fertilitystory

Secondary infertility — difficulty conceiving or carrying a subsequent pregnancy — comes with a unique set of challenges. Being a parent with infertility can create tension between feeling grateful for the family you have yet grieving the family you desire. 

In this episode, Dr. Lora Shahine talks with Allie Karagozian, occupational therapist, business owner, and podcaster. Allie shares her own fertility journey and why she created a special way to support those suffering with secondary infertility. Through her podcast, Secondary Infertility, and her support groups, Holding Both, Allie provides support for mothers struggling with secondary infertility. 

In this episode you’ll hear:

[0:00] What is secondary infertility?

[3:20] What are the unique challenges of secondary infertility?

• Guilt for wanting “more” 
• Providing a sibling for an existing child
• Age gaps between children and societal pressure to have more

[11:18] Secondary infertility support groups

• Lack of support for those experiencing secondary infertility
• The need for a safe space to discuss the challenges
• The importance of emotional support and community

[20:07] Secondary infertility support for men

• Men are often sidelined during fertility challenges
• Men also need emotional support

Resources mentioned: 

One and Only by Lauren Sandler: https://www.laurenosandler.com/the-book

Episode with Miscarriage Doula Arden Cartrette: drlorashahine.com/podcast/arden-cartrette-on-pregnancy-loss

 

Finding Allie Karagozian:

Allie on Instagram: @holdingboth 

Allie’s Website: www.holdingbothllc.com 

Allie’s Podcast on Instagram: @secondaryinfertility.pod

Stay Up to Date in Fertility News and Events:  Weekly Newsletter

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Secondary infertility — difficulty conceiving or carrying a subsequent pregnancy — comes with a unique set of challenges. Being a parent with infertility can create tension between feeling grateful for the family you have yet grieving the family you desire. 

In this episode, Dr. Lora Shahine talks with Allie Karagozian, occupational therapist, business owner, and podcaster. Allie shares her own fertility journey and why she created a special way to support those suffering with secondary infertility. Through her podcast, Secondary Infertility, and her support groups, Holding Both, Allie provides support for mothers struggling with secondary infertility. 

In this episode you’ll hear:

[0:00] What is secondary infertility?

[3:20] What are the unique challenges of secondary infertility?

• Guilt for wanting “more” 
• Providing a sibling for an existing child
• Age gaps between children and societal pressure to have more

[11:18] Secondary infertility support groups

• Lack of support for those experiencing secondary infertility
• The need for a safe space to discuss the challenges
• The importance of emotional support and community

[20:07] Secondary infertility support for men

• Men are often sidelined during fertility challenges
• Men also need emotional support

Resources mentioned: 

One and Only by Lauren Sandler: https://www.laurenosandler.com/the-book

Episode with Miscarriage Doula Arden Cartrette: drlorashahine.com/podcast/arden-cartrette-on-pregnancy-loss

 

Finding Allie Karagozian:

Allie on Instagram: @holdingboth 

Allie’s Website: www.holdingbothllc.com 

Allie’s Podcast on Instagram: @secondaryinfertility.pod

Stay Up to Date in Fertility News and Events:  Weekly Newsletter

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Many say raising children “takes a village,” but what about the team you create on your family building journey through infertility, miscarriage, IVF and early pregnancy? The “trying to conceive” village can include doctors, nurses, therapists, acupuncturists, friends, family, and maybe a fertility coach. 

If you’re curious about what a fertility coach is and are considering working with one, you’ll learn all about it in this episode in which Dr. Shahine interviews fertility coach Ceire Nevins. 

You’ll finish knowing what’s different about a fertility coach - how they help you meet your goals, support you on the journey, and more. Be sure to pay attention to the red flags Dr. Shahine and Ceire review, so you also know what you DON’T want in a fertility coach.

In this episode you’ll hear:

[0:00] What is fertility coaching and how does it help?

[6:29] Fertility coaching and empowering clients to advocate for themselves 

• Non-medical advice and advocacy for patients undergoing fertility treatments
• Ceire’s personal journey with infertility and how it led her to become a fertility coach

[12:06] Fertility coaching and holistic health

[17:47] How to find a qualified fertility coach 

• Personal experience with infertility and credentials
• Coaches who promise unrealistic results 

[24:01] Fertility coaching and support for individuals undergoing IVF

• The importance of support and self-care 
• Reframing the mindset from goal-oriented to system-based

Resources mentioned: 

Ceire’s Fertility Mama website: www.thefertilitymama.com

Stay Up to Date in Fertility News and Events:  Weekly Newsletter

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Many say raising children “takes a village,” but what about the team you create on your family building journey through infertility, miscarriage, IVF and early pregnancy? The “trying to conceive” village can include doctors, nurses, therapists, acupuncturists, friends, family, and maybe a fertility coach. 

