Épisodes

  • Ep 292: High Hopes, Low Reserve: Making Tough Choices with Decreased Ovarian Reserve
    Sep 16 2025

    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 Fertility Docs dive into the complexities of decreased ovarian reserve and the tough decisions that come with it. What happens when only a few eggs are retrieved? When is it best to fertilize, and when might it be time to stop treatment? Our docs unpack the emotional and financial weight of multiple cycles with low yields and explain why sometimes looking at sperm health—including DNA fragmentation testing may be important. They discuss the role of growth hormone in supporting egg quality, the difficult but potentially life-changing choice of donor eggs, and strategies for dealing with dominant follicles, from luteal starts to estrogen priming. You’ll also hear insights on high AMH at age 41, unexplained infertility that turned out to be diminished reserve, chemotherapy’s impact on fertility, and alternative paths when IVF isn’t financially possible—from IUI and intratubal insemination to fertility grants. This is a must-listen episode for anyone navigating the challenging reality of decreased ovarian reserve. This podcast was sponsored by Shady Grove Fertility.

    Voir plus Voir moins
    30 min
  • Ep 291: Timing is Everything: How Docs Prepare You for Frozen Embryo Transfer
    Sep 9 2025

    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, your Fertility Docs unpack the different ways patients can be prepared for frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles—because there’s more than one path to pregnancy. From fully programmed cycles to completely natural approaches and modified natural protocols, the docs explain how each option works, what medications may be used, and the pros and cons of each. In a programmed cycle, the endometrium is carefully prepared with estrogen and then progesterone, with timing of the progesterone being critical to ensure the embryo is transferred during the ideal window of implantation. Natural cycles allow the body to take the lead, using ultrasound or ovulation kits to pinpoint ovulation and then timing progesterone and transfer accordingly. Modified natural cycles use letrozole and a trigger shot to encourage follicular growth, followed by progesterone support. While the approaches differ, success rates are similar—and the key takeaway is that there isn’t a single “right” way to prepare for FET. The best choice depends on your body, your doctor, and your unique journey. This podcast was sponsored by Shady Grove Fertility.

    Voir plus Voir moins
    37 min
  • Ep 289: Lining Up for Success: Fertility and the Endometrial Lining
    Sep 2 2025

    Fertility Docs Uncensored is back with a deep dive into the endometrium—your uterine lining and a key player in fertility. 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, this episode answers listener questions and unpacks everything you need to know about this important tissue. The docs start with uterine artery embolization and how it can impact future pregnancies—touching on risks like decreased blood flow to the baby, stillbirth, and placenta increta. They also explore different endometrial biopsies (Receptiva, ALICE, EMMA, and ERA) and how they help evaluate the lining. Endometritis and polyps are also on the table: what they mean, how often they appear, and why treatment is often recommended. The docs start with uterine artery embolization and how it can impact future pregnancies—touching on risks like decreased blood flow to the baby, stillbirth, and placenta increta. They also explore different endometrial biopsies (Receptiva, ALICE, EMMA, and ERA) and how they help evaluate the lining. Endometritis and polyps are also on the table: what they mean, how often they appear, and why treatment is often recommended. You’ll also hear about stimulation options using estrogen patches or FSH, the use of modified natural cycles, and the role of hormones like prolactin and thyroid in cycle length. Even weight changes can alter hormones and ovulation. Finally, the docs explain endometrial thickness and the relationship to frozen embryo transfer (FET) success rates. Tune in for this essential guide to all things endometrium! This podcast was sponsored by Shady Grove Fertility.

    Voir plus Voir moins
    38 min
  • Ep 289: New Perspectives: The Value of a Second Opinion
    Aug 26 2025

    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 Docs are joined by Nicole Marchetto, MD, a physician at Shady Grove Fertility Pennsylvania, Lancaster and Chesterbrook, to talk about a topic many patients quietly wonder about—when is it time to consider a second opinion?

    Seeking another perspective can feel intimidating, but Dr. Marchetto explains why most fertility doctors not only understand it but actually encourage it. A second opinion can help ensure that your treatment plan is appropriate—not outdated, not extreme, and not missing opportunities for success. Sometimes a fresh set of eyes leads to new approaches that your first doctor may not have considered.

    Far from being adversarial, second opinions often confirm that you’re on the right path—or they may reveal alternative strategies that resonate more with your goals. If recommendations differ, it may be best to follow the physician whose plan makes the most sense to you, even if that means changing practices.

