This is Infertility

Guest: Marea Goodman, Co-Founder of PregnantTogether Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For LGBTQ+ individuals and couples going through their family building journeys, having a medical support system that truly understand their lived experience can make all the difference.  In this episode, we hear from Marea Goodman, a licensed midwife, parent of three, and co-author of Babymaking for Everybody about the role and importance of a midwife.   Marea explains how midwives operate across a wide range of settings, from hospitals and fertility clinics to birth centers and home births. While midwives often fly under the radar, they play a vital role in family building, especially in spaces where traditional care may feel less inclusive. Marea offers an in-depth look at the role of midwives, including how they complete years of clinical training to become licensed healthcare providers.   Today, Marea's practice supports at-home births, where they connect with patients on a deeply personal level through shared identity, lived experience, and affirming care.  Over time, Marea noticed just how isolating this journey can be for queer and solo parents. That realization led them to co-create PregnantTogether, a virtual community designed to bring these families together. The platform supports people all over the world, offering both connection and logistical help in one beautiful space.  This episode is a reminder of the power of identity-informed care and how transformative it can be to feel seen and supported.  For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

Guest: Maggie Garnsey, Progyny Member at Santander Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For LGBTQ+ couples, traditional fertility coverage can leave them behind with little to no access to the actual coverage. Many are forced to undergo unnecessary, emotionally taxing procedures to meet outdated definitions of infertility. For Maggie and her wife, Alli, they thought they would need to pursue IUI, like many of their friends.   However, Maggie discovered that her employer, Santander Bank, offered inclusive fertility benefits through Progyny and that they had something rare: options.  In this episode, Maggie takes us through their family forming journey: from discovering the benefit, to forgoing healthcare through Alli's role in the military in pursuit of the best family building option. The couple opted for a reciprocal IVF journey, where using a sperm donor, Alli would retrieve eggs, genetically test and freeze embryos, for Maggie to one day soon, take on the role of carrying the pregnancy.   Maggie also shares the importance of their village, showing up in ways that make the journey feel a little lighter, like hosting their friends to help choose a sperm donor and consulting couples they know have been in their shoes. Maggie shares her gratitude for how seamless their journey has been thus far, and when Alli returns from her upcoming deployment, their dreams of family will soon become a reality.  For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.   https://youtu.be/GyHdAkXq1KoWatch this episode on YouTube:     Music: HA2XAHY5DVIOKQVA

Guest: Erin Sarris, Progyny Member Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   When Erin Sarris and her husband first visited a fertility clinic, they were hit with unexpected news: severe male factor infertility and an immediate recommendation to pursue IVF. What followed was a long, winding, and often painful journey filled with setbacks, from failed cycles to loss and emotional isolation.     Now a mother of three and author of Cupcakes Everywhere: One Sweet Tale of Overcoming Infertility, Erin shares how infertility reshaped her view and inspired a metaphorical children's book that captures the bittersweet reality of struggling to grow a family. This conversation is raw, vulnerable, and ultimately a reminder that even when the path to parenthood is anything but straightforward    For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.     Watch this episode on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/VRuXbZ4g460     Music Code: HA2XAHY5DVIOKQVA

In this episode, we hear a deeply personal and professional journey. As a benefit's leader, Deanna Allison was on a mission to bring better fertility and family building benefits to her company, Bread Financial. Simultaneously, Deanna had also just set out on her own path to parenthood, realizing she would likely need support to build a family.  Deanna shares how her team's search for better benefits led them to adopt Progyny, a decision driven by lived experience, better outcomes, and the desire to truly meet their associates' needs.   Deanna was able to utilize Progyny, navigating unsuccessful egg retrievals, and ultimately choosing to use donor eggs to have her beautiful baby girl. Through it all, Deanna's personal experience and professional purpose were aligned — knowing she had done right by Bread Financial Associates through the lens of her own experience.  Tune in to explore what it means to build inclusive benefits and how validating it can be when those benefits end up supporting you, too.  Guests: Deanna Allison, Director, Benefits, Well-Being, and Financial Programs, Bread Financial  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny  For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com. 

When Kristina and Lorenzo set out to build their family, they knew their path wouldn't be traditional. Kristina's complex medical history including epilepsy, endometriosis, and thalassemia made pregnancy unsafe, but that didn't stop them from pursuing their dream of having a child.   In this episode, they share their deeply personal journey of sacrifice in pursuit of a surrogate—highlighting the emotional highs and lows along the way, from downsizing their apartment to postponing their wedding. They open up about the importance of trust in the surrogacy process and the unwavering love and support they've found in each other; Kristina and Lorenzo remind us there is more than one way to build a family.  Thanks to the AHA Grant from The Broken Brown Egg and Progyny, they are one step closer to making their dream a reality. They offer heartfelt advice for others navigating the complexities of infertility, emphasizing the power of advocacy, community, and perseverance.   Applications for the latest cycle of AHA Grants can be found at www.thebrokenbrownegg.org, starting April 8th!  Guests: Kristina King and Lorenzo Bellard, AHA Grant Recipients   Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny  For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com. 