If you’re curious about what a fertility coach is and are considering working with one, you’ll learn all about it in this episode in which Dr. Shahine interviews fertility coach Ceire Nevins. 

You’ll finish knowing what’s different about a fertility coach - how they help you meet your goals, support you on the journey, and more. Be sure to pay attention to the red flags Dr. Shahine and Ceire review, so you also know what you DON’T want in a fertility coach.

In this episode you’ll hear:

[0:00] What is fertility coaching and how does it help?

[6:29] Fertility coaching and empowering clients to advocate for themselves 

• Non-medical advice and advocacy for patients undergoing fertility treatments
• Ceire’s personal journey with infertility and how it led her to become a fertility coach

[12:06] Fertility coaching and holistic health

[17:47] How to find a qualified fertility coach 

• Personal experience with infertility and credentials
• Coaches who promise unrealistic results 

[24:01] Fertility coaching and support for individuals undergoing IVF

• The importance of support and self-care 
• Reframing the mindset from goal-oriented to system-based

Resources mentioned: 

Ceire’s Fertility Mama website: www.thefertilitymama.com

Stay Up to Date in Fertility News and Events:  Weekly Newsletter

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

PGT-A, PGT-M, PGT-SR, Carrier Screening, Karyotype — oh my! The options available for genetic screening in fertility testing and IVF treatment can get confusing.

Understanding testing available to you BEFORE treatment as well as DURING the IVF process is key. These tests can decrease risk of disease and miscarriage and improve success rates with a single embryo transfer, but there are pros and cons for every intervention. It can be difficult to keep it all straight and overwhelming to know what to do. 

In this episode, Dr. Lora Shahine goes in depth on what tests are available, what they are screening for, who is a good candidate for genetic testing, and what your options are when the results come in.

You’ll finish this episode understanding genetic testing and screening in fertility and IVF and knowing what questions to ask your doctor about what’s right for your personal situation.

As always, please share this episode with others on or considering a fertility treatment journey — if you don’t know anyone (or know you know anyone), consider leaving us a review to help others find the podcast.

In this episode you’ll hear:

[0.00] Genetic testing of embryos for IVF patients. 

• genetic screening of embryos for infertility patients, including testing for specific mutations and benefits
• genetic testing options for embryos, including PGT-A, PGT-M, and PGT-S

[3:10] Genetic testing for embryos before IVF

• preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) for single gene disorders in IVF
• genetic disorders and the importance of carrier screening before IVF 
• the option to test embryos for specific mutations
• PGT Sr. is preimplantation genetic testing for structural rearrangement, which requires knowing what to look for before testing embryos

[10.23] Balanced translocations and their impact on pregnancy

• what are balanced translocations and what is their effect on fertility
• what are your management options
• testing embryos for chromosome content to reduce miscarriage risk

[15:58] Genetic testing for embryos during IVF 

• preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A)
• the risk of chromosomal abnormalities 
• what are your options when the results come in

[21:58] Karyotype test for people having recurrent pregnancy loss

• this week’s fertility story: couple with 10 miscarriages
• both partners should test for a balanced translocation with a karyotype test
• the importance of seeking a second medical opinion and not giving up hope on fertility treatments

 

Resources mentioned: 

ASRM Committee Opinion of Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Conditions 

ACOG summary of Preimplantation Testing 

ACOG FAQ’s about Genetic Carrier Screening 

Stay Up to Date in Fertility News and Events:  Weekly Newsletter

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

PGT-A, PGT-M, PGT-SR, Carrier Screening, Karyotype — oh my! The options available for genetic screening in fertility testing and IVF treatment can get confusing.

Understanding testing available to you BEFORE treatment as well as DURING the IVF process is key. These tests can decrease risk of disease and miscarriage and improve success rates with a single embryo transfer, but there are pros and cons for every intervention. It can be difficult to keep it all straight and overwhelming to know what to do. 

In this episode, Dr. Lora Shahine goes in depth on what tests are available, what they are screening for, who is a good candidate for genetic testing, and what your options are when the results come in.

You’ll finish this episode understanding genetic testing and screening in fertility and IVF and knowing what questions to ask your doctor about what’s right for your personal situation.

As always, please share this episode with others on or considering a fertility treatment journey — if you don’t know anyone (or know you know anyone), consider leaving us a review to help others find the podcast.

In this episode you’ll hear:

[0.00] Genetic testing of embryos for IVF patients. 

• genetic screening of embryos for infertility patients, including testing for specific mutations and benefits
• genetic testing options for embryos, including PGT-A, PGT-M, and PGT-S

[3:10] Genetic testing for embryos before IVF

• preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) for single gene disorders in IVF
• genetic disorders and the importance of carrier screening before IVF 
• the option to test embryos for specific mutations
• PGT Sr. is preimplantation genetic testing for structural rearrangement, which requires knowing what to look for before testing embryos

[10.23] Balanced translocations and their impact on pregnancy

• what are balanced translocations and what is their effect on fertility
• what are your management options
• testing embryos for chromosome content to reduce miscarriage risk

[15:58] Genetic testing for embryos during IVF 

• preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A)
• the risk of chromosomal abnormalities 
• what are your options when the results come in

[21:58] Karyotype test for people having recurrent pregnancy loss

• this week’s fertility story: couple with 10 miscarriages
• both partners should test for a balanced translocation with a karyotype test
• the importance of seeking a second medical opinion and not giving up hope on fertility treatments

 

Resources mentioned: 

ASRM Committee Opinion of Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Conditions 

ACOG summary of Preimplantation Testing 

ACOG FAQ’s about Genetic Carrier Screening 

Stay Up to Date in Fertility News and Events:  Weekly Newsletter

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

“Why didn’t I know all this already?”

       - Pretty much everyone who reads Toni Weschler’s book

 The stigma around women’s reproductive systems isn’t just an inconvenience, it removes a critical way women get insight into their bodies and health overall: period power.

 The menstrual cycle tells us a whole lot more than if we’re pregnant or not, or menopausal or not, says author Toni Weschler. Her seminal (oh, the irony of that adjective!) work, Taking Charge of Your Fertility, is all about understanding and taking charge of your reproductive health and being “cycle savvy.”

 In this episode, Dr. Lora Shahine and Toni Weschler talk about the origin of this amazing work. (Hint: it has to do with women being really angry.) And despite the title, it’s not all about helping people who are hoping to become pregnant. It’s about, says the author, “teaching women on a day-to-day basis what is going on with their body on that day” and taking advantage of all the insights into your health charting your cycle can give you.  

 In this episode you’ll hear:

[00:00] Intro

[02:26] What is ‘Taking Charge of Your Fertility’ and why Toni ‘hates’ the title

[04:44] Toni’s inspiration to write the book

[09:50] The difference between the rhythm method and fertility awareness 

[11:22] The 3 signs of fertility explained 

[14:56] What the menstrual cycle can teach you about your health

[18:51] Being a pioneer: How did Toni research for her book in 1990s?

[26:31] The difficult process of pitching the book – lesson in rejection from Toni

[36:30] The challenges of writing the book – Toni fought for her vision

Fertility Story: 

[41:21] Toni’s ‘Birth Announcement’

[42:23] The responsibility of ‘Taking Charge of Your Fertility’ and what inspires Toni

[44:42] Instagram Questions:

• Nikki: Is there another edition? Yes! 30th anniversary edition out in 2025
• Alexa: What fertility or period apps does Toni recommend?
• Claudia: How can teens learn about their cycles? 

[53:12] Final thoughts: Advocate for Your Care

Resources mentioned:

Toni’s website: www.tcoyf.com

Taking Charge of Your Fertility the book: www.tcoyf.com/taking-charge-of-your-fertility

Toni’s Cycle Savvy Smart Teen’s Guide to Her Body: www.cyclesavvy.com

Stay Up to Date in Fertility News and Events:  Weekly Newsletter

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books 

“Why didn’t I know all this already?”

       - Pretty much everyone who reads Toni Weschler’s book

 The stigma around women’s reproductive systems isn’t just an inconvenience, it removes a critical way women get insight into their bodies and health overall: period power.

