What The Fertility: Recent Episodes
Amanda Bristow and Catherine Baker
Walking through fertility struggles or pregnancy loss? You’re not alone. What The Fertility is a podcast where professionals share their insights into fertility support, real women share their personal fertility journey, and your hosts talk all things fertility.
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Kayla's Surrogacy Journey01:57 Kayla's Background as a Nurse and Interest in Surrogacy03:57 Deciding to Become a Surrogate and First Steps05:58 Matching with Intended Parents via Facebook08:01 Medical and Legal Clearances Process10:00 Embryo Transfer and Pregnancy Experience12:07 Emotional Journey and Bonding with Baby14:03 Birth and Post-Birth Contact15:50 Reflections and Advice for Future Surrogates resourcesFacebook Surrogacy Groups - USA Surrogacy & Christian Surrogacy - https://facebook.com/groups/USASurrogacyReach Fertility Clinic, Charlotte - https://reachfertility.com
Katrina Quach, owner of Fertility Point Acupuncture based in Australia helps women TTC. She has patients that are suffering with recurrent miscarriage, unexplained infertility, PCOS, endometriosis, patients over 35 and so much more.
IG:
@fertility.point.acu
www.fertilityacu.au
Book your first appointment now!
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Alli's Journey02:57 The Struggles of Ectopic Pregnancies06:04 Navigating IVF and Egg Retrievals08:50 The Emotional Toll of Loss11:57 Deciding on Adoption14:58 The Adoption Process and New Beginnings24:56 The Journey to Adoption27:42 Emotional Moments of Motherhood29:08 Navigating Adoption Laws and Finalization30:41 The Intricacies of Adoption Anxiety34:40 Bonding Beyond Biology39:09 Sharing Adoption Stories with Children resourcesInstagram - One Cycle at a Time - https://www.instagram.com/one_cycle_at_a_time/
Lillian Rishty, mom of four shares her journey with postpartum depression. She is a licensed therapist and helps women struggling with anxiety, perinatal mental health and so much more.
IG: @nyctherapygroup
Book a 15 minute free intro call
www.nyctherapygroup.com
Accepting clients from NY, NJ, CT, FL
00:00 Introduction to Sophia's Journey02:59 Navigating Early Pregnancy and Loss05:58 The Heartbreaking Diagnosis08:42 Facing the Decision of Termination11:48 The Emotional Aftermath of Loss14:56 The Struggle to Conceive Again17:50 The Rollercoaster of Pregnancy After Loss24:15 The Unfolding of Grief29:23 Navigating Medical Procedures and Emotional Turmoil35:45 The Impact of Loss on Family Dynamics41:11 Hope Amidst Trauma: A New Pregnancy Journey45:16 Finding Community and Support in Grief
Dr. Emily Guarnotta shares her practice Phoenix Health with us and what she specialize on. They take insurance in 10 states and loves working with infertility and perinatal mental health.
www.joinphoenixhealth.com
@joinphoenixhealth
@dremilyguarnotta
This episode we have Amanda's (co-host) older sister Courtney on the podcast. They chat all the similarities and differences in motherhood as well as their relationship. Courtney did not walk through loss herself but she watched Amanda walk through it and was by her side through it all. Be sure to listen as Courtney shares her perspective of motherhood and what she has done that has helped her be a better mom and better individual.
IG:
@courtneysica
In this episode, Josh Paigen speaks about the often-overlooked topic of male fertility and the importance of preconception health. Josh shares his personal journey into fertility optimization, emphasizing the significance of sperm quality and the various tests available. He introduces his framework of five pillars that encompass nutrition, detoxification, exercise, rest, and mindset, all of which play a crucial role in enhancing fertility. The conversation highlights the need for men to take an active role in their reproductive health and offers practical advice for optimizing sperm quality through lifestyle changes.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Preconception Health03:03 The Importance of Sperm Quality06:15 Understanding the Five Pillars of Male Fertility09:17 The Role of Lifestyle in Sperm Health12:20 The Impact of Age on Fertility15:26 Heat Exposure and Sperm Quality21:28 Understanding Blood Sugar Regulation27:28 Detoxification and Environmental Toxins32:20 The Importance of Exercise and Circadian Biology34:41 Mindset and Emotional Regulation
Laura Weppler's path to becoming a fertility support professional began unexpectedly. Initially trained as a labor and delivery nurse, she soon realized that the fast-paced nature of the job did not fulfill her desire for deeper connections with patients. It was during her transition to a fertility clinic in the Chicago area that she discovered her true calling. "I was meant to work in this field," she recalls, describing how she fell in love with the technology that helps people build their families. This passion was further fueled by her personal struggles with fertility, which made her approach to patient care even more empathetic.Laura's journey to motherhood was fraught with challenges, including irregular ovulation and a traumatic miscarriage after an initial IUI. Ultimately, IVF became her path to parenthood, resulting in two beautiful children. This experience not only deepened her understanding of the emotional turmoil many face during fertility treatments but also equipped her with the empathy necessary to guide others through similar journeys.
OBGYN and REI/Infertility specialist Dr. Rachel Mandelbaum sits down and shares all about her practice and Needle Free IVF.
Check out her IG for FAQ's and demonstrations of needle free IVF cycle.
IG: @rachel.mandelbaum.md
In this episode, Jared Walker shares his journey through infertility and the emotional challenges he faced alongside his wife. He discusses the inspiration behind his book, 'The Empty Nest,' which uses the metaphor of two ducks to explore the heavy themes of infertility. Jared also introduces his nonprofit, Dollar Four, which helps individuals navigate medical debt and access financial assistance for healthcare costs. The conversation highlights the importance of open communication in relationships during difficult times and the need for resources to support those facing similar struggles.