Infertility is a deeply personal and often isolating experience, but for singer-songwriter Nelly Joy, music became both an outlet and a source of connection. In this episode, Nelly shares her raw and emotional journey with endometriosis and the struggles she faced while trying to conceive, which pushed her limits physically and emotionally. From touring with country music legends to navigating the complexities of infertility, Nelly's story is one of physical resilience, partner support, and using art to heal. Listen to her song Baby Showers to discover how Nelly Joy is turning her experiences into then reminder that we are not alone. Guest: Nelly Joy, Musician Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com. You can find this episode at youtube.com/progyny Music: 

For Alex Kornswiet, the path to parenthood started with unexpected ease, having her first son after one round of IVF, following a blocked fallopian tube diagnosis. Trying to have their second child wasn't as smooth sailing. Alex and her husband experienced secondary infertility and a frustrating path including canceled cycles, recurrent pregnancy loss, and emotional isolation.  As challenges continued to mount and her doctor recommended the couple pursue surrogacy. Amid the challenges of the pandemic, Alex and her husband welcomed their second son with the help of a selfless surrogate that they could not be more thankful for.   And just when they thought their long path to parenthood had finally come to a close... they encountered one more beautiful yet unexpected surprise! Listen to the episode and see more about Alex's story on her viral Instagram.  Guest: Alex Kornswiet, Progyny Member and Infertility Advocate  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.     Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/47ZVW2abFb0  

Newly engaged and nearing her thirties, today's guest knew she wanted children in the future, so she opted for an at-home fertility test. The results shocked her, revealing something that changed everything - her biological clock was ticking faster than she had expected. What started as curiosity quickly became a call to action.  In this episode, Erin Antoniak takes us along her journey of preserving her fertility as a back-up plan, which then evolved into a complex path to parenthood.   She explains how Progyny's family building coverage through her husband's employer, Salesforce, gave her the freedom to pursue treatment without financial barriers. She also shares how documenting the journey, from the hardest days to the happiest moments, connected her with a growing Instagram audience and impacted her community.    Watch Erin's story through her own eyes on Instagram.  Guest: Erin Antoniak, Salesforce Progyny Member Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

For today's guest, becoming a mother wasn't just a dream—it was a promise she made to herself. In her mid-30s, Erica Ward knew she wanted to be a parent more than she wanted to be a wife. By 40, she made the decision to pursue single motherhood, despite the challenges ahead.   Her path wasn't easy, from choosing a sperm donor, failed IUIs to IVF, and devastating loss. While Erica grieved for her pregnancies and felt the financial toll, she never gave up. Tune in to hear how support from Progyny's fertility benefits and donor eggs led to her happy ending of becoming a mom.   Guest: Erica Ward, Progyny Member at Sleep Number Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.     Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Y6Ln16ecXGM  

What happens when the path to parenthood takes unexpected turns? For Laura, it meant navigating the heartbreak of unexplained infertility, the frustrations of multiple failed IUIs, and the surprising joy of a positive pregnancy test during the unlikeliest of cycles. But as her story unfolds, it becomes clear that getting pregnant was just the beginning.  For our 200th episode, Laura shares the honest reality of facing postpartum depression after her first pregnancy—an experience she never thought she would have after fighting to conceive. With fertility benefits through Progyny she welcomed a second child into her family a few years later. This time, Laura went into her second postpartum journey with the expectations, knowledge, and tools to manage her PPD symptoms effectively.  This episode is a powerful reminder that family-building journeys are rarely straightforward. They're filled with highs, lows, and the moments that teach us the true meaning of resilience.   Guest: Laura, Progyny Member   Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.    

Ashley Chukwu is a 30-year-old food and wine blogger in Atlanta, living her life without the prospect of building a family soon. So, when her mom suggested she consider freezing her eggs, Ashley decided to do some research. At the time, she knew little about the process or whether her insurance would cover it. That's when she discovered her employer, Peraton offered fertility preservation through Progyny.  In this episode, Ashley shares her journey—from researching the process and navigating her benefits to handling injections and undergoing the procedure. She discusses challenges along the way, the importance of representation, and reflects on the peace of mind she's gained from taking control of her fertility.  Tune in to hear Ashley's experience and learn how support from her company helped her make a decision that aligns with her goals and lifestyle.  Guest: Ashley Chukwu, MPH, Progyny Member at Peraton  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

Season 7 of This is Infertility continued to venture into education, advocacy, personal stories, and notably, some new areas of women's health!  As we wrap up, we're shining a spotlight on two recurring themes that have defined this season: the power of support and the ripple effect of advocacy.  From their doctor's care or employer's benefits package to the unwavering encouragement of a partner or patient care advocate, we brought back a few episodes from this season that prove — no one's journey has to be a solo one.  This episode isn't just a look back—it's a reminder of the strength that comes from being supported and what it takes to advocate for yourself and others.   Guests: Progyny members: Hanna Peters, Danielle Faith, Jennifer Osmond, and Lakia Holmes  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   Listen to the episodes featured:   Episode 174: Becoming a Single Parent by Choice: IVF + a Sperm Donor  Episode 181: #NIAW: A Path to Parenthood Turned into a Path to Purpose  Episode 183: Overcoming the Emotional Toll of Infertility  Episode 189: Teamwork Makes a Dream Work: How Jennifer's Village Made Parenthood Possible  For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

