Podcasts about Infertility

Team USA parents Ellen and Jim Hughes join to discuss sons Jack and Quinn, their Olympic gold medal, and the experience of raising three brothers who all reached the National Hockey League. Matthew Morrison stops by to discuss his return to Broadway in the musical ‘Just in Time.' Plus, a closer look at how couples facing infertility are finding community on social media. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

 Fertility Docs Uncensored is hosted by Dr. Carrie Bedient from the Fertility Center of Las Vegas, Dr. Susan Hudson from Texas Fertility Center, and Dr. Abby Eblen from Nashville Fertility Center. In this episode, we explore the various genetic tests available for infertility patients, including carrier screening, prenatal testing, and testing done during IVF. We discuss why these tests are important, what they detect, and how they can influence family planning decisions. We give you answers to many questions you may have. What is expanded carrier screening, and what types of traits does it look for in prospective parents? How does being a carrier for recessive traits affect a child, and what is the probability of a child being impacted if both parents carry the same trait? Which traits are typically tested, and why are only severe conditions included? How can results from carrier screening influence decisions about pursuing IVF and embryo selection? What is NIPT testing, and how is it performed during pregnancy? What types of chromosomal abnormalities can NIPT detect, and when is this testing appropriate? How is genetic testing performed at the time of IVF, and what are the different tests available for embryos? What is PGT-A, and how does it assess chromosomal abnormalities? How do PGT-M, PGT-SR, and PGT-P tests evaluate for recessive traits, structural abnormalities, and conditions caused by multiple genes? How do these tests help couples make informed decisions about their reproductive options? What are the advantages of testing embryos before implantation compared to testing during pregnancy? How can understanding these genetic testing options reduce risks and improve outcomes for patients undergoing fertility treatments? Knowing the answers to these questions will help you decide which of these tests are right for you. 

In this episode, Alissa returns to the podcast to share what life looks like 8 years after her daughter Anna was stillborn. If you want her full story, go back and listen to Episode #52 — we recorded that one 2.5 years ago, and hearing the evolution between then and now is powerful.  We talk honestly about grief life then vs now, how pain shifts but never disappears, and what it looks like to rebuild identity, perspective, and purpose after loss. Alissa opens up about parenting after stillbirth, navigating layered grief after losing her sister the year before Anna, and the unexpected “gifts” our babies leave behind — even when the journey is brutally hard.  If you're newly walking this path, this episode offers real perspective on how things can change over time… while still honoring the parts that never will. And if you're wondering how to keep your baby present as the years move forward, her insight is deeply grounding.  Alissa has always been incredibly transparent, and I'm so grateful our paths crossed early in my own journey.

