe, empowers women through sharing fertility related stories and providing resources and support during all stages of the fertility journey. On today’s episode, Kristyn shares her own personal fertility story, which is filled with very high highs and very low lows, and she explains what motivated her to start the blog which turned into The Fertility Tribe. She is now the mother of twins conceived via IVF, but it took a lot of time and sacrifice to get there. Parenthood doesn’t always come easily, but The Fertility Tribe is a community which women can turn to in times of need, and that is one of the most valuable offerings imaginable.  

Anybody who has struggled with fertility knows how heartbreaking and emotionally tumultuous it can be. We all have to find coping mechanisms to deal with the pain. Today, we speak to Jennifer “Jay” Palumbo, a freelance writer, avid women's health advocate, and a ForbesWomen contributor. She frequently covers topics such as infertility, women's health, pregnancy, and being the mother of an autistic child in some of America’s biggest news outlets. She is also a standup comic who has used levity to cope with her own struggles. Today, she shares her personal struggles with infertility with the added pressure from her Catholic family and explains how she relied on her sense of humor to help her through some of the hardest moments of her life. She came to realize that her infertility was a medical diagnosis and not a personal commentary about her, and we talk about the many of the other ill-conceived misperceptions and stigmas associated with fertility treatments, how celebrities both challenge and reinforce these misperceptions, and the importance of advocacy. As the mother of an autistic child, Jennifer also sheds light on how fertility treatments are like autism, nothing is black or white, just different, and she elaborates on the importance of hope, empathy, and maintaining faith in yourself, no matter what you face. For some profound inspiration, wise advice, and a lot of laughs, tune in today!

About 30% of women with unexplained infertility are found to have endometriosis. While this condition is usually associated with severe pain during menstruation, it often goes undiagnosed, and about six to 10% of women are likely to suffer from it. Today on the Fertility Forward Podcast, we talk to Dr. Kimberley Thornton, a Reproductive Endocrinologist, Infertility Specialist, Obstetrician, and Gynecologist about everything ‘endometriosis’. She explains in detail what endometriosis is and how it affects the body. She describes what symptoms you may experience if you have it and how to get diagnosed. Later, she talks about how birth control and surgery can help, and whether or not surgery may be the best option for you. Even though 30 to 50% of women with endometriosis struggle with fertility, she explains that there is hope! Hear some helpful advice for women who have endometriosis or suspect they may have it, and discover some available treatment options for those who want to fall pregnant and those who just want to treat the symptoms.  

At some point, you have to realize that it is your life, and you have to do what you have to do to find your peace and your happiness. These are the words of Jenna Wolfe, who is today’s guest on Fertility Forward. Jenna is the host of First Things First, a daily morning sports talk show on FOX Sports 1, where she talks sports, adds a little comic relief, and sprinkles in the occasional Seinfeld reference. Before that, she was the first-ever lifestyle and fitness correspondent on NBC’s Today Show. Jenna wrote her first book, Thinner in Thirty, outlining a 30-day diet and fitness plan in her charismatic voice. She is a certified personal trainer, health and wellness expert, and motivational speaker, and when she’s not running, squatting, lunging, and bear-crawling a million miles an hour in one direction, she is usually happily doing it in another. Join us today as Jenna shares her own personal story and struggles through fertility, conception, pregnancy, and being a mom, not to mention working in a high-profile job and taking huge public steps to tell her truth. Tune in and enjoy!

There’s no difference between a pregnancy lost at six weeks than a pregnancy lost at 10 weeks, or later down the road. Any pregnancy loss, at any point, is damaging. It’s unexpected and carries weight, no matter where you are in your gestation. Our guest today is Dr. Tanmoy Mukherjee, a board-certified Gynecologist, and Reproductive Endocrinologist, and is the Associate Director of the Mount Sinai Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and co-director of Reproductive Medicine Associates of New York. He completed his residency at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and completed his fellowship at Mount Sinai Hospital. The author of numerous journal articles and textbook chapters, Dr. Mukherjee is also the recipient of the prestigious Society of Reproductive Surgeons Award, for his extensive research in ovum donation and medical therapy for the treatment of infertility. In addition to his expertise in invitro fertilization, egg donation, and other assisted reproductive techniques, Dr. Mukherjee excels in a wide array of medical and surgical treatments for the management of endometriosis, uterine abnormalities, abnormal uterine bleeding, and abnormalities of the fallopian tubes. He has lectured and written extensively on the diagnosis and treatment of patients with recurrent spontaneous abortions. Today on the Fertility Forward Podcast, we are going to talk about the topic of recurrent pregnancy loss. Tune in today for a jammed-packed episode with Dr. Mukherjee to hear all about miscarriages, causes, statistics, and the mental health aspect thereof. There’s so much information and the discussion is filled with snippets and advice that you don’t want to miss out on. So, stay tuned and enjoy!