This time of year can be magical, but it can also come with stress, especially when family gatherings include tough conversations or well-meaning but intrusive questions like, "When are you starting a family?"  In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Georgia Witkin, Clinical Psychologist and infertility expert. She shares practical advice on handling the holidays so you can enjoy the season. She'll walk us through her empowering pre-holiday checklist with strategies to navigate the season; from preparing thoughtful responses for tough questions, to leaning into moments that bring you peace and joy.     Whether it's finding ways to stay present or exploring new traditions that work for you, this episode is about helping you reclaim the holidays on your terms. And stick around for Dr. Witkin's answers to your personal questions.    Guest: Dr. Georgia Witkin, Clinical Psychologist and Infertility Expert   Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more resources on Mental Health and the Holidays, watch our latest webinar: Supporting emotional wellness: Navigating boundaries and stress while on a family building journey   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

This National Adoption Month, we hear from Jessica Luciere, a transracial, transnational adoptee, who shares her journey of self-discovery. Growing up with the love and support of her parents, Jessica also yearned for a sense of community to help her navigate her identity. She ultimately realized the importance of representation and the power of connecting to others with similar backgrounds.  Today, Jessica works alongside adoptees, families, and professionals, as a program facilitator and adoptee advocate, creating spaces that celebrate and honor diverse backgrounds and foster deeper connections. Join us as Jessica dives into the importance of community, mentorship, and how she's using her experience to support others.   Guest: Jessica Luciere  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   A note from our host: My parents were foster parents throughout my life. Over time, they helped over 100 kids before they retired. In fact, my younger brother was adopted through that program. Being a kid, I had a different family life than my friends and neighbors. For me, it was a source of pride, and I still believe my parents are heroes.   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

On today's episode, we're joined by Sammi Itatani and Carly Vollero from Nodal, a surrogacy matching platform devoted to fostering strong, authentic matches between surrogates and intended parents.   They tell the stories of their own surrogacy journeys, with Sammi's experience as a two-time surrogate and Carly's journey as a parent through surrogacy. They bring personal and professional insights into what makes these partnerships successful. They also dive into the importance of compatibility, navigating legal and financial hurdles, and understanding the different relationship dynamics surrogates and intended parents may seek.   Tune in to hear Sammi's and Carly's experiences and how to be thoughtful in the surrogacy journey to create happy, healthy babies.  Guests: Carly Vollero, General Counsel at Nodal and Sammi Itatani, Program and Community Manager at Nodal  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny  For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

This Menopause Awareness Month, we bring together two experts who are specialists in their fields and personally navigating their own menopause journeys. Dr. Janet Choi, an OBGYN, reproductive endocrinologist, and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner, and Dr. Juliana Hauser, a therapist with a focus on sexuality and menopause, share their personal experiences with menopause. Alongside their professional expertise, they offer a rare dual perspective on the physical and emotional changes that come with this life stage.  Through this candid conversation, they discuss the often-overlooked aspects of menopause, from hair loss to mental health, shedding light on the profound impact it has on a woman's identity and quality of life. Together, they emphasize the importance of normalizing these conversations and encouraging women to seek support and treatment during this pivotal time.  Guest: Dr. Juliana Hauser, Therapist and Menopause Expert  Host: Dr. Janet Choi, Chief Medical Officer at Progyny    For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

In honor of October's Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we're highlighting Joyelle Fleming's story with breast cancer, which began at the young age of 31. During her journey, Joyelle was faced with a difficult decision – what to do about her future fertility given the impact of cancer treatment. With the support of her doctors and access to fertility benefits through Progyny, Joyelle was able to freeze her eggs and focus on fighting cancer.  In this episode, Joyelle reflects on her experience, from navigating fertility preservation to finding strength and support from loved ones and breast cancer advocacy groups. Her story highlights the power of proactive choices and the peace of mind they can provide in the face of life's toughest moments. To learn more about oncofertiltiy, check out resources here Breast cancer resources mentioned in this episode: ·      Imerman Angles ·      The Breasties ·      Touch BBCA ·      Hair & Hope Guest: Joyelle Flemming, Progyny Member at Genentech Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com. 

Today's guest discusses her unexpected struggles with infertility. After a year of trying to conceive, Mandy Menaker trusted her instincts and decided to seek advice from others. She turned to Julie Campbell, at Progyny, who helped guide her on how to find the right fertility clinic, navigate insurance, and understand the ins and outs when it comes to fertility treatment.  After the rollercoaster of emotions and multiple rounds of fertility treatment, Mandy and her husband Eric finally achieved their dream of becoming parents. But the journey didn't stop there, Mandy later conceived her second child naturally, a surprise that reaffirmed the unpredictable nature of fertility.   Along the way, Mandy learned how to advocate for herself and celebrate small wins to help cope with the ups and downs of IVF. Inspired to help others facing similar challenges, Mandy wrote an article for PR Daily, offering practical tips and emotional support to those navigating a family building journey  You can read her article here: What a difficult fertility journey taught me about being a better communicator   Guest: Mandy Menaker, Fertility Advocate  Host: Julie Campbell, Progyny    For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

In this episode, we dive into a powerful story of two lifelong friends, Nicole Gomez Fisher and Mary Lamattina, who supported each other through some of the most challenging moments of their lives; navigating infertility.   They both faced their own unique struggles, Mary with secondary infertility, experiencing multiple miscarriages after her first child, and Nicole facing the heartbreak of failed attempts and what seemed like the never-ending emotional hurdles of egg donation and surrogacy.   With time, friendship, and medical intervention, both women found ways to grow their families and meaningful ways to incorporate their experiences into their careers.   Guests: Mary Lamattina, benefits consultant and Nicole Gomez Fisher, award-winning writer, director, and producer of the film, Good Egg  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