*Disclaimer* This episode contains adult content and is not recommended for young listeners.   284. DON'T MISS THIS! Controversial Sex Questions, Answered with Dr. Juli Slattery   1 Samuel 24:19b NIV “May the Lord reward you well for the way you treated me today.”   *Transcription Below*   Bio: Instagram Facebook Authentic Intimacy Website Java with Juli Podcast   Thank you to Our Sponsor: Leman Property Management Company   Questions and Topics We Cover: As Christ followers, should we use a friend's preferred names and pronouns? If one part of Scripture talks about turning the other cheek, is that the same as saying God expects you to stay in an abusive marriage? Is it reasonable to assume that once they have a smartphone, 100% of kids will be exposed to pornography?   Previous Episodes on Sexual Intimacy on The Savvy Sauce, Including Past Episodes with Dr. Juli Slattery: Fostering a Fun, Healthy Sex Life with your Spouse with Dr. Jennifer Konzen  Ways to Deepen Your Intimacy in Marriage with Dr. Douglas Rosenau  Ten Common Questions About Sex, Shared Through a Biblical Worldview with Dr. Michael Sytsma Hope For Treating Pelvic Pain with Tracey LeGrand Treatment for Sexual Issues with Certified Sex Therapist, Emma Schmidt Talking With Your Kids About Sex with Brian and Alison Sutter Natural Aphrodisiacs with Christian Certified Sex Therapist, Dr. Douglas Rosenau Healthy Sexuality, Emotional Intelligence, and Parenting Children with Autism with Counselor, Lauren Dack Pain and Joy in Sexual Intimacy with Psychologist and Certified Sex Therapist, Dr. Jessica McCleese Identifying and Fighting Human Trafficking with Dr. Jeff Waibel Bridging the Gap Between Military and Civilian Families with Licensed Professional Counselor, Cuthor, Podcaster, and 2015 Military Spouse of the Year, Corie Weathers Enjoying a God-Honoring, Healthy Sex Life with Your Spouse with Certified Sex Therapist and Ordained Minister, Dr. Michael Sytsma Enjoying Parenting and Managing Conversations About Sex with Certified Sex Therapist and Author, Dr. Jennifer Konzen Conflict Resolution, Infidelity, and Infertility with Licensed Psychologist and Certified Sex Therapist, Dr. Jessica McCleese Hormones and Body Image with Certified Sex Therapist, Vickie George Passion Pursuit with Dr. Juli Slattery Female Orgasm with Sue Goldstein Erectile Dysfunction, Premature Ejaculation, and Treatments Available with Dr. Irwin Goldstein Turn Ons, Turn Offs, and Savoring Sex in Marriage with Dr. Jennifer Konzen Desire Discrepancy in Marriage with Dr. Michael Sytsma Answering Listener's Questions About Sex with Kelli Willard Anatomy of an Affair with Dave Carder Supernatural Restoration Story with Bob and Audrey Meisner Healthy Minds, Marriages, and Sex Lives with Drs. Scott and Melissa Symington Female Pornography Addiction and Meaningful Recovery with Crystal Renaud Day Building Lasting Relationships with Clarence and Brenda Shuler Healthy Ways for Females to Increase Sexual Enjoyment with Tracey LeGrand Pornography Healing for Spouses with Geremy Keeton Sexual Sin Recovery for You and Your Spouse (Part Two) Personal Development and Sexual Wholeness with Dr. Sibylle Georgianna  Our Brain's Role in Sexual Intimacy with Angie Landry Discovering God's Design for Romance with Sharon Jaynes Sex in Marriage and Its Positive Effects with Francie Winslow, Part 1 Science and Art of Sexual Intimacy in Marriage, Part 2 Making Love in Marriage with Debra Fileta Mutually Pleasing Sex in Marriage with Gary Thomas Sex Series: God's Design and Warnings for Sex: An Interview with Mike Novotny Sex Series: Enhancing Female Pleasure and Enjoyment of Sex: An Interview with Dr. Jennifer Degler Sex Series Orgasmic Potential, Pleasure, and Friendship: An Interview with Bonny Burns  Sex Series: Sex Series: Healthy Self, Healthy Sex: An Interview with Gaye Christmus Sex Series: Higher Sexual Desire Wife: An Interview with J Parker Sex Series: Six Pillars of Intimacy with Tony and Alisa DiLorenzo 215 Enriching Women's Sexual Function, Part One with Dr. Kris Christiansen 216 Enriching Women's Sexual Function, Part Two with Dr. Kris Christiansen 217 Tween/Teen Females: How to Navigate Changes during Puberty with Dr. Jennifer Degler 218 Secrets of Sex and Marriage: Interview with Dr. Michael Sytsma 222 Pornography: Protecting Children and Personal Healing, Victory, and Recovery in Christ with Sam Black Special Patreon Release: Holy Sex: An Interview with Dr. Juli Slattery Special Patreon Release: His Desires and Her Desires in the Bedroom with Dr. Jennifer Konzen 224 Surprising Discoveries of Sex in Marriage: An Interview with Shaunti Feldhahn 252 Maximizing Sexual Connections as Newlyweds to Long Term Marriages and Recovering from a Sexless Marriage with Dr. Cliff & Joyce Penner 260 Sex After Cancer with Dr. Kris Christiansen 277 Breaking Through Addiction in Marriage with Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith   Connect with The Savvy Sauce on Facebook or Instagram or Our Website   Gospel Scripture: (all NIV) Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”   Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”   Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”    Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”    Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”    Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”    John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”   Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.”   Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”   Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“   Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“   Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”   *Transcription*   Music: (0:11 – 0:11)   Laura Dugger: (0:11 – 2:21) Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, where we have practical chats for intentional living. I'm your host, Laura Dugger, and I'm so glad you're here.   Today's message is not intended for little ears. We'll be discussing some adult themes, and I want you to be aware before you listen to this message.   Leman Property Management Company has the apartment you will be able to call home, with over 1,700 apartment units available in Central Illinois. Visit them today at lemanproperties.com or connect with them on Facebook.   My returning guest for today is Dr. Juli Slattery.   She has authored another book entitled Surrendered Sexuality: How Knowing Jesus Changes Everything, and we're going to cover a few themes from this book, but I think what you're going to find most helpful are her candid responses to some really tricky questions related to dating and pornography, technology, thought life, shows that we watch as believers, divorce, and just intimacy in general as married couples.   So, I think this is an episode that you're going to want to learn from yourself, but you'll also want to share with others because Dr. Juli has offered us such a gift as she directs us back to the heart issues and wisely guides us into sexual integrity in our own lives.   Here's our chat.   Welcome back to The Savvy Sauce, Dr. Juli.   Dr. Juli Slattery: (2:21 – 2:21) Thanks so much for having me back. It's always a joy.   Laura Dugger: (2:21 – 2:22) Well, I love that you've been a repeat guest many times. So, we get to just dive right in today because I'm going to link all of your previous episodes in the show notes. But to dive in, I'm just curious, as believers, where does your heart break as you see us compromising on God's design for sex?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (2:22 – 3:31) Hmm. That's such a good question. You know, I think my heart breaks the most in that when we compromise God's design for sexuality, or even when we don't understand it or understand His goodness, it means that there is a breach in our relationship with God.   And so, I am so passionate about what I do, not necessarily because I love talking about sexuality, but because for a lot of people, sexuality represents a wall between them and God, like an issue they can't resolve, or a place of shame that they just can't quite shake free from, or battle with sin that they feel like they're enslaved to. And so, those things mean that there's a limit to how much they invite God into their lives.   And so, for me, that's where my heart breaks the most is, you know, ultimately, we were created for the greatest fellowship with God and anything that gets in the way of that is something that God cares about and something that I care about.   Laura Dugger: (3:32 – 4:03) You say that well, and you've written many books, but in this most recent one, you plainly state one issue when you write, “You will not be able to obey God with your sexual thoughts, while binging shows and music that continually display the exact opposite.”   And I love how practical that is. So, Juli, why do you think this has become so normalized? And I would say, especially in Christian marriages.   Dr. Juli Slattery: (4:05 – 5:58) Yeah, you know, I think a lot of it is that the church has been historically really quiet about sexuality, you know, like we might talk about save sex for marriage, and don't cheat on your husband and that sort of thing. But the gray areas about how we think about our sexuality and kind of what we have the liberty and freedom to engage in, there's kind of silence, or maybe there's legalism.   And I think in that space, what ends up happening is the culture is so forthright with a message about sexuality, like woven throughout every single show that you could stream on any platform, you know, your music on Spotify, even the news you consume, the Instagram feeds, whatever, it's consistently showing you a way to understand sexuality that is contrary to God's design, and the messaging can be so subtle, or so repetitive that we don't even realize we're ingesting it.   And so, it's normal to talk about with your friends, like the latest season of The Bachelor, or, you know, the latest thing that you're streaming that if you really look at it, there's probably 100 references to sexuality that are outside of God's design. And so, we end up just having our mind conformed to this world.   And the scripture says really clearly in Romans 12, that we can't offer ourselves to God while we're still thinking like the world thinks that it requires an act of transformation of our thinking. And I don't know that there's anywhere more than we need this than in the topic of understanding our sexuality.   Laura Dugger: (6:00 – 6:59) Okay, so for I'm thinking of married couples, because I was recently at a wedding shower. And I love a friend from church. Her name is Dawn Karius. And she was giving the devotional and just sharing. You know, it's very easy to get married and fall into this trap. She was talking about what you watch specifically.   And she said, so many couples will watch something together, watch a show before bed, but be really intentional. If that is what you choose to do, then the shows that you're watching, even though you're with your spouse, is that drawing both of you closer to Christ? Because if it's pulling you further away from Christ, it's also pulling you away from one another.   And so, with all of that, and with what you've studied and written about, if a couple's hearing that and or some single person just hearing this, what would be your practical advice or encouragement for them?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (7:00 – 9:29) Yeah, some of it is, we can't live in a bubble. You know, it's, I think that there are some couples will have the conviction that, you know, we're just going to get rid of all of our devices, we're going to get rid of every streaming service. And there's nothing wrong with that decision, you might feel convicted to do that.   But for most couples, I would say, they're like, okay, we live in this world, we need to understand even the world we live in. And so, it's not like we're going to completely be cut off. But are we being discerning about what we consume?   And what are the standards that we might hit where we might just say, “You know what, we don't need to be watching this.” You know, like I can think of one show in particularly that my husband and I were watching. And it was a well-written show. It was exciting. But there was just so much profanity and just gross kind of sexual content that after two or three episodes, we're both just like, “You know what, as good as the show is, we just, this isn't, we're not watching this. Like we need to stop.”   And I think you need to have those discussions and you might have a different level of conviction than your spouse does. And that's okay, but at least have those conversations and you need to follow your conviction.   But then the other thing I would say that is equally important, if not more important, what are you consuming that helps you get God's perspective of sexuality? And what I've found is that a whole lot of Christian married couples know very little about what it looks like to build a healthy sex life in their marriage. And they're not consuming anything that helps them know how to love each other better, how to overcome differences, even how their bodies work, how to focus on one another and enjoy sex in a holy erotic way.   And so, even if you're watching and consuming very little content from the world, but you're not actively pursuing anything that gives you a biblical perspective, you're still going to end up defaulting to what the world says. And so, I think that again, it's equally as important or not, if not more important to be pursuing what's true and what's right and what's good.   Laura Dugger: (9:31 – 9:53) I love that, how you flipped it. And that discernment piece is huge because we don't want to be desensitized to then that we're consuming and we also want to feed on the good. So, I think it even leads to a broader question, again, as Christ followers, how can we recognize if our conscience is being pricked?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (9:54 – 12:05) Yeah, we can start by asking the Lord. You know, I mean, I think it's in, is it Psalm 139, where, you know, David is basically saying, “Search me, oh God, and know my thoughts, you know, show me if there's any offensive way within me.”   I think that's a beautiful prayer as an individual and as a couple, like God, we want to honor you with what we consume in media, with what we think about, would you guide us and would you show us? And then I think we all have that experience of watching something or listening to something or reading something where we're like, “Uh, I don't know, like, this is sort of a gray area. Like, I'm uncomfortable here. I probably shouldn't be watching this.” Or “Wow, that's really, that's really in your face. Like that's really graphic.”   And it's heeding the Holy Spirit when you get those prompts, instead of just pushing through and being like, “Ah, it's not that big of a deal. It's not going to affect me.” Like when you feel that sense of prompting, you respond to it and you say, “All right, I'm going to put this down. I'm going to shut this off.”   And, um, you know, the scripture says that we can become callous to those promptings of the Holy Spirit if we are in a habit of just running right through that. But we become more sensitive to the Holy Spirit when we yield and when we obey.   Um, and so, I think even just keeping track, you know, every day or every week, like where were the times regarding this or anything else that I really felt convicted by the Holy Spirit about maybe something I said about a friend, uh, or about a little white lie I told, you know, where were the times where I really felt the Holy Spirit nudging me and what did I do? Um, where do I need to confess that I didn't respond well? And where do I need to celebrate that? Yes, I listened, I obeyed, I yielded. Um, and so, I think that's a practice we get into of either ignoring that conviction or really yielding to it.   Laura Dugger: (12:06 – 12:28) Hmm. And that gets after the heart issue, which Jesus is so concerned about our heart. And that's a very softened heart approach. Yes. I hope we can have. And as it relates to sexual integrity, then what are some other ways that we need to be on guard so that we're careful not to be misled?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (12:29 – 13:37) Yeah, boy, I think there's just so much conversation. Um, again, even in Christian circles, sometimes around having a negative attitude towards sex, um, kind of accepting some forms of pornography as normal and even good, you know, husband bashing, wife bashing, you know, like complaining, kind of letting the thought feed in your mind of maybe I should have married somebody else.   Maybe that my life would be easier if I, I weren't married to this person. I wish they were this or that. So, sort of that discontent that is natural to feel in marriage. But the question is, what do you do with it? Do you give it space to grow and to nurture, or do you bring that before the Lord?   Um, so, I think those are some of the ways that we want to look at, like, how am I giving the enemy space in my life and in my marriage versus how am I inviting God to really reclaim what's broken here?   Laura Dugger: (13:38 – 14:01) Well, and then even thinking of the other side to guard ourselves from having a critical and judgmental spirit toward others or just having self-righteous pride. Can you educate us on some common reasons why some people may be predisposed to struggle with some certain sexual sins?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (14:02 – 17:20) Yeah, absolutely. I think that's so important, um, because the research really shows that some of us are more, I don't know if I'd say it that way, but we are going to be more predetermined maybe to struggle with things like pornography or same-sex attraction, or even hooking up.   And it's never like a one plus one equals two exactly. But there are what we might say indicators or risk factors that make you more vulnerable to those kinds of sexual struggles. And some of them might be unhealthy family dynamics growing up, you know, none of us had a perfect family, but let's say you grew up in a family where one of your parents was like overtly critical towards you all the time.   Maybe you went through a divorce with your parents where, um, you know, at a certain age, you just, your family fell apart and you're kind of looking for that stability and love. People who have experienced sexual trauma in childhood or the teen years are going to be more pre-dispositioned to want to understand that or act that out.   People who might struggle with anxiety. And, you know, some of it is we got to understand that sex, because it elicits dopamine in our brain and oxytocin and endorphins, which are all really feel good kind of experiences and hormones and neurotransmitters. When we had a sexual experience at a young age, our brain can learn, “Oh, this is how I deal with stress. This is how I deal with depression. This is how I deal with loneliness.”   So, a lot of times when you talk to somebody who has an ongoing struggle with a sexual temptation or sin, it's because they've learned as a pattern from maybe the time they were 10 years old or 12 years old or 15 years old, that this is how I dealt with the stress in my family. This is how I dealt with when my father died. This is how I dealt with when I was sexually abused. Like this was the way that I found to self-regulate and to self-medicate and to find comfort.   And that can be masturbation. It can be pornography or again, you know, acting out sexually. And so, for people who have that kind of story, and this might be your spouse, or this might be against somebody that you're looking at and judging to just say, “You need to stop that behavior,” is often not going to be enough. They need to do the work of really looking at what am I using sex for? What are the wounds that I'm using sex to cover up?   And how do I actually get the healing I need and find healthier and safer ways for me to cope with negative emotions? And that's why groups are really important for people who have sexual struggles. Counseling is really important. And again, that long journey of healing and freedom, not just a one-time decision that I'm going to try to never do this again.   Laura Dugger: (17:21 – 20:19) Love that word freedom, even because that hope is available. And just pointing out how you said this is not deterministic. That's not what we're saying is if you experience something, you will act out sexually. But I agree with you that it is fascinating and helpful to hear the correlation of certain things that happen, especially in childhood, and how that plays out long-term.   And I am blanking on which guest it was on The Savvy Sauce, but somebody was enlightening me. I think it was for females that if they were sexually abused, typically before a certain age, then they were more likely to struggle in marriage with wanting to completely avoid sex. But then if it was after a certain age, that it was completely opposite where they maybe used sex to medicate, or they were very aggressive and even would act out, let's say in single years, that they would sleep around with a bunch of partners if they had been wounded.   And so, I just think it just, it helps us to not be judgmental of one another. We don't know the full story.   Dr. Juli Slattery: (20:20 – 21:09) Yes. Yeah. There's always more there than we usually realize at first. And, you know, this plays out a lot in marriage because there are a lot of women who are married to guys who are addicted to pornography. And that's a deeply painful dynamic. That's really hard.   But to understand that your husband didn't want to have this struggle, often doesn't know how to get out of it, you know, gives you compassion. It doesn't mean that you look the other way, you need to get help, and you need to insist on getting help. But it does give you empathy and compassion that there's something underlying this and feeding it. It's not just, “Oh, I think I'm going to, you know, look at porn and hurt my wife again,” that there's always a deeper dynamic at work.   Laura Dugger: (21:10 – 21:50) Absolutely. And even an example from your book, I'll just read a quote where you said, “I spoke with a man who runs a sexual addiction program. He told me he had never met someone with sexual addiction, who did not also have significant sexual or psychological trauma in their past.”   And I think it goes along with what we're saying. But if we also then flip it and look at more of the positive side, how can we rightly prioritize connection and intimacy in marriage as God intended?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (21:53 – 24:24) I think first of all, we need to be convinced that this is worth it. You know, when we look at everything there is to do in life, there's so many worthy demands on our time. You know, from I want my house to look nice, and we need to make friends and we need to be an outreach to our community. And our kids are taking a lot of time and they should, and they've got all their activities and our church needs our help. Like when do you have time to do all this? And then, oh yeah, prioritize your marriage.   And I think we have to become convinced that if we're not working on our marriage, and specifically if we're not working on the sexual connection in marriage, then all those other things have the potential to fall apart. That the way I've learned it over time is that sex is never going to be a neutral issue in your marriage. It's either going to be something that is bonding you together and causing you to work on the deeper levels of intimacy, even as you talk through sexual difficulties, or it's going to be something not immediately, but over time, that becomes a wedge between you.   It might start as a wedge of resentment of my needs aren't getting met, or I feel like you're objectifying me or you're putting pressure on me. Or it might be a deeper wedge of a pornography addiction or something that's not being addressed. Or I don't trust my husband because of my trauma. And those things don't just stay dormant. The wedge becomes bigger and bigger and bigger until you get to the place where now you're not comfortable being in the same room anymore and you feel like roommates. And then now one of you is attracted to somebody else and the story plays on.   And there are very wonderful godly men and women who have gotten married with every purpose to stay together. But a wedge like this has grown over time to the point where they're now thinking about divorce or one of them has cheated on the other. And so, we have to be convinced that honoring God in our lives means prioritizing our marriage, and it means working on this intimate aspect of our marriage so that we can be a stable foundation for our families and our churches and our communities.   Laura Dugger: (24:26 – 24:39) And so, if we're getting as practical as possible, what are the best practices that you've seen in married couples who are happily married? How have you experienced that?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (24:40 – 28:04) Yeah. I'll put it in kind of like a cliche sort of way because I think sometimes that's catchy. Number one, I would say they're couples who will resist the drift, who will repair the rift, and who will adjust to the shift.   So, I can kind of break that down a little bit. But you know, the first thing is resisting the drift of you can go weeks without meaningfully connecting with your spouse. And I don't just mean sexually, but I mean like eye to eye, you know, just loving touch, just connecting to their hearts. And so, couples who know how to resist that drift, like they have regular times built into their calendar where this is where we connect every day. Like even for 10 minutes, this is where we hold each other's hands, we look at each other in the eye, we really connect with what's in your heart, how are you? And they have regular rhythms of once a week or once every other week, we're going to go out and do something fun together, just the two of us. We've worked through what sex looks like in this season. Like how many times do we want to have sex? Are we scheduling that? How are we making sure that's a priority? And so, that's the resisting the drift.   And the second one is repairing the rift. And at every marriage, there are going to be things that tear you apart. And sometimes those things might be sexual in nature, like a temptation, an emotional affair, pornography use, sometimes it's going to be something else where you have a deep disagreement that you can't resolve on your own. And you need to be courageous enough to reach out for help and say, like, if we don't get help, if we don't address this issue, like it's going to become something that tears us apart. Any couple that you meet who is happily married for like 30 years or more, they can tell you a story of when they had a rift, and the kind of help that really address that.   And then I think the third thing is adjusting to the shift. And in even the normal stages of marriage, there are shifts that happen. Like, you know, I'm in the stage right now where me and the people my age are going through biological changes with menopause and with aging. And, you know, some people are going through becoming grandparents and retirement. And there's all these shifts that are happening even naturally. There's other couples that are younger who are going through the shift of pregnancy and battling infertility. And some people are going through cancer. And there are things that happen that require you to shift your expectations. And to not just wish that it is like it used to be. But this is the marriage we have now. Here are the circumstances we have now. Here are the bodies we have now. How do we learn to love each other and embrace this season, given the changes that we're experiencing?   And so, I think that's a framework that I've seen healthy couples navigate over time that really fosters intimacy.   Laura Dugger: (28:05 – 29:29) That is incredible. I love how you put that. And I've shared with you before that my background is in Christian sex therapy. So, sex is a topic that does come up a lot and people feel comfortable sharing or asking questions. So, just in regular conversation, I want to recap two conversations that kind of show stances on both ends of the spectrum. And I'd love to hear your wisdom on how to respond to each one.   So, first, there was a Christian married woman with children, and she was teaching younger women to say yes to every single sexual advance from their husband. And she said, “If your husband has the higher drive, and he wants to have sex twice a day, then consider yourself lucky. And don't ever say no, because your body is not your own.” Yeah, it's hard to recap. So, this is not my perspective. So, sharing both ends.   So, that was one person. And then on the other end, I've heard a woman tell me, “You know, I just didn't feel like having sex for about a year and a half after we had our baby. So, I just told my husband, you're going to have to wait.”   So, loaded question, but Dr. Juli, how would you respond to each of those?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (29:29 – 32:31) Well, Laura, I feel like you probably would have just as good of response as I would to those. Yeah, I like that you're presenting those as two extremes, because they are two extremes. And I think both extremes kind of miss the heart. We want to be able to say yes to sex and intimacy. And being able to say yes means also being able to say no.   In that first situation, essentially, what is going to end up happening is that that wife is going to start feeling like my husband wants me for sex. And I don't have the capacity to enjoy it twice a day. I'm starting to feel like an object or used. And the husband is never going to learn that covenant love requires self-denial. And at every level, you know, what did, what did Paul say to husbands in Ephesians 5, like love your wife as you love your own body and be willing to lay down your, your life for your wife. And that means being sensitive to the fact that she doesn't have the same sexual appetite as you do. She doesn't have the same biology you do, that it actually can be physically painful, emotionally traumatic for a wife to have sex when she's not physically ready. Really, that couple is not working on intimacy. They're, they're kind of reinforcing a pattern that sex is about the husband getting his needs and desires met only through the wife without considering her. And that might work for short term, but that's not building intimacy in the long term. And it's not teaching either of them. And that wife needs to learn her own sexual desires and patterns and be able to communicate those to her husband. So, that's what I would say in that first one.   And the second one, essentially, you have a wife kind of having that more selfish perspective of, I only have sex when I want it and on my terms, instead of considering the husband. And, you know, how do I focus on him? How do I work on experiencing sexual desire? How do I foster that? Because it's important for my husband, it's important for our marriage. And I don't want to be selfish.   And so, I think both of those situations are kind of approaching sex where one person gets to be selfish, and the other person has to sacrifice. That's ministry, that's not intimacy. And so, we really want to be at a place where both of us, the higher desire one and the lower desire one, are learning what does it look like to really love well, to love sacrificially and to communicate the ways that I feel loved. I don't know, what would you add to that or change?   Laura Dugger: (32:31 – 33:11) That's why I asked you, you said that beautifully, better than I could have responded. And again, you're getting back to the heart of it and pointing us back to Jesus with each answer. And, you know, commonly people do struggle with having a safe place where they can ask candid questions about sex.   So, I am going to throw some more at you. And some of these are ones that you wrote about. But just to give us a little taste, even of the book, or if somebody has a burning question like this, I'd love your healthy response.   So, how do you respond when people ask, “How far is too far to go in a dating relationship?”   Dr. Juli Slattery: (33:14 – 36:32) Yeah, I think people are looking for a line, you know, like, as long as I don't cross this line, are we good? And of course, I think their traditional line would be as long as you're not having intercourse. But I think that misses the larger context of the purpose of sex. I've had to be convicted of this in my own life. And we talked very early in our conversation about how we've just sort of ingested messages from the culture. And the culture says that healthy sexuality is an expression of how I feel, right? So, so if I feel safe with you, if I feel romantically connected to you, if I feel sexually attracted to you, then it would be healthy for me to engage sexually with you. And then Christians would come and say, yes, but as long as you don't cross this line. So, that's sort of the narrative that I think a lot of us have heard in the church.   But if we look at, from a biblical perspective, God did not design sex to be an expression of how I feel. Okay, let that sink in for a minute. God did not design sex to be an expression of how I feel. He designed it to be a seal and a celebration of covenant, of the choice that a man and a woman make to covenant their lives to one another. And for them to say, just like I give you my whole life, I promise faithfulness to you. I promise that we are becoming one as a family. We have now a physical way to symbolize that in becoming one with our bodies. And so, even if I feel romantically attached to somebody I'm not married to, I don't act on that. Or even if I don't feel romantically attached to my husband, we work on our sex life because we're in covenant.   And so, when you begin to understand sex from that standpoint, you answer that question differently of how far can I go? Why are you sharing your body with another person when you haven't shared your life with them? And, you know, I think that the standard is not legalistic, but the heart of the question is a lot, that's a harder question. You know, like it says, and I think 2 Thessalonians or 1 Thessalonians, you know, Paul says, the will of God is that you do not engage in sexual immorality. Don't take advantage of a brother or sister.   And how many times in dating relationships do you look back and you're like, “Wow, I gave too much of myself to that person or I took too much of myself from that person. Like we engaged in things that now we're broken apart. Like I wish I could take back.” And so, what does it look like to honor each other? What does it look like to honor the Lord? So, I think those kinds of questions help you get to the heart of how do we steward dating relationships a lot better than looking for a line we're not supposed to cross.   Laura Dugger: (36:33 – 37:31) When was the first time you listened to an episode of The Savvy Sauce? How did you hear about our podcast? Did a friend share it with you? Will you be willing to be that friend now and text five other friends or post on your socials anything about The Savvy Sauce that you love? If you share your favorite episodes, that is how we continue to expand our reach and get the good news of Jesus Christ in more ears across the world.   So, we need your help.   Another way to help us grow is to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts. Each of these suggestions will cost you less than a minute, but it will be a great benefit to us. Thank you so much for being willing to be generous with your time and share. We appreciate you.   As Christ followers, should we use a friend's preferred names and pronouns? So, how would you respond to that?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (37:32 – 39:20) Boy, this is a hot topic. There are people who have really strong opinions on this. You're saying, do I use a friend's preferred names and pronouns?   And I think the fact that you have a friendship means that you can have a deeper conversation about the meaning of the names and pronouns. And I think that deeper conversation needs to happen. Because, you know, ultimately we don't like, we don't want to just say, “Oh yeah, whatever you want to call yourself is fine with me. Truth doesn't matter.” But on the other hand, we really want to get to the spiritual issue underneath this. And there's a, there's a big difference between somebody who doesn't know the Lord, doesn't know where you stand on any of this, and somebody that you can engage in a conversation with and seek wisdom on.   I think there, there's probably more latitude to use somebody's preferred name than pronouns. And I think in friendships, sometimes you can work that through and just say, you know, “Hey, I love you. I understand where you're coming from. I'm going to try my best to use the name that you're asking. But the pronoun is something that I'm not comfortable with. And here's why. And just like I'm, I want to understand where you are. I hope that you would have grace and understand where I am.” So, in a friendship, you're able to have those kinds of conversations. Whereas if it's a coworker or it's a stranger or a neighbor, sometimes we can't have that level of conversation. And so, I, we might choose to handle the situation a little differently.   Laura Dugger: (39:21 – 39:36) That's good. A hundred percent truth, a hundred percent love or kindness. And what if somebody asks, how much attention should we be giving these secondary issues as believers?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (39:39 – 41:03) Boy, I, I think first of all, the secondary issues come out of the primary issues. So, the primary issue, and you know, the issue I wrote Surrendered Sexuality is about is if my life belongs to the Lord, then my whole life needs to belong to Him, including how I think about cultural issues, including how I treat my neighbor.   And so, I don't see them as secondary issues. I see them as an outgrowth of the primary issue. I think when they become secondary issues are when we argue with other believers about it and it becomes the most important thing. Like I put you in a category based on, will you use preferred names and pronouns? And then I think we're missing what God calls us to.   The primary issue is that we want to honor God and we want to love each other. And so, let's keep going back to that primary issue. How do I love my neighbor well? How do I honor God's truth well? How do I pursue unity within the body of Christ well, as we're navigating some of these secondary issues? So, you know, like if we're going back to the primary issue, it means that we have to talk about the secondary issues, but we talk about them in light of what's primary.   Laura Dugger: (41:04 – 41:17) I like that. And I just have three more of these kind of tricky questions. So, another one, does pornography addiction qualify as reasons for a biblical divorce?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (41:20 – 42:50) I would say, first of all, technically, if we look at the word for sexual immorality in the scripture, which is porneia, we would say, yeah, you know, pornography does qualify for that.   But for the person who's asking this, maybe the woman who's asking this, I would say, why do you want to get out of the marriage? And what Jesus said is Moses permitted divorce because of the hardness of your heart. And I think a more important question is where's your heart and where's your husband's heart? Because I've seen people with pornography addictions who have really open hearts towards healing, and they're willing to get the help that they need. They're repentant. They're willing to do the work. They're willing to go through even a time of separation to show that they're serious about that work.   And then there are people who have very hard hearts of, “This is who I am. I might go through the motions, but I'm really not interested in change.” And so, I think the pornography addiction is less the issue than the posture of the person's heart and their willingness to work. And if your spouse is willing to work, then I think it's on us to have soft hearts too, and to be open to the work that God can do.   Laura Dugger: (42:51 – 43:34) That's good because saying you have to zoom out and see more of the story in that stance, because that's very different. Somebody who's working on it and hates the struggle and is wanting to break free versus being married to a narcissist who is abusing you and treating you in a certain way and addicted to pornography. So, you point out well that all of these questions have more to them.   Okay. So, two more, if a spouse has had an emotional affair in the past with a coworker, but they still work with this person, what is the wise thing to do and how should they handle it if their spouse is uncomfortable with them still working there?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (43:36 – 44:33) Yeah, boy, that's something that I would want to seek counseling on. You and your spouse really need to get with a counselor and talk that through. The generic advice in that situation would be to get a different job, to not have that relationship still a temptation or available.   But there are sometimes very extenuating circumstances where that's not a possibility, or at least for now, that's not a possibility. And so, I would really encourage you to meet with a third party to sort through the details of your particular situation. Because it could be that your spouse isn't willing to take that hard step of cutting off that relationship, or it could be that they're willing, but again, there's extenuating circumstances. And I would really want a wise person who is engaging with you to help you navigate that.   Laura Dugger: (44:34 – 44:44) But I love that, how you highlight that something to look for though, is that you would hope your spouse would be willing to make that right, especially if they were the offending.   Dr. Juli Slattery: (44:46 – 44:46) Okay.   Laura Dugger: (44:47 – 45:00) And then also, Juli, because scripture does talk about turning the other cheek, does that mean it's the same as saying God expects you to stay in an abusive marriage?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (45:02 – 47:41) Absolutely not. If you were in an abusive marriage, you are not doing your spouse any good. You are allowing your spouse to be in a place where they're destroying their own life and they're destroying the people that they love.   Now you say, okay, where biblically do we see this? We see that Jesus, he says in John, he says, “I laid down my life for my sheep. I lay it down willingly. No one has the authority to take it from me. I have the authority to lay it down and I have the authority to take it up again.” And we see Him living that out with religious leaders who were after Him all the time, who wanted to stone Him, who were accusing Him of things. It says over and over again that Jesus escaped from them. He just got out of there until it was time that the Father said, now is the time for you to give yourself for the world.   So, we take that principle and we say, Jesus was not abused. Jesus did not let Himself be abused. He gave Himself as a lamb to the slaughter as a sacrifice for the Father and for the world. But that's very different. Up until that time, we see Him have great boundaries. We see Him not get, it even says He didn't entrust Himself to man because He knew what was in their hearts. I mean, He had boundaries with people that could have hurt Him.   And I also love when we see this in the story of King David and Saul, when Saul is chasing David, Saul is abusive, right? He wants to kill David. And so, David escapes. And there's a situation where David has the power or the opportunity to kill Saul and he doesn't do it. And then Saul just is struck by his conscience, and he comes back to David. He goes, “You're a better man than I am. I'm so sorry. You know, come back with me and I'll treat you well.” And even though David doesn't take revenge, he doesn't go back with Saul. He's still, he's like, “You go your way. I'll go my way. I'm going to let the Lord judge between us.”   And I think that's a great model. If you're in any kind of abusive relationship, you don't take revenge, but you also don't stay in that situation. You go your way, let them go their way, and you let God judge between you. And I think we see that over and over again in scripture.   Laura Dugger: (47:42 – 48:19) I think that is so well said. And it reminds me of a somewhat recent conversation in 2025 with Stacey Womack who's saying with domestic violence, really the way God would see it is child abuse. And that kind of helps our paradigm because we are His child.   And she elaborates on that. So, I said that that was the last one, but I actually thought of one more as it relates to our children.   So, is it reasonable to assume that once a child has a smartphone, 100% of them will be exposed to pornography?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (48:21 – 49:15) Yeah, it is. And I would say not just once they have a smartphone, because I know with one of my kids, we delayed the smartphone decision, but he had a learning disability that required him to have an iPad for school. And somehow, even though we locked down all the apps, somehow he's able to access it through that. Or it can be a gaming system, or it can be a friend's phone. And so, having a smartphone or device like that certainly makes it more probable.   But you know, like our kids are surrounded by screens and technology, not just what's in our home, but in other people's homes and at school. And so, I think it's safe to assume, unfortunately, that yes, 100% of our kids are going to be exposed to pornography, probably by the time they're 13 or 14.   Laura Dugger: (49:16 – 49:31) And sadly, some much younger than that. But even if there's parental controls, or filters put on, it is just something on my heart that we have to be so vigilant against.   Dr. Juli Slattery: (49:32 – 50:12) Yeah, no, I felt like when, you know, I have three boys, and when they were all three kind of in those teen years, I felt like I was trying to plug holes in a boat, and there'd be new ones popping up all the time. Whether it's like apps, or you know, things that you think are completely safe. Somehow, pornography can get through.   And our kids are smart, like they know the workarounds to the parental things. And that's why we just need to have conversation after conversation, just discipling them, not just protecting them from pornography, but discipling them through what they're inevitably going to be exposed to.   Laura Dugger: (50:13 – 51:05) That's a great point that not just being reactive, but proactive. I think why I have such a heart for this is because practicing and doing therapy and having so many people come in those wounds, that if that addiction gets a stronghold, and that pornography use, it just can wreak havoc in people long term. And so, if we can do that hard work of discipling early on, it is such a blessing to our children, to the generation.   So, I'm just so grateful for your candid responses. And I think it's also a helpful reminder just to never take on a burden that was never meant for us to carry. So, are there any ways that God has taught you to not try and do His business?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (51:07 – 52:16) Yeah. Boy, that's such a great question. I've had to come to the conclusion that I can't convince anyone of right and wrong. You know, like, I can't convince anyone that pornography is wrong, or gay marriage is wrong, or you know, like, that's not my job. My job is to walk with the Lord with integrity and faithfulness and to testify as to who He is.   And so much of this work, whether we're talking about marriage or our friends or our children, so much of this work has to be the Lord's work. And you reach a stage with your kids when they hit those teen years, where you realize the things my kids most need, I can't give them. I can't give them a relationship with God. I can't give them the desire to follow and seek the Lord. Like, I can model that for them. I can encourage them. But that is between them and the Lord. And if I try to control that, I'm just getting in the way of the work that God wants to do in their lives.   Laura Dugger: (52:18 – 52:33) Goodness, I will need to write that down and reflect on that. That is so good, Juli. And there's still so much more that you could share with us.   So, where is your preferred place that we can go online and continue learning from you?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (52:34 – 52:48) Yeah, I would say two places. Number one, our website is authenticintimacy.com. And the second one is the podcast that I do called Java with Juli. It goes along with The Savvy Sauce, you know, like they kind of go together.   Laura Dugger: (52:49 – 53:11) Yes, absolutely. We will certainly link to all of that in the show notes for today's episode.   And you're familiar, I've asked you many times before, because we are called savvy, because savvy is synonymous with practical knowledge or discernment. So, as my final question for you today, Dr. Juli, what is your savvy sauce?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (53:13 – 53:58) Oh, I don't even remember how I answered this the last few times. I think I may have said this before, but I think reading the dead old guys is one of my savvy sauce, like reading people who didn't live in this generation who loved the Lord.   And learning from them is just, that's probably taught me more discernment than anything, because they just cut right through the cultural noise that I think sometimes can blind us. And they really help me see my heart for what it is and help me really want to pursue God at a deeper level.   Laura Dugger: (53:59 – 54:03) Wow. Any specific recommendations that have been personal favorites there?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (54:04 – 54:22) Yeah, I love A.W. Tozer. I love many of Andrew Murray's books, particularly Humility and Absolute Surrender. And C.S. Lewis is another great one, Mere Christianity. So, those are some that I would recommend you start with.   Laura Dugger: (54:23 – 54:44) That is wonderful. Thank you for sharing that.   And Juli, it's just always such a delight to get to share an hour of conversation with you. And you are just this beautiful mixture of bold and gentle and humble, all combined into one. So, thank you for being my returning guest today.   Dr. Juli Slattery: (54:44 – 54:49) Oh, thank you. And it's such a pleasure to be with you. Thanks for your great questions.   Laura Dugger: (54:51 – 58:33) One more thing before you go, have you heard the term gospel before? It simply means good news. And I want to share the best news with you, but it starts with the bad news.   Every single one of us were born sinners, but Christ desires to rescue us from our sin, which is something we cannot do for ourselves. This means there's absolutely no chance we can make it to heaven on our own. So, for you and for me, it means we deserve death, and we can never pay back the sacrifice we owe to be saved.   We need a savior, but God loved us so much. He made a way for his only son to willingly die in our place as the perfect substitute. This gives us hope of life forever in right relationship with him.   That is good news. Jesus lived the perfect life. We could never live and died in our place for our sin.   This was God's plan to make a way to reconcile with us so that God can look at us and see Jesus. We can be covered and justified through the work Jesus finished. If we choose to receive what he has done for us, Romans 10:9 says, “that if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”   So, you pray with me now. Heavenly father, thank you for sending Jesus to take our place. I pray someone today right now is touched and chooses to turn their life over to you.   Will you clearly guide them and help them take their next step in faith to declare you as Lord of their life? We trust you to work and change lives now for eternity. In Jesus name we pray.   Amen. If you prayed that prayer, you are declaring him for me. So, me for him, you get the opportunity to live your life for him.   And at this podcast, we're called The Savvy Sauce for a reason. We want to give you practical tools to implement the knowledge you have learned. So, you're ready to get started.   First, tell someone, say it out loud, get a Bible. The first day I made this decision, my parents took me to Barnes and Noble and let me choose my own Bible. I selected the Quest NIV Bible and I love it.   You can start by reading the book of John. Also get connected locally, which just means tell someone who's a part of a church in your community that you made a decision to follow Christ. I'm assuming they will be thrilled to talk with you about further steps such as going to church and getting connected to other believers to encourage you.   We want to celebrate with you too. So, feel free to leave a comment for us here. If you did make a decision to follow Christ, we also have show notes included where you can read scripture that describes this process.   And finally, be encouraged. Luke 15:10 says, “in the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” The heavens are praising with you for your decision today.   And if you've already received this good news, I pray you have someone to share it with. You are loved and I look forward to meeting you here next time.