Even though men contribute to more than 50% of instances of infertility, there is not the same culture around male fertility testing as there is around female fertility testing. Here to discuss this and many other topics around male reproductive health and fertility is the esteemed Dr. Natan Bar-Chama, Director of the Center of Male Reproductive Health at RMA of New York. He is a board-certified urologist and male infertility specialist and his practice is dedicated to the fields of male infertility and sexual medicine. He has published extensively and lectured throughout the world on these topics. Since 2005, Dr. Bar-Chama has been listed in New York Magazine’s Best Doctor list of urologists. In this episode, we discuss some of the positive changes around fertility testing which have been brought about by the pandemic. When men feel more at ease, they are more likely to get tested. Dr. Bar-Chama discusses what semen analysis entails and explains the process that would follow after receiving irregular results. Lifestyle impacts sperm tremendously and as Dr. Bar-Chama points out, research shows it also impacts children's health. Our conversation also touches on how Dr. Bar-Chama makes his patients feel comfortable through education and testing, some sperm-related myth-busting, and the aspects of your lifestyle that impact sperm. Male infertility issues are starting to become more openly spoken about, but we still have a way to go. We hope this discussion creates a space for these challenges to be addressed more openly. 

There are not many resources for males to assist them in supporting their partners undergoing fertility treatments. This can often lead to increased feelings of guilt, shame, and isolation. Today’s guest, Steve Moskowitz, is the other half of Rachel Hess, a guest on episode 39. Steve joins us to present the male perspective of what it is like to watch a partner go through treatments. As Steve highlights, many of us have been taught that getting pregnant is easy, when, in fact, different people experience varying levels of difficulty. So, when there are fertility struggles, it can be difficult to know where to turn for emotional support. Steve sheds light on how he supported Rachel emotionally and physically and what they learned from the journey. The couple is now expecting their first child. Steve acknowledges that while it has been challenging, it has strengthened them as individuals and as a couple because they had to communicate so openly. We also talk about the resources that could be out there for male partners and the power of sharing your struggles, dealing with miscarriage, and how families and friends can support those struggling with fertility. Fertility treatments are not easy physical or emotional undertakings, but as Steve points out, when it ends with you having a family, it is so, so worth it.   

Becoming an egg donor, or looking for one, can feel like a daunting task. Our guests on today’s show, Dara Berg and Melissa Brisman are here to provide some clarity around several common questions and concerns and hopefully quell your fears and give you the courage to embark on this journey. Dara explains the rigorous process involved in becoming an egg donor. While it is impossible to verify all of the information outside of their office, Dara has the utmost faith in her team’s ability to identify whether a potential donor is trustworthy or not. Melissa highlights the importance of lawyers and psychologists in the donor process; they are there to help, not to make things difficult. We also discuss the reasons that people choose to donate eggs, why some people are rejected as donors, the available options for choosing an egg donor, shared cycles versus non-shared cycles, the potential difficulties that can arise when receiving eggs from family members, and more! There is no one-size-fits-all approach to third-party reproduction, and RMA offers the support that you need to make this journey as smooth and fulfilling as possible. 

Today’s guest is a friend of RMA New York and someone whose name comes up often: attorney Melissa Brisman. Melissa first started helping couples become parents in 1996. Actually, she was her own first client, guiding and directing the process in which she and her husband became parents of twin boys and later a daughter, all carried by a gestational carrier. Attorney Brisman has been instrumental in creating the law in many states regarding naming genetic parents on the original birth certificates of their children delivered via surrogacy. Her expansive knowledge and experience have allowed her to create an agency staff that is prepared to successfully help parents build their families. Melissa is considered a true pioneer in this field, and advocates for changes in the law in this area, lecturing to physicians, potential parents, universities, and lawyers around the world. In this episode, Melissa addresses the fact that New York has recently legalized paid gestational surrogacy, and she explains the nuances and limitations of the law. She also has some advice for both parents and carriers going through this process and she talks through the financial costs and the toll it can take on one’s mental health. What stands out about this interview is Melissa’s practical approach and her emphasis on the importance of patience, gratitude, and kindness. Tune in today!

Undergoing cancer treatment can be incredibly difficult and is complicated even further when you have to consider how it impacts your fertility. Today’s guest, Jen Rhodes, faced this challenge when she was diagnosed with Stage II breast cancer in June 2011, at just 26 years old. After her bilateral mastectomy, followed by a chemotherapy regimen known to have reproductivity toxicity, Jen was advised to consider freezing her eggs. In today’s episode, we talk about Jen’s recovery and what it was like having cancer so young. We then hear about the experience of freezing her eggs and what happened when she decided to start having children. Although it was disappointing having her eggs drop off during thawing, Jen bravely elected to pause her oral chemotherapy and undergo IVF. She talks about what this was like and shares a message of hope for those who may be going through similar struggles. Infertility treatment has its ups and downs, so it is important to trust your medical team and have faith that you will get through, just like Jen did!