 The menstrual cycle tells us a whole lot more than if we’re pregnant or not, or menopausal or not, says author Toni Weschler. Her seminal (oh, the irony of that adjective!) work, Taking Charge of Your Fertility, is all about understanding and taking charge of your reproductive health and being “cycle savvy.”

 In this episode, Dr. Lora Shahine and Toni Weschler talk about the origin of this amazing work. (Hint: it has to do with women being really angry.) And despite the title, it’s not all about helping people who are hoping to become pregnant. It’s about, says the author, “teaching women on a day-to-day basis what is going on with their body on that day” and taking advantage of all the insights into your health charting your cycle can give you.  

 In this episode you’ll hear:

[00:00] Intro

[02:26] What is ‘Taking Charge of Your Fertility’ and why Toni ‘hates’ the title

[04:44] Toni’s inspiration to write the book

[09:50] The difference between the rhythm method and fertility awareness 

[11:22] The 3 signs of fertility explained 

[14:56] What the menstrual cycle can teach you about your health

[18:51] Being a pioneer: How did Toni research for her book in 1990s?

[26:31] The difficult process of pitching the book – lesson in rejection from Toni

[36:30] The challenges of writing the book – Toni fought for her vision

Fertility Story: 

[41:21] Toni’s ‘Birth Announcement’

[42:23] The responsibility of ‘Taking Charge of Your Fertility’ and what inspires Toni

[44:42] Instagram Questions:

• Nikki: Is there another edition? Yes! 30th anniversary edition out in 2025
• Alexa: What fertility or period apps does Toni recommend?
• Claudia: How can teens learn about their cycles? 

[53:12] Final thoughts: Advocate for Your Care

Resources mentioned:

Toni’s website: www.tcoyf.com

Taking Charge of Your Fertility the book: www.tcoyf.com/taking-charge-of-your-fertility

Toni’s Cycle Savvy Smart Teen’s Guide to Her Body: www.cyclesavvy.com

Stay Up to Date in Fertility News and Events:  Weekly Newsletter

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books 

No two fertility journeys are alike, but Tara Lipinski’s experience is perhaps even more unique than most. The champion, gold-medal-ice-skater-turned-sports-analyst was 35 and still not necessarily ready to start building her family. So she decided to put her options “on ice” — literally preserving eggs and/or embryos until she and her husband Todd were ready.

However, the process turned out to be more complicated than it appeared when a diagnosis of endometriosis sent them down a different path. 

What followed was two surgeries, four miscarriages, six failed transfers, and five years of treatment, hope, and heartbreak.

Spoiler alert: perfect Georgie was born in 2023, so there is a happy ending, but the picture on Instagram of Tara, curled up on her couch, heart-broken and clutching pregnancy tests, sent waves through the fertility community. Here was a very public figure speaking very publicly about her struggles to build her family.

Please listen and share to help us continue the conversation.

In this episode you’ll hear:

[00:00] Intro

[07:74] Why Tara and Todd shared their story on their Unexpecting podcast

[13:19] How did Tara’s athletic career prepare her and NOT prepare her for infertility 

[19:51] Reflecting on relationships through infertility, men vs. women on coping

[30:02]When to share and not share the fertility journey 

[34:53] When we are surprised by infertility

[38:01] Misconceptions and reality about surrogacy

[46:12] Instagram Questions

  Amanda: Did you and Todd ever consider giving up?

  Marena: How did you and Todd keep going?

  Dana: Advice to someone who is struggling with infertility?

[55:21] Outro and Finding Tara and her podcast

Resources mentioned: 

Tara on Instagram: @taralipinski

Tara Lipinski: taralipinski.com

Tara Lipinski: Unexpecting Tara and Todd’s podcast

Babyquest Foundation Fertility Grants: babyquestfoundation.org

Sunfish financial solutions for fertility treatment:joinsunfish.com

Stay Up to Date in Fertility News and Events:  Weekly Newsletter

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

No two fertility journeys are alike, but Tara Lipinski’s experience is perhaps even more unique than most. The champion, gold-medal-ice-skater-turned-sports-analyst was 35 and still not necessarily ready to start building her family. So she decided to put her options “on ice” — literally preserving eggs and/or embryos until she and her husband Todd were ready.

However, the process turned out to be more complicated than it appeared when a diagnosis of endometriosis sent them down a different path. 

What followed was two surgeries, four miscarriages, six failed transfers, and five years of treatment, hope, and heartbreak.