In this episode Catherine and Amanda discuss the complexities of motherhood after experiencing loss. They delve into topics such as sleep patterns, postpartum anxiety, and the challenges of parenting through secondary infertility. The conversation highlights the unique experiences of each child and the emotional journey of navigating grief while raising children. They also touch on the importance of sibling relationships in understanding loss and the joy that comes with motherhood, despite the challenges. The hosts share personal anecdotes and insights on managing anger and frustration as parents, and they conclude with a discussion about upcoming adventures in parenting.
Courtney Simelton, a licensed Mental Health therapist sits down with us and shares about her private practice For Her Counseling.
She has specialized training in working with women experiencing infertility, miscarriage/pregnancy loss, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
She is located in Charlotte, NC and is available in person in office or virtually to NC and SC clients.
Website:
https://www.forhercounseling.com/
Email:
courtney@forhercounseling.com
IG:
@forhercounseling
She shares her own personal journey of secondary infertility and how it has now allowed her to empathize even more with clients who are struggling with any infertility and different stages of motherhood.
In this episode, Dr. Angela Potter, an integrative fertility specialist, discusses the complexities of PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) and its impact on women's fertility. She shares her personal journey into integrative medicine, the importance of understanding PCOS, and how it can be managed through nutrition and hormonal health. The conversation also addresses common myths surrounding PCOS, the significance of thyroid health, and the need for individualized care in fertility treatments. Dr. Potter emphasizes that women with PCOS can achieve successful pregnancies with the right support and resources.To find more about Dr.Potter, visit her website https://www.drangelapotter.com/
We are so excited to announce our new series Motherhood after loss! We wanted to have a space for women that have gone through loss or infertility and are experiencing motherhood. We want to share our journey of navigating the everyday and what life may look like after loss.
Our first episode is with Lauren Dewey, owner of brooksybox. Brooksybox is a care package service for all different stages of life. Lauren wanted to design packages for every stage of. motherhood. She shares her story to get to her son Brooks and why she started her business. Be sure to check it out and use code WTFPOD15 for 15% off!
- www.brooksybox.com
Cat and Amanda sit down with co-founder and CEO Priyanka Jain as she shares about the mission of Evvy and how that impacts the fertility community.
"Know what's up down there" - be sure to check out their website and order an innovative and effective vaginal microbiome test that comes straight to your home.
www.evvy.com
"Evvy is unlocking precision healthcare for women and people with vaginas"
"Evvy's mission is to close the gender health gap by discovering and leveraging overlooked female biomarkers-starting with the vaginal microbiome"
IG: @evvy
Tiktok:@evvybio
Mary Susan started her cycle at 11 and faced severe pain.Endometriosis often takes a long time to diagnose.A total hysterectomy was necessary for Mary Susan at 21.IVF can be physically and emotionally challenging.Finding the right surrogate is crucial for the journey.Community support plays a vital role in the surrogacy process.Mary Susan and her surrogate have developed a close bond.Surrogacy can provide hope for those struggling with infertility.The emotional impact of fertility struggles is significant.Mary Susan aims to be a source of support for others.
In this episode of What The Fertility Podcast, hosts Catherine and Amanda sit down with Reece Weaver to discuss the important work of Beckett's Blessing Box, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families who have experienced child loss. Reece shares her personal connection to the cause, the resources provided by the organization, and the significance of community support in the grieving process. The conversation also touches on fundraising efforts, the importance of awareness, and the impact of faith in healing. Reece emphasizes that no one should walk through grief alone and highlights the legacy of Beckett as a source of hope and support for many families.
To learn more about Beckett's Blessing Box you can visit them on Instagram @beckettsblessingbox or online via www.mortonscholarship.com.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:10 Understanding Pregnancy and Infant Loss
05:58 Beckett's Blessing Box: Mission and Impact
08:55 Fundraising and Community Involvement
11:45 Personal Reflections on Grief and Support
14:50 Merchandise and Awareness Initiatives
17:43 Final Thoughts and Community Support
Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down her own infertility journey or reoccurent pregnancy loss and how that ultimately led her to become such a strong fertility advocate and voice in the online space. Tune in to hear about her new book, The Fertility Formula, as well as answers to listeners questions such as, "are wearables worth it, optimal ways to track fertility, and even some discussion around menopause.
To learn more about Dr. Crawford go to www. nataliecrawfordmd.com or @nataliecrawfordmd on Instagram.
Also, in today's episode you can learn how to get The Fertility Formula Starter Pack—including The 7-Day Hormone Reset and The Ultimate IVF Guide!
Erin shares her journey with a resected uterine septum & recurrent pregnancy loss.
-ivf
-donor eggs
IG:
@chasingcatandrainbows
Part 2 with guest Shelby as she shares all that has happened since Season 3 and what led her to her son Benjamin.
She shares about how she went into labor at 30 weeks and life in the NICU was like.
Resources:
IG:@manipuraacupuncture
Acupuncture and Holistic Healthcare
IG: @hishelby
Author Jami Crist shares her journey through loss and infertility which led her to write the book "The Losses We Keep" and begin a podcast "The Radical Female".