For thousands of years, Chinese Medicine has been used to enhance fertility, improve sexual health, balance hormones, and regulate the menstrual cycle. Today’s guest is Dr. Daryl Thuroff from the Yinova Center to the Fertility Forward Podcast, who has spent the last 13 years honing her skills as a health care facilitator and educator. She has a Doctorate of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, is a Licensed Acupuncturist and Massage Therapist, and is nationally certified as a Diplomat of Chinese Medicine by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine. Dr. Thuroff’s goal is to facilitate healing based on individualized treatment for physical conditions along with emotional stressors. Treatments often include acupuncture, massage therapy, and herbal medicine combinations to ensure optimal results. The focus of her work has evolved into the emotional origins of pain, stress management, women’s health, fertility, and pediatrics. Dr. Thuroff developed Yinova’s Reproductive Health Bodywork Program, alongside Yinova founder, Jill Blakeway. This comprehensive approach to bodywork was designed to help our patients build a good reproductive foundation that can improve fertility and treat conditions such as irregular cycles, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, PCOS, endometriosis, and more. Tune in today to hear all about Dr. Thuroff’s journey through different fields of practice, how she found Chinese Medicine, how she’s using it in fertility processes, and so much more! 

Many patients who discover they have fibroids often have a lot of fear associated with the diagnosis. The aim of all of these episodes is, as always, to put out reputable information. Today’s episode should help you feel a little bit less fearful and more understanding about what fibroids are, how they can be treated, and how it affects your fertility. Tuning in, you’ll hear from Dr. Tia Jackson-Bey of RMA of New York. Dr. Jackson-Bey is a reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist and board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist who cares for patients at RMA of New York’s Brooklyn office. Her professional interests include physician-patient education, IVF outcome improvement, global public health, and mentoring underrepresented college and medical students on careers in medicine. Dr. Jackson-Bey is passionate about reproductive justice and increasing access to fertility care for all. She was recently appointed a member of the newly formed ASRM Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Taskforce, which will enhance opportunities in reproductive medicine for underrepresented minority populations and reduce health disparities and access to care. She is a talented surgeon and dedicated fertility expert, who is focused on fertility preservation, IVF success, and great outcomes for her patients. As she dives into the topic of fibroids, she shares some knowledge around what they are, where they are located, factors associated with increased and decreased risk of uterine fibroids, possible treatments, and much more. Tune in today! 

Welcome back to another episode of Fertility Forward. Today’s guest is Dr. Rachel Gerber Gerber from RMA of New York. Dr. Gerber is a reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist and board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist who cares for patients at RMA of New York’s Eastside and Westchester offices. In addition to her medical expertise, Dr. Gerber prides herself on treating every patient with compassion, empathy, and respect. We dive into the topic of unexplained infertility, one of the most difficult things that some people face, and certainly a very tough and frustrating issue. Listening in, you’ll find out what it means and how it’s diagnosed, as well as the different types of treatment options, and so much more. So tune in today! 

Resources regarding men's reproductive health are few and far between. We have such a deep association between women and reproduction, that men are often left out of the conversation entirely. Today's guest, Rene Almeling, is an Associate Professor of Sociology at Yale University with research and teaching interests in gender and medicine. Rene uses a range of qualitative, historical, and quantitative methods to examine questions about how biological bodies and cultural norms interact with scientific knowledge, medical markets, and individual experiences. She has also authored the book, Sex Cells, which offers a look at the American sperm and egg donor markets. Her new book, GUYnecology, explores why there is so little attention on men's reproductive health, offering insights into its influence on medical knowledge, health policy, and reproductive politics. Our conversation today unpacks some of the themes in this must-read work. We talk about a relatively emerging field of study, paternal effects, which examines the influence that sperm has on reproductive outcomes and hear what studies are showing. Information around men's reproductive health is vital because of the historical skewness toward maternal health knowledge generation. Rene also shares findings from her discussions with men for her book, the importance of including all bodies in reproductive health conversations, and where she sees this field of study heading. Join us today for this enlightening discussion.   

Today on the Fertility Forward podcast we welcome back the Medical Director of RMA of New York, Dr. Alan Copperman. A lot has transpired, especially over the last nine months with COVID-19, and you’ll hear from Dr. Copperman to see how things have been professionally and personally. We talk about what we can look forward to in the future, in terms of clinic closures and what COVID-19 means for those trying to conceive, those who are pregnant, and more. Dr. Copperman sharing the hardest things, in his experience, in running a fertility clinic during the pandemic, and he does an excellent job explaining the mechanisms behind the coronavirus vaccinations and the role they play in pregnancy and fertility. We explore and elaborate on all the positives that have stemmed from the pandemic and how the power of positivity impacts our mindsets and dispositions, how we strive to empower patients to self-advocate and why, and so much more on today’s show. Tune in for all this, and more!