What does it really mean to own your fertility? In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Jaime Knopman from CCRM Fertility of New York and author of Own Your Fertility, for a candid conversation about egg freezing, fertility preservation, and grief. Dr. Knopman shares what inspired her to write the book, who it's for, and why fertility preservation can be one of the first acts of agency in reproductive health. We unpack common misconceptions about egg freezing. The conversation also turns to a topic often left unspoken: fertility-related grief. Dr. Knopman reflects on how grief shows up when timelines shift and how patients can hold both hope and loss at the same time. This episode is for anyone navigating fertility decisions, questioning timing, or seeking clarity and compassion along the journey. Own Your Fertility is now available on Amazon! Guest: Dr. Jaime Knopman, Board-Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist and Director of Fertility Preservation for CCRM Fertility of New York Hosts:  Dr. Janet Choi, Chief Medical Officer, Progyny Lissa Kline, LCSW, SVP, Provider and Member Services, Progyny --- For more information, visit Progyny's Education page. This show does not constitute medical advice. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @progynyinc, and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more resources.   Music: YH1DOJKVSNXFR8GG (00:00) - Intro (01:58) - Why egg freezing and grief? (02:26) - Fertility preservation and egg freezing (05:06) - What is a good age to freeze eggs? (07:04) - If I freeze my eggs am I losing eggs? (08:55) - Egg freezing and birth control (09:30) - Breast cancer and fertility preservation (10:00) - Grief and family building (13:28) - The role of partners and community in family building (15:06) - Dr Knopman's Book! (16:12) - Fertility benefits create better outcomes (18:22) - Resilience (00:00) - Chapter 13 (00:00) - Chapter 14