Today's guest is a testament to resilience, turning personal pain into a powerful purpose. Lauren Clements faced a long, difficult journey in her efforts to build a family, battling through a diagnosis of PCOS, blocked fallopian tubes, and undergoing numerous treatments. Yet, despite these significant setbacks, Lauren never lost hope.   In this episode, she opens up about how these challenges inspired her to create Chosen Infertility Group, a nonprofit dedicated to providing local resources, advocacy, and financial grants to those struggling with infertility in Detroit. Lauren's story is one of courage, perseverance, and a commitment to helping others find hope amidst their own.   Guest: Lauren Clements, Founder and President of Chosen Infertility Group  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

Today's episode is a story of teamwork. Along each step of her path to parenthood, Jennifer Osmond's obstacles were overcome with the help of her village; A doctor who laid out options and supported her along the way. An employer that provided Progyny and eased the financial strain of fertility treatment. And a wife who managed the logistics of their journey so that Jennifer could focus on her well-being. Without Jennifer's support system, her journey would not have been made possible. Guest: Jennifer Osmond, Progyny Member at AT&T Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny  For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com. 

The Fertility 101 Series, because there's no shortage of daunting terms to keep your mind running, is a quick and dirty breakdown on a specific topic with insights from a fertility expert.  In this episode, we dive into the detailed process of egg donation and its profound implications for families with Aisha Lewis, President of Everie, a known donor egg program.  Aisha discusses the steps involved on both ends of the egg donation process, from the pivotal choices donors can make surrounding their anonymity and the meticulous screening process donors undergo, to the legal considerations that ensure clarity and protection for all parties involved.  Join us as we unravel the complexities of egg donation, the different considerations, and how patients and donors can be empowered in their decisions.   Guest: Aisha Lewis, Everie  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny  For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.   This episode is also a video: https://youtu.be/_Wh0UdTfnrU 

You may know her as the winner of ABC's The Bachelor from season 19, but patients at OVA Egg Freezing Specialty Center in Chicago know Whitney Bischoff Angel as their fertility nurse who can also relate to their journey.  In this episode, Whitney tells us about her decision to freeze her eggs in 2013, a decision that provided her with peace of mind as she navigated life's uncertainties. She also shares where she is today, almost a decade later, and her journey to parenthood.  Whitney now uses her personal journey to empower women with choices and provide compassion and support to patients during their own egg freezing journeys.   Guest: Whitney Bischoff Angel, RN, BSN, OVA Egg Freezing  Host:  Julie Campbell, Progyny  For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.   This episode is also a video! Watch it here: https://youtu.be/1yuxJ1if_9U  

Today's episode is a story of trial and error. Sarah Freese was not expecting to have difficulty conceiving until she discontinued her birth control and found that her menstrual cycle didn't return. She was suddenly thrusted into a new world, one filled with new medical terms, fertility doctors, and a treatment plan that came with a high price tag.   Sarah then discovered her employer, LinkedIn, offered coverage for fertility treatment through Progyny. This meant she didn't need to make cost-based decisions and instead was able to pursue treatment that would result in the best possible outcome. Join us for this episode to hear how Sarah navigated her family building journey, the highs and lows that came with it, and how through trial and error, she found a path that worked.   Guest: Sarah Freese, Principal Customer Success Manager at LinkedIn, Infertility Advocate, and Progyny Member  Host: Lissa Kline, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.    This episode is also a video! Watch it here: https://youtu.be/zrTFKlhA7qs  

The Fertility 101 Series, because there's no shortage of daunting terms to keep your mind running, is a quick and dirty breakdown on a specific topic with insights from a fertility expert.   This week's episode answers all the questions around transgender family building options and how it works. Dr. Daniel Potter at HRC Fertility joins us to discuss the impact of hormone affirming therapy, the importance of fertility preservation, questions to consider if one is deciding to build a family, and how to better serve this community.    Guest: Dr. Daniel Potter, Regional Medical Director at HRC Fertility  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.    

In today's episode, we explore the complex world of donor conception with experts Dr. Mark Leondires and Lisa Schuman, LCSW. They provide an overview of their book, Building Your Family; The Complete Guide to Donor Conception, which serves as a resource for those considering donor conception due to infertility, medical issues, same-sex partnerships, or gender orientation.  The book covers everything from initial considerations and emotions to the medical and genetic processes involved, selecting the right donor, and talking to children about their donor conception.   Tune in to hear how to manage the challenges of a donor conception journey.  Guest: Dr. Mark Leondires and Lisa Schuman, LCSW, authors of Building Your Family; The Complete Guide to Donor Conception  Dr. Mark Leondires  Medical Director and Founding Partner  at Illume Fertility and Gay Parents to Be  Lisa Schuman, LCSW  Founder of The Center for Family Building  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.     This episode is also a video! Watch it here:  https://youtu.be/kX60smGnP9k 