Welcome to this mini-episode of the Fertility Forward Podcast where, today, it’s just your hosts, Rena Gower and Dara Godfrey. Listen in as they debrief on the biggest topic of 2020 – the COVID-19 pandemic – and share some of their hopes for 2021. Find out what Rena and Dara’s experience of the pandemic has been like, including recording via Zoom rather than at the studio, having less time for self-care, and missing human connection, and hear how they have both been coping with these challenges. While this past year hasn’t been easy for anyone, there are also some silver linings, including the time to reflect on the relationships that don’t serve us and foster deeper connections with those who are important and understanding the importance of relaxing. As always, Rena and Dara close the show with their gratitude, which they hope have been as inspiring for you as they have been for them. Tune in today!

One of the most hotly debated topics in fertility right now is whether it is safe to get vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to conceiving, while pregnant, or while breastfeeding. The difficulty of the decision lies in the fact that there is no human safety data regarding the COVID-19 vaccine in pregnancy as the currently available vaccines have not been tested on pregnant women. Accepting a vaccine in pregnancy without safety data from human trials is a hard pill to swallow and, in today’s episode, reproductive endocrinologist, infertility specialist, and board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, Dr. Lucky Sekhon weighs in on this topic. She explains that, essentially, it comes down to a risk-benefit analysis in the absence of data and she cautions against misinformation, asserting that there is no evidence to support a correction between COVID and pregnancy loss or reduced sperm quality. At the end of the day, it is a very personal decision – remember that you have the power of choice! All you can do is use your expertise, common sense, and understanding of the vaccine and the technology that is being used to make the best decision for yourself. Tune in today to arm yourself with additional information.

Today’s guest on the show is Dr. Taraneh Nazem, who is a reproductive endocrinologist, an infertility specialist, and a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, who cares for patients at RMA of New York’s Manhattan West Side office. Dr. Nazem came to RMA after completing her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the New York University School of Medicine and receiving her medical degree from The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. She completed her undergraduate education at Yale University where she graduated with honors. Throughout her career, Dr. Nazem has distinguished herself as a clinician and researcher. She has presented numerous prize-winning abstracts at national conferences and has multiple publications in peer-reviewed journals regarding genetics, access to care, and embryonic development. In this episode, listeners hear from Dr. Nazem as she shares the basics of thyroid function, from the role it plays in our bodies to the types of tests and treatment available, should thyroid function be abnormal. She also explains the role that hypo- or hyperthyroidism plays in infertility, the difference between the two, and how their symptoms are sometimes misdiagnosed as mental health issues, as well as her advice for getting regular check-ups and looking after your mind and your body. Tune in today to find out more! 

Many of us will experience some kind of trauma during our lifetime. Sometimes, we escape with no long-term effects but, for millions of people, those experiences linger, causing symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, and negative thoughts that interfere with everyday life. Today’s guest is a well-known psychotherapist, clinical director, CEO, and published author. Joelle Rabow Maletis utilizes reflective listening and builds rapport with her clients, incorporating CBT and DBT skills, along with talk therapy and solution-focused therapy to provide a structure that allows clients to make changes in their own lives. She focuses on establishing collaborations, promoting self-growth while incorporating mindfulness training to achieve client results. Joelle works with diverse clientele that includes C-suite executives, active and retired military personnel, first responders, and those experiencing trauma and PTSD. Joelle is a member of TED International, having created TED-Ed’s video on post-traumatic stress, and she is a member of TED Women and TED Salon. She has also been featured on ABC’s 60 Minutes: Beyond The Headlines, and has received multiple Outstanding Achievement Awards for Top Female Executive. In this episode, Joelle defines post-traumatic stress and asserts the importance of normalizing it without calling it a disorder, even reframing it as post-traumatic growth. Hear her advice for validating, recognizing, and honoring your trauma, and some of the coping mechanisms she recommends. Find out why acceptance is crucial for growth – as is working through anger and resentment – as well as the importance of finding the right therapist and knowing you’re not alone.

Margaret Marsh and Wanda Ronner are sisters who have been collaborating for the past three decades and writing about the history of infertility, reproductive medicine, and reproductive technology. Margaret Marsh, who is currently serving as the Interim Chancellor of Rutgers University–Camden, is a university professor of history at Rutgers, and Wanda Ronner is a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. Their 2019 book, The Pursuit of Parenthood: Reproductive Technology from Test-Tube Babies to Uterus Transplants, was published by Johns Hopkins University Press. Margaret and Wanda are also the authors of two previous books on the history of infertility and reproductive medicine, including The Empty Cradle, and The Fertility Doctor. It was working on these books that inspired their interest in contemporary issues and assisted reproduction and, in this episode, they share some of their findings. Tune in to hear about the origins of assisted reproduction techniques like IVF in the US, the ethical controversy around embryos, and the stigma associated with infertility, as well as why Marsha and Wanda believe the US is behind the times and the various barriers to entry in the country, including missing data and the national healthcare scheme.

Amy Klein is the author of the new book The Trying Game: Get Through Fertility Treatment and Get Pregnant Without Losing Your Mind, a guide that is based on her successful ‘Fertility Diary’ column for The New York Times. She writes frequently about health, fertility, and reproductive rights for publications such as Newsweek, Slate, The Washington Post, and others. After four years of infertility, involving countless doctors, treatments, and miscarriages, Amy joins us today to talk about the personal experiences that inspired the book, how her perspective on fertility and pregnancy changed since she first thought of starting a family, and why she is so grateful for the accessibility of resources and information on the topic these days. Back in 2011 when she started her fertility journey, there were very few people talking about the struggles of infertility, which is why she decided to write the book she wishes she had back then. After touching on the importance of advocating for yourself, our guest shares how therapeutic the writing process had been, what she has in mind for future content, and why now is the time to send even more kindness into the world. Tune in today!

Going through infertility treatment is already a stressful experience for many patients and, at the time of a global pandemic, the emotional burden is likely even more difficult. In today’s episode, host Rena Gower is joined by Dara Godfrey, nutritionist and Registered Dietician at RMA New York, and Dr. Kimberley Thornton, a reproductive endocrinologist at RMA New York, who share their perspectives on overcoming the upcoming holiday stress brought on by infertility and COVID-19. Listen in as the panel discusses some coping mechanisms for this stressful time, including having a pre-prepared cocktail conversation response, just saying no, and being kind and gentle with yourself, as well as some practical tips, such as indulging mindfully and focusing on progress rather than perfection. It’s okay to seek help when you’re overwhelmed and it’s important to listen to your body, but it’s also helpful to practice gratitude and use the holidays to rest and recharge. Rena also goes through the five main tenets of positive psychology, which have been proven to shift thought patterns and foster a more relaxed state of mind. Tune in to find out more about how to overcome holiday stress, practice self-care, and tackle the mental and emotional aspects of infertility treatment that are often the most difficult for patients – and remember, infertility causes stress. Stress does not cause infertility!

In the next installment of the Hope and Healing panel, host Rena Gower is joined by three guests, who each bring their unique experience and share their perspectives on the infertility journey. We welcome back Dr. Lucky Sekhon, a reproductive endocrinologist at RMA, and we also hear from Ariel Schnur, a fertility nurse at RMS, and Rachel Rachel Hess, who provides a patient perspective. Find out about the pros and cons of procedures like IUI and IVF, why the waiting game is the most emotional part of the process, and why not every retrieved egg is useful. The panel addresses the roles of the fertility nurse, doctor, and patient when it comes to discussions about unsuccessful treatments and miscarriages, and Rachel shares her experience as a patient while Dr. Sekhon explains what the most difficult parts of her job are, including admitting she doesn’t have all the answers and remaining objective when a patient is in emotional pain. Ariel describes what it is that a fertility nurse does, and she shares why she hopes her patients reach out to her with questions, and each of today’s guests provides their advice for someone going into fertility to take advantage of what it has to offer – including the expertise of their doctor – and, simply, to take care of themselves while they are on this journey. Tune in today to find out more!

Today’s episode focuses on the impact of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis on fertility and pregnancy. Joining in to share her expertise on the topic is Dr. Rachel Gerber, a reproductive endocrinologist, infertility specialist, and board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist who cares for patients at RMA of New York’s Eastside and Westchester offices. She received her undergraduate degree from Columbia University in chemical engineering and went on to study medicine at The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, where she graduated with distinction in medical education. She completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at New York Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and her fellowship in reproductive endocrinology and infertility at Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center, where she won two outstanding teaching awards. Tuning in, listeners will learn about the differences and similarities between Crohn’s and colitis, how they can affect women of reproductive age and the most common symptoms that lead to diagnoses. Dr. Gerber also talks about the treatment options and the importance of educating patients on the possible outcomes and shares a helpful resource for patients who need additional support. 

Today your host Rena Gower is joined by three guests who each bring their unique experience and perspective on the topic of pregnancy and infant loss. We have Dr. Lucky Sekhon, a reproductive endocrinologist at RMA, Nancy Berlow, a social worker who has her own practice and is a consultant for a pregnancy loss support group, and Jennifer Browder, an inspiring woman who shares her story. Listeners can expect to learn about this topic from medical, mental health, and patient perspectives, giving them a well-rounded idea of what families go through who have suffered a miscarriage or lost a baby. Dr. Sekhon starts the discussion by talking about the prevalence of miscarriage, the feelings of guilt that many women experience, the various biological reasons for miscarriage, and why it hardly ever is due to something a woman did. Pregnancy is a complex process that can evoke a great deal of anxiety, despite the fact that reproductive technology now enables us to reduce the risk of miscarriage and can facilitate some of the processes to make positive outcomes possible. Nancy joins the conversation to talk about the importance of a support network when working through the loss of a pregnancy or infant, highlighting the various ways in which couples work through trauma and deal with loss in different ways. On this topic, Jennifer shares her experience with a stillbirth, multiple miscarriages, IVF, and the breakdown of a marriage, confirming Nancy’s point about finding people to talk to and help you process your grief. Listeners will also hear how they can support others who are grieving the loss of a pregnancy or a baby, how you should talk to your partner about what you are going through, and when you know you are ready to try again.