In this episode, an expert breaks down irregular periods, what they are, how do you know if you're experiencing them, and what to do next? Dr. Ijeoma (Ij) Iko, Pinnacle Fertility Chicago https://www.pinnaclefertility.com/phy...  For more information about advocating for fertility benefits, visit Progyny's Talk To HR page at progyny.com/talktohrtoday Visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @Progynyinc.

In this video, an expert breaks down genetic testing of embryos, from PGT-A to PGT-M. What does it mean, and who should consider this option during an IVF cycle. Dr. Katherine Koniares, CCRM Boston https://www.ccrmivf.com/  For more information about advocating for fertility benefits, visit Progyny's Talk To HR page at progyny.com/talktohrtoday Visit Progyny's Podcast page and Progyny's Education page for more resources. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ProgynyInc 

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the leading cause of infertility in women, but what if the real issue isn't the ovaries?In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Bret Scher speaks with Dr. Steven Palter, reproductive endocrinologist and founder of Gold Coast IVF, about the powerful connection between PCOS, metabolic health, mental health, and fertility.For decades, PCOS has been treated symptom-by-symptom: birth control for irregular cycles, fertility drugs for ovulation, IVF for infertility. But Dr. Palter explains why this approach often misses the root cause: insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction.When you address the metabolic driver, everything can change.Ketogenic and low-carbohydrate dietary approaches are showing promise in improving insulin sensitivity, restoring ovulation, improving mood, and even supporting fertility, often before significant weight loss occurs. In many cases, women who were preparing for IVF are conceiving naturally after correcting their metabolic health.In this video, you'll learn:Why PCOS is best understood as a metabolic disorderHow insulin resistance drives infertility, mood changes, and long-term health risksWhy traditional “eat less, move more” advice often failsHow ketogenic therapy may restore ovulation and improve fertilityThe connection between PCOS, depression, and binge eatingWhy GLP-1 medications aren't the same as metabolic repairIf you or someone you know is struggling with PCOS, infertility, or unexplained hormonal symptoms, this episode offers a hopeful and science-based perspective on what's possible when metabolic health becomes the priority.As always, consult your healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes.

Is Pilates the missing piece for midlife hormone balance?In this episode of Confidently Balance Your Hormones, Dee Davidson, FDN-P, sits down with Beth Sandlin of Trifecta Pilates to discuss why Pilates is one of the most powerful forms of exercise for women over 40 navigating perimenopause, stress, and body changes.Beth shares her personal journey of discovering Pilates while recovering from cancer treatment. She didn't need intense workouts or high cortisol training — she needed movement that helped her heal, reconnect, and rebuild trust with her body. What she found was a sustainable, strength-building approach that supports both physical and emotional resilience.In this conversation, you'll learn:• Why traditional workouts may backfire during perimenopause• How Pilates supports nervous system regulation• The connection between stress hormones and overtraining• How to build strength without increasing cortisol• Why intentional movement improves metabolism and longevityIf you're feeling frustrated that what used to work no longer does, this episode will help you understand how to move in a way that supports your hormones — not fights them.Subscribe to Confidently Balance Your Hormones for weekly conversations on functional health, metabolism, stress resilience, and thriving in midlife.Medical Disclaimer:This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your health routine.