IG/Tiktok:
@jamicrist
Link to The Losses We Keep:
https://www.amazon.com/Losses-We-Keep-Journey-Fertility/dp/1958472115/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.m4VZPfoXScTbqdTaXIbuCQQrLbbOTTKAJnsRh-pOEtUjKobuRM0EeTGyCBy4x6centB19VVpovoGohUqqZHkS7wjg42emxVjY7fErvbQmrmTOMySaRBx8yaY7Ak5CXr19tdZreMxVrrJptKWLHkoDAk8WWsEi4oFajzZak98PUj2zuVhCkmid1zXSMcpwz2RulqORtqk8p5CMAOSEM1EXZDMohVLaDhKQzeapn_wpAg.5KaZJIAplaM_EfMP-e3UbCOcurWyu2hm2XygjiU4KB4&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+losses+we+keep&qid=1751243842&sr=8-1
Hannah shares her journey through 4 miscarriages, IVF and the struggles she has gone through while trying to start their family. She chats with us about the importance of taking a step back and taking a break when needed.
Triggers Warning: Miscarriage, FET cancel
IG:
@hannahtetreault92
Kyla Ayalew speaks on her experiences with infertility through low sperm count and miscarriage. Kyla fell pregnant after their first IVF transfer only to lose her daughter just shy of 22 weeks. Kyla is now the mom of 2 children through IVF and is a fertility advocate through RESOLVE.
To learn more about Kyla, you can connect with her on Instagram: @kylamayalew
- PCOS and Endo Expert
- Focuses on helping you get pregnant natural, IVF/ICSI
- Integrative Nutrition & More
IG: @thefertilitycoach_
Resources:
thefertility-coach.co.uk
Fiona Macdonald easily conceived her first child. When the couple started trying for another baby, they were immediately faced with experiencing their first miscarriage. Unfortunately for Fiona, she would go on to have a total of 5 miscarriages and turn to IVF to assist in growing her family.
In this episode, we discuss common misconceptions around secondary infertility and the isolation that women feel when facing infertility after becoming a mother.
To connect further with Fiona, you can find her on IG @fitfertilitea
Tiffany went through two miscarriages and a myomectomy to remove fibroids before the conception of her now 2 year old daughter. When she started trying for a second child, she was thrown into the world of recurrent miscarriage, experiencing five back to back losses. Her last loss was an ectopic pregnancy which caused her to lose her right fallopian tube. Her family turned to IVF, as she had unexplained RPL. Tiffany found success through IVF and just announced the conception of her second baby!
To connect with Tiffany, find her on IG: @tiffanyldeleon
Juliana Jason, Founder of Embyr, started her turbulent infertility journey at just 21 years old. She shares how she went through the loss of her left ovary and fallopian tube to a soccer ball sized tumor. This event led Juliana to IVF, where she experienced several complications. Ultimately, Juliana went on to have three beautiful children and along the way created an infertility inspired jewelry line called Embyr. Embyr jewelry is something you can hold onto and something that represents what you have been through.
To learn more about Juliana and Embyr jewelry, follow them on Instagram: @embyr_forever or on her website www.embyrforever.com.
Analeah shares her long journey with 6 IVF transfers, 4 miscarriages, PPROM at 23 weeks, NICU stay and all the in between.
IG:
@analeahaaha
Hayley Conner shares her personal journey with infertility and loss, after being diagnosed with a pituitary adenoma. Hayley talks in depth about the moment when her physician shared she would need brain surgery in order to build her family. Tune in to hear how Hayley navigated her diagnosis and kept moving forward to ultimately welcome her beautiful daughter into this world!
We sit down with host, Catherine Baker's own REI, Dr. Edward Tarnawa. Catherine received care at PREG, as a second opinion during her initial years of reoccurent pregnancy loss. Dr. T and his partner, Dr. Theisen share what led them to reproductive endocrinology, answer listeners Q&As, and dive into the myths of regulatory requirements when it comes to IVF.
Laetitia shares her story with 3 miscarriages and ectopic pregnancy and ultimately what led her to conceive at 40 years old.
Her journey has led her to become a fertility coach and focus on aligning ones mindset with their body.
IG:
@mindset_bodyandsoul
Free Consultation Coaching Call:
https://calendly.com/mindsetbodyandsoul/20min
Email:
laetitia@mindsetbodyandsoul.com
Resources:
Free Guided Meditation Resource- check out her IG
Erica Hoke shares her infertility struggles and how doctors shared she had less than a 1% chance of conception. Erica is the Author of the book series Infertility Success 'Stories of Help and Hope For your Journey." You can view and purchase the book series here.
To learn more about Erica, you can follow her on IG: @infertilemomof4
Aubrey shares her journey through 6 years TTC, 2 failed IUI's, 2 unsuccessful FET and a diagnosis of Endo and PCOS.
Beth Gulotta, a licensed therapist, is the host and founder of Quiet the Clock. Beth's focus is breaking down societal timelines and expectations. To learn more about Beth, follow her on instagram @quiettheclockpod
Jolene Podcast host of Motherhood Off the Rails shares her journey with miscarriage and how that encouraged her to create a community around infertility.
Tune in to learn all about Dandi Fertility, creator of purpose built egg freezing and IVF comfort products. Dandi provides virtual and at home injection services in all 50 states.
Leyla Bilali, Co-Founder and Chief Clinical Officer, shares her personal and professional journey that led her to launch Dandi, with her partner Jake Kent (CEO).
We have personally used the Dandi products and could not recommend more! Use WTFORWHATTHEFERTILITY for for $15 any product!
Dr. Coffler answers listener's questions around infertility and miscarriage. Tune in to hear Dr. Coffler's medical background and his experience with reproductive endocrinology.
To find more information on Dr. Mickey Coffler, following him on Instagram: @mickeycofflermd or @hrcfertilitysd.