There has been a significant societal change concerning the economy, the science we have developed, as well as the medicine we now practice. Along with many contributing factors including increased life expectancy, a pushback in childbearing age, and other extrinsic factors like illnesses and respective treatments, many people, male and female, are now reaching out and going through the process of fertility preservation. Our guest today specializes in and advocates fertility preservation for women in general. Dr. Jovana Lekovich is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, a reproductive endocrinologist, and an infertility specialist. She cares for patients at RMA of New York’s Brooklyn and Manhattan offices. She is the Director of the Oncofertility Program at Blavatnik Family — Chelsea Medical Center at Mount Sinai. Dr. Lekovich is also an assistant clinical professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, where she specializes in treating all aspects of reproductive medicine and infertility. She is most passionate about understanding the principles behind ovarian aging and diminished ovarian reserve as well as fertility preservation for patients facing cancer diagnosis needing gonadotoxic treatment. Today’s topic focuses on and around Dr. Lekovich’s specialty of oncofertility, something we haven’t explored yet on the podcast. Stay tuned for a fascinating discussion around fertility preservation, the process it involves, and more!

In this episode, we welcome the talented Dr. Tia Jackson-Bey to the RMA of New York, who has moved here after recently completing her OB-GYN Residency at Duke University Medical Centre. Tia is incredibly passionate about reproductive justice and increasing access to fertility care for all. Through her work with the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and the National Medical Association, she’s committed to highlighting health disparities in fertility care, particularly barriers to care and poor treatment outcomes for black women. Her professional interests also include physician and patient education, IBF outcome improvement, mentoring underrepresented college students on careers in medicine, and global public health. She has traveled to Honduras, South Africa, Swaziland, Ghana, and Tanzania for various projects in women’s reproductive health. Today we talk about Tia’s journey into healthcare, mental health issues around the COVID pandemic, and why we should give ourselves grace during these stressful times. Tune in to hear more, along our COVID silver-linings on why now is an okay time to get pregnant.

The path to motherhood can feel isolating and overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. You are not alone. Rebekah Rosler wants to be there with you and the journey to and through motherhood, to help you through your challenges and celebrate your successes. Rebekah is a 40-year-old wife and mother to a 4-year-old and a set of 2-year-old twins, (in)fertility warrior, community builder, counselor, advocate, doula, coach, and Licensed Master of Social Work based in Manhattan, New York. She is particularly passionate about normalizing infertility, postpartum challenges, pressures associated with social media, breastfeeding, and the everyday struggles of balancing life with infants and toddlers. After co-founding Mom Meetups, which provided NYC moms with social gatherings and online forums, Rebekah has created It’s Conceivable, where she offers personalized one-on-one support to individuals looking for a safe space, a sounding board, and a knowledgeable resource.

Sometimes in a woman’s fertility journey, they can feel completely overwhelmed because their body is failing them. Often times they also carry a pang of internal guilt, which they are fighting with constantly, and then on top of that, they have no idea what is really going on because they simply lack the knowledge. Their bodies are a black box. Today on the show we are excited to welcome Dr. Amy Divaraniyam, whose mission it is to help shed some light into what is happening inside a woman’s body and the reproduction system. Dr. Divaraniya is the CEO and co-founder of OOVA, a women’s health company. She has more than 10 years of experience as a data scientist and has both lead and published original research in the area of personal genomics and biomarker discovery. Her incredible understanding of biology and be able to apply complex analyses have lead to innovative projects in the healthcare space. In 2017, Dr. Divaraniya chose to end her career as a data scientist and devote herself to improving women’s healthcare. After facing her own struggles with conceiving her son, she decided to build a solution to help women having difficulty getting pregnant. Today, Dr. Divaraniya and her team have built the first at-home test, The OOVA, which measures multiple hormones through urine samples and provides personalized results and insights on a women’s fertility. As a response to COVID-19, OOVA has done an early release of their product. OOVA has resonated with many women and clinicians and is now being adopted by fertility clinics and hospitals across the country. 

Fertility preservation is receiving increased attention as an evolving area of reproductive medicine. It aims to preserve reproductive tissue for future use, but there are a lot of myths and misconceptions around the practice. Today’s guest is Dr. Lucky Sekhon, a reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist and board certified obstetrician and gynecologist who cares for patients at RMA of New York’s Manhattan and Downtown (SoHo) Offices. She specializes in diagnosing and treating reproductive issues and has particular expertise in fertility preservation or egg freezing, LGBTQ family building, and in vitro fertilization with pre-implantation genetic testing of embryos. Dr. Sekhon is active in clinical research at RMA in Mount Sinai, and can also be found frequently in the press and on social media, as a women’s health advocate and educator. She is passionate about improving awareness when it comes to reproductive health, both professionally and personally. She is very open with her patients about her own journey with fertility preservation, and she hopes to counteract stigma and dispel the common myths and misconceptions about fertility preservation and treatment. Tune in to find out more about doing a reproductive consultation, freezing eggs versus freezing sperm, and freezing embryos versus freezing eggs, as well as some of the misconceptions about barriers to entry. 