    Bottom line: your journey deserves the best possible care, and getting another perspective can be an empowering step. This podcast was sponsored by Shady Grove Fertility.



    Voir plus Voir moins
    37 min
  • Ep 288: Insider Tips for Picking a Fertility Clinic
    Aug 19 2025

    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 Docs welcome Dr. Sara Reid, reproductive endocrinologist at Reproductive Science Center of the Bay Area, to talk about one of the most important steps on your fertility journey: choosing the right fertility clinic.

    With so many options available, how do you know where to start? Dr. Reid walks us through the practical ways patients can evaluate clinics—from checking the SART website for data on cycle numbers and donor egg outcomes, to considering factors like clinic size, accessibility, and whether IVF cycles are offered monthly or spaced out. We also discuss how to weigh online reviews, which can sometimes skew negative, and why word of mouth from trusted friends or family members may be one of the most reliable ways to find the right fit. Your insurance coverage may also play a big role in where you go.

    Most importantly, it’s okay to “interview” clinics—visit more than one, ask questions, and trust your instincts before making a decision. This podcast was sponsored by Reproductive Science Center of the Bay Area.

    Voir plus Voir moins
    40 min
  • Ep 287: Spermidine: The Secret Fertility Booster Hiding in Your Kitchen
    Aug 12 2025

    Join 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 for another fascinating episode of Fertility Docs Uncensored. This week, we’re joined by Leslie Kenny, a researcher who is part of the Oxford Longevity Project and Oxford Healthspan. She shares her groundbreaking research on spermidine—a natural compound made from L-Arginine and found in foods like mushrooms, peas, beans, and legumes. Leslie explains how spermidine promotes autophagy (cell renewal), improves mitochondrial health, reduces inflammation, and lowers oxidative stress, all of which are important for egg and sperm quality. She also highlights the role of gut health in producing spermidine and how fasting can boost natural levels. Leslie discusses how spermidine enhances sperm function, including its role in the acrosomal reaction, and notes it’s even present in breast milk. Oxford Healthspan has developed a supplement called Primeadine that may benefit both men and women undergoing fertility treatments. She recommends at least 1 mg of spermidine daily, with studies showing improvements after just 30 days of use.This podcast was sponsored by Reproductive Science Center of the Bay Area. Use code FERTILITYDOCS on the Primeadine website for an extra discount!


    Voir plus Voir moins
    39 min
  • Ep 286: Miss Tennessee for America: the perspective from an egg donor
    Aug 5 2025

    Join 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 for another inspiring episode of Fertility Docs Uncensored. This week, we’re joined by Alanah Rushing, current Miss Tennessee for America, who will soon compete for the national title on August 25th in Las Vegas. Alanah works in the field of infertility and uses her platform to advocate for women navigating fertility treatments. She shares her personal story of undergoing multiple egg donation cycles, including her most recent experience doing a shared egg freezing cycle. In this unique journey, half of her eggs were donated to a known intended parent, while she kept the other half for her future family. Alanah opens up about the emotional and practical aspects of the process, and writing her book Ocean Miracles, which highlights stories of women who conceived using egg donors. She also emphasizes the importance of finding a supportive doctor throughout your fertility journey. US Fertility sponsored this podcast. This episode sponsored by the Reproductive Science Center of the Bay Area.

    Voir plus Voir moins
    27 min
  • Ep 285: Fibroids: Friend or Foe?
    Jul 29 2025

    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, “Fibroids, Friend or Foe?” the docs dive into one of the most common—and often confusing—topics in reproductive medicine: uterine fibroids and their impact on fertility. They break down the different types of fibroids—submucosal, intramural, and subserosal—and explain why location is often more important than size when it comes to whether a fibroid should be removed. Fibroids that distort the uterine lining can interfere with embryo implantation by causing inflammation or friction, making pregnancy more difficult. The docs explain the surgical options for fibroid removal, including hysteroscopy (removal through the cervix), laparoscopy, and laparotomy (which address fibroids from outside the uterus). They also discuss fluid management during hysteroscopy to ensure patient safety. Beyond fertility concerns, fibroids may need to be removed if they’re causing significant bleeding or pelvic pressure. Finally, they touch on recovery and why patients may need to wait several months after surgery before attempting pregnancy. If fibroids are part of your fertility journey, this episode is a must-listen. This episode was sponsored by ReceptivaDx and Reproductive Science Center of the Bay Area.

    Voir plus Voir moins
    36 min