Spoiler alert: perfect Georgie was born in 2023, so there is a happy ending, but the picture on Instagram of Tara, curled up on her couch, heart-broken and clutching pregnancy tests, sent waves through the fertility community. Here was a very public figure speaking very publicly about her struggles to build her family.

Please listen and share to help us continue the conversation.

In this episode you’ll hear:

[00:00] Intro

[07:74] Why Tara and Todd shared their story on their Unexpecting podcast

[13:19] How did Tara’s athletic career prepare her and NOT prepare her for infertility 

[19:51] Reflecting on relationships through infertility, men vs. women on coping

[30:02]When to share and not share the fertility journey 

[34:53] When we are surprised by infertility

[38:01] Misconceptions and reality about surrogacy

[46:12] Instagram Questions

  Amanda: Did you and Todd ever consider giving up?

  Marena: How did you and Todd keep going?

  Dana: Advice to someone who is struggling with infertility?

[55:21] Outro and Finding Tara and her podcast

Resources mentioned: 

Tara on Instagram: @taralipinski

Tara Lipinski: taralipinski.com

Tara Lipinski: Unexpecting Tara and Todd’s podcast

Babyquest Foundation Fertility Grants: babyquestfoundation.org

Sunfish financial solutions for fertility treatment:joinsunfish.com

Stay Up to Date in Fertility News and Events:  Weekly Newsletter

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

In this episode, Dr. Shahine explores the benefits and research supporting Yoga for Fertility with master instructor and author of the first book on the subject, Lynn Jensen. 

People on fertility journeys often say they feel like their bodies don’t belong to them anymore. Between the tests and the treatments and the theories, it’s easy to see how people can feel disconnected physically and emotionally.

Lynn Jensen’s Yoga for Fertility classes helps heal bodies AND minds. Lynn has a specialization in yoga for the fertility journey, so her students can trust that they’re maximizing their physical and emotional wellness.

Lynn is a Registered Yoga Teacher through the Yoga Alliance and a Certified Yoga Therapist through the International Association of Yoga Therapists since 2013. 

Not only does Lynn have highly specialized training, she’s been through the journey herself. Her classes often turn into impromptu counseling sessions, and her students make lifelong bonds with her and each other.

In this podcast, Lynn and Dr Shahine talk about the many ways yoga heals and strengthens the body for fertility and the mind for the challenges of the journey. 

Find Lynn and sign up for classes at her website, https://yogaforfertility.net/.

In this episode you’ll hear:

[00:00] Intro to Episode 45 

[03:23] Lynn’s Fertility Story and Origins of Yoga for Fertility

[08:46] What Makes Yoga for Fertility Different from Other Practices?

   [10:30 Chakra system and relation to hormones

   [11:21] Dr. Shahine describes a class she took with Lynn

   [12:28] Yoga poses changing through the menstrual cycle 

   [13:41] Lynn’s favorite pose during the two week wait

[14:48] The research that supports the benefits of Yoga for Fertility

[21:03] Lynn’s advice on exercise during fertility treatment like IVF

[25:37] Lynn describes a typical class

[28:39] Lynn guides Dr. Shahine through a breathing exercise

Questions from Instagram @drlorashahine:

[33:10] Sandy: Is it ok to do yoga during an IVF cycle?

[33:28] Katrina: Who are your classes for? Egg freezing? Couples?

[35:18] Anne: Can yoga help patients with miscarriage?

[37:19] How to find a certified yoga for fertility instructor?

[38:29] Tribute to Lynn from a former student

[39:11] How to find Lynn and Yoga for Fertility: https://yogaforfertility.net/instructor/

Resources mentioned in the show: 

Domar A, et al. Impact of group psychological interventions on pregnancy rates in infertile women Fertil Steril 2000 Apr;73(4):805-11. doi: 10.1016/s0015-0282(99)00493-8.

Dumbala et al 2020. Effect of Yoga on Psychological Distress among Women Receiving Treatment for Infertility. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32669765/

Thakur 2021. Effect of yoga on polycystic ovarian syndrome: A systematic review.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=yoga+and+fertility&filter=simsearch1.fha

Yoga Can Improve Assisted Reproduction Technology Outcomes in Couples With Infertility. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29112941/

Return to Zero: HOPE Kiley Hannish. Support for miscarriage, recurrent pregnancy loss, stillbirth: https://rtzhope.org/

Stay Up to Date in Fertility News and Events:  Weekly Newsletter

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books  

 

In this episode, Dr. Shahine explores the benefits and research supporting Yoga for Fertility with master instructor and author of the first book on the subject, Lynn Jensen. 