Since “it takes two to tango”, this episode focuses on the necessary nutrition and lifestyle information that men who are trying to conceive need, and the role they play in IVF success, and the baby’s health, among other things. Our guest is an award-winning Registered Dietitian turned entrepreneur and author, Lauren Manaker. Lauren launched her business after struggling with infertility and becoming a mother, and her personal experiences shed a spotlight on how much anecdotal and unsupported information is out there. She has made it her mission is to make accurate nutrition information more accessible and easy to understand and, in 2019, she wrote the book Fueling Male Fertility: Nutrition and Lifestyle Guidance for Men Trying to Conceive. In this episode, Lauren shares a bit about what she has learned about male fertility and the best ways she has found to connect with men, as well as some of her recommendations for good, nutritious food, and the foods she suggests eating in moderation or cutting out of your diet. Tune in today to find out more!

PCOS, or polycystic ovarian syndrome, is a common diagnosis that affects a lot of women, especially when they’re trying to conceive, and unfortunately, most of us don’t know too much about it. What does it look like? How does it affect our bodies? What causes it? Or how can we manage it with lifestyle changes and medications? This topic we are discussing today is near and dear to all of our hearts. Our guest today, Dr. Kimberely Thornton, is an RMA physician, a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist, infertility specialist, and a board-certified obstetrician and gynaecologist, and has served as a faculty member at Mount Sinai Medical Center.

Today we are excited to welcome Aimee Raupp who is a women’s health and wellness expert and the bestselling author of Body Belief, Yes, You Can Get Pregnant, and Chill Out & Get Healthy. Aimee is a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist who holds a Master of Science degree in Traditional Oriental Medicine from the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine and a Bachelor’s degree in biology from Rutgers University. She has appeared on The View, and has been featured in Glamour, Allure, and Shape, amongst other publications. Our guest has also received a public vote of confidence from prominent figures such as Deepak Chopra, Dr. Christiane Northrup, Arianna Huffington, and Gabby Bernstein, specifically pertaining to the work she does to help women improve their fertility and overall health.

Whether individuals of Jewish faith are struggling with fertility, women's health, men's health, genetics, or intimacy, PUAH is here to help couples fulfill their dreams of building a healthy family in accordance with Jewish law. Today’s guest is Rabbi Segelman, the rabbinic advisor for PUAH in America. After studying in Israel for two years at Yeshivat Kerem B’Yavneh, Rabbi Segelman attained a B.A. in Psychology from Touro College’s Lander College for Men, as well as an M.A. from Touro College’s Graduate School of Jewish Studies. Currently, Rabbi Segelman counsels and guides couples across the USA through the most complicated and cutting edge questions in fertility, genetics, and Halacha.

If you’ve ever wondered how exercise can affect your fertility fitness journey, or if you’ve simply run out of ideas to motivate yourself to continue exercising through it, today’s podcast is meant for you. In this episode of Fertility Forward, we chat with Mahri Relin, a former professional dancer, and find out how it was through dancing that she discovered her passion for fitness. Mahri spent her early years in the fitness industry working as a trainer for the Tracy Anderson studio and went on to become the creative director for FlyBarre at FlyWheel Sports. After extensive experience, Mahri noticed gaps in fitness solutions for women going through their most significant life events and changes.

After becoming a fertility patient in 2004, Risa Levine began working to ensure federal insurance coverage for infertility treatment, and worked closely with RESOLVE for the passage of the family act to provide a tax credit for medical expenses incurred for infertility treatment. She has now committed to securing coverage for IVF for veterans injured in the line of duty, and for exploding the New York State mandate for including coverage for IVF. Following her own losing battle to keep her embryos in her divorce, Risa is dedicated to legislative change that would enable a party to keep his or her embryos as they desire. She is a passionate believer in grassroots activism and has been honored by RESOLVE numerous times. By day, she is a real estate attorney in the State of New York. In this episode, we talk about the Child-Parent Security Act (CPSA) and the importance of advocacy, where the surrogacy bill is today, and the legal nuances surrounding gestational surrogacy and establishing parental rights.