Fertility is something many couples struggle with quietly.   Stress. Long work hours. Financial pressure. Environmental toxins.   Birth rates are dropping worldwide, and more couples are facing "unexplained infertility."   In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Marina, OB-GYN, to talk about what's really happening — and what couples can actually control.   We cover:   Why global fertility rates are falling The real impact of stress on conception The connection between sleep and fertility How diet affects both egg and sperm health The overlooked role of endocrine-disrupting chemicals Why infertility is a couple's issue — not just a women's issue IVF realities and success rates Functional medicine vs. conventional medicine approaches Practical ways to reduce toxin exposure Simple habits that can improve fertility outcomes     Dr. Marina shares real examples from her 35 years in practice — including how small changes made a major difference for patients struggling to conceive.   We also discuss:   The Environmental Working Group (EWG) resources Heart rate variability and stress reduction tools Why sperm counts have declined over 50% in two decades How lifestyle habits compound over time     This is not just about pregnancy. It's about health, long-term wellness, and the future of society.   If you or someone you love is thinking about starting a family—or struggling to grow one—this episode offers clarity and practical insight.      

Have you ever had unwavering faith, prayed with everything inside of you, and still watched God not come through the way you believed He would?

Description: In this first deep dive, Peter N. Schlegel joins host Catherine Glass to unpack non-obstructive azoospermia. Explore genetic discoveries, hormonal optimisation, age-related factors, and practical strategies that maximise sperm retrieval and conception potential. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:13 – Non-obstructive azoospermia 02:01 – Genetics of infertility 04:01 – Aromatase inhibitors 06:05 – Sperm quality 07:27 – Multiple semen samples 10:27 – Infertility globally

Many of us grow up with a dream to become a mom and a fear that it may not happen. Join Kenna and Sara as they walk through Sara's infertility journey and how that's ultimately led her and her husband to adopt.

 After receiving their infertility diagnosis the day before Christmas Eve, Brett and Erika Hamoen faced a year of deep grieving before discovering embryo adoption through the NEDC. In this heartfelt conversation, they discuss the challenges of being a Canadian couple pursuing embryo adoption, the hostile adoption training environment they avoided, and the incredible moment when Eloise entered the world. 

Fatherhood lessons from a real conversation with James Fouché. We talk about defining a “good day,” fatherhood across countries, breaking cycles, infertility and marriage pressure, choosing presence, the “white noise” season of parenting, being a “silly daddy,” and a message to dads who feel like quitting.Timestamps00:00 Intro00:37 “A good day” as a dad (simple definition of success)01:11 Fatherhood has no time zone04:02 Childhood story + breaking cycles06:41 Infertility journey + marriage pressure09:53 Kids arrive fast + adjusting priorities12:34 “I'm not going to be an absent dad” (choosing presence)18:00 The “white noise” season of parenting21:32 Parenting as a team (marriage + roles)24:28 “Silly daddy” and connection at home29:31 The percentages shift in different seasons of life36:14 Letting your kids see rejection and resilience57:36 Message to dads: don't give up59:34 Wrap upConnect with James FouchéInstagram: @jamesfouchewritesX (Twitter): @jamesfouche49LinkedIn: James Fouché (search “James Fouché Writes”)Website: jamesfouche.comIf this episode helped you, subscribe, share with a dad, and leave a quick review.

Infertility and pregnancy loss are far more common than we talk about — and far more isolating than most couples expect.Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingIn this deeply vulnerable episode, we sit down with Alan and Kasey to explore their journey through:Multiple miscarriagesAn ectopic pregnancy that nearly turned fatalPTSD and trauma after medical emergencyThe invisible grief of infertilityAnd the complicated question: What does our future look like now?What makes their story powerful isn't just the pain — it's how they stayed connected through it.They share: ✔️ How to stay emotionally close when you're grieving differently ✔️ Why proximity matters more than “fixing it” ✔️ The biggest mistake couples make during infertility ✔️ How trauma can impact intimacy ✔️ Why grief isn't linear — and what that means for your relationship ✔️ How to avoid drifting apart during long-term lossIf you or someone you love has experienced miscarriage, infertility, or pregnancy loss, this episode will make you feel less alone.Because infertility may be common — but it's often invisible.And you don't have to navigate it alone.Learn More About Relationship RenovationOrder Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunitySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

“Urgency is a sensation before it is a decision.” Topics Discussed How overdoing is driven by time pressure, not motivation The nervous system pattern underneath fertility burnout Why urgency feels responsible even when it is dysregulating The illusion of being behind and how it speeds up the body Stillness as a threat when worthiness is tied to action Noticing sensations instead of fighting stories Why slowing down is not indulgent on a fertility journey “Movement feels like progress even when nothing is actually changing.” Hello Beautiful, Monica here supporting you to become the conscious mama you were born to be… This episode is for the woman who cannot seem to stop doing. Reading. Researching. Optimizing. Fixing. The one who tells herself she will rest once this works. The one whose body feels like it is constantly racing an invisible clock. And somehow, slowing down feels irresponsible. We are not talking about ambition here. We are talking about urgency. The kind that comes from the story that you are behind. That you should have started earlier. That age is the most important factor. That time is running out. And when that story takes over, the nervous system speeds up, the breath shortens, and overdoing feels like the only option. This episode is not about stopping or fixing anything. It is about noticing what happens in your body when the rush appears. Because when urgency stops running the show, something very different becomes possible. And next week, we go even deeper into why overdoing is often an avoidance of stillness itself. Timestamps 01:25 Why overdoing did not start with fertility 02:23 Time pressure and the illusion of being behind 03:48 Movement that feels like progress but is not 04:17 Urgency as a body sensation, not a truth 05:46 What your future child will actually thank you for Full Transcript Over on the Blog: https://www.findingfertility.co/blog/Overdoing,%20Urgency%20&%20the%20Illusion%20of%20Running%20Out%20of%20Time%20During%20Infertility%20&%20IVF Let's Do This Together

This week Erin and Sara catch up and discuss Sara's birthday, Erin's writing process, “regular jobs,” and more.Executive Producers: Erin Foster, Sara Foster, and Allison BresnickAssociate Producers: Montana McBirney and Olivia GeffnerAudio Engineer: Josh WindischProduced by Wishbone ProductionProduced by Dear MediaThis episode is sponsored by:Bon Charge (boncharge.com/foster)Fatty 15 (fatty15.com/foster)Minnow (shopminnow.com PROMO CODE: MEETMINNOW15)Ritual (ritual.com/foster)Hers (forhers.com)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

I have so many friends struggling with infertility or getting different fertility information from their doctors—”freeze your eggs, don't freeze your eggs, it's okay that you don't get your period, it's a warning sign”. Then I read Dr. Natalie Crawford's amazing book, The Fertility Formula, and I found out that there's a HUGE underlying cause of infertility that I've never heard anyone talk about.  So today, I'm fortunate to have on Dr. Natalie Crawford, a world renowned fertility doctor, a double board certified OBGYN, and author of The Fertility Formula, to clear things up. We're talking about exactly what to do in your 20s, 30s, and 40s for your fertility. And heads up—even if you don't want kids, your fertility is incredibly important for your overall health.  Whether you're trying to put yourself in the best possible position for the future you want, or you're trying to solve a problem, this episode is going to help, and you're going to get information you won't hear anywhere else.

 Fertility Docs Uncensored is hosted by Dr. Carrie Bedient from the Fertility Center of Las Vegas, Dr. Susan Hudson from Texas Fertility Center, and Dr. Abby Eblen from Nashville Fertility Center. In this episode, we discuss everything patients should know when preparing for a frozen embryo transfer (FET). From what to do the day before to how the procedure is performed, we cover the steps to help make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. We answer all of your questions about what to do before, during, and after the procedure. What should you do to prepare before coming in for a frozen embryo transfer? Why is staying well hydrated the day before so important? Which routine medications should you continue, including those for high blood pressure, diabetes, or thyroid conditions? What types of clothing are recommended for comfort during the procedure? What happens when you first arrive at the clinic? Why is a full bladder necessary for the transfer, and what happens if it is too full? How is the embryo transfer procedure performed, and how is the catheter prepared and loaded? What should you expect immediately after the procedure? How soon can you get up, use the restroom, and go home? What activities can you resume that day, and are there any restrictions? Understanding these steps helps reduce anxiety and improve the overall experience of a frozen embryo transfer. 

Send a textIn this episode of Never Been Sicker, Michael Rubino talks with Dr. Alex, a chiropractor who approaches chronic symptoms through immune response, nervous system function, nutrition, and environmental triggers. They unpack common root causes behind headaches, brain fog, fatigue, hormone issues, and histamine imbalance, plus why so many people are told “your labs look normal” while still feeling awful.They also explore how mold exposure can affect different people in the same home in completely different ways, why fixing the environment is often step one, and how detox should start with foundational pathways like digestion, hydration, sweating, and lymphatic support. Dr. Alex shares how he uses testing to personalize protocols and why there should always be a plan, not just a prescription.If you are dealing with chronic symptoms, suspected mold exposure, histamine issues, or fertility concerns, this conversation will help you understand what to look at next.00:00 Intro: Michael welcomes Dr. Alex00:30 Dr. Alex background: pain, spine, neuro issues, immune response01:30 Why people seek help and why symptom chasing fails02:10 Headaches: structural causes vs histamine and hormones03:00 Histamine explained in simple terms and why it matters04:20 Why Dr. Alex moved into a functional approach05:30 Chronic inflammation from “healthy” foods and hidden triggers07:10 “Test, do not guess” for the body and the home09:00 Never Been Sicker: rising prescriptions and chronic illness10:10 Why chiropractors do not prescribe and the herbal foundation11:20 “Where is the plan to get people off meds?”13:00 No quick fixes: the effort required to actually heal15:20 Nutrition confusion and why bio individuality wins16:30 Same house, different symptoms: immune response differences19:20 Environmental toxins are involved for most patients21:00 Michael explains hidden mold drivers and building science basics23:00 Why you cannot heal fully while still living in exposure24:05 Infertility, hormones, and mold disruption26:00 Using the Dust Test and pairing it with body testing28:00 How Dr. Alex realized mold was part of stubborn cases31:15 Biggest lie: “You'll be on meds for life” and “labs are normal”36:00 Care matters: rushed appointments vs real root cause time38:30 Detox foundations: lymph, hydration, movement, sweating40:45 Why random binders can backfire if pathways are blocked43:00 Controversies: normalizing toxins, fluoride, root canals45:00 Where to find Dr. Alex and his practice-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Your metabolism isn't about how fast you burn calories. It's about how well your cells create energy. And when cellular metabolism slows down, everything slows down — including ovulation. In today's episode, we're breaking down the 3 key markers we use inside fertility recovery to assess metabolic health: Your metabolic type (via HTMA) Your basal body temperature (BBT) Your full thyroid panel (not just TSH) Because when we support metabolism at the cellular level — whole body healing becomes possible again, and this is what restores your fertility. If you're ready for personalized support, there are 2 spots left in Premier Period Recovery for Fertility this month. Apply HERE.

Is infertility becoming a global epidemic—and are we asking the wrong questions about fertility?     In this eye-opening conversation, Lisa sits down with internationally recognized fertility expert Dr. Gabriela Rosa to unpack the real data behind infertility rates, IVF success statistics, and the rising cost of getting pregnant. Dr. Rosa explains why fertility is a "team sport," how male factor infertility contributes more than most couples realize, and why IVF often bypasses the true root cause.     They also dive into PCOS, insulin resistance, weight training, Ozempic, environmental toxins, and the powerful mindset shift of "act pregnant now to get pregnant later." If you're struggling to conceive—or simply want to optimize your fertility—this episode delivers practical, empowering guidance grounded in science.    

In this empowering episode of Confidently Balance Your Hormones, Dee Davidson sits down with Ashley Selman — former NCAA Track & Field Champion, leading fitness trainer, and founder of SELI Strength — to explore why muscle is one of the most powerful longevity and hormone-support tools available to women in midlife.Ashley is a highly respected coach in Northern California whose clients have ranged from world-class Olympic athletes and elite collegiate track & field teams to everyday women seeking more strength, energy, and vitality. For nearly two decades, she owned the award-winning Evolution Trainers in Mountain View, California — a 14,000 sq ft private personal training and wellness facility. Today, she is focused on harnessing the most effective longevity strategies to help clients rewrite the narrative of aging.In this conversation, Dee and Ashley unpack:✔ Why strength training is essential for hormone balance in perimenopause and beyond✔ How muscle supports metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and body composition✔ The connection between lifting weights and nervous system resilience✔ Why endless cardio may be working against your hormones✔ How to age powerfully instead of fearfully✔ The mindset shift required to reclaim confidence in your bodyAs estrogen shifts and stress increases in midlife, many women feel like their bodies have turned against them. Ashley explains why the solution isn't restriction — it's rebuilding strength.This episode is about more than aesthetics. It's about longevity, vitality, bone health, mental clarity, and stepping into the strongest version of yourself — physically and emotionally.If you've been navigating stubborn weight gain, fatigue, anxiety, or feeling disconnected from your body, this episode will change how you think about movement and aging.

