Trying with Dr. Sasha Hakman

What happens when a routine surgery turns into a life-threatening emergency, changing your plans for motherhood overnight? In this episode, Dr. Sasha sits down with actress Leven Rambin, known for Grey's Anatomy, The Hunger Games, and Fire Country, to discuss her deeply personal fertility journey and the surgical complication that nearly took her life. Leven opens up about stepping away from her acting career to prioritize starting a family, the realities of fertility after 35, and the devastating experience of suffering an aortic injury during laparoscopic surgery for suspected endometriosis. Together, they explore the importance of informed consent, choosing the right surgical specialist, fertility preservation, and navigating the emotional and physical challenges of trying to conceive. Through her experience, Leven hopes to empower women to ask questions, advocate for their health, and make informed decisions about their reproductive futures. In this episode, we cover: → Choosing motherhood over career: Why Leven stepped away from Fire Country after more than 20 years in Hollywood, and the difficult decisions women face when balancing professional ambitions with family planning → Fertility after 35: The realities of age-related fertility decline, why Leven wishes she had frozen her eggs earlier, and what she wants women in their late 20s and early 30s to understand about their reproductive timelines → Recognizing the symptoms of endometriosis: Leven's experience with chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, and difficulty conceiving, and why normal ultrasounds don't necessarily rule out endometriosis → A life-threatening surgical complication: How a laparoscopic procedure for suspected endometriosis resulted in an aortic injury, emergency surgery, blood transfusions, and a traumatic ICU recovery → Informed consent and surgical risks: Why understanding potential complications is essential before undergoing any procedure, and the questions patients should ask before agreeing to surgery → Choosing an endometriosis specialist: The difference between a general OB-GYN and a fellowship-trained minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon (MIGS), and why specialized surgical experience matters → Fertility preservation after medical trauma: Why Leven is pursuing embryo freezing while allowing her body to heal, and how she is navigating the fear of undergoing another medical procedure → Egg freezing vs. embryo freezing: Understanding fertility preservation options, chromosomal testing, and how many embryos may be needed when planning for multiple children → IVF success rates and fertility misinformation: How to evaluate fertility clinic success rates, why CDC and SART reporting matters, and the importance of distinguishing scientific evidence from online anecdotes → The financial and emotional cost of fertility preservation: Why access to egg freezing and IVF remains a challenge for many women, and the conversation around making reproductive healthcare more affordable → Pregnancy after a major vascular injury: Why Leven's medical team recommended delaying pregnancy, the role of maternal-fetal medicine (MFM), and the importance of specialized monitoring for high-risk pregnancies → Rebuilding trust after medical trauma: How Leven is processing her experience, finding resilience through therapy and humor, and continuing to pursue her dream of becoming a mother Follow Leven Rambin! Instagram: @levenrambin Follow Dr. Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors! Head to https://AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code DRSASHA to get up to $300 off ANY of their select AirDoctor models and receive a 3-year warranty for FREE! Why wear scrubs when you can wear FIGS? Take 15% off your first order at https://wearfigs.com with the code FIGSRX. If you’re ready to take the guesswork out of your cycle, head over to https://inito.com and enter code TRYINGPOD to get your starter pack for just $109. For a limited time, our listeners are getting a FREE full sized Mascara on their first purchase when they use code DRSASHA at https://Jonesroadbeauty.com. For a limited time, our listeners can get 40% OFF select Lola Blankets products with code TRYING at checkout. Just head to https://LolaBlankets.com and use code TRYING to get 40% OFF your order. Discover Uresta, trusted by more than 70,000 women, at https://uresta.