Have you ever wondered what the direct impact of what you’re eating has on your chances of getting pregnant? Today’s episode is all about food and fertility, and our guest is an expert in the field. Dr. Jorge Chavarro is the Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and the Co-Director of Epidemiology and Genetics Core at Boston Nutrition Obesity Research Center. His research focuses on investigating the role of nutritional factors in the pathogenesis of diseases affecting reproductive and hormone sensitive organs. He is the co-author of the veritable Bible of fertility nutrition, titled The Fertility Diet, which reveals startling research from the landmark Nurses’ Health Study that shows how the food you eat can either boost or reduce your fertility. Today, we speak to Dr. Jorge, who is a role model on the important nutrients and specific foods for fertility, about the potential dangers of soda, plastics, and the environment and their impact on fertility, as well as current research on health and fertility. We discuss The Fertility Diet and how Dr. Jorge came to write it, and we go into detail about the effects of trans-fatty acids, high glycemic load, and animal protein, including fish and full-fat dairy.

Recurrent pregnancy loss or multiple miscarriages can be particularly challenging because they frequently cannot be medically explained. While couples may begin to feel hopeless after going through this difficult infertility obstacle, our guest today, Dr. Daniel Stein, shares that it’s not all doom and gloom, and that hope is still certainly there. Dr. Stein is the Director of RMA of New York’s Westside office and is Chief of Reproductive Endocrinology at Mount Sinai Roosevelt Hospital. He has been recognized by New York Magazine and Castle Connolly as one of New York’s “Best Doctors” and has been named a “Top Doctor” by US News & World Report. We kick off the episode by learning more about how a personal experience prompted Dr. Stein to work in reproductive endocrinology.

The handling of eggs and sperm in the culturing of embryos is delicate and complex and is performed by highly-trained embryology and andrology specialists. RMA of New York has a large and experienced lab team that is committed to upholding the highest standards of safety and precision to achieve superior success rates and healthy pregnancy outcomes for our patients. In this episode we talk to Senior Embryologist at RMA of New York, Donna Dowling, about what exactly an embryologist does, the process of making an embryo, ICSI explained, and what happens to your eggs post-retrieval.

If you have ever had a question about exercising while trying to conceive and during pregnancy, this episode is a must! Our guest today, Juliette Walle, is a personal trainer whose training style is deeply rooted in an understanding of biomechanics. With a love of athleticism and finding the fun in fitness, her sessions are energy filled and sweat-inducing, tailoring every workout to her client’s needs, goals, and preferred styles.

Having a solid support structure during your fertility journey is extremely important, whether that be a partner, a friend, or an established support group. Nancy Kaufman is a licensed psychoanalyst practicing in New York City for more than 30 years, working with individuals, couples, and groups dealing with infertility and parenting after infertility. Following her graduation from Columbia University School of Social Work, she completed her analytic training at the Centre for Modern Psychoanalytic Studies, serving on the faculty and as a training fellow. 

We tend to use the terms jealousy and envy synonymously, but there’s a distinct difference between the two. Today’s guest is Dr. Lauren Appio, a licensed psychologist in the state of New York, who explains why this distinction can be important. In this episode, we talk with Dr. Appio about jealousy and envy and what exactly the difference is. We also discuss how to find balance when socializing while on a fertility journey, and how to honor and respect the feelings that may come up while trying to conceive. Dr. Appio goes on to shares with us some practical techniques for loving ourselves, dealing with painful emotions, and reducing stress at times when that may seem like it’s impossible. Tune in to find out more!

Struggling with infertility, miscarriage, or loss is incredibly difficult, and feeling isolated can often compound those difficult feelings. While it’s so important to have a support system, it can be hard to reach out to those closest to you, especially if they have not dealt with the same issues. Elyse Ash, our guest today, and founder of Fruitful Fertility is working to create connections to help people struggling with infertility. The platform pairs mentors, who have come out the other end of an infertility struggle, with mentees who are currently struggling with the issue. In this episode, we learn about some of the benefits of using this platform. For mentors, it gives them a chance to pay it forward and share their story, while for mentees, they can connect with someone who is not going to judge them. Elyse sheds light on how her own infertility struggles were the catalyst to create the platform. As an extrovert, she felt isolated, so she couldn’t imagine what others with less of a support system must have been going through. 

Despite being responsible for nearly half of all cases of couples' fertility struggles, men are largely left out of the equation. There are a plethora of resources for women, from educational material to psychological support, yet very few of the same support systems exist for men. Along with this, going to a male fertility clinic can be a vulnerable experience, leaving men feeling exposed. Our guest today, Greg Sommer, is the co-founder of Sandstone Diagnostics, a Bay Area diagnostics company that develops sophisticated wellness products that allow consumers to measure, monitor, and improve key health markers at home. 

Dr. Bojana Jankovic Weatherly is an award-winning physician, and double board-certified in internal and integrative medicine. After completing an internal medicine residency, she did a fellowship in integrative medicine, trained in functional medicine, nutrition, and mindfulness. Her approach is rooted in evidence-based medicine that is personalized to each individual she works with. She partners with her patients to discover and address the root causes of their conditions and develops individualized plans to support and empower each individual to achieve her or his health goals. She has a specific passion for working with women who have various thyroid conditions, and in this episode, Dr. Bojana gives us a fascinating and insightful Thyroid 101 lesson.