Today's episode highlights the emotional toll that infertility can take on individuals and couples. Our guest speaks candidly on how her fertility journey affected her mental health, marriage, and perspective towards friends who found easy success with pregnancy.   Hana Peters and her husband started trying to have a baby and soon realized they needed to seek additional support. In this episode, Hana shares her journey. She speaks on the unsolicited advice she received along the way and how this impacted her relationships, her initial reaction to a diagnosis of unexplained infertility, and how she was able to pursue parenthood with a dedicated doctor and through her employer-sponsored benefit, Progyny. For mental health support and resources, check out:  Progyny Article: Coping with stress during fertility care  This is Infertility Podcast episode: Bonus Episode 10: Prioritizing Your Mental Health During Your Fertility Journey  Employer guide: How to support employees with infertility mental health guide  Guest: Hana Peters, Progyny Member at Salesforce  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.   This episode is also a video! Watch it here: https://youtu.be/o_-IvppWYK0  

In today's episode, award-winning journalist, Rachel Lehmann-Haupt shares insights from her two books, which have ignited the knowledge and passion that came from her own family building journey.  Her latest book, Reconceptions: Modern Relationships, Reproductive Science, and the Unfolding Future of Family, calls upon her experience of becoming a single parent by choice. She dives into her own family building journey, how she's navigated using a sperm donor and the relationships she's built from this, and how she's rethinking and redefining the meaning of family.   Guest: Rachel Lehmann-Haupt, award-winning journalist and author  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny    For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.    

Today's guest embodies the purpose of National Infertility Awareness Week. Each year the infertility community, led by RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, takes this week to amplify and educate the public about reproductive health and issues that make building a family difficult for many.   Danielle Zoll has dedicated herself to advocacy and awareness through her St. Louis based organization, Making a Miracle. The isolation Danielle felt along her path to parenthood with endometriosis, lack of coverage, and pregnancy loss, inspired her to build a community that supports others along their family building journeys.   Tune in for how Danielle made her miracle.  Guest: Danielle Zoll, founder of Making a Miracle  Host: Emma Gallagher, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

With a focus on her career and a determination to find the right "other half” for her child, today's guest shares her journey to being a single parent by choice.  Navigating the stress of her ticking biological clock, Gloria Soler went from realizing that the perfect parenting partner was not yet on her horizon to manifesting her own dreams of parenthood.  Gloria went to find the doctor, the right sperm donor, the right treatment, and with a comprehensive employer-sponsored benefit, Gloria met the love she had been searching for all along, her son Emmet.   Tune into Gloria's journey with Progyny to learn how she navigated her path to parenthood.   Guest: Gloria Soler, Progyny Member  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

The journey to ideal health is a constant battle. And when emergency surgery is needed, most may not think twice about the impact this will have on their future fertility. In today's episode, we hear from Haley, who shares her family building journey. It's one marked by multiple diagnoses, surgeries, and financial strain. Despite these setbacks, Haley was determined to become a parent. She advocated for herself and found a doctor that she could trust. She then learned her employer had a fertility benefit, which relieved the financial pressure and helped her to reach her goal.    Haley's journey embodies the realities that many face on the path to parenthood: a mix of setbacks, doubts, and ultimately, hard-won victories.  Guest: Haley, Progyny Member  Host: Shannon Zuber, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

The Fertility 101 Series, because there's no shortage of daunting terms to keep your mind running, is a quick and dirty breakdown on a specific topic with insights from a fertility expert.    This week's guest, Dr. Paul Dudley, Medical Director of Pinnacle Fertility Atlanta, dives into what tests are expected during an initial consultation, including the need for a blood test, semen analysis (if a partner is involved), and comprehensive assessments like an ovarian reserve evaluation. He also shares his perspective on at-home fertility testing kits and when to seek guidance from your doctor when trying to conceive.  Guest: Dr. Paul Dudley, Medical Director, Pinnacle Fertility Atlanta  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

Today's episode delves into a supportive yet often overlooked contributor to the birthing process and much more: the role of doulas.   Our guest, Latham Thomas, Founder of Mama Glow, elaborates on the diverse responsibilities of doulas, ranging from offering emotional and physical support in co-creating your birth plan, to advocating for individuals and facilitating communication between patients and healthcare providers. She explains what to keep in mind when finding the right doula for you. And highlights how doulas work to address birth disparities within marginalized communities.   Latham shares Mama Glow's mission of democratizing doula support, which aims to transform maternal care on what she describes as the childbearing continuum.  Guest: Latham Thomas, Founder of Mama Glow  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

Times are changing, and more employers are choosing to prioritize fertility and family building benefits to attract and retain talent. Investing in employee benefits isn't just about cost, it's about fostering a positive employee experience, driving engagement, and ultimately enhancing business performance.   Today's guest, Purvi Tailor, Vice President of Human Resources at Ferring U.S., describes Ferring's groundbreaking approach to employee benefits. With a focus on enhancing the family building journey for employees, she discusses the implementation of the, "Building Families at Ferring" package, which includes access to unlimited financial support for family building care, 26 weeks of paid parental leave, and a supportive workplace culture.  Tune in to learn how you can start reimagining your company's benefits package for a brighter future.  Guest: Purvi Tailor, Vice President of Human Resources at Ferring U.S.  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny     For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.   Music:   Artist: Andy G Cohen Track: A Perceptible Shift URL: https://freemusicarchive.org/   Artist: Josh Woodward Track: Hollow Grove Instrumental Version URL: https://freemusicarchive.org/  Artist: Jahzzar  Track: MainSquare  URL: https://freemusicarchive.org/ 

Struggling with disbelief, enduring back-to-back treatments, cancelled appointments, and an overwhelming emotional toll - these experiences are all part of Sonya Heer's journey to building a family. How did she get here? Sonya and her husband embarked on what most couples do: they got married, spent some quality time together, and then wanted to expand their family. But, after months of not having success, Sonya turned to a specialist where she was diagnosed with unexplained infertility. This left Sonya with more questions, but she persevered and continued treatment. After more rounds, she realized there must be something else to her diagnosis.  In this episode, hear how Sonya navigated her journey, how she advocated for herself and found the right doctor, how unexplained infertility turned into diminished ovarian reserve, and why despite it all she continued. Sonya also shares the stress of paying for treatment and the difference when she gained access to a comprehensive family building benefit through her employer.  Guest: Sonya Heer, Progyny Member  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny     For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

Today's guest spent a great deal of time juggling a lot of things many tasks on a tight schedule – she was busy creating a successful career for herself , as she was creating a successful career for herself as a senior producer at a media and entertainment companySenior Producer at Warner Brothers Discovery Sports. Lakia Holmes  At 37 years old, Lakia Holmes realized one day that her to-do's at work may not be the only thing functioning on a tight schedule.  Aware of her biological clock, Lakia looked into freezing her eggs, so she could continue waiting for the perfect partner for her and her future baby. However, her doctor informed that her best chance What she wasn't prepared for her doctor to tell her was that her best bet at motherhood was through IVF.  and that she had two blocked fallopian tubes, leaving her with a 2% chance of natural conception. Lakia was shocked into a realization; being a mother is what she has always wanted, partner or no partner.   In this episode, Lakia dives into her decision to become a single parent by choice, her family building experience, and the impact of having access to family building benefits. Tune in for Lakia's   journey of single motherhood by choice, and how she was able to do it with donor sperm and the help of her Progyny PCA.  Guest: Lakia Holmes, Progyny Member  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny     For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

As the sixth season of This Is Infertility comes to a close, we wanted to thank all of our incredible listeners for keeping us part of your journey.  This episode has been requested by many of our listeners, and certainly could not have been made without you.  Today our host sits down with 30 of our amazing in-network reproductive endocrinologist to answer your burning questions. Wondering what these doctors are thinking along your journey? Tune in for their expert medical opinions, taste in waiting room music, and unrelenting support for the people they treat every day.  For more episodes featuring our medical experts, check out:  Episode 166: Reproductive Urologists and Endocrinologists: What's the Difference?   Episode 162: Fertility 101: Unexplained Infertility  Episode 150: Fertility 101: Preparing for Your First Fertility Clinic Appointment  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   Guests:   Alex Quaas, Shady Grove Fertility   Allison Rodgers, FCI  Anate Brauer, Shady Grove Fertility  Anish Shah, Shady Grove Fertility  Emily Barnard, Shady Grove Fertility  Gayane Ambartsumyan, RPMH  Ian Waldmen, CCRM  Jason Yeh, Aspire HFI  John Crochet, Shady Grove Fertility   Jonah Bardos, CCRM  Joseph Davis, Shady Grove Fertility  Karissa Hammer, IHR  Kemi Nurudeen, Aspire HFI  Lucky Sekhon, RMA NY  Marc Gualtieri, IVF Florida  Maria Costantini-Ferrando, RMA NJ  Ndeye-Aicha Gueye, RMA NJ  Paul Shin, Shady Grove Fertility  Priya Maseelall, Reproductive Gynecology & Infertility  Rachel Warwar, Reproductive Gynecology and Infertility  Serena Chen, CCRM  Seth Levrant, IHR  Shruti Malik, Shady Grove Fertility  Sina Abhari, CCRM  Stephanie Thompson, CCRM      For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.     Music credit:   Artist: Jahzzar  Track: Joke URL: https://freemusicarchive.org  Track: Talk to Me URL: https://freemusicarchive.org   

Almost three years ago, we published a list of our Top 17 Favorite Fertility Podcasts.  Topping that list was a podcast called, If These Ovaries Could Talk, a show centered around the lesbian experience of fertility and family building.   Today's guest, Jaimie Kelton, created this podcast after going through the journey to build her family, and struggling to find relatable content and education for queer identities. As her following has grown, so has her podcast. Jaimie explains how her show has now evolved into The Queer Family Podcast, a podcast for diverse identities, and all LGBTQIA+ stories alike. She dives deep into her story, the evolution of the podcast, and the reality of family building in the LGBTQIA+ community.   Guest: Jaimie Kelton, Host of The Queer Family Podcast  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny     For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

Today's guest walks us through her experience with the wrong physician, the wrong clinic, the wrong treatment, the wrong coverage, and the wrong...well, everything. Sherri Sawyerr describes her experience of trial and error in pursuing parenthood, and how taking the wrong path can often pave the way for the right one.     During her journey with multiple physicians and IVF cycles, inadequate coverage, limited representation, and ultimately, the decision to use donor eggs: Sherri realized that it's important to have a voice through all of this. And she uses that voice on her YouTube, @SherriYvette, where she encourages perseverance and togetherness through an experience that so many women are silently living through. In this episode, hear from Sherri on the other side of trial and error. She dives into how she found Progyny through her new employer, a clinic that suits her needs, and the progress she's been able to make in her journey.  Guest: Sherri Sawyerr, Progyny Member  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.     Music:   Artist: Kai Engel Track: Brand New World  URL: https://freemusicarchive.org/   Artist: Lee Rosevere Track: Maximum Relax  URL: https://freemusicarchive.org/  Track: All the Answers  URL: https://freemusicarchive.org/  Track: Easy Life  URL: https://freemusicarchive.org/  Track: Sad Marimba Planet  URL: https://freemusicarchive.org/  Track: Making a Change  URL: https://freemusicarchive.org/  Track: Betrayal  URL: https://freemusicarchive.org/ 