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are IVF add-ons actually improving your chances of having a baby, or are you spending thousands of dollars on treatments that haven't been proven to work? In this solo episode, Dr. Sasha breaks down the science behind some of the most commonly offered IVF add-ons, from growth hormone and ovarian PRP to embryo transfer medications and endometrial receptivity testing. Using the latest research, clinical trials, and her own experience as both a reproductive endocrinologist and IVF patient, she explains which treatments may benefit specific patients, which lack convincing evidence, and why live birth rates, not just egg counts or positive pregnancy tests, should be the ultimate measure of success. Whether you're preparing for your first IVF cycle or navigating repeated failed treatments, this episode will help you better understand your options and have informed conversations with your fertility doctor. In this episode, we cover: → IVF add-ons explained: Why additional treatments aren't always better, how to evaluate the research behind them, and the difference between improving egg retrieval, fertilization, pregnancy, and live birth rates → Growth hormone during ovarian stimulation: How it works alongside FSH and LH, why it's sometimes used for diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) or poor ovarian response, and what the research actually shows about egg quality, embryo development, and live births → Rapamycin for ovarian aging: The emerging research on ovarian reserve, cellular aging, and the mTOR pathway, including why this treatment remains experimental despite promising preliminary findings → Ovarian PRP and ovarian rejuvenation: How platelet-rich plasma injections are intended to stimulate ovarian follicles, what the PROVA randomized controlled trial found, and why Dr. Sasha questions the cost and effectiveness of this procedure → Calcium ionophore and fertilization failure: How assisted oocyte activation works with ICSI, and why it may improve outcomes in cases of severe male factor infertility, previous poor fertilization, or globozoospermia → PICSI vs. ICSI: How hyaluronic acid binding is used to select sperm, the potential impact on miscarriage rates, and why PICSI hasn't consistently demonstrated improved live birth rates → Recurrent implantation failure: Why failed embryo transfers don't necessarily mean there's a problem with the uterus, and the role of embryo quality, chromosomal abnormalities, adenomyosis, fibroids, polyps, and uterine scar tissue → Intrauterine hCG wash and Neupogen (G-CSF): The theories behind improving endometrial receptivity, implantation, and thin uterine lining, and why evidence for improved live birth rates remains limited → Uterine PRP for thin endometrial lining: How platelet-rich plasma may support endometrial growth and implantation, why some studies are promising, and the limitations of the available evidence → IV intralipids and reproductive immunology: The theory behind suppressing natural killer cell activity, why intralipid infusions are offered for recurrent implantation failure, and Dr. Sasha's personal experience using them during her own IVF pregnancy → Corticosteroids and low-dose aspirin: When steroids are medically indicated, including Dr. Sasha's experience with partial 21-hydroxylase deficiency, and why baby aspirin may help prevent preeclampsia without necessarily improving embryo transfer success → Antihistamine protocols: Why some fertility clinics prescribe Claritin, Pepcid, and steroids as part of a "kitchen sink" protocol, and what the research shows about implantation and pregnancy outcomes → ERA, EMMA, and ALICE testing: Whether endometrial receptivity testing, microbiome analysis, and endometrial biopsies improve IVF outcomes, and why personalized embryo transfer timing hasn't consistently demonstrated a benefit → How to make informed IVF decisions: Understanding randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, Cochrane reviews, experimental treatments, and why an add-on that helps a specific subgroup of patients may not benefit everyone Additional episodes mentioned: → IVF Medication Protocols: Understanding stimulation protocols, including options for diminished ovarian reserve → Embryo Genetic Testing: Exploring the limitations of traditional preimplantation genetic testing and emerging approaches to embryo analysis Follow Dr. Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors! Why wear scrubs when you can wear FIGS? Take 15% off your first order at wearfigs.com with the code FIGSRX Go to https://olliesmile.com and enter code TRYING at checkout for 10% off your order!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mental health during infertility, pregnancy, and postpartum is often misunderstood, and knowing what's normal, what's not, and when to seek help can make all the difference. In this educational episode, Dr. Sasha sits down with Dr. Kristin Lassiter, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in reproductive psychiatry, to break down the mental health conditions women may experience throughout their reproductive years. Together, they explain the differences between anxiety, depression, OCD, postpartum baby blues, and postpartum psychosis, while addressing common misconceptions about intrusive thoughts and psychiatric medications during pregnancy. From understanding the safety of antidepressants and ADHD medications to recognizing