In this episode, I'm answering your questions — the real ones. The ones you sent me quietly on Instagram. The ones that sit heavy in your chest at 2am. We're talking about: – Have I actually found joy again… without constantly thinking my baby should be here? – How to handle not getting grace from the people around us – What to do when you feel like your body failed you – Navigating strained relationships after stillbirth – Trying to conceive again (TTC) and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it – Regrets about hospital decisions and the “what ifs” that won't let go – Pregnancy after loss (PAL) and living in two realities at once – The anger that comes with feeling like you have to “start over” Nothing is off limits here. I share what this has looked like in my own life — the messy middle, the guilt, the growth, the perspective shifts that took years to land. I don't offer perfect answers, because there aren't any. But I do offer honesty. If you've ever wondered whether joy is allowed… If you've wrestled with resentment toward your body… If your relationships changed and you don't recognize them anymore… If you're TTC again while terrified… This episode is for you. You're not dramatic. You're not broken. You're grieving. And I'm right here with you. ❤️‍

What does it really take to build a family when the path isn't traditional—and no one gives you a roadmap? In this conversation you'll get to meet my friend who I recently reunited with at a high school reunion. Toby shares about the personal journey he and his husband took to become parents.If you've ever assumed that becoming a parent is just a series of medical steps and legal checkboxes, you might be overlooking the emotional weight, trust, and intentionality required—especially for same-sex couples navigating IVF and surrogacy.In this episode, we unpack the parts people don't always talk about: the vulnerability of choosing an egg donor, the leap of faith in finding a surrogate, and the emotional complexity that unfolds long after the paperwork is signed. My long time friend, Toby shares how leaning into support, honesty, and empathy became the real foundation of parenthood—and how that journey reshaped not just his family, but the way he shows up for his patients. Dr. Toby is a medical doctor and Adjunct Clinical Instructor at Stanford Children's Health in California. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER:· What the IVF and surrogacy process actually looks like behind the scenes· How intentional decision-making plays a role in building a family through nontraditional paths· The emotional and legal challenges same-sex couples face—and how to navigate them· How becoming a parent transformed Toby's perspective on empathy, genetics, and patient careThis is a heartfelt conversation about love, trust, and redefining what it means to create a family—on your own terms.Connect with Toby here: https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/doctor/tobias-g-hays.htmlCONNECT with Lisa & get IVF COACHING SUPPORT Download IVF Mindset Shift Guide https://ivfmanifestingamiracle.myflodesk.com BOOK a complimentary DISCOVERY CALL BOOK: ‘HOLD ON, BABY! A Soulful Guide to Navigating the Ups & Downs of Infertility & IVF.'INSTAGRAMWATCH on YOUTUBELISTEN to the PODCAST on Apple and Spotify:**Please Rate the show & Subscribe! THANK YOU so much for your Reviews of the podcast!Music Credit (Closing Song) by Sam Costigan. Follow her on Spotify and IG

“If my worth depends on effort, then rest will always feel unsafe.” Topics Discussed Overdoing as identity, not behavior Why slowing down can feel threatening instead of nourishing The nervous system cost of being the capable one How worth becomes tangled with productivity Fertility burnout and emotional depletion Noticing patterns without fixing or correcting them Soft awareness as a form of subconscious healing “Overdoing isn't just a habit for many women. It's an identity.” Hello Beautiful, Monica here supporting you to become the conscious mama you were born to be… This episode goes somewhere tender. Not into doing less. Not into fixing anything. But into the moment where slowing down feels uncomfortable because of who you might be without the doing. For so many women, overdoing is not a strategy. It is an identity. Being reliable. Being capable. Being the one who holds it all together. And when that identity carries worth, rest does not feel like relief. It feels threatening. Not because things will fall apart, but because a quiet question surfaces underneath it all. Who am I if I stop? This is not a week for correcting yourself. It is a week for noticing. The guilt. The unease. The urge to justify your time. And what might soften if your worth no longer depended on effort. Listen in and let this one land gently. Something shifts when you see it clearly. Timestamps 01:06 Why slowing down can feel threatening, not restful 02:03 Overdoing as identity and where worth gets tangled 02:33 The quiet fear underneath constant productivity 03:32 How effort-based worth leads to depletion 04:31 When doing becomes a choice instead of a compulsion Full Transcript Over on the Blog: https://www.findingfertility.co/blog/Fertility%20Burnout%20and%20the%20Identity%20of%20Overdoing%20Everything%20During%20Infertility%20&%20IVF  Let's Do This Together

If you're single, in a relationship, or even a situationship, this episode is for you. This week, Erin and Sara sit down with relationship expert Jillian Turecki. They discuss rejection, the importance of being comfortable being single, the process of healing, and much more.Executive Producers: Erin Foster, Sara Foster, and Allison BresnickAssociate Producers: Montana McBirney and Olivia GeffnerAudio Engineer: Josh WindischProduced by Wishbone ProductionProduced by Dear MediaThis episode is sponsored by:AirbnbHers (forhers.com)Qualia Life Sciences (qualialife.com/WFP PROMO CODE WFP)Caraway (carawayhome.com/foster10)Smartypants See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's episode, we share a powerful community birth story shaped by resilience, intuition, and hope. It's a journey through infertility that ultimately leads to the arrival of a miracle baby. This conversation explores trusting your inner voice, learning to advocate for yourself, building the right support team, and surrendering to the process when the path forward feels uncertain. On this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies I am joined by Elizabeth Sullivan. Elizabeth is a Wealth Management Advisor and partner in The Mann Sullivan Group at Merrill Lynch where she focuses on helping individuals and families build, preserve, and transfer their wealth by taking a holistic approach to their financial lives. She particularly focuses on working with women in transition through other major life events. Get the most out of each episode by checking out the show notes with links, resources and other related podcasts at: ⁠prenatalyogacenter.com⁠ Don't forget to grab your FREE guide, 5 Simple Solutions to the Most Common Pregnancy Pains ⁠HERE⁠  If you love what you've been listening to, please leave a rating and review! ⁠Yoga| Birth|Babies (Apple) ⁠or on ⁠Spotify!⁠ To connect with Deb and the PYC Community:  Instagram & Facebook: @prenatalyogacenter Youtube: ⁠Prenatal Yoga Center Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if PCOS, “hormone imbalance,” and infertility aren't problems to micromanage but signals that your metabolism needs safety and rhythm? We open the hood on the hormonal hierarchy—how insulin and cortisol set the stage for estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone—and explain why symptom chasing, birth control, and even well-meaning supplement stacks often miss the mark. By restoring nighttime repair, stabilizing glucose, and fixing circadian cues, you unlock the body's built-in programs for ovulation, progesterone production, and healthy sperm.We get specific. PCOS rates are surging and so are obesity and insulin resistance, yet most plans start at the bottom of the ladder with sex hormones. We trace the cascade: insulin stimulates thecal cells, androgens rise, ovulation stalls, cortisol steps in, and progesterone sinks. Then we zoom out to the male side—sperm counts have halved in 40 years, TRT is rising in young men, and estrogenic pressure from body fat, seed oils, alcohol, plastics, and pesticides collides with disrupted sleep and light exposure. The result is poorer sperm quality, higher miscarriage risk, and more strain on couples who feel they're “doing everything right.”The path forward is practical and hopeful. Anchor your day with sunlight and a consistent wake time. Eat whole foods that match your individual carb tolerance, finish dinner earlier, and aim for flat overnight glucose so melatonin and autophagy can run repairs. Walk after meals, then layer in strength training to expand glucose sinks and support testosterone. Reduce blue light at night, clear seed oils and alcohol, sweat often, and create EMF space in your bedroom. If you test, use tools that capture patterns—like DUTCH—so you can see cortisol dynamics, sex hormone balance, and detox capacity rather than a single snapshot.Whether you're navigating PCOS, preparing to conceive, or rebuilding energy, treating hormones as a system led by metabolism changes everything. Subscribe for more root-cause insights, share this with someone who needs a hopeful reframe, and leave a review to help others find the show.To get notified as soon as groups open up and other updates sign up/subscribe here:https://stacy-baker.mykajabi.com/opt-in-9cffc5f4-f006-4adb-a0a7-6c33a0698b4bResources mentioned:Ra Optics (Code DRSTACYND) blue light blockersHigher Dose (my FAV sauna blanket with low to no EMF) code DRSTACYCGM (Code DRSTACY and DRSTACYAPP for app only)Structured/Living Water *code DRSTACYSpring Aqua (my FAV water system) To work one-on-one with me, you can apply HERE!For more from me, follow me on IG @dr.stacy.ndThis information is just that; information only - not to be taken as medical advice. Please contact your primary care before changing anything to your routine. This information is not mean to diagnose, treat, or cure disease.

In this week's episode I have a chat with Sydney about ways to optimize fertility for the Christian couples using nutrition, functional medicine, mineral balancing and more!Sydney is a fertility and pregnancy nutrition practitioner that works with women to improve hormone balance, health and fertility through nutrition counseling, functional lab testing, HTMA (hair tissue mineral analysis) testing and targeted supplementation. She shares here about her own health challenges that lead her to do the work that she is doing now. She also shares about her journey into the Christian faith and how she weaves her faith and prayer into her work with women on a fertility journey as well.Mentioned in this episode:Walking through Infertility, Matthew ArboBody Bio ElectrolytesConnect with Sydney:https://www.instagram.com/playfulplatefulFree ConsultConnect with Holly:https://www.instagram.com/rosebud_wellness/Free Consult

 Fertility Docs Uncensored is hosted by Dr. Carrie Bedient from the Fertility Center of Las Vegas, Dr. Susan Hudson from Texas Fertility Center, and Dr. Abby Eblen from Nashville Fertility Center. In this episode, we discuss frequently asked questions such as whether birth control pills affect fertility, whether IVF is painful, and whether anyone can safely carry a pregnancy. We cover conceiving with irregular menstrual cycles and what lifestyle factors, including alcohol, caffeine, and marijuana use, may impact fertility. We also explore complementary therapies such as acupuncture and review which supplements are helpful and which are unnecessary. We address IVF success rates, intrauterine insemination (IUI), and when each treatment option may be appropriate. Male factor infertility topics, including low sperm count and erectile dysfunction, are also discussed, along with how they can influence fertility treatment planning. Topics and questions covered in this episode include: Do birth control pills affect fertility? Does IVF hurt? Can anyone carry a pregnancy? Can I get pregnant with irregular cycles? Can I drink alcohol or coffee while trying to conceive? Can I use marijuana when trying to conceive? Does acupuncture improve fertility? What fertility supplements should I take? What are IVF success rates? Can I do IUI? How does low sperm count affect fertility? How does erectile dysfunction impact conception? This podcast was sponsored by IVF Florida. 