To learn more about HRC Fertility visit www.havingbabies.com
Aliza Sir shares her story with secondary infertility, a blighted ovum, Asherman's diagnosis and more.
- Asherman's specialist: Center for Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery
- Dr. Peter Movilla; Dr. Isaacson recently moved to New Orleans
- Facebook Group: Asherman's Syndrome Awareness & Support
- Anyone who is in New England, Here is a Zoom support groups facilitated by AllPaths Family Building (a regional nonprofit) to be wonderful.
- Platonic Love link: https://platonicloveletter.substack.com/
- My miscarriage story: https://platonicloveletter.substack.com/p/why-getting-pregnant-wont-be-on-my?
- How music has helped me through grief: https://platonicloveletter.substack.com/p/issue-78-songs-for-a-terrible-horrible?
- How to help a friend through grief: https://platonicloveletter.substack.com/p/issue-83-how-to-help-a-friend-through
- Bouncing back after pregnancy: https://platonicloveletter.substack.com/p/issue-56-i-still-wouldnt-say-ive?
Join us to learn more about @thefertilitymama, Ceire Nevins. Ceire talks about her own personal journey with infertility which led her to a career of fertility health coaching.
Ceire provides so many free resources to her followers! Check out her Instagram @thefertiltiymama or click on the link here to access all of her freebies! Some of which include her IVF survival guide, 8 steps to take control of your fertility, & self-care while-we-wait challenge!
Some additional links for items referenced during today's show:
The science of well-being course offered through Yale with Laura Santos, which is free!
The IIN link in case anyone is interested!
Trigger Warning: Shares her journey with stillborn pregnancy
In loving memory of Remy & Wyatt
PCOS, ENDO, Donor embryos, her journey through loss and so much more
Resources:
@faithslodge
@chasingtherainbowsinc
IG: @j_
Tune in to hear Courtney's unique story of pursuing IVF for genetic exclusion testing, due to her husband's family history with Huntington's disease. Huntington's disease has a 50/50 chance of being passed. Courtney shares how her family was able to have children through IVF, to ensure her children did not inherit Huntingtons.
Lauren shares her long journey through IVF and how she navigated recurrent loss, endo, and so much more.
Be sure to listen until the end for the sweetest surprise that we got to find out live during the podcast.
IG:
@itsme_lc4
Lisa White is a IVF mama, podcast host, and infertility mentor. Lisa is the Author of Hold On, Baby a book focused on helping women navigate the mindset challenges that come along with IVF. To learn more about Lisa, follow her on IG @ivf.manifesting.a.miracle
Andrea, a Latina IVF mama that went through 8 miscarriages. Had her miracle rainbow baby and then endured another loss that led to the removal of her tubes.
IG:
@hotmessivfmama
Co-founder of Balanced Friends, Sam, shares how they are integrating home lab testing, detoxification, and supplements to support your fertility journey. Follow Balanced Friends on IG: @balancedfriends.
"JustanotherIVFmama, Alicia Amos shares her long journey with PCOS, complex congenital uterine anomaly, failed cycles, silent endometriosis, infertility ministry and so much more.
IG:
@justanotherivfmama
Support Group:
@midmoinfertilitysupport
@waitinginhope
Cat and Amanda share all of their personal updates on trying for baby #2. They discuss the interesting dynamics of one partner being pregnant while the other is closing the chapter on growing their family.
April was a part of What The Fertility Support Group in Charleston and we are so excited to reconnect and have her on the podcast. She shares her journey with traditional adoption and an IUI pregnancy with her second child.
We sit down with Charlotte and chat about secondary infertility, miscarriage, and what led her to train to be an embryologist.
Kelsi Wallace from @thewallacechronicles_ shares her experiences through infertility, multiple failed rounds of IUI/IVF, and her success with embryo adoption. Kelsi is an advocate for embryo adoption and infertility. On the show, she shares educational resources and advice for anyone looking to learn more about embryo adoption.
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Mom
IG: @rpl_mom
Rebecca chats with us all about recurrent pregnancy loss and advocacy/validation for other couples with recurrent pregnancy loss. She shares about her diagnoses, rounds of both IUI and IVF, & so much more!
Resources:
miscarriagedoula
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Association
https://rplassociation.org
Co-founder of BOND, Caryn Johnson, shares her extensive fertility journey and explains her passion behind founding BOND. BOND is a supplement company that focuses on cycle care and reproductive health.
You can learn more about BOND on Instagram: @_bondlife
We chat with Erin @bebe.after.ttc as she shares her journey of 9 years of infertility to her rainbow baby. She shares her experience with functional medicine and how it helped her conceive naturally after 3 months.
Topics:
Functional medicine
Thyroid -T3/T4
Hashimotos
Antibodies testing
TSH levels
Failed embryo transfer
Subacute hypothyroidism
IG: bebe.after.ttc
Resources:
Marie Pace- Thats Health
https://thatshealth.com/
Hypothyroidmom blog* (facebook)
Courtney- @fertilityfunctionally
Jina shares a beautiful tribute to her daughter, Remy. Remy was born 12 weeks early and diagnosed with NEC Totalis during her NICU stay. In this episode, Jina also shares how she has pursued IVF and reproductive immunology, as they continue to try and grow their family.
Jina is a huge advocate of NEC and welcomes you to learn more at Remy's personal page on NEC Society's website. You can find that at: https://necsociety.kindful.com/always-in-our-hearts/remembering-remy
You can connect with Jina on Instagram, @jina.maloney
Kelsey shares all about her journey pursuing adoption for a second time as well as the grants and organizations she used to help fund this adoption process. She talks about a NICU stay and so much more.