warning signs and knowing where to turn for help, this conversation is designed to give women and their families the knowledge to make informed decisions and advocate for appropriate care. Mental health resources mentioned in this episode: Postpartum Support International: postpartum.net National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: Call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262) for free, confidential support, available 24/7. If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of postpartum psychosis or an immediate risk of harm, seek emergency medical care. Medication decisions during pregnancy should always be made with your treating healthcare professional. Do not stop or change prescribed psychiatric medications without medical guidance. Follow Dr. Kristin Lassiter! Instagram: @the.reproductive.psychiatrist Follow Dr. Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors! Go to https://olliesmile.com and enter code TRYING at checkout for 10% off your order!  For a limited time, try OneSkin with 15% off using code DRSASHA at https://oneskin.co/DRSASHA. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A birth plan can help you feel prepared for labor, but birth does not always go according to plan. In this solo episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman shares her perspective as both a board-certified OB-GYN and a mom preparing for her third delivery after IVF. She breaks down birth plans, hospital vs. home birth, induction at 39 weeks, VBAC and TOLAC, epidurals, doulas, delayed cord clamping, cord blood banking, and the interventions that may come up during labor. Most importantly, she explains why informed decision-making, flexibility, and finding a care team you trust matter more than creating the "perfect" birth experience. In this episode, we cover: → How to create a realistic birth plan, why Dr. Sasha prefers a one-page list of preferences, and why shared decision-making and informed consent should be at the center of your delivery experience → The different approaches to birth, including low-intervention and unmedicated labor, epidural-focused plans, planned induction, scheduled C-section, and TOLAC (trial of labor after cesarean) with the goal of a VBAC → Home birth vs. hospital birth, the risks Dr. Sasha considers when choosing where to deliver, who should not consider a home birth, and why she personally prioritizes delivering at a hospital with a high-level NICU → Dr. Sasha's first two birth stories, including her scheduled C-section for a breech baby, her unexpectedly fast TOLAC and vaginal delivery, and what those experiences have changed about her birth plan for baby number three → 39-week induction vs. waiting for spontaneous labor, what the ARRIVE trial found about elective induction, and why Dr. Sasha personally hopes to deliver by 39 weeks → How an induction of labor actually works, including cervical ripening, Foley balloons, Pitocin (oxytocin), medication options, membrane sweeps, dates, nipple stimulation, and why some induction medications are not appropriate after a previous C-section → Low-intervention labor, when to go to the hospital, why active labor is now generally considered around 6 centimeters, intermittent vs. continuous fetal monitoring, eating and drinking during labor, and choosing the position that feels best for you → Why Dr. Sasha has changed her perspective on doulas, how the right doula can provide continuous support and advocacy, and why your partner may need support during labor too → Epidurals and pain management, including the benefits and risks of epidural anesthesia, whether epidurals increase C-section risk, IV pain medication, spinal headaches, blood pressure changes, and why Dr. Sasha plans to request an epidural early this time → What happens during pushing and delivery, including tearing vs. episiotomy, vacuum and forceps-assisted delivery, and when interventions may help avoid an emergency C-section → What happens immediately after birth, including skin-to-skin, delayed cord clamping for 30 to 60 seconds, placenta delivery, postpartum Pitocin, breastfeeding, and monitoring for postpartum hemorrhage → Cord blood banking vs. donation, why Dr. Sasha does not personally plan to use private cord blood banking, and why she prefers donating cord blood to a public bank when possible → Dr. Sasha's birth plan for baby number three: spontaneous labor if possible, delivery by 39 weeks, early pain control, continuous fetal monitoring, openness to intervention when medically necessary, and ultimately one priority, a healthy mom and healthy baby Follow Dr. Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors! Use my link at thrivemarket.com/trying to get $20 off your first three orders —  That covers your membership fee! Sign up now before this exclusive offer ends.  Support your cells and how you age with Mitopure® Gummies from Timeline.Visit timeline.com/SASHA and 20% off your Mitopure® Gummies. That’s timeline.com/SASHA. Discover Uresta, trusted by more than 70,000 women, at uresta.