This Veteran's Day, we're featuring Brian Tucker, a Veteran who is outspoken about his experience with male factor infertility. He is also an HR disruptor who knows that employers, are, in part, responsible for executing the American Dream.   On the path to building a family, Brian and his wife, Jenny, found themselves at a financial crossroad. Their coverage for fertility treatment was miscommunicated, which left them confused about what they actually need to pay vs what was covered. Left completely in the dark, with one common goal of having a child, they chose the only clear-cut financial benefit that was laid out for them, a Veteran's discount. Having experienced this, Brian now speaks about his experience – and has presented at DisruptHR, where he discussed the need for more support in the workplace.   Listen to him here: Brian Tucker: Work LIFE Balance Talk  We also hear from Dr. Tolulope Bakare, a Reproductive Urologist from Posterity Health, and Dr. Ron Feinberg, Reproductive Endocrinologist from RADfertility of CCRM, about the treatment options when diagnosed with male factor infertility.   Guest:   Brian Tucker, Director of Human Resources at Elior North America, Veteran, and Infertility Advocate  Dr. Ron Feinberg, RADfertility  Dr. Tolulope Bakare, Posterity Health  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny     For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

In the LGBTQIA+ community, options for family building are often limited – some by the ways employers choose to define infertility, and who can gain access to the benefit. Today's guest, Stephanie Kalili, always knew she wanted to be a mom, but she didn't know what this journey might look like for her. After meeting her wife and building a life together, Stephanie knew she was interested in conception through reciprocal IVF. The only problem was access and affordability.  Luckily for Stephanie, she happens to be employed Amazon, an employer that offers inclusive family building benefits through Progyny.   In fact, RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, honors an organization each year with the Hope Award for Access. This award is given to an organization that is really moving the needle and expanding access to fertility and family building care – and this year this honor goes to Amazon.   To learn more about Amazon's benefits, visit here. To learn more about RESOLVE's annual Night of Hope gala, visit here.   Guest: Stephanie Kalili, Progyny Member  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

The Fertility 101 Series, because there's no shortage of daunting terms to keep your mind running, is a quick and dirty breakdown on a specific topic with insights from a fertility expert.  In today's episode, our host speaks with Dr. Anate Brauer, IVF Director at Shady Grove Fertility New York about all things egg freezing. She answers questions ranging from, “Why do people freeze their eggs?” to “How does it even work?”   If you're questioning whether you would like to freeze your eggs, or just wonder about this modern medical practice, let this educational episode serve as a starting place.  For additional resources and answers to frequently asked questions, check out:   Egg Freezing: Frequently Asked Questions  Progyny Webinar: Egg Freezing 101  Five Egg Freezing Myths and Facts    Guest: Dr. Anate Brauer, IVF Director at Shady Grove Fertility New York   Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny     For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.   

People are increasingly having children later in life and for some, the decision is to have no children at all. Those who teeter between the options, unsure of their decision, know that one thing is true; time is ticking.   Today's guest, Shannon Fender, wasn't always certain about parenthood, but at one point she realized she should put things in place in case that was something she wanted to pursue in the future. In this episode, Shannon dives into her experience with egg freezing and her gratitude for employers like hers, who have chosen to invest in the lives of their employees. Shannon is joined by Dr. Kathy Hong, an REI from RMA of NJ, where she describes the medical preparation and procedure that's part of the egg freezing process.   Guests: Shannon Fender, Progyny member, Dr. Kathy Hong, RMA of New Jersey  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny   For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  

September is Urology Awareness Month, which is quite necessary considering there are less than four hundred practicing Reproductive Urologists in the United States. This episode serves as an opportunity to understand the intense training it takes to become a Reproductive Urologist (RU), what role they play in men's health and reproductive health, as well as how they work in conjunction with Reproductive Endocrinologists.    In today's episode, Progyny's Chief Medical Officer and Reproductive Endocrinologist, Dr. Janet Choi gives insight into the role of RUs and how they differ from Reproductive Endocrinologists (REIs).  Dr. Choi expands on her own position as an REI; what kind of training she received, who she treats, and how male patients can benefit from seeing an RU if they are already seeing an REI.    Video mentioned in this episode: Reproductive Urologists Can Help Men with Infertility         Guest: Dr. Janet Choi, Chief Medical Officer at Progyny     Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny     For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.    