Agency:
Both Hands
Bothhands.org
Erica shares her diagnosis of premature ovarian insufficiency/failure (POI) at just 29 years old. Erica shares her continual journey to find whole health for her body and how they were still able to grow their family.
Find Erica on Instagram: @ericamatteson
Diana chats with us about BMI Restrictions in clinics, how male factor infertility has impacted their fertility journey as well as PCOS. 10 rounds of IVF and so much more!
*DNA Sperm Fragmentation
IG: @ivf_done_my_best
Maren was falsely diagnosed, with Turner's syndrome, after a simple genetic screening test. This incorrect diagnoses caused several twist and turns in her journey to have children. During this time, Maren's friends fundraised enough money to allow Maren to move into IVF. Maren has since become an advocate for other families who are looking to build their families through alternative methods. Maren has a non profit that can be found at @facefertility on Instagram.
Amanda and Cat chat with "True.IVF.Story"
- 8 IUI'S
- 9 IVF ROUNDS
- 7 LOSSES
- Surrogacy
- 1 IN 30,000 HETEROTOPIC PREGNANCY
We chat about how infertility has impacted her life and how she has pivoted along the way to pursue parenthood.
E-Book Available:
Meet Alease, an embryologist who is a fertility advocate and has a very active social media account. Alease shares some common tips and advice for IVF patients. We dive into topics like PGT testing, what to look for in an IVF center, and some of her favorite parts of being an embryologist.
Find Alease at @alease_the_embryologist
Amanda & Cat chat about life updates with Cat and how she may have gotten a diagnosis after years of reoccurrent loss.
TW: Miscarriage Warning
Amy Seek, a birthmother, shares her experience with surrendering her son to adoption and the years of secondary infertility that followed. Amy does a wonderful job sharing the raw emotions that come along with adoption. Amy is the Author of 'God and Jetfire'. Her book is a mother's account of her decision to surrender her son in an open adoption and of their relationship over the twelve years that follow.
Amy's book, God & Jetfire, can be found at the below link:
https://www.amazon.com/God-Jetfire-Confessions-Birth-Mother/dp/0374536260
Other adoption resources:
https://www.relinquishedbook.com
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/313183/the-body-keeps-the-score-by-bessel-van-der-kolk-md/
Author and License Clinical Social Worker, Emily Feit, shares her emotional journey of infertility and her book, "Before We Held You in Our Arms". She also shares the amazing fertility loan fund she created to help others create families called "Feit 4 Kidz".
Book Link: https://a.co/d/jfSwVnd
Website:
www.emilyfeit.com
Loan Fund Website:
https://www.jfla.org/10-years-feit-4-kidz
IG:
@emily.feit
Erin Sarris, Author of 'Cupcakes Everywhere: One Sweet Tale of Overcoming Infertility', shares her struggles to motherhood. Erin went through several rounds of IUI, IVF, and medicated cycles. Erin's unique journey to parenthood led her to write her book, Cupcakes Everywhere. The book is a wonderful gift for any friend or family member who struggled to build their family. Learn more about Erin & her book at www.cupcakeseverywhere.com or on Instagram @erinsarriswrites.
Life update with Amanda & Cat
-TW miscarriage and chemical pregnancy is talked about during this episode
Shelby, not only an IVF nurse, but also a patient, shares the ins and outs of her infertility and IVF experience. After a failed cycle, Shelby & her husband take an alternative path to parenthood and pursue adoption. Shelby has an incredible way of sharing her story that will bring you to happy tears.
IG: @shelbyhlee
Part 2 with Katie Rotondo and special guest (her hubby) Brandon Rotondo. We dive deep into Male Factor Infertility and how it has affected their infertility journey.
Ashley shares her personal experience on donating her embryos. A little twist occurred when we connected the dots and realized Ashley and Cat had MATCHED as a donor family a few years ago. Tune in to hear Ashley's beautiful testimony of how her and her husband decided to choose embryo donation and the process that followed.
Ova Egg Freezing with Whitney Bischoff Angel
IG: @ovaeggfreezing - DM to contact
@whitney
Fertility Preservation more accessible and affordable to women everywhere
www.ovaeggfreezing.com
*Located in Chicago, IL
Lisa shares her 10 year journey of unexplained infertility ending with the births of her triplets. Lisa discovered that managing her mindset was her missing link. At age 40, Lisa conceived triplets. She has now written a book to share her own story and the tools she used during her decade long experience of infertility. Lisa's book is called 'Fertility: Mindset & Meltdowns". You can find Lisa and her book at the below links:
Lisa IG: @lisaashworthfertility
Lisa's Book: On Amazon: Fertility: Mindset & Meltdowns
https://www.amazon.com/Fertility-Mindset-Meltdowns-Emotions-Conceive-ebook/dp/B0CMFL1NWG
Part 1 with Katie Rotondo
-male factory infertility
-domestic infant adoption
-embryo adoption
& update she now has recently welcomed her son!
Minerva (@themeticulousmummy) shares her journey through secondary infertility after she was diagnosed with Asherman's Syndrome postpartum. Minerva shares her symptoms and how she had to gain a second opinion to ultimately land a diagnosis.
After multiple diagnosis and a year of trying to conceive, doctors shared IVF was really the only option. Sara & Brady just traveled to Barbados for their second round of IVF.
Check out their IG: @sarasodapop and @bradyhand to learn more about the next steps and how you can support them in growing their family.
Alexis is back on the show with us to chat about her second transfer, her diagnosis with vasa previa with a long hospital stay and so much more!