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it actually take to raise emotionally resilient kids without losing yourself in the process? In Part 2 of my conversation with pediatrician and PedsDocTalk founder Dr. Mona Amin, we move from her personal journey into some of the most debated topics in modern parenting: sleep training, co-sleeping, gentle parenting, attachment, boundaries, emotional regulation, and the pressure to get everything "right." Dr. Mona explains why parenting is rarely as black and white as social media makes it seem. We talk about what the research actually says about sleep training and attachment, why parental sleep matters too, and how families can think about co-sleeping through the lens of risk reduction rather than judgment. We also unpack the difference between gentle, permissive, authoritative, and authoritarian parenting. Dr. Mona shares why validation alone isn't always enough, why some children actually become more dysregulated when parents over-explain their emotions, and how loving limits can give children both the connection and boundaries they need. Plus, we get into tantrums, hitting, whining, yelling, parental guilt, repairing after you lose your cool, and why modeling emotional regulation may be one of the most powerful tools we have as parents. This conversation is such an important reminder that no parent is going to get every moment right. What matters is building a relationship where your child knows they are loved, their emotions are safe with you, and they can always come back to you. In this episode → How Dr. Mona's own birth trauma changed the way she communicates medical and parenting information → What the research says about sleep training, attachment, and the Ferber method → Why there is no one-size-fits-all approach to infant and toddler sleep → Co-sleeping, bed sharing, safe sleep, SIDS risk, and the importance of risk reduction → Why a child's temperament and "cuddle quota" can completely change what works for their family → Gentle parenting versus permissive, authoritative, and authoritarian parenting → Why over-validating a child during a tantrum can sometimes make things worse → How to set firm boundaries without shaming or dismissing your child's emotions → What to do when your child hits, whines, screams, or becomes completely dysregulated → Why parents need to regulate themselves before they can help regulate their children → How apologizing after yelling or losing your temper can model accountability → Why repair matters more than being a perfect parent → How positive reinforcement helps shape behavior without creating shame → What emotional resilience actually looks like as children grow → Dr. Mona's approach to evidence-based medicine without fear mongering → The parenting myths she is most tired of correcting online → What she hopes her own children understand about their childhood when they're adults Follow Dr. Mona!Instagram: @pedsdoctalk  Follow Dr. Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors! Go to https://olliesmile.com and enter code TRYING at checkout for 10% off your order!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WARNING: This episode includes detailed discussion of traumatic birth, a NICU stay, a newborn stroke and seizures, maternal sepsis, repeat surgeries, and fear of dying in childbirth. What happens when the birth experience you imagined becomes a medical emergency, and the journey to growing your family takes a turn you never expected? In this deeply personal episode of Trying, Dr. Sasha Hakman sits down for part 1 of 2 episodes with pediatrician and mother of two Dr. Mona Amin, known as Dr. Mona of PedsDocTalk, to discuss her journey through birth trauma, a NICU stay, secondary infertility, IVF, and the emotional work of healing after an unexpected birth experience. Dr. Mona shares the terrifying complications surrounding the birth of her son, including an emergency during her C-section, his neonatal stroke and seizures, and her own life-threatening postpartum complications. Despite being a physician herself, she describes what it felt like to have her symptoms dismissed and the importance of advocating for yourself when something doesn't feel right. When she and her husband decided to try for a second child, Dr. Mona discovered that scar tissue from her previous surgeries had caused a hydrosalpinx, a fluid-filled, blocked fallopian tube that complicated her ability to conceive. She takes us through the decision to pursue IVF, the emotional weight of having only one viable embryo, and the eventual birth of her daughter. Together, Dr. Sasha and Dr. Mona explore the grief that can accompany an unexpected birth experience, the impact of medical trauma on both parents, and why motherhood, bonding, and healing do not have to look the way we originally imagined. In this episode A C-section that turned into an emergency, and what her ER-doctor husband saw in the OR Spotting her newborn's seizures when staff first missed them Being dismissed as "dramatic" in the hospital where she worked Seeking accountability and protocol changes rather than a lawsuit Secondary infertility, hydrosalpinx, and choosing IVF Seven eggs, four fertilized, one blastocyst: her "miracle embryo" Why her second postpartum complication finally led to a diagnosis Deciding their family is complete Why doctor-patients may feel more fear, not less EMDR, therapy, and how both parents processed the trauma Naming grief as the loss of an expectation, and why bonding lasts a lifetime Follow Dr. Mona!Instagram: @pedsdoctalk  Follow Dr. Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors! Go to https://olliesmile.com and enter code TRYING at checkout for 10% off your order!  Use my link at thrivemarket.com/trying  to get $20 off your first three orders —  That covers your membership fee! Sign up now before this exclusive offer ends Support your cells and how you age with Mitopure® Gummies from Timeline.Visit timeline.com/SASHA and 20% off your Mitopure® Gummies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo Q&A episode of Trying with Dr. Sasha Hakman, Dr. Sasha answers listener questions across fertility, IVF, embryo transfer, hormone health, pregnancy, exercise, and reproductive genetics. From adenomyosis treatment before embryo transfer and ways to support a short luteal phase to whole genome sequencing, balanced translocations, IVF in your 40s, male factor infertility, and exercise during treatment, Dr. Sasha breaks down what the evidence tells us, where the research is still limited, and why fertility care often needs to be highly individualized. As always, this episode is for general education and is not personal medical advice. In this episode, we cover: ➜ Adenomyosis, why it can affect implantation, and when Depo Lupron and letrozole may be considered before embryo transfer ➜ Using Inito to track FSH, LH, estrogen, and progesterone, confirm ovulation, and potentially identify a luteal phase defect ➜ Whole genome sequencing of embryos, polygenic risk scores, monogenic conditions, Juniper Genomics, Orchid, Nucleus, and the limitations of embryo genetic testing ➜ Persistent chronic endometritis after doxycycline, when additional antibiotics may be needed, and where EMMA/ALICE testing may have a role ➜ Resistance training, powerlifting, pelvic floor health, urinary incontinence, prolapse, and what researcher Margie Davenport's work suggests about exercise in pregnancy ➜ Balanced translocations, genetic counseling, untested embryos, embryo biopsy and re-freezing, and how maternal age can influence decisions around PGT ➜ Vaginal estrogen and the vaginal microbiome, Evvy testing, and using progesterone supplementation to support a short luteal phase ➜ Reproductive immunology after miscarriage or failed embryo transfer, plus when a rheumatologist or reproductive immunologist may be helpful ➜ ICSI for male factor infertility, high AMH, reproductive urology, varicoceles, hypothalamic amenorrhea, restoring ovulation, and trying to conceive after losing your period ➜ Fertility and IVF in your 40s, including the realities of egg quality, ovarian reserve, repeated IVF cycles, and when donor eggs may enter the conversation ➜ Pregnancy symptoms that deserve evaluation, including ocular migraines, shortness of breath, severe fatigue, low ferritin, and iron deficiency ➜ IVF add-ons including Neupogen, hCG washes, steroids, IV intralipids, and uterine PRP, and why limited evidence does not always stop patients with recurrent implantation failure from considering them ➜ Luteal phase ovarian stimulation, estrogen and testosterone priming, diminished ovarian reserve, follicle synchronization, and individualized stimulation protocols ➜ Exercise during ovarian stimulation and after frozen embryo transfer, plus microdose Lupron protocols, FSH stimulation, hCG triggers, and OHSS risk CHAPTERS 00:00 Solo Q&A and a reminder about general medical advice01:00 Adenomyosis treatment before transfer and tracking ovulation with Inito08:03 Whole genome sequencing, embryo genetics and chronic endometritis13:55 Resistance training, pelvic floor health, balanced translocations and untested embryos20:44 Vaginal estrogen, the microbiome and lengthening the luteal phase23:44 Reproductive immunology, ICSI and male factor infertility27:29 Hypothalamic amenorrhea and trying for another baby in your 40s30:34 Migraines in pregnancy, iron deficiency and IVF success in the mid to late 40s35:22 Neupogen, IVF add-ons and luteal phase stimulation39:06 Exercise during IVF and after embryo transfer, plus microdose Lupron protocols Episodes and experts mentioned: Whole genome sequencing with Juniper Genomics CEO Jeremy Greco IVF medications Follow Dr. Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors! Head to AquaTru.com now and get 20% off your purifier using promocode DRSASHA  Go to Rula.com/ DRSASHA for quality therapy that’s covered by insurance.  Head over to Superpower.com and use code DRSASHA for $50 off. After you sign up, they’ll ask you how you heard about Superpower, tell them Trying sent you to support the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stillbirth is a topic many expectant parents are afraid to talk about, but understanding your baby’s movement patterns can be an empowering tool during pregnancy. In this episode of Trying with Dr. Sasha Hakman, Dr. Sasha sits down with Karina Bennett, ambassador for Count the Kicks, a stillbirth prevention program created by Healthy Birth Day, Inc. Karina shares the story of losing her son to stillbirth and how that experience led her to advocacy, education, and a mission to help other families recognize changes in fetal movement before it is too late. Together, Sasha and Karina break down what kick counting actually looks like, when to start, what counts as movement, and why knowing your baby’s individual pattern matters more than comparing your pregnancy to someone else’s. They also discuss anterior placentas, decreased fetal movement, advocating for yourself when something feels wrong, the limitations of at-home Dopplers, and why seeking evaluation is never an overreaction. This conversation is not about creating fear. It is about giving pregnant women information they can use to feel more connected to their baby, more confident in what is normal, and more empowered to speak up when something changes. In this episode, we cover: → Karina’s personal experience with stillbirth and how losing her son led her to Count the Kicks and stillbirth prevention advocacy → Why talking about stillbirth does not have to be fear-based and how education can help expectant parents feel more empowered during pregnancy → What fetal movement can tell you about your baby’s well-being and why changes in your baby’s normal pattern deserve attention → When to begin tracking fetal movement in the third trimester and how recommendations may differ for higher-risk pregnancies → What actually counts as a “kick,” including jabs, rolls, swishes, and other movements → Why the goal is not simply reaching a universal number of kicks, but learning how long it typically takes your individual baby to reach 10 movements → How the free Count the Kicks app tracks movement patterns, timing, and movement strength over time → How tracking fetal movement may reduce anxiety, create reassurance, and help parents bond with their baby during pregnancy → What an anterior placenta can mean for your perception of fetal movement and why knowing your own baby’s pattern is still important → Why hearing a heartbeat with an at-home Doppler does not replace evaluation for decreased fetal movement or testing like a nonstress test → What to do when your baby’s movement pattern changes and why you should never worry about being a burden for asking to be evaluated → How to advocate for yourself if you feel dismissed by a provider, including seeking another provider or going to labor and delivery when something does not feel right → The ripple effect of pregnancy loss on mothers, fathers, siblings, grandparents, and entire families, and why partners need space and support to grieve too → Finding support after stillbirth through therapy, community, advocacy, creative outlets, and giving yourself space to process an unimaginable loss Learn more about Karina + Count the Kicks Count the Kicks is a free fetal movement tracking resource designed to help expectant parents learn their baby’s normal movement patterns during the third trimester. Instagram: @countthekicksusDownload the free Count the Kicks app on iOS or Android. Stay connected with Dr. Sasha Follow Trying with Dr. Sasha Hakman for honest, expert-led conversations about fertility, pregnancy, reproductive health, and everything that comes with trying to grow a family. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and on YouTube @tryingpodwithdrhakman. Have a question or a topic you want Dr. Sasha to cover? Leave it in the comments or submit it for an upcoming episode. New episodes drop every Wednesday. Want more from Dr. Sasha? Join the newsletter for fertility education, reproductive health insights, episode updates, and more from Dr. Sasha. Interested in becoming a patient? Visit Dr. Sasha’s practice information to learn more about consultations and fertility care. Thank you to our sponsors!  