Resources for Fertility

Surrogacy is a beautiful and life-changing path to parenthood, but it's also one that's often misunderstood. From concerns about cost and legality to misconceptions about the emotional and medical realities, there's a lot of confusion and misinformation out there when it comes to using a gestational carrier.

In this in-depth guide, we're going to bust the biggest myths about surrogacy and provide you with the facts and insights you need to determine if it's the right family-building option for you. We'll cover everything from how surrogates are selected and matched to the legal and emotional considerations, drawing on the expertise of Mollie Huyck, the Director of the Gestational Surrogacy Program at Pacific NW Fertility.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through the step-by-step process of navigating the surrogacy journey, from understanding the key differences between traditional and gestational surrogacy to finding the right gestational carrier and navigating the legal and financial landscape. We'll also explore the importance of mental health support and how to identify reputable surrogacy agencies to partner with.

Whether you're just beginning to explore surrogacy or you're already well into the process, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and resources you need to make informed decisions and ensure a smooth and successful journey.

Undergoing an egg retrieval procedure is a major milestone in your fertility journey. Whether you're pursuing in vitro fertilization (IVF) or egg freezing, this critical step involves stimulating your ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs, which are then carefully extracted to be fertilized or cryopreserved for future use.

While the egg retrieval itself is a relatively quick outpatient procedure, the recovery process can take some time. It's important to have realistic expectations and be prepared for what to expect in the days and weeks following your egg retrieval. In this comprehensive guide, double board-certified reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Lora Shahine shares her top 5 tips to help you recover quickly and smoothly from your egg retrieval.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into the world of pelvic floor health, dispelling common myths and empowering you with the knowledge and tools to take charge of your wellbeing. Whether you're struggling with incontinence, pelvic pain, or simply want to optimize your overall pelvic function, this article will provide you with the insights and strategies you need to unlock the power of your pelvic floor.

Preparing for an egg retrieval can feel like a daunting and nerve-wracking experience, but with the right information and mindset, you can approach this important step in your fertility journey with confidence and clarity. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into the key steps to prepare physically, mentally, and emotionally for your egg retrieval procedure.

Deciding whether to freeze your eggs or embryos for future fertility can be a complex and deeply personal decision. As a reproductive endocrinologist, I've had countless conversations with patients grappling with this choice, and I'm excited to share my expertise to help you navigate this important family-building option.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the evolution of fertility preservation technology, the pros and cons of egg freezing versus embryo freezing, and the key factors to consider when making this decision. Whether you're single and want to preserve your fertility options, or you're in a committed relationship planning for the future, the information in this post will empower you to make the choice that's right for your unique circumstances.

Prenatal vitamins are an essential part of preparing for and supporting a healthy pregnancy. As your body goes through dramatic changes to grow and nourish a new life, the demands for certain nutrients increase significantly.

Taking a high-quality prenatal vitamin can help ensure you and your developing baby are getting the vitamins, minerals, and other key compounds needed for optimal growth and development.

Trying to conceive can be an exciting yet stressful journey for many couples. One of the first steps often recommended is a semen analysis - a crucial test that provides valuable insights into male fertility. However, deciphering the results can leave people feeling confused and overwhelmed.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into the semen analysis, exploring what it measures, what's considered normal, and what to do if your results raise any concerns. By the end, you'll have a thorough understanding of this essential fertility evaluation and feel empowered to take the next steps in your journey to parenthood.

For many people who menstruate, the topic of heavy bleeding can be a source of confusion, anxiety, and frustration. How much bleeding is considered "normal" during a period? What are the signs that something might be amiss? And most importantly, when should you seek medical attention?

In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into the world of heavy menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia. We'll explore what constitutes a typical period, identify the key clues that your flow might be excessive, unpack the potential causes, and provide you with actionable steps to prepare for a productive conversation with your healthcare provider.

Welcome to the new and improved Brave & Curious podcast, where we dive deep into the world of fertility, reproductive health, and overall wellness. If you're a loyal listener, you may have known this show previously as "Baby or Bust" - but don't worry, the mission behind it remains the same.

Dr. Lora Shahine, your host and a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, is here to guide you through the complexities of your reproductive journey with science, compassion, and a whole lot of bravery and curiosity.