People on fertility journeys often say they feel like their bodies don’t belong to them anymore. Between the tests and the treatments and the theories, it’s easy to see how people can feel disconnected physically and emotionally.

Lynn Jensen’s Yoga for Fertility classes helps heal bodies AND minds. Lynn has a specialization in yoga for the fertility journey, so her students can trust that they’re maximizing their physical and emotional wellness.

Lynn is a Registered Yoga Teacher through the Yoga Alliance and a Certified Yoga Therapist through the International Association of Yoga Therapists since 2013. 

Not only does Lynn have highly specialized training, she’s been through the journey herself. Her classes often turn into impromptu counseling sessions, and her students make lifelong bonds with her and each other.

In this podcast, Lynn and Dr Shahine talk about the many ways yoga heals and strengthens the body for fertility and the mind for the challenges of the journey. 

Find Lynn and sign up for classes at her website, https://yogaforfertility.net/.

In this episode you’ll hear:

[00:00] Intro to Episode 45 

[03:23] Lynn’s Fertility Story and Origins of Yoga for Fertility

[08:46] What Makes Yoga for Fertility Different from Other Practices?

   [10:30 Chakra system and relation to hormones

   [11:21] Dr. Shahine describes a class she took with Lynn

   [12:28] Yoga poses changing through the menstrual cycle 

   [13:41] Lynn’s favorite pose during the two week wait

[14:48] The research that supports the benefits of Yoga for Fertility

[21:03] Lynn’s advice on exercise during fertility treatment like IVF

[25:37] Lynn describes a typical class

[28:39] Lynn guides Dr. Shahine through a breathing exercise

Questions from Instagram @drlorashahine:

[33:10] Sandy: Is it ok to do yoga during an IVF cycle?

[33:28] Katrina: Who are your classes for? Egg freezing? Couples?

[35:18] Anne: Can yoga help patients with miscarriage?

[37:19] How to find a certified yoga for fertility instructor?

[38:29] Tribute to Lynn from a former student

[39:11] How to find Lynn and Yoga for Fertility: https://yogaforfertility.net/instructor/

Resources mentioned in the show: 

Domar A, et al. Impact of group psychological interventions on pregnancy rates in infertile women Fertil Steril 2000 Apr;73(4):805-11. doi: 10.1016/s0015-0282(99)00493-8.

Dumbala et al 2020. Effect of Yoga on Psychological Distress among Women Receiving Treatment for Infertility. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32669765/

Thakur 2021. Effect of yoga on polycystic ovarian syndrome: A systematic review.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=yoga+and+fertility&filter=simsearch1.fha

Yoga Can Improve Assisted Reproduction Technology Outcomes in Couples With Infertility. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29112941/

Return to Zero: HOPE Kiley Hannish. Support for miscarriage, recurrent pregnancy loss, stillbirth: https://rtzhope.org/

Stay Up to Date in Fertility News and Events:  Weekly Newsletter

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books  

 

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) is one of the scariest risk factors of IVF, but it doesn’t have to be. With preparation, treatment choices, and prevention, you can avoid this uncomfortable and potentially dangerous risk factor from ovarian stimulation.

To maximize the number of eggs retrieved for IVF and egg freezing, fertility treatment involves stimulating the ovaries to mature more eggs. A higher egg number can often predict a higher success rate with treatment, but a side effect can be significant fluid shifts and bloating also known as OHSS. 

When OHSS occurs, it can be mild, moderate, or severe, with symptoms ranging from discomfort and bloating to significant dehydration, shortness of breath, nausea, and even hospitalization for recovery.

In this episode, Dr. Shahine does a deep dive into OHSS. 

You'll learn

1. What OHSS is
2. Why OHSS happens and Who is at risk
3. Ways to prevent OHSS
4. Ways to treat symptoms if it occurs so you have a speedy recovery

This week’s fertility story is about an OHSS patient Dr. Shahine will never forget from her training. It’s a reminder to never to ignore your care team’s instructions. 

In this episode you'll hear: 

[00:00] Intro: What is OHSS and why is it scary?

[01:07] My experience caring for patients with OHSS over the years 

[02:13] OHSS Definition, Classification

[05:29] Physiology of OHSS – Why does it happen?