*In this episode, we talk about abortion, pregnancy reduction, potential loss of an unborn baby, and infertility. If you have an aversion or are sensitive to any of these topics, we recommend skipping this episode.How do we approach God with this?Has my view of God changed because of this hardship?Can I still trust God? Will I trust Him?If this doesn't go well, will I resent Him?These are all questions that Mauricio and Christin Rosa faced when they received the news of a crisis in their pregnancy and learned that they were at risk of losing their unborn son. When doctors advised them to consider a “reduction” in their twin pregnancy, their hearts broke for their child and the hardships he would have to endure if he survived. But they held steadfast to their belief and trusted God with the outcome.This story touches our hearts deeply, and we are so grateful that Mauricio and Christin were kind enough to share it with us personally on the The Growing Home Together Podcast. This courageous couple is here to encourage us and to speak about how that difficult season of life impacted their faith. Christin is a teacher, author, prayer leader, and pro-life advocate. She has written a powerful new book called Saving Nate: Choosing Life after a Devastating Prenatal Diagnosis.In this episode, Mauricio and Christin share:The importance of guarding your heart against bitternessEncouragement for the “deep valleys” of lifeHow to go to God with your worriesAnd much more!We hope you enjoy this conversation!Show Notes: growinghometogether.com/mauricio-christin-rosa-123

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doctors of Physical Therapy Doc Jen and Dr. Dom interview Gabriela Rosa, a Harvard-awarded fertility specialist and founder of the Rosa Institute. Gabriela shares her journey into fertility work, the development of her evidence-based Fertile Method, and her dedication to individualized, root-cause-focused care for those experiencing fertility struggles and recurrent miscarriage. The conversation delves into the limitations of IVF, common fertility myths, the importance of lifestyle changes, and the need for personalized diagnosis in women's health. Gabriela also provides practical resources and underscores the value of patience, consistency, and hope for those navigating fertility struggles. Throughout the discussion, she highlights the significance of addressing fertility struggles within the broader context of women's health, emphasizing compassion and a holistic approach.LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!Stay hydrated and energized with LMNT electrolytes—sodium, potassium, and magnesium for brain and body. It's our favorite micro nutrition hack to get those essential minerals in! Get a free gift with every purchase and try new flavors! Get your Free Gift now!Manukora Manuka Honey:During the winter months, I've been reaching for Manukora Manuka Honey daily. It's rich, creamy, and contains 3x more antioxidants and prebiotics than regular honey, plus MGO for added support. I take one spoonful each morning. Try it at https://manukora.com/docjen to save up to 31% plus $25 in free gifts.For full show notes and resources visit https://jen.health/podcast/447Gabriela's Resources:Fertility Breakthrough WebsiteFertility Breakthrough on IGFertility Breakthrough on YTFertility Breakthrough on FBGabriela on IGWe think you'll love:Free Week of Jen HealthJen's InstagramYouTube Channel Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this powerful episode of the Confidently Balance Your Hormones podcast, host Dee Davidson, FDN-P, unpacks the deeper connection between clear thinking, energy, and physical health with special guest Dr. Sharnael Wolverton Sehon.Dr. Sharnael—naturopathic doctor, quantum scientist, theologian, and author of The Science of Miracles: RE-Membering the Frequency of Love—shares her personal journey through significant health challenges and how it led her to a global mission of conscious, whole-person healing.Together, we explore how thoughts, emotions, beliefs, and daily choices directly influence hormones, symptoms, and overall vitality. We discuss how even seemingly small inputs—like chronic stress, subconscious beliefs, or casual alcohol consumption—can cloud our energy, dull mental clarity, and impact decision-making in ways we don't always connect to our health.Dr. Sharnael unpacks the role of energy, frequency, and intention in healing and explains how reconnecting with your body's innate wisdom can lead to more aligned choices, clearer thinking, and sustainable well-being. You'll walk away with practical tools to raise your vibration, improve mind-body awareness, and support healing from the inside out.Having worked with over 15,000 clients across 51 countries, Dr. Sharnael brings a unique blend of science, spirituality, and lived experience that will expand how you think about hormones, health, and what's truly possible for your body.This is an inspiring conversation for anyone ready to move beyond symptom management and step into greater clarity, consciousness, and whole-health alignment.Connect with Dr. Sharnael:https://www.facebook.com/sharnael.wolvertonConnect with Dee Davidson, FDNP:https://www.confidentlyloveyourself.com/aboutFollow Dee Davidson for more holistic health goodies:https://www.instagram.com/confidently_love_yourself/Medical DisclaimerThe information shared in this podcast episode is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It does not replace medical advice from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine or starting new wellness practices. The views expressed are based on personal and professional experience in functional and holistic health.

Send a textThe grief of the fertility journey can take so much from you. Whether you have been through endless cycles of trying to conceive, rounds of IVF that haven't been successful or experienced the devastation of pregnancy loss, what we go through on the fertility journey stays with you.And as we're going to discuss today...this grief also stays deep within your body. We often think that getting that positive pregnancy test or finally holding our baby in our arms will solve everything we've been through on the fertility journey, but as today's guest is going to show us, healing is so much more complicated than this.By the time you finish listening, you'll find out:Priyanka's journey through loss and the story of her daughter LilyHow trauma gets "stuck" within your body through infertility and loss and what you can do to physically release thisHow trauma impacts your overall health and can shape your whole existenceThe one incredible practice that Priyanka found that has helped her healing journey more than anythingYou can connect with Priyanka via her Instagram and WebsiteThanks for being here on Your Journey to Fertility! When you finish listening, I'd love to hear your biggest takeaway from today's episode. Take a screenshot of you listening on your device, share it to your Instagram stories and tag me @jen.elementpilatesyoga If you're trying to conceive, I have lots of resources to support you: To grab a copy of my Free Fertility Yoga Guide, click here: To learn more about the Element Fertility Yoga Course, click here. This fertility course is a self-paced & guided way to: Regulate your nervous system Support your fertility Sync with your cycle & synchronize your hormones

After years of infertility treatments and a devastating diagnosis, Erin and Rodney walked out of their fertility doctor's office at their lowest point. But a brief mention of embryo adoption -something they'd never heard of- would eventually lead them to their twin daughters and a beautiful relationship with their donor family. Hear their honest story of grief, hope, and unexpected blessings in this episode of The Embryo Adoption Podcast.

In this episode of The Better Life, Dr. Pinkston sits down with Jaclyn Downs, MS, a certified functional genomics expert and author of Enhancing Fertility Through Functional Medicine. While many people have heard of the "MTHFR" gene, Jaclyn explains to Dr. Pinkston why that is only the tip of the iceberg. They delve into how functional genomics—the study of subtle genetic variations you can actually influence through diet and lifestyle—holds the key to solving chronic issues like infertility, anxiety, migraines, and poor detoxification. In this episode, you’ll learn: Genetics vs. Genomics: The difference between fixed mutations and "snips" (SNPs) that you can optimize with nutritional cofactors. The "Folate Trap": Why taking high doses of methylfolate can sometimes backfire if your B12 levels aren't addressed first. Beyond MTHFR: Why looking at the big picture (including pathways like glucuronidation and histamine metabolism) is vital for hormone health and longevity. Personalized Medicine: Why "automated" genetic reports often lead to "analysis paralysis" and why a customized, practitioner-led approach is essential. Environmental Triggers: How toxins, stress, and poor soil quality interact with your unique genetic blueprint. Whether you are struggling with unexplained infertility, chronic fatigue, or just want to optimize your "healthspan," this conversation provides a roadmap for using your DNA as a tool for empowerment rather than a source of fear.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

OBGYN and mom-by-IVF, Susan Caldwell, shares the full, complicated story of her decision to pursue IVF in the past and why she'd never do it now. She's honest with us as she details the physical pain and emotional turmoil she faced due to assisted reproductive technology treatments and offers the hope of an alternative--an approach she's dedicated her professional life to sharing with other women and couples desperate to grow their families.GUEST BIO: Dr. Susan Caldwell is a primary care physician specializing in women's health and a NaProTECHNOLOGY Medical Consultant practicing near New Orleans, Louisiana. Most importantly, she is a proud mama of three amazing adult children.NOTE: This episode is appropriate for all, but does include discussion of IVF, pregnancy loss, and concerns around assisted reproductive technologies.OTHER HELPFUL EPISODES:Ep. 31: The Napro Difference, with Laura Ducote, F-NP, CFCPEp. 72: Naprotechnology, with Dr. PakizEp. 99: Client Story - Anna (Infertility: Update)Ep. 106: Creighton vs. NaProTechnology - What are they?Ep. 155: "How I got pregnant when IUIs didn't work" -- Braelyn's storyEp. 163: Healthy pregnancy in 3 cycles after being told IVF was her only hope, with LorenSend us a textSupport the showOther great ways to connect with Woven Natural Fertility Care: Learn the Creighton Model System with us! Register here! Get our monthly newsletter: Get the updates! Chat about issues of fertility + faith: Substack Follow us on Instagram: @wovenfertility Watch our episodes on YouTube: @wovenfertility Love the content? The biggest gift you could give is to click a 5 star review and write why it was so meaningful! This podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Neither Woven nor its staff, nor any contributor to this podcast, makes any represe...

This week, Erin and Sara revisit one of their first solo episodes, “Sistenemies.” They answer listener questions including their best and worst habits, how to deal with stress, what the kids will be when they grow up, and more.Executive Producers: Erin Foster, Sara Foster, and Allison BresnickAssociate Producers: Montana McBirney and Olivia GeffnerAudio Engineer: Josh WindischProduced by Wishbone ProductionProduced by Dear MediaThis episode is sponsored by:Bon Charge (boncharge.com PROMO CODE: FOSTER)Purely Elizabeth (purelyelizabeth.com PROMO CODE: FOSTER)Boll & Branch (bollandbranch.com/FOSTER15) Needed (thisisneeded.com PROMO CODE: FOSTER)Puori (puori.com/FOSTER)Betterhelp (betterhelp.com/foster)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Insulin Resistance, Fertility, and Taking Your Health BackInsulin resistance doesn't just affect blood sugar — it impacts hormones, fertility, energy, and long-term health.In this episode, Tracy sits down with PA and women's health coach Chelsea Hayman to unpack how insulin resistance shows up in real life, why “normal labs” don't always tell the full story, and what clinicians and patients can do to break the cycle of crashes, cravings, and burnout.They explore fertility struggles, continuous glucose monitors, stress physiology, and practical strategies for stabilizing hormones and blood sugar — without extreme diets or unsustainable routines.Whether you're supporting patients with PCOS, infertility, fatigue, or metabolic dysfunction — or navigating this yourself — this conversation will change how you think about women's health.How insulin resistance affects fertility and hormone balanceWhy A1C can be normal — and problems still existThe “protein + fiber first” strategyHow stress worsens blood sugar regulationWhen CGMs can be helpful (even without diabetes)Small, sustainable changes that actually workWhy women must stop putting their health lastTimestamps:[2:30] Meet Chelsea Hayman[3:30] Blood Sugar and Fertility [4:45] Chelsea's Struggles with Infertility [9:00] Defining Insulin Resistance [11:00] Blood Sugar Control & Fertility Outcomes[13:00] Stress & Hormones[16:00] Implementing Lifestyle Changes [17:00] Choosing a Continuous Glucose Monitor [23:00] How to Plan Your Plate [25:00] Self Care & Meeting Your Own Basic Needs[29:00] Connect with Chelsea & Where to Find HerConnect with Chelsea: Website: www.empowerglucose.comLinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/empoweredglucose Social: @empoweredglucose at https://www.instagram.com/empoweredglucose/ Keywords: insulin resistance, blood sugar, hormone imbalance, fertility, infertility, PCOS, continuous glucose monitor, CGM, women's metabolic health, metabolic health, PA podcast, women's health, wellness, clinician wellness, hormones, gestational diabetes, insulin resistanceSPONSORS:ADVANCED PRACTICE PLANNING, LLC: advancedpracticeplanning.com/fiSIDE GIG GUIDE https://www.tracybingaman.com/gigCONNECT ⁠FREE 30-MINUTE COACHING CONSULT⁠ ⁠⁠https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/gen-call⁠ ⁠ ⁠1-ON-1 NEGOTIATION CONSULT ⁠https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/negotiate⁠⁠CONNECT WITH TRACY⁠LINKEDIN ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracybingaman/⁠⁠⁠INSTAGRAM ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mrstracybingaman/⁠⁠WEBSITE⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tracybingaman.com⁠

Struggling to get pregnant or stay pregnant with Hashimoto's? You're not imagining it—thyroid issues can quietly sabotage your chances, even when everything else seems "normal." Many women hear "unexplained infertility" or face heartbreaking losses, but the real culprit is often Hashimoto's disrupting ovulation, egg quality, and implantation through hidden pathways like elevated antibodies attacking your uterine lining. The good news? Addressing the root causes gives you a real shot at natural conception and a healthier pregnancy—without rushing to IVF. In this episode, naturopathic fertility expert Dr. Grace Charles breaks it down and shares what actually moves the needle. You'll discover: The three sneaky ways Hashimoto's blocks fertility (from prolactin spikes killing ovulation to autoimmune attacks on your endometrium raising miscarriage risk) Key postpartum red flags—like scary intrusive thoughts or anxiety that hits even when baby's sleeping—that scream "test your thyroid antibodies now" A realistic 6–8 month healing timeline to lower antibodies, optimize labs, and boost your chances of bringing home a baby Ready to stop wondering "why" and start fixing it? Hit play and listen now—you deserve answers and hope.   Connect with Dr. Grace Charles Website & free discovery call Free resource: 10 Things You Can Do Today to Improve Your Fertility   JOIN THE HEALTH WITH HASHIMOTO'S COMMUNITY Unlock your wellness journey with the free Health with Hashimoto's community! Join a supportive community that's here for you every step of the way. The Health with Hashimoto's community is on Skool: https://www.skool.com/health-with-hashimotos/about   Find all links on my resource page: https://healthwithhashimotos.com/resources/   ABOUT THE PODCAST & ESTHER: The Health with Hashimoto's podcast will help you explore the root causes of your autoimmune condition and discover holistic solutions to address your Hashimoto's thyroiditis. It is hosted by Esther Yunkin, a registered nurse, holistic health educator, and Hashimoto's warrior.   This podcast is for informational and educational purposes. Please discuss any questions or concerns with your healthcare professional. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Infertility is a treatable and curable disease, and infertility treatment needs to be more accessible and affordable to the average American. Today on Fertility Forward, we are joined by Dr. Kaylen Silverberg from the Texas Fertility Center to discuss something we haven't really touched on before: fertility legislation and the importance of advocating for our rights to start a family! Tuning in, you'll hear all about Dr. Silverberg's career, what led him to fertility legislation, how he has worked with the government, and what he sees happening in the near future in fertility policy and the impacts of these changes. We delve into why IVF needs to be covered by insurance before discussing how you can get involved in making real changes to infertility policy. We even talk about how the conversation about infertility has changed over the years. Finally, and as always, Dr. Silverberg shares what he is grateful for today. Thanks for listening!  