IG: @lex_faithfitnessfertility
Book information coming soon*
Emily Pardy, LMFT, PMH-C, Founder & CEO of Ready Nest Counseling shares her own journey to motherhood and why she decided to open a counseling practice unique to helping couples and individuals through conception, pregnancy, postpartum, infertility, and loss.
IG: @readynestcounseling
IG: @emily.pardy
Tori shares her persistence with an unexplained fertility diagnosis. She ultimately finds a diagnosis which leads her to purse IVF. Tori shines lights on the intricacies of artificial reproduction in regards to aligning with her faith. She shares unique ideas on how to maintain your own personal boundaries, when exploring all the options we now have to build out families.
Follow Tori on IG: @mrstoriksmith
We chat with Camille Patrick, a fertility warrior who shares her journey of infertility. She shares openly about how she advocated for herself with doctors after years of numerous of misdiagnoses. She has a speciality now in holistic nutrition and is excited to help other women struggling just like she did.
Check her out on IG: @fertility_warri0r
Resources:
-28 App
We chat with Sunshine Hanson, a 3x Surrogate and the Founder of Surrogacy.Is. Sunshine shares her individual experience as a surrogacy as well as why she opened her own agency. Learn more about Surrogacy.Is at https://surrogacy.is or follow along on instagram @surrogacy.is.
Shelby chats about her diagnosis with Hashimoto's, low follicle count, her miscarriage and so much more.
IG: @hishelby
Fertility Account: @f.ckinfertility
Former fertility nurse and ongoing fertility patient, founder and CEO of 412 Fertility, shares her why in creating an in home and virtual injection administration and medication teaching company. Based in Pittsburgh, Megan has created a safe place for fertility patients to ask questions and gain insight into at home fertility injections.
Season 3: Welcome back with Amanda & Cat
We talk about what we have been up to and what's to come this season on the podcast! :)
Tune in to hear the final comments from your host, Cat and Amanda. We will be sharing how you can help us ramp up for Season 3 and where you can find us for the rest of 2022. Thank you for all your support!!
News personality and Emmy winner seen on Entertainment Tonight and ExtraTV Katie Krause Mork.
Founder and CEO of Novalynn Fertility: an at-home fertility health test kits and educational resources.
IG: @_katiekrause
@novalynnfertility
novalynnfertility.com
Erica Ferraro shares her personal journey with infertility, egg donors and what led her to start her blog @movingmtnsformotherhoodblog
Her blog is filled with so many articles that are meant to be uplifting, focus on mental health and give tips and tricks to navigate infertility. My personal favorite is the baking analogy article and I think everyone needs to read it or share it with someone.
IG: @eri.ferrari
www.movingmountainsformotherhood.com
Founder of Coaching with KD, Kristin Dillensnyder ,shares her personal journey through infertility. Kristin is a certified life coach who specializes in working with women going through infertility.
Website: www.coachingwithkd.com IG: @kristindillensnyder
Abigail Porter shares not only her journey with infertility and PCOS but the courage it takes to leave a long term (nine years!) relationship amidst infertility. This episode contains discussion around miscarriage. Follow Abigail to learn more at @absallday3125.
Conception Doula and Fertility Yoga Teacher shares her personal journey and the services she provides at her studio in the UK. She supports fertility grief and anxiety and IVF pregnancy/birth support.
IG: @helendavenportpeace
@ongoldenshores
She offers a free guidebook "Rewild: take a sacred TTC break"
https://thefold.uk/rewild?fbclid=PAAaY_pfuaCJOayrkTsDIYHaMI2ow524qnCd4viUQn_LWAbQ8UaZXn6ZqaPLA_aem_Afr6WYCUmJ_Z8k49vuc3We_5oAHzdawm3pyCtPpV1pPULBvCgW5AuUjxmrhGIUafV84
Catch up with host, Amanda and Cat. Tune in as we talk about what is going on in both of our lives, upcoming guest, and Amanda's timeline for her next embryo transfer!
Stephanie Levich is the Founder and President of world renowned Consulting Firm, Family Match Consulting. She is an adoptee and an IVF Mom of two.
She also is the author of “From the Start” an inclusive and heartfelt children’s book for any parent who has created their family through adoption, IVF, sperm/egg donation, or surrogacy.
Featured on People Magazine and shares her pro-bono work and the impact this woman had on her. Be sure to check it out!
IG: @familymatchconsulting
Book- @fromthestartbook
Author of '40+ Fertility Tips' and Founder of the Pregnancy After 40 Support Group, shares her personal fertility journey and how she naturally conceived her two sons in her 40s.
Follow Tamika M Johnson on IG: @pregnancyafterforty
Lisa, a Women's Health Advocate shares her journey of infertility, reoccurrent loss and how she was diagnosed with Asherman's Syndrome.
IG: mccarty717pr
Tune in to hear Dr. Jeanie Schlafy, long time anesthesiologist turn holistic fertility practitioner. Dr. Schlafy founded Baby Hope Fertility, based out of Denver, Colorado. Baby Hope Fertility is founded around treating infertility uniquely due to their own personal journey with fertility and the successful holistic treatments experienced.
Tune in to hear Elises’ journey to get to motherhood. She shares all about an unexpected infertility path and her choice to be a single mom and what that entails.
Check out her instagram @singlegaltomama as she shares how she navigates motherhood after infertility.
Jennifer was the second women to have a child through a uterus transplant using a deceased donor! Jennifer shares her story of being born with MRKH, a rare congenital disorder that affects the female reproductive system. Tune in to hear how Jennifer spent 15 years hearing she would never carry her own child, to the day she found out she was pregnant.