[07:12] Risk factors for OHSS – Who is at risk?

[09:41] Treatment options to prevent and recover quickly from OHSS

[09:55] Prevention of OHSS 

• What to know before you start stimulation 
• Choosing a protocol and medications to add to decrease risk 
• Metformin, trigger shot, cabergoline, and more

[21:47] Treatment if OHSS happens 

• How to recover faster
• Increasing electrolytes and protein at home, 
• When do you need IV fluids or hospitalization to recover (rarely)

[25:58] Fertility story of Dr. Shahine’s Patient: Warning of the dangers of OHSS 

[31:51] Outro and thank you 

Resources mentioned: 

Try LMNT daily during your stimulation process to increase electrolyte intake and decrease the symptoms of bloating during IVF and egg freezing. Mix one packet in 40 ounces of water and sip throughout the day. 

LMNT has sodium and potassium to help decrease bloating as well as magnesium to prevent constipation (common after egg retrieval) 

Using this link: drinklmnt.com/DrShahine or code DrShahine at checkout to get a sample pack of all flavors with your first purchase.

 Dr. Shahine’s YouTube Videos on OHSS

Mastering OHSS Prevention

OHSS is the Biggest Risk Factor for IVF: What you need to know

 

Stay Up to Date in Fertility News and Events:  Weekly Newsletter

Follow @drlorashahine

Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books 

 

Studies mentioned in podcast

Who is at risk of OHSS? 

1. Younger age: One study showed 60% of women who got OHSS were less than 35 yo 
   • https://academic.oup.com/ajhp/article-abstract/65/12/1148/5127940?redirectedFrom=fulltext 
2. Lower BMI: Some studies show a higher risk of OHSS if BMI <23 but not all studies show an association https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7851086/  
   • A higher ovarian reserve predicts higher risk of OHSS: AMH > 5  https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0002937814001689 
   • Antral Follicle count >24 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0015028212005961 
   • For more information on ovarian reserve testing see my video: https://youtu.be/bYJWXIY6GHg 
3. Patients with PCOS often have a high AMH and high AFC – if you’re diagnosed with PCOS – ask about OHSS risk in IVF 
4. A high response to stimulation in the IVF cycle can predict risk of OHSS 
   • Estradiol levels at time of trigger  >3500 pg/mL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12773437/ 
   • More than 20 follicles https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14647270601021743 
   • More than 15 eggs retrieved https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0015028213034584 

 Aspirin and OHSS: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0015028209001320 

Metformin and OHSS: https://academic.oup.com/humrep/article/26/8/2178/645906 

Trigger shot and OHSS: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1472648310602003 

Cabergoline and OHSS: https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/92/8/2931/2597480

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) is one of the scariest risk factors of IVF, but it doesn’t have to be. With preparation, treatment choices, and prevention, you can avoid this uncomfortable and potentially dangerous risk factor from ovarian stimulation.

To maximize the number of eggs retrieved for IVF and egg freezing, fertility treatment involves stimulating the ovaries to mature more eggs. A higher egg number can often predict a higher success rate with treatment, but a side effect can be significant fluid shifts and bloating also known as OHSS. 

When OHSS occurs, it can be mild, moderate, or severe, with symptoms ranging from discomfort and bloating to significant dehydration, shortness of breath, nausea, and even hospitalization for recovery.

In this episode, Dr. Shahine does a deep dive into OHSS. 

You'll learn

1. What OHSS is
2. Why OHSS happens and Who is at risk
3. Ways to prevent OHSS
4. Ways to treat symptoms if it occurs so you have a speedy recovery

This week’s fertility story is about an OHSS patient Dr. Shahine will never forget from her training. It’s a reminder to never to ignore your care team’s instructions. 

In this episode you'll hear: 

[00:00] Intro: What is OHSS and why is it scary?

[01:07] My experience caring for patients with OHSS over the years 

[02:13] OHSS Definition, Classification

[05:29] Physiology of OHSS – Why does it happen?

[07:12] Risk factors for OHSS – Who is at risk?

[09:41] Treatment options to prevent and recover quickly from OHSS

[09:55] Prevention of OHSS 

• What to know before you start stimulation 
• Choosing a protocol and medications to add to decrease risk 
• Metformin, trigger shot, cabergoline, and more

[21:47] Treatment if OHSS happens 

• How to recover faster
• Increasing electrolytes and protein at home, 
• When do you need IV fluids or hospitalization to recover (rarely)

[25:58] Fertility story of Dr. Shahine’s Patient: Warning of the dangers of OHSS 

[31:51] Outro and thank you 

Resources mentioned: 

Try LMNT daily during your stimulation process to increase electrolyte intake and decrease the symptoms of bloating during IVF and egg freezing. Mix one packet in 40 ounces of water and sip throughout the day. 

LMNT has sodium and potassium to help decrease bloating as well as magnesium to prevent constipation (common after egg retrieval) 

Using this link: drinklmnt.com/DrShahine or code DrShahine at checkout to get a sample pack of all flavors with your first purchase.

 Dr. Shahine’s YouTube Videos on OHSS

Mastering OHSS Prevention

OHSS is the Biggest Risk Factor for IVF: What you need to know

 

Stay Up to Date in Fertility News and Events:  Weekly Newsletter

Follow @drlorashahine

Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books 

 

Studies mentioned in podcast

Who is at risk of OHSS? 

1. Younger age: One study showed 60% of women who got OHSS were less than 35 yo 
   • https://academic.oup.com/ajhp/article-abstract/65/12/1148/5127940?redirectedFrom=fulltext 
2. Lower BMI: Some studies show a higher risk of OHSS if BMI <23 but not all studies show an association https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7851086/  
   • A higher ovarian reserve predicts higher risk of OHSS: AMH > 5  https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0002937814001689 
   • Antral Follicle count >24 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0015028212005961 
   • For more information on ovarian reserve testing see my video: https://youtu.be/bYJWXIY6GHg 
3. Patients with PCOS often have a high AMH and high AFC – if you’re diagnosed with PCOS – ask about OHSS risk in IVF 
4. A high response to stimulation in the IVF cycle can predict risk of OHSS 
   • Estradiol levels at time of trigger  >3500 pg/mL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12773437/ 
   • More than 20 follicles https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14647270601021743 
   • More than 15 eggs retrieved https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0015028213034584 

 Aspirin and OHSS: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0015028209001320 

Metformin and OHSS: https://academic.oup.com/humrep/article/26/8/2178/645906 

Trigger shot and OHSS: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1472648310602003 

Cabergoline and OHSS: https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/92/8/2931/2597480

In this inaugural episode of YOUR FERTILITY STORY, Maria shares her vision for the podcast, which will include some solo episodes with Maria and some episodes with expert guests and families who have navigated the fertility journey. She will also welcome parents who are on the other side of this journey, who can offer their experiences and what they learned along the way. Expect some deep dives into some topics in addition to some shorter episodes that may consist of Q&As or a particular subject.

 

In this episode, you’ll hear:

 

1. What you can learn from families who weren’t sure what questions to ask and what their experiences can teach us.
2. Why being able to make decisions and have freedom of choice is so important to have independent from anything else that is happening.
3. How things can go wrong during this process, what the alternatives are, and why being vulnerable can lead to erroneous and costly decisions.
4. Maria’s goal to remove, “I wish,” from the fertility conversation.
5. How listening to this podcast can begin to put you back in control of your own fertility journey.
6. The story behind the founding of Adonis Fertility.

 

Connect with Maria Feekes here:

Adonisfertilityintl.com

facebook.com/AdonisFertilityInternational

instagram.com/adonis.fertility.international

youtube.com/channel/UCWSEMH4ce2qkzW4mf4o0I6A

 

Welcome to the Your Fertility Story podcast with Maria Feekes, founder of Adonis Fertility International. This show is dedicated to helping individuals and families make their dreams of having a child a reality. Maria believes every fertility journey is unique, and you are ultimately your own best advocate.

 

Your Fertility Story is designed to provide unbiased information, help you learn how to navigate challenges, and find support during your fertility journey.

 

In this episode, you’ll hear:

 

1. Why Maria believes you have the right to ask tough questions during your journey.
2. The reason Maria started this podcast and why she believes expert advice and unbiased information is so important during this journey.
3. Encouragement and inspiration along with answers to the questions you really want to know in order to become your own best advocate.

 

Connect with Maria Feekes here:

Adonisfertilityintl.com

facebook.com/AdonisFertilityInternational

instagram.com/adonis.fertility.international

youtube.com/channel/UCWSEMH4ce2qkzW4mf4o0I6A