The Fertility 101 Series, because there's no shortage of daunting terms to keep your mind running, is a quick and dirty breakdown on a specific topic with insights from a fertility expert.     In today's episode, Progyny's Chief Medical Officer and Reproductive Endocrinologist, Dr. Janet Choi gives an overview about all the things you need to know about menopause.     Menopause has long been an undiscussed and overlooked medical issue despite the fact that it will impact half of the population after the age of 50. While the scope of care for those going through menopause is not yet where it needs to be, becoming well-versed in the concept is the first step to caring for yourself or others in this transitional stage of life. Dr. Choi breaks down the classic symptoms and mental health effects surrounding menopause, as well as how one might mitigate these bodily changes with treatments. She also touches on her own experience and outlines life with menopause, next steps, and why menopause should be better supported.    Guest: Dr. Janet Choi, Chief Medical Officer at Progyny  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny  For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.  Music:   Artist:   Doctor Turtle  Track: The Ants Built a City on His Chest URL: https://freemusicarchive.org/  Track: Where I lay my hat that's my wife URL: https://freemusicarchive.org/  Artist: Steve Combs Track: Small Spaces URL: https://freemusicarchive.org/  Artist: Jahzzar  Track: Sleepin'  URL: https://freemusicarchive.org/ Track: Dew URL: https://freemusicarchive.org/ Track: MainSquare  URL: https://freemusicarchive.org/ 

Football is a waiting game. Fans all over America watch their teams anxiously for months with one common desire, a chance to win. Today's guest, Patriots fan, Chris Callahan, knows this waiting game quite well and it may have even prepared him for the most worthwhile wait of his life – the journey to his son, Brady. In this episode, Chris dives into their dual diagnosis of endometriosis and male-factor infertility, and the obstacles he and his wife faced on their path to parenthood. While they did have fertility coverage through Chris' work, two rounds of IVF were still a financial burden. Chris, impacted mentally, physically, and financially, decided to share his story on social media in hopes to encourage others to know they're not alone in this journey. In his post, he highlights the importance of employers choosing to invest in the lives of their employees through family building benefits. The responses took him a bit by surprise, and he soon found a whole community that was standing with him in solidarity and sharing stories of their own. Guest: Chris Callahan, Workplace Fertility Advocate Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.

In Episode 86: The Broken Brown Egg, we were introduced to Regina Townsend, the passionate voice behind The Broken Brown Egg; a blog, resource hub, community, and nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering, informing, and advocating for those who are questioning or dealing with infertility, with a particular focus on the Black experience.   Today, we meet Sametra Thompson, an active-duty service member in the U.S Army. After receiving a diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and experiencing a life-threatening ectopic pregnancy, Sametra became the recipient of of The AHA Grant, a grant established by The Broken Brown Egg in partnership with Progyny. This grant has played a crucial role in Sametra's journey, reflecting her unwavering determination in the face of discouraging results. Her story also brings attention to the challenging realities of fertility treatment costs without proper insurance coverage, underscoring how sometimes the best decision may not be financially viable.  Guest: Sametra Thompson, AHA Grant Recipient  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny  For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com. 

The Fertility 101 Series, because there's no shortage of daunting terms to keep your mind running, is a quick and dirty breakdown on a specific topic with insights from a fertility expert.  In today's episode, Dr. Callum Potts breaks down the unexplained infertility diagnosis. He walks us through the four factors of fertility, how they work collectively to create a natural pregnancy, and why these four factors could test normally without positive results. Dr. Pott's discusses treatment options such as IUI and IVF, and how someone may decide on which path to take.   While an unexplained infertility diagnosis is frustrating, Dr. Potts emphasizes that treatment options are not limited and testing normal is a positive thing.     Guest: Dr. Callum Potts, CCRM in Miami  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny  For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com. 

Jessica Hadwin, like many in this community, was given an incredibly frustrating diagnosis – unexplained infertility. Answers are typically comforting and for Jessica there were none until she experienced two devasting miscarriages.  But how do we find the answers? For Jessica it was through additional research from the lab. After a few tests, it revealed chromosomal abnormalities to be the reason why her previous pregnancies ended in a loss.   In this episode hear how Jessica navigated her family building journey –  to include using pre–implantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A), how she dealt with loss, and why she started The Hadwin Family Foundation.   Guest: Jessica Hadwin, co-founder of The Hadwin Family Foundation and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny  For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com. 

Today's guest, Lizzy Colas, went into her marriage knowing she would likely need IVF to have a baby since her partner was diagnosed with male factor infertility. What the couple didn't know was how frustrating this process would be. Lizzy shares how they were able to navigate their journey, the support from their loved ones, and why they advocated for themselves throughout the entire process. Lizzy makes a few things clear – the impact of having access to a comprehensive family building benefit and how a doctor can make all the difference.   Dr. Joseph Alukal, a reproductive urologist, joins to explain the complexities and realities of male factor infertility.  Progyny also hosted a webinar dedicated to male fertility. To watch it on-demand, click here.v   Guest: Lizzy Colas, Progyny Member, and Dr. Joseph Alukal, Columbia University Irving Medical Center  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny  For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com. 

June is Pride Month and with all the different paths to parenthood available for LGBTQ+ couples and individuals, it's a great time to elevate these voices within the community.    Today's episode features Mia Cooley, a Black, queer, mother of three whose desire to connect with families that looked like hers, created an inclusive community called xHood.   xHood is a safe space that supports Black and queer families through the journey of parenthood. It's an area that's often challenged by a lack of representation in the healthcare industry, in parenting groups, and even in local communities. The frustration of feeling ostracized has motivated Mia to create a center for advice, a venue for resources, a starting point for advocation in the workplace, and just a space vent.   In this episode, Mia shares why she started this organization, details of the annual Black Parent Pride Summit, and her path to parenthood.  Guest: Mia Cooley, Founder of xHood  Host: Dan Bulger, Progyny  For more information, visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.