Our first VBAM (vaginal birth after myomectomy) was Episode 189 with Mabel back in 2022 and we are SO excited to finally be bringing you another! Maria Magdalena “Mags” Campbell joins us from Cape Town, South Africa to share her inspiring story through loss, fertility challenges, and ultimately TWO VBAM births.  With the support of Chinese medicine, acupuncture, progesterone, and a fertility coach, Mags went on to conceive her son naturally. She met with 8 doctors before finally finding a VBAM supportive provider and hospital at 32 weeks. After a successful ECV for a breech baby, she went on to have a hospital VBAM with an epidural at 9 cm at 40+1 weeks, welcoming her 3.9-kg son.Her second pregnancy came easily and felt very different. Mags prepped similarly with things like Chinese medicine and acupuncture, but leaned even more into holistic prep through breathwork, meditation, yoga, and doula support. Mags chose a hospital birth over a home birth and went on to have a euphoric, unmedicated vaginal water birth at 40+3 weeks, welcoming her 4.1-kg daughter.During her prep, Mags connected with Mabel and she hopes that her stories can bring the same inspiration that Mabel's did for her. We are also posting a new blog all about VBAM in honor of Mags' episode that you can find at www.thevbaclink.com/blog. American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology (AOGS)PubMed StudyEuropean Journal of Obstetrics & GynecologyJournal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada (JOGCScienceDirect ReviewEpisode 189 Mabel's VBAM (Vaginal Birth After Myomectomy)Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

How should we think about the infertility stories in the Bible, all but one of which end with a baby? How can we see God's providence and care for our lives as we walk this path? Today we're welcoming Elizabeth Kirk back to the podcast to continue our conversation about her book chapter on Humanae Vitae. We'll talk about:– The natural and good desire to have children.– How we can appreciate spiritual parenthood, especially in the context of marriage.– How a faithfully lived out conjugal life is always fruitful!Links:Humanae Vitae: 50 Years LaterElizabeth KirkCenter for Law & the Human Person

Let's talk about why infertility is so hard!In this episode, we look at what the Uniquely Knitted following says about why infertility is so hard. We look at why it's so difficult for Jesse and Doug, and we talk about how infertility may be uniquely hard for each person. When you can verbalize why infertility is so uniquely hard for you as an individual, you have a higher likelihood of connecting with people who can see you and meet your needs! It's an important part of building resilience during infertility. Help Make This Podcast Happen!We invite you to join the Uniquely Committed and help make this podcast happen. Learn more at uniquelyknitted.org/uniquely-committedThis podcast is produced by Uniquely Knitted.Uniquely Knitted exists to transform the experience of infertility. Our mission is to heal the traumas of infertility, miscarriage, and loss, and to end the isolation that comes with struggling to conceive. We achieve this by providing innovative, evidence-based preventative mental health support to those fighting to grow their families.Discover more at uniquelyknitted.orgSupport the show

 Fertility Docs Uncensored is hosted by Dr. Carrie Bedient from the Fertility Center of Las Vegas, Dr. Susan Hudson from Texas Fertility Center, and Dr. Abby Eblen from Nashville Fertility Center. In this episode, we explain the initial fertility workup for patients seeing a fertility specialist for the first time. This includes evaluation of the uterus, fallopian tubes, sperm, and ovarian reserve using AMH testing. We discuss how fertility physicians assess egg count and why each component of the evaluation is important. We review ovulation tracking methods, including ovulation predictor kits, and explain how they are used to properly time intercourse. Timed intercourse is discussed as a first-line fertility treatment option, including when it may be effective and when additional intervention is recommended. We also cover fertility medications such as letrozole and clomiphene citrate, used with timed intercourse or with ultrasound follicular monitoring to track egg development. The role of Ovidrel in triggering ovulation and improving timing is explained, along with its benefits. Finally, we discuss intrauterine insemination and the use of the FemVue catheter, which can help deliver sperm more effectively to a specific fallopian tube. This episode provides a comprehensive overview of fertility treatment options that do not involve IVF. This podcast was sponsored by IVF Florida. 

Many women reach their 30s and suddenly feel an invisible pressure set in. The clock gets louder. The messaging gets scarier. And fertility, something that once felt distant or optional, becomes charged with fear, urgency, and self-blame.This episode is for anyone who has ever wondered if they waited too long, if their body is betraying them, or if turning 35 means everything has suddenly changed.This is not a failure of timing.This is not a lack of effort.And it is not a fertility cliff.In this hol+ conversation, Dr. Taz sits down with double board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist Dr. Lucky Sekhon to dismantle one of the most anxiety-producing myths in women's health: that fertility suddenly collapses at 35.Dr. Lucky explains why fertility is a continuum, not a deadline, and why the panic surrounding age often does more harm than the biology itself. Using clear science and compassionate language, she breaks down the difference between egg quantity and egg quality, why egg quality cannot be directly tested, and what actually changes as women age.This episode explores why fertility struggles are increasing worldwide, even among young women, and how factors like insulin resistance, PCOS, endometriosis, inflammation, environmental toxins, and chronic stress quietly shape reproductive health long before pregnancy becomes a goal.Dr. Taz and Dr. Lucky also reframe painful and irregular periods as vital signs that should never be ignored, explain why many fertility diagnoses remain unclear, and clarify how treatments like IUI and IVF work not because the body is broken, but because human reproduction is naturally inefficient.From fear-based fertility messaging to evidence-based clarity, this conversation offers a grounding reset. If you are trying to get pregnant, thinking about egg freezing, navigating fertility anxiety, or simply want to understand your body better, this episode replaces panic with perspective and urgency with informed choice.Dr. Taz and Dr. Lucky Sekhon discuss:• Why fertility does not suddenly end at 35• The difference between egg count and egg quality• Why egg quality cannot be directly tested• The real drivers behind declining fertility rates• PCOS, endometriosis, and insulin resistance as fertility blockers• Why painful or irregular periods are red flags• What fertility treatments actually improve and what they cannot• How to approach pregnancy with clarity instead of fearAbout Dr. Lucky SekhonDr. Lucky Sekhon is a double board-certified reproductive endocrinologist, infertility specialist, and OB/GYN based in New York City. She is widely recognized for her compassionate, evidence-based approach to fertility care and her ability to translate complex reproductive science into language women can actually understand.Dr. Lucky is the author of The Lucky Egg: Understanding Your Fertility and How to Get Pregnant Now, a practical and empowering guide designed to help individuals and couples navigate fertility decisions with confidence, clarity, and realism. Her work focuses on demystifying fertility testing, treatment options, and the emotional toll of trying to conceive.In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Lucky is a trusted educator across social media and digital platforms, where she helps women move beyond fear-based fertility narratives and make informed choices aligned with their life goals.Order the BookThe Lucky Egg: Understanding Your Fertility and How to Get Pregnant NowStay Connected:Connect further to Hol+ at https://holplus.co/- Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of hol+.Follow Dr. Lucky SekhonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucky.sekhonWebsite: https://theluckyegg.com/Follow Dr. Taz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drtazmd/https://www.instagram.com/liveholplus/Subscribe to the audio podcast: https://holplus.transistor.fm/subscribeSubscribe to the video podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@DrTazMD/podcastsGet your copy of The Hormone Shift: Balance Your Body and Thrive Through Midlife and MenopauseHost & Production TeamHost: Dr. Taz; Produced by ClipGrowth.com (Producer: Pat Gostek)

This week, Erin and Sara catch up and discuss Heated Rivalry, mom friends, Erin's podcast background, the power in saying what you want, and more. Executive Producers: Erin Foster, Sara Foster, and Allison BresnickAssociate Producers: Montana McBirney and Olivia GeffnerAudio Engineer: Josh WindischProduced by Wishbone ProductionProduced by Dear MediaThis episode is sponsored by:Skims (skims.com)Bobbi Brown (bobbibrown.com PROMO CODE: SaraFoster15)LMNT (drinklmnt.com/foster)SmartPantsPurely Elizabeth (purelyelizabeth.com PROMO CODE: FOSTER)Caraway (carawayhome.com/foster10)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On today's episode, content creator and mama of three Ruby Smoot gets real about the parts of infertility and pregnancy after infertility we don't talk about enough — the mental health spiral, the obsessive thoughts, the fear, and the quiet, heavy darkness that can creep in while you're trying so hard to become a parent. In this deeply candid conversation, Ruby opens up about pregnancy after infertility while battling OCD and intrusive thoughts, navigating severe nausea called hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), and what it felt like to hold hope and despair at the same time, and how becoming pregnant didn't magically erase the mental health struggles she was carrying. Because as many of us know: having babies doesn't fix everything — you still have to heal. She also talks about getting pregnant again, and having HG a second time. Now a mom of three kiddos, Ruby reflects on what she wishes she'd known, how she got support, and why talking honestly about maternal mental health might be the most important thing we can do for each other.Follow her on IG: @rubydu91 And TikTok: ruby.duEPISODE SPONSORS: THE WORK OF ART BOOK SERIESAli's Children's Book Series about IVF, IUI and Family Building Through Assisted Reproductive Technology https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksThe latest book in the Work of ART series, “You Are a Work of ART," is for every kiddo born through ART -- and the people who love them.Order "Work of ART," "Beautiful Bird" and "You Are a Work of ART," now at https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksFERTILITY RALLYIG: @fertilityrallywww.fertilityrally.comNo one should go through infertility alone. Join the Worst Club with the Best Members at fertilityrally.com. We offer 5 to 6 support groups per week, three private Facebook groups, tons of curated IRL and virtual events, and an entire community of more than 500 women available to support you, no matter where you are in your journey.Join today at link in bio on IG @fertilityrally or at www.fertilityrally.com/membershipPHERDALIG: @pherdal_sciencePherDal is the world's first and only FDA-cleared, sterile, at-home insemination kit designed to help people build their families in the comfort of home. Created by parents who've been there, PherDal is safe, simple, and affordable—putting more options in your hands as you grow your family. Explore at PherDal.com.Go to PherDal.com today and use code INFERTILEAF for $10 off.BERRY FERTILITYIG: @berry.fertilityThe Berry Fertility app is packed with support: dozens of injection tutorials, over 100 articles, 200 FAQs, and if you still have questions, the Berry team is literally a tap away through in-app chat.Berry has a free version, and you can try Premium free for seven days. After that, it's $12.99 a month or $99 for the year.InfertileAF listeners get 30% off an annual membership with the code INFERTILEAF when you sign up at berryfertility.com or in the Berry Fertility app.Our Sponsors:* BetterHelp makes it easy to get matched online with a qualified therapist. Sign up today and get 10% off at BetterHelp.com Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/infertile-af-infertility-and-modern-family-building-through-art/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy