We all know it’s wrong, but when you see one big fat negative after another, it’s tempting to turn to Dr. Google for answers. But don’t you hit that search button. You have another option: Fertility Docs Uncensored. The nation’s leading fertility doctors have joined forces to separate fertility fact from fiction. It’s the only place you can hear fertility docs from around the country diving into the nitty-gritty of infertility. From their personal experiences as infertility patients, to what you can really expect from IVF, these doctors are covering it all (and they aren’t holding back).
Ep 337: Decoding PGTA: How Embryo Testing Improves IVF Success
In this episode, join Dr. Carrie Bedient from Fertility Center of Las Vegas and Dr. Susan Hudson from Texas Fertility Center as they explore the evolving role of Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A) in improving IVF outcomes and helping patients make more informed decisions on their fertility journey. The docs discuss how PGT-A is used to identify embryos with the highest potential for implantation, the science behind embryo genetic testing, and the complexities of interpreting mosaic embryo results. The conversation also examines the fascinating and often debated field of reproductive immunology, highlighting what current research tells us about the immune system's role in fertility and where evidence is still emerging. They break down the risks and benefits of PGT-A across different age groups, why it may be particularly valuable for women over 35 or those with recurrent pregnancy loss, and the ethical considerations surrounding embryo selection and transfer.
Ep 336: Decoding IUI: Answering Patient Questions About IUI Cycles, Timing, Trigger Shots and More
Are you exploring intrauterine insemination (IUI) to grow your family? In this episode of Fertility Docs Uncensored, hosts Dr. Carrie Bedient from The Fertility Center of Las Vegas and Dr. Susan Hudson from the Texas Fertility Center discuss key patient questions about intrauterine insemination cycles and the newer intratubal insemination cycles. In this comprehensive episode, we break down exactly how an IUI cycle works, who benefits the most, and the strict medical guidelines required for success. We dive deep into the absolute necessity of accurate cycle timing, explaining how a luteinizing hormone (LH) surge or a hCG trigger shot dictates the precise 24-to-36-hour insemination window. You will also learn the critical differences between preconception screening and IVF testing—specifically, what genetic testing can and cannot do during an IUI cycle. Finally, we look at the raw numbers. We discuss mandatory medical requirements, minimal post-wash sperm counts, and realistic IUI success rates by age to help you manage expectations on your fertility journey.
Ep 335: Untangling Blocked Tubes: Listener Questions on Tubal Testing, Anatomy, and Choosing IVF vs. Surgery
Struggling to figure out the best treatment path for blocked fallopian tubes? In this episode of Fertility Docs Uncensored , hosts Dr. Carrie Bedient from The Fertility Center of Las Vegas and Dr. Susan Hudson from the Texas Fertility Center answer critical listener questions about tubal factor infertility. Discover how modern fertility specialists evaluate tubal health through advanced testing methods like HSGs, HyCoSy, HyFoSy, or laparoscopy. The doctors look past simple blockages to explain how delicate tubal architecture, internal tissue structure, and cilia health impact natural conception. If you are weighing your reproductive options, this episode provides a clear roadmap comparing the success rates of corrective tubal surgery against moving straight to In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).
Ep 334: Building a Medical Team for Endometriosis Treatment
Tired of managing endometriosis with just pain medication? In this episode of Fertility Docs Uncensored , hosts Dr. Carrie Bedient from The Fertility Center of Las Vegas and Dr. Susan Hudson from Texas Fertility Center sit down with guest Dr. Joy Brotherton, Director of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic and Fertility Surgery, to map out how to build your ultimate multi-disciplinary treatment team. Building a collaborative medical team is essential for true root-cause healing. [ 1 ] Discover how to strategically combine diagnostic tools like the ReceptivaDx test with holistic protocols—including pelvic floor physical therapy, somatic therapy, and acupuncture—to reduce chronic inflammation, regulate your nervous system, and restore pelvic health. If you are struggling with silent endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, or infertility, this collaborative, whole-body approach offers a clear roadmap to reclaiming your quality of life.
Ep 333: Abby's Top 10 Tips for Fertility Patients
Fertility Docs Uncensored Today’s episode of 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 special episode, Abby’s Top 10 Tips for Fertility Patients, the hosts celebrate Dr. Eblen’s final episode. After years of helping patients navigate infertility and fertility treatment, Dr. Eblen shares the advice she believes can make the greatest difference for patients during their fertility journey. The discussion covers practical and emotional strategies that can help patients feel more informed, empowered, and supported. Dr. Eblen encourages patients to trust their medical team, understand their treatment plan and why it has been recommended. She also emphasizes the importance of understanding insurance coverage and financial responsibilities, which can reduce stress and help patients feel more prepared as treatment progresses. Other key tips include being patient and kind with the fertility team, practicing resilience when facing setbacks, seeking support from family, friends, or a mental health professional, and using mindfulness techniques to help manage anxiety. The hosts also discuss why patients should avoid putting their lives on hold during treatment, continue pursuing activities that bring them joy, and resist comparing their fertility journey to those of others. Most importantly, Dr. Eblen encourages patients to be brave, remain open-minded, and consider all available options as they work toward building their families. This heartfelt episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and practical guidance for anyone navigating infertility. This episode is sponsored by IVF Florida.
Ep 332: Understanding Decreased Ovarian Reserve
Fertility Docs Uncensored Today’s episode of 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, Understanding Decreased Ovarian Reserve, the doctors take a deep dive into what decreased ovarian reserve means and how it can impact fertility treatment and family-building decisions. The episode begins with a discussion of how ovarian reserve is evaluated and why several different tests are used together to provide a more complete picture. The docs explain the roles of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol levels, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), and antral follicle count (AFC), and how these factors interact in assessing a woman’s remaining egg supply. The hosts then define decreased ovarian reserve and discuss factors that may increase a woman’s risk, including smoking, prior chemotherapy exposure, and inherited conditions such as Fragile X premutation's. The conversation also focuses on treatment options and why fertility specialists often recommend a more proactive approach for patients with decreased ovarian reserve. The doctors explain that a lower egg count does not always mean poor egg quality, particularly in younger women, but it can mean that time is an important factor. They review treatment strategies ranging from ovulation induction and intrauterine insemination (IUI) to in vitro fertilization (IVF), and discuss realistic expectations for IVF outcomes. While patients with decreased ovarian reserve may produce fewer eggs during treatment, many can still achieve successful pregnancies with appropriate care and individualized treatment plans. This episode is sponsored by IVF Florida.
Ep 331: Ep 331: Lining Up for Success: Endometrium Questions Answered
Fertility Docs Uncensored Today’s episode of 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 are joined by Dr. Amy Harris, reproductive endocrinologist at Shady Grove Fertility in Colorado Springs, for a listener-question episode focused on the uterus and endometrium. In this episode, we tackle some of the most common and challenging questions surrounding the uterine lining and embryo transfer. Dr. Amy Harris joins us to discuss what she would do for a patient with fluid in the endometrial cavity, including possible causes, recommended evaluation, and treatment options. We review why fluid often resolves after progesterone exposure, when aspiration before embryo transfer may be considered, and how different stimulation protocols can impact outcomes. We discuss recurrent implantation failure after the transfer of multiple euploid embryos in the setting of a thin endometrium. We discuss potential causes of a thinning uterine lining, including hormonal abnormalities, hypothalamic amenorrhea, and Asherman syndrome. Strategies such as changing endometrial preparation protocols, reassessing thyroid and prolactin levels, and allowing the uterus time to recover without medication exposure. We review treatment options for uterine scar tissue and discuss whether programmed or modified natural frozen embryo transfer cycles may offer advantages in specific situations. Finally, we address the question of transferring two embryos at once after a prior cesarean delivery. We discuss the risks of twins and higher-order multiple pregnancies, including prematurity, neonatal intensive care admissions, pregnancy complications, and the emotional and financial impact on families. We also explore whether vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) may be an option for some patients planning future pregnancies. Can fluid in the uterus prevent embryo implantation? What causes a thin endometrial lining? How is Asherman syndrome treated? Should patients choose a programmed or modified natural transfer cycle? Is transferring two embryos ever worth the risk? Join us as we answer these important listener questions. This podcast was sponsored by US Fertility.
Ep 330: Fertility Mindset: Letting Go of Fear, Guilt, and Perfectionism
Fertility Docs Uncensored Today’s episode of 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 , welcomes Rosanne Austin, founder of the Fearlessly Fertile Podcast and creator of the Fearlessly Fertile Method. In this episode, Rosanne discusses how stress, fear, shame, perfectionism, and negative self-talk can affect women struggling with infertility. Many of her clients are highly accomplished women with demanding careers who spend so much time caring for others that they forget to care for themselves emotionally. Rosanne explains how infertility can leave women feeling guilty, ashamed, or blindsided by difficulty conceiving later in life. She helps women identify the stories they tell themselves and replace fear-based thinking with self-compassion and confidence. Rosanne also discusses her eight-week online fertility mindset coaching program, in which women meet weekly in a supportive group setting to openly discuss what they truly want for their lives and families. The program teaches communication skills, emotional resilience, practical strategies, and healthier ways to handle mistakes, stress, and uncertainty during infertility treatment. Why do successful women often struggle emotionally with infertility? How can mindset coaching help during IVF and fertility treatment? What role do fear, anxiety, guilt, and shame play in infertility? How can women learn to prioritize themselves while pursuing both career success and motherhood? Rosanne shares how women can begin saying “yes, I can” while honoring their desire to build a family. Learn more through the Fearlessly Fertile podcast, website, and YouTube channel. This podcast was sponsored by the Reproductive Science Center.
Ep 329: Coping with the Two-Week Wait After Embryo Transfer
Fertility Docs Uncensored Today’s episode of 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, the doctors are joined by reproductive therapist and IVF in Your Pocket host Alexandra Geary-Stock, LCSW/MPH , to discuss one of the most emotionally challenging parts of fertility treatment: the two-week wait for pregnancy results after the embryo transfer. Together, they explore why this period feels uniquely stressful compared to other stages of IVF and how both patients and their partners can navigate the uncertainty with practical coping strategies and emotional support. What can patients do during the two-week wait after an embryo transfer to manage anxiety and uncertainty? Why is the two-week wait often harder than waiting for egg retrieval results, embryo development, or genetic testing outcomes? Alexandra Geary-Stock shares tools, such as grounding techniques and personalized, helpful distractions, to get through this challenging time. She highlights the importance of identifying what brings comfort, whether staying busy, engaging in enjoyable activities, or practicing yoga, to reduce stress. Should you take a home pregnancy test during the two-week wait or wait for official results? The discussion explores how different approaches work for different personalities. How can partners cope with the stress of infertility and support each other effectively? This episode emphasizes vulnerability, communication, and recognizing that both partners experience anxiety. Listeners will also hear how support groups can be helpful, as well as when they may become overwhelming or counterproductive. A powerful mantra shared in this episode: “We don’t have all the answers until we have the answers.” This podcast was sponsored by the Fertility Center of Illinois-Milwaukee.
Ep 328: Planned Egg Freezing
Fertility Docs Uncensored Today’s episode of 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 , with special guest Dr. Annie Martini, a reproductive endocrinologist from the Fertility Centers of Illinois, practicing in their Milwaukee, Wisconsin office. In this episode, the doctors dive into planned oocyte cryopreservation (egg freezing) and why more women are choosing fertility preservation. What are the benefits of freezing eggs, and who should consider it? Many patients pursue this option when they are unpartnered, allowing them to preserve younger eggs that do not age. The discussion explores how egg quality changes after age 35, increasing the risk of chromosomal abnormalities and impacting success rates. How many eggs should be frozen, and what outcomes can patients expect? Often, 10–12 eggs may yield only one to three embryos, depending largely on age, and some women may need multiple cycles, especially with lower AMH or egg counts. The episode also walks through the egg freezing process step by step. What does ovarian stimulation involve, and how many monitoring visits are required? Patients typically undergo 5 to 7 visits, each requiring bloodwork and an ultrasound, before a 30-minute egg retrieval procedure. The physicians discuss risks, including ovarian torsion, and why activity restrictions, such as limiting exercise and sexual activity, are essential during stimulation. They also cover recovery expectations, the importance of having a trusted person for transport after retrieval, and how long frozen eggs can be stored. This podcast was sponsored by the Fertility Centers of Illinois at Milwaukee.
Ep 327: Speak Life: Prayers for Fertility Patients
Fertility Docs Uncensored Today’s episode of 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, the hosts welcome author Kathy DeGraw, who, along with her daughter Lauren DeBoer, wrote the book Speak Life. Kathy shares her personal journey through fertility challenges, including miscarriage and a molar pregnancy, and explains how her faith-based perspective shaped the creation of this book. Designed as a source of encouragement, the book focuses on prayer, hope, and scriptural truth, drawing from biblical stories of women who experienced infertility and ultimately found strength through faith. The discussion explores how speaking prayers out loud can provide comfort and a sense of connection during infertility, IVF, and pregnancy. What role can faith and prayer play in coping with infertility? Can structured prayer declarations help patients feel more empowered during IVF or pregnancy? The book is organized into sections that guide readers through preparing the body for pregnancy, addressing both female and male infertility, and offering continued support after conception. A unique feature includes 40 weeks of prayer declarations designed to accompany patients throughout pregnancy. Listeners will hear how Kathy’s personal experiences shaped their message and how their approach may resonate with patients seeking emotional or spiritual support alongside medical fertility care. This episode highlights the importance of addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of fertility journeys. This podcast was sponsored by IVF Florida.
Ep 326: Where Endometriosis and Surgery Intersect in IVF
Fertility Docs Uncensored Today’s episode of 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, our guest, Dr. Zoran Pavlovic of IVF Florida in Boca Raton and Jupiter, discusses the role of reproductive surgery in managing endometriosis. He takes a practical, patient-centered look at endometriosis, focusing on when surgical intervention may help improve fertility outcomes and quality of life. He discusses the goals of surgery, such as pain relief and fertility improvement. He explains how dynamic ultrasound helps determine whether pelvic structures are fixed or adherent and guides surgical planning. Other questions discussed include what types of procedures reproductive surgeons perform. Treatments include excision of endometriosis, fibroid removal, and fallopian tube surgery. What are the benefits of surgery, such as reducing pelvic pain, improving pain with intercourse, removing endometriomas, and restoring normal pelvic anatomy? What are the risks, including bleeding, scarring, and potential reduction in ovarian reserve, when removing ovarian cysts? When is surgery necessary, particularly in patients with severe, life-limiting pain? What medical management options exist, including continuous oral contraceptives, progestins, GnRH antagonists, and IUDs? Why is endometriosis considered a chronic condition requiring ongoing management? What are recurrence rates, and why do 25–40% of patients require additional treatment within two years? Finally, how do patients know when it’s time to see a reproductive surgeon? This episode offers clear, actionable guidance for managing endometriosis and preserving fertility. This episode is sponsored by IVF Florida.
Ep 325: The Influence of Nutrition and Genetics on Reproduction
Fertility Docs Uncensored Today’s episode of 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 how targeted nutrition and genetics intersect to influence reproductive health, highlighting emerging science that may change how we approach fertility optimization for both men and women. Today, we welcome Dr. Steven Zeisel, PhD, MD, founder of SNP Therapeutics and a leader in research on one-carbon metabolism and fertility. What is one-carbon metabolism and how does it affect egg and sperm quality? Which nutrients—such as folate, choline, and vitamin B12—are essential for reproductive success? How do genetic variants impact the body’s ability to produce or utilize these nutrients? We discuss the Genate test, designed to identify which genes related to nutrient metabolism are active or impaired. Why shouldn’t patients simply take all fertility supplements? Dr. Zeisel explains how excess supplementation may be unnecessary or even harmful without personalized insight. How does choline support fetal brain development and early childhood growth? What happens when men have genetic variants that impair ATP production in sperm, affecting motility and fertilization? Could targeted nutritional supplementation improve sperm function and reduce the need for IVF in some cases? We also review data showing that 9–10% of men may have these metabolic variants. This episode provides a personalized, science-based approach to fertility nutrition. This episode is sponsored by Shady Grove Fertility.
Ep 324: Emotional and Subconscious Aspects of Infertility
Fertility Docs Uncensored Today’s episode of 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 , and in this episode, they welcome Anne-Marie Pereira, a fertility and wellness therapist practicing in Portugal. She explores the emotional and subconscious aspects of infertility and how they can influence treatment experiences and outcomes. What emotional patterns are common in infertility patients? Many women are conditioned to be highly independent, making it difficult to ask for help, which can affect how they navigate fertility challenges. How can subconscious beliefs impact fertility decisions? Through techniques such as hypnotherapy, Anne-Marie helps patients uncover past experiences that may shape current behaviors, such as delaying childbearing due to early family dynamics. Why do hormonal transitions trigger emotional responses? Major hormonal shifts and fertility treatment failures can bring unresolved subconscious thoughts to the surface. What is the goal of fertility-focused therapy? Her aim is for patients to gain emotional independence within 90 days, improving both well-being and potentially fertility outcomes. How do couples process infertility differently? Women tend to be more expressive, while men may be less communicative, which can lead couples to cope separately. She emphasizes the importance of positivity, limiting negative online influences, and fostering connection. Practical tools such as brief daily meditation, simplifying routines, reconnecting with enjoyable activities like painting, and spending time in nature can help patients create a healthier emotional environment while pursuing fertility treatment. Information about her practice can be found at freeinfertility.com This episode is sponsored by Reproductive Science Center.
Ep 323: Success Rates by Age with Pregnancy
Fertility Docs Uncensored Today’s episode of 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 , they are joined by guest Dr. Michael Homer of RSC Bay Area in Los Gatos and Menlo Park. The discussion focuses on natural conception success rates compared to IUI and IVF, with a strong emphasis on the impact of age. Patients under 35 have the highest chance of conceiving naturally, while success declines with age, making early evaluation important. Patients are considered to have infertility if they have tried to conceive after unprotected intercourse for one year. The doctors discuss when you should see a fertility doctor sooner. The group highlights earlier evaluation for patients over 36, those with endometriosis, prior pelvic surgery, irregular ovulation, or a partner with low sperm count. What are realistic success rates with IUI? IUI success is largely age-based and generally brings patients close to their natural baseline but does not exceed it. Who are the best candidates for IUI? Ideal candidates include those who ovulate or respond to oral medications, have open fallopian tubes, and have a partner with adequate sperm parameters. When is IVF a better option? IVF may be more effective for patients seeking a faster path to pregnancy or those with lower chances using less aggressive treatments. Younger patients may achieve multiple embryos from one retrieval, while older patients benefit from quicker feedback and the ability to repeat cycles if needed. IVF success rates for patients under 35 are often around 65%, though many patients underestimate their chances for success. This episode is sponsored by Reproductive Science Center.
Ep 322: Answering your Questions about Pregnancy Loss
Fertility Docs Uncensored Today’s episode of 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 question-driven episode, we take a deep and thoughtful look at pregnancy loss, especially for patients who feel stuck after “normal” test results. We explore what additional evaluation options exist when standard workups don’t provide answers and discuss how thinking outside the box can uncover overlooked causes. What testing can be considered after recurrent pregnancy loss with normal results? We discuss sperm DNA fragmentation testing, uterine evaluation with saline sonogram, and when to consider less obvious causes such as tubal factor, particularly in cases of recurrent pregnancy loss of unknown location or repeated very early losses. Could some early losses represent undiagnosed tubal pregnancies? We walk through that possibility and when it should be investigated. How does endometriosis impact implantation and miscarriage risk? We review the role of the Receptiva assay and BCL6 as a marker of inflammation that may contribute to failed implantation or early pregnancy loss, particularly in IVF cycles. We also explain how IVF can shift the “tipping point” by helping identify embryos with chromosomal abnormalities, which are common due to egg-related factors and increase with age. Why does time matter more as women get older? Each miscarriage can take months to resolve, delaying future attempts and compounding age-related fertility decline. Finally, we address the emotional toll of recurrent pregnancy loss and the importance of building resilience through counseling, journaling, and support systems. This podcast was sponsored by Shady Grove Fertility.
Ep 321: All About Fertility Ultrasound
Fertility Docs Uncensored Today’s episode of 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, the hosts explain why vaginal ultrasounds are a cornerstone of fertility care, highlighting how they provide more detailed and accurate imaging than abdominal ultrasounds for evaluating reproductive anatomy and guiding treatment. The discussion reviews the use of transvaginal ultrasound in both diagnostic and therapeutic settings. The physicians describe saline infusion sonography (also called hydrosonogram) as a key test to evaluate the uterine cavity and assess whether the fallopian tubes are open, noting that tubes are typically only visible when abnormal, such as when blocked and dilated. They outline how ultrasound allows visualization of the uterus, measurement of the endometrial lining, and confirmation of a trilaminar pattern prior to embryo transfer. Structural findings such as fibroids and adenomyosis are discussed, including when fibroids may require surgical removal due to distortion of the uterine cavity or large size. The episode also explains how ultrasound is used to evaluate the ovaries, including identifying common cysts. Functional cysts such as follicles, corpus luteum cysts, and hemorrhagic corpus luteum are described as normal, benign, and self-resolving. Other cysts, including endometriomas and dermoid cysts, are reviewed with a focus on when surgical management is appropriate versus when observation is preferred to preserve ovarian reserve. The hosts also highlight how ultrasound is essential for monitoring follicle development during IVF cycles and is used in real time during egg retrieval procedures, emphasizing its central role throughout fertility treatment. This podcast was sponsored by Shady Grove Fertility.
Ep 320: How Fertility Treatment Plans are Personalized for You
Fertility Docs Uncensored Today’s episode of 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 . Today, their guest is Dr. Alex Quaas from Shady Grove Fertility in San Diego. In this episode, the group discusses how physicians develop individualized fertility treatment plans, using real-world scenarios to highlight how age, ovarian reserve, reproductive goals, and emotional considerations all shape decision-making in reproductive medicine. The discuss a 36-year-old patient with a high antral follicle count, elevated AMH, irregular cycles, and otherwise normal testing who desires two children. Dr. Quaas explores treatment options such as ovulation induction and timed intercourse as a reasonable first-line approach, while also addressing how advancing maternal age increases the risk of genetically abnormal embryos. He explains when in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be advantageous, particularly for embryo banking to support future family building. The case is then reframed to consider diminished ovarian reserve, prompting a shift toward recommending earlier IVF to maximize the likelihood of obtaining genetically normal embryos. Additional factors influencing treatment planning are reviewed, including the impact of endometriosis severity on fertility potential and how mental health, emotional resilience, and tolerance for uncertainty may guide patients toward more or less aggressive approaches. The physicians also explain how IVF protocols can be customized, including decisions around stimulation intensity, the number of eggs fertilized, and whether to pursue genetic testing. Throughout the episode, the emphasis remains on shared decision-making, in which physicians provide guidance and patients ultimately choose the path that best aligns with their goals and values. This podcast was sponsored by Shady Grove Fertility.
Ep 318: Age and Lifestyle: How They Interact
Fertility Docs Uncensored Today’s episode of 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, titled Age and Lifestyle: How They Interact, the doctors tackle one of the most common and emotionally loaded questions in fertility care: does age matter more than lifestyle when it comes to getting pregnant? The discussion starts with a clear answer—female age is the single most important predictor of fertility outcomes. While lifestyle choices absolutely matter, age plays the dominant role, especially as women move into their late 30s and early 40s. The doctors explain why maintaining a healthy body weight, avoiding alcohol, cigarettes, and marijuana, eating a Mediterranean-style diet, and exercising regularly are all recommended when trying to conceive. But how much can lifestyle really offset age related fertility decline? The episode also explores whether lifestyle changes have a bigger impact once pregnancy occurs. Why do heavier patients face higher risks of complications such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and stillbirth? And can weight loss before pregnancy reduce those risks? The doctors then address what happens in the early to mid-40s, when age often overwhelms lifestyle efforts due to declining egg number and increasing genetic abnormalities. Why do women at 42 or 43 struggle to conceive even when they are otherwise healthy? What role do egg genetics play at that point? Finally, the episode answers whether chromosomal abnormalities are driven more by age or lifestyle, and why age particularly over 35 has the greatest impact, while lifestyle has minimal influence on egg genetics. This podcast was sponsored by Fertility Centers of Illinois at Milwaukee.
Ep 319: Things You Should Know about Your Fertility Coverage
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 today’s episodes the docs talk about a subject many infertility patients ask about. We talk about the financial aspect of infertility in this episode entitled Things You Should Know About Your Fertility Coverage. The doctors explain the complexities of fertility insurance and what patients should know before starting treatment. They cover the differences between plans that offer no infertility coverage, those that cover only diagnostic testing, and those that cover certain treatments like IUI but not IVF. The discussion includes how many IUI cycles may be required before IVF is covered, the limits on coverage for IVF or third-party payers like Progyny, Maven, and Carrot, and restrictions on egg freezing or embryo creation. The doctors also highlight how high deductibles can affect out-of-pocket costs and point out that some small grants are available, usually based on need or a patient’s fertility journey. They emphasize the importance of understanding your coverage and using your fertility clinic as a resource to navigate insurance options. This podcast was sponsored by The Fertility Centers of Illinois at Milwaukee.