IG: @delcomrkhjen
Kristen shares her long journey of secondary infertility. She shares about her miscarriage, 5 IUI’s with a young toddler, fighting for a diagnosis of endometriosis, foster care, and failed adoptions. She shares how she is still hopeful and is still fighting to grow her family!
Gina shares her experience of trying to conceive and her ultimate success with IVF after being told her was "a difficult case." Gina's mother had endometriosis and suffered multiple miscarriages which led Gina to search for further answers.
We sit down with Co-Host Amanda and her husband Chris as they chat about the struggles they have been through. Chris shares a husbands perspective and some advice for the men while going through loss or IVF with their significant other.
Katie details all the methods she tried to increase her thin lining. From estrogen priming to a Neupogen wash, Katie details the struggles of women with thin lining. Tune in to hear how Katie's conception journey has unfolded. Follow Katie on IG: kgriffith18
Surrogacy & Gestational Carrier Information:
@circlesurrogacy
Samantha Aylor breaks down her multiple losses as well as how God led her family to adoption.
Tune in to hear her journey that led to both of her sons.
Our very own host shares her raw and transparent thoughts on what is next for her family! Looking for another episode? Head to our website www.whatthefertilitypod.com and check out our blog for a list + description of all episodes!
They are Canadian and found out prior to marriage they were carriers. In addition to being a carrier of Cystic Fibrosis, she then found her her AMH was low for her age.
She quickly jumped into IVF. They winded up getting 10 embryos and 3 of 10 had CF.
PGT-M is the testing she got done for carriers of diseases.
-First transfer ended in a chemical pregnancy.
-Half a year later due to renovations at the clinic and her lining not ready for transfer she finally transferred another embryo
-Went for Beta 1 - 80 Beta 2-60 - ended in another chemical pregnancy
Going to move into a natural cycle and excited and hopeful for the future.
Advice:
Be patient and know that its going to be a little harder than expected but lean on your support system.
Educate yourself *
Sara Boyd, WHNP at PREG shares all things third party reproduction. Sara covers all methods of reproduction where patients require a third party to conceive. Sara has a unique journey as a fertility provider, as she went through her own journey of embryo preservation and reoccurrent miscarriage.
Kelsey an army wife shares her journey through infertility, a failed adoption, a successful adoption with her daughter and as she begins the journey to adopt baby number 2.
IG: @kelseyknodel
Kati shares her experience through infertility, miscarriage, low morphology, and an eventual endometriosis diagnosis. After a successful laparoscopic surgery, Kati started IVF & shares all the details including the birth of her daughter from a successful second transfer.
Chelsea shares her unique story that led her to having Twiblings. She shares her journey through infertility, IVF, surrogacy and life with twiblings.
Mary Leigh speaks about her family history with the early onset of menopause, going through divorce and infertility, and ultimately the IVF transfer that stuck. To learn more about Mary Leigh follow her on IG: @maryleighspencer
DOR, Low AMH, Endometriosis, 6 rounds of IVF, 4 failed transfers, traveling 1200 miles for IVF, Egg donor and so much more!
Tune in and listen as we sit down and chat with Licensed Therapist Amanda Vargo. She shares her raw and vulnerable thoughts through reoccurring loss and how she handles her grief and anxiety as well as how she navigates through postpartum anxiety.
Infertility IG : @healing.and.hoping
Expectful: Wellness for Moms - App: The care moms need. From Fertility to baby.
Tune in and listen to CEO, Traci Keen, of Ma(+)e Fertility discuss the why behind her company. Traci touches on the overall landscape of fertility care in the United States and discusses fertility statistics across the globe. Ma(+)e is an innovation approach to partner with OBGYNs in underserved communities. Ma(+)e enables OBGYNs to offer full spectrum reproductive care including IVF.
Tune in to hear Ciara’s journey through infertility, miscarriage, and adoption. Ciara shares the details of miscarriage after IVF and working with multiple pregnant co-workers. She explains the long term affects of miscarriage both mentally and physically.
IG: @lex_faithfitnessfertility
IG: @momsinthemaking
https://www.momsinthemaking.com/
Blog:https://faithinthewait1175934.wordpress.com/
Kendra shares her diagnosis of diminished ovarian reserve, multiple rounds of IVF abroad, and her families current choice to embrace their life without kiddos.
Tune in to listen to Tara’s journey to parenthood. Tara chose to freeze her eggs in her 30s as a single women. Once she met her husband, they unfroze those eggs and tried to create embryos. Unfortunately, none of those eggs turned into embryos so Tara went back to square one.
Tara talks us through her infertility journey of a diagnosis of low AMH, miscarriage, a natural pregnancy, and her use of a donor egg. Tara now has two beautiful children, a son and daughter!
Reach out to Tara on her IG: @taracarbo1
Amanda & Cat are back for Season 2. We grabbed our morning coffee, stayed in our pajamas, and chatted about what's been going on this past year. We're so happy to be back!
Jessica and her husband started trying four years ago for a baby. After six months of trying without success, she sought care from her OBGYN. Originally she was diagnosed with PCOS, which she took a self resolution approach by controlling her diet and incorporating low intensity exercise. After another six months of negative pregnancy tests, Jessica moved forward with deeper testing.
Her OB suggested they start with medicated cycles. At this point, she also suggested her husband take a semen analysis. Upon receiving the test results, Jessica and her husband realized they would be facing double the diagnosis. The results showed that her husband had low sperm count and poor morphology.
Tune in to follow their journey through a urological surgery and multiple rounds of IVF.
"If it doesn't make sense yet, it's not the end"
Documentary recommended: One More Shot on Netflix
Influencer recommended on IG: @definingmum @pathsto
Maddie spent the last three years struggling with infertility. Over those years, she was diagnosed with PCOS, prolactinoma, and endometriosis. They completed six medicated cycles and multiple IUIs. Finally their RE sat Maddie down and told her enough is enough, she would either need to move on to IVF (which was not something her and her husband were comfortable moving forward with) or it was time to hang up the towel. Maddie was distraught and advocated for just one more IUI since her insurance covered this one final procedure.
Julia shares her story of back to back triploidy preganacies and how this led her family to move forward with IVF.
Cat and Amanda go solo on today’s episode. Amanda shares the details of her personal journey to her son, Benjamin, through embryo adoption.
Bailey Henry is the author of "Having A Baby and Other Things I'm Bad At", founder of The Undelivered Podcast, wife, mother, and fellow infertility warrior. To learn more about Bailey and the resources she offers our fertility community head over to hellobaileyhenry.com. To check out the show notes for this episode go to www.whatthefertilitypod.com
Becca shares her truth through using egg donation to build her family. After two miscarriages in her 40s, she turns to a REI who suggests egg donation. Becca was informed she would have less than a 1% chance of a live birth with using her own eggs. During the podcast, Becca speaks on her decision and mindset in moving forward with donor tissue and how ultimately she ended up delivering her daughter at 45 years old.
Read more on www.whatthefertilitypod.com
McKensie shared with us the multiple rounds of IVF cycles that brought her her daughter, Lennox, and her current pregnancy. McKensie shares her diagnosis of stage four endometriosis and we discuss what it's like to go through secondary infertility. For McKensie, conceiving her second child was a much longer journey than her first. She speaks on wanting to quit after back to back failed transfers but how ultimately she is so grateful she kept going. Connect with McKensie on her IG: @mackkanos.
When Katy was told there was absolutely no change for a natural pregnancy, she turned to in vitro fertilization. Tune in as Katy shares her story of infertility and the success of her first round of IVF.
Meaghan joins us to share her very unique and complicated journey through infertility. During her laparoscopic surgery, Meaghan shares the raw details of her intensely complex surgical complications that led her to eventually move forward with donor eggs.
We sit down with Amanda to learn all about the comprehensive fertility and family planning benefits available through Progyny. In addition to Progyny, Amanda shares her very personal walk through infertility and IVF.
Resources:
- Nancy's Nook on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/NancysNookEndoEd
- Nancy's Nook Episode on Progyny's podcast, This is Infertility: https://progyny.com/education/podcast/episode-33/
- Amanda's article on questions not to ask: https://themighty.com/2021/07/infertility-and-insensitive-questions-egg-retrieval/
- Amanda's article on pregnancy loss leave: https://www.mother.ly/pregnancy/we-need-pregnancy-loss-leave/
We were honored to sit down with Sarah to chat about her journey through multiple miscarriages, medicated cycles, and several rounds of IUI and IVF. Eventually, Sarah & her husband, Cody, decided enough is enough and took a step back from all the chaos of IVF. Today Sarah shared what the rest of their journey to building a family has looked like.
Elle shares with us her devastating journey of unexplained infertility, miscarriages, a brutal divorce, and her now family of four was all in God’s timing.
Haley shares her experience with miscarriage and IVF in a blended family. She shares the details of navigating through infertility with her step children and her husband.
How Infertility Built A Family & Turned Into A Career with Yllena Popovich. Yllena chats with us about how her and her then boyfriend made the decision to move forward with fertility treatments, after a diagnosis of PCOS at a really young age. Now, she’s practicing NP at Kentucky Fertility Institute, married to her husband, and mom to their beautiful son.
On this episode, Amy shares her journey through seven pregnancy losses, IVF, and reproductive immunology. She walks us through her specific RI protocol and what led her to chose reproductive immunology on top of her IVF transfer. Check out www.whatthefertilitypod.com to see this episode's show notes.
Kate Smith talks with us about her fertility journey using the Creighton Model and Natural Procreative Technology Technology to identify and address her endometriosis and assist in her journey to conception.
Charleston Clinic:
Summerville Women's Care- Dr. Nancy Stroud
Indiana Clinic:
Fertility and Midwifery Care Center in Fort Wayne, IN - Dr. Jillian Stalling
Questions for Kate? Email her at kathrynosimmons@gmail.com
Paige Hardin-Obrien, Embryologist of Kentucky Fertility Institute, shares with us how she ended up in the field of embryology, the journey of the egg from retrieval to transfer, and how she keeps our embryos safe and sound din the lab.
Paige has an Instagram dedicated to embryology education. Check her out at IG: @embryologist_paige.
Ashlee Manos, owner of Maha Holistic Wellness talks with us about the benefits of acupuncture and Chinese medicine for women on the path to motherhood.
This week, Morgan walks us through her diagnosis with endometriosis and her multi-year journey through IUI and IVF. Stay tunes after the show for a very special update from Morgan.
This week, we sit down with Dr. Kathryn Snow, Reproductive Endocrinologist. Dr. Snow received her Masters in Health Administration from UNC Chapel Hill before pursing medical school at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine in Richmond. From there, Dr. Snow completed her OBGYN residency at Mount Sinai in New York, New York where she met her future husband. After residency, Dr. Snow continued her training in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Duke University before moving to Charleston, South Carolina and beginning her practice at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group (PREG).
Hosts Amanda and Catherine share their journey with fertility and the Why behind “What The Fertility Podcast”.