Machine Washable Rugs, Made Better. For a limited time only, our listeners get 10% off + free shipping at Tumbleliving.com/[DRSASHA]. Unlock your healthiest skin at OneSkin.co and use code DRSASHA for 15% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, or OHSS, is a potential complication of ovarian stimulation that Dr. Sasha believes every patient going through IVF or egg freezing should understand. After seeing thousands of women comment that they wished they had known about OHSS before treatment, she knew it deserved a deeper conversation. In this solo episode, Dr. Sasha breaks down what OHSS actually is, why it happens, who is most at risk, and the steps fertility doctors can take to help prevent it. She explains the important role trigger shots play, the difference between mild and more serious cases, and the symptoms patients should know to look out for. She also opens up about her own experience with OHSS and shares what she’s learned from managing it in her patients. In this episode: What OHSS is and why it happens after ovarian stimulation Who may be at higher risk during IVF or egg freezing Why the HCG trigger can increase the risk of OHSS How fertility protocols can be adjusted to help prevent it What symptoms to watch for and when to contact your doctor Dr. Sasha’s personal experience with OHSS and what recovery can look like The biggest takeaway: OHSS shouldn’t be something you first learn about after it happens. The more you understand your risk factors and treatment options, the better equipped you are to have informed conversations with your doctor throughout your fertility journey. Follow Dr. Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsor! Head to vitaclean.co and use code DRSASHA at checkout for 20% off your Starter Kits purchase Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Getting stronger after pregnancy is not about "bouncing back." It is about rebuilding your body, fueling it properly, and creating habits you can actually maintain. In this episode, Dr. Sasha sits down with certified personal trainer and nutritionist Samantha Christine to talk about postpartum body recomposition, strength training, nutrition, macros, GLP-1 medications, and what it really takes to feel strong and confident in your body again. Samantha also opens up about her own postpartum transformation, losing her period at a very low body fat percentage, and why she now encourages women to chase strength instead of a number on the scale. In this episode, we cover: → Samantha's postpartum transformation, how she lost 18% body fat through nutrition and progressive overload, and why meaningful body recomposition takes time → Why we need to move away from "bounce back" culture and give the body time to recover after pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding → Where to start with postpartum nutrition, including adequate calories, protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, fiber, whole foods, and why cutting calories too quickly can backfire → Body recomposition and progressive overload explained, plus why building lean muscle can completely change your body even when the number on the scale barely moves → How to start tracking macros without becoming overwhelmed, including Samantha's approach to protein intake and why calories alone do not tell the full story → Why some women may actually be undereating, what basal metabolic rate (BMR) means, and how chronically low calorie intake can interfere with energy, training, and body composition goals → GLP-1 medications, the rise of "skinny culture," and the potential consequences of using weight loss medications to become increasingly lean, including menstrual cycle loss and concerns about bone health → Samantha's experience losing her period for 13 months at approximately 11% body fat and why being smaller did not ultimately mean being stronger or healthier → How to balance cardio and strength training without sacrificing muscle, including the nutrition strategy Samantha used while training for a Half Ironman → Reverse dieting explained, why Samantha gradually increases calories for some clients who have been chronically undereating, and why eating more can sometimes be part of improving body composition → How busy women and moms can make fitness sustainable with simple 30 to 45 minute workouts, compound movements, at-home options, and realistic goals → Why consistency matters more than perfection, how long to give a new nutrition and fitness routine before judging your progress, and why the best plan is one you can still follow on your worst days → How motherhood can shift the motivation to exercise from simply changing your appearance to taking care of your children's mother and modeling healthy behaviors for your family Follow Samantha Christine! Instagram: @samcfit_ Listen to the EMPWR Podcast and find Samantha's Elevate fitness and nutrition app for more from Samantha. Follow Dr. Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd @tryingwithdrhakman Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingwithdrhakman YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors! Go to momcozy.com and use code TRYING for 10% off For anyone grabbing the Banch Basics Premium Starter Kit, you can get 15% off at BranchBasics.com with our code DRSASHA.Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code DRSASHA and get up to $300 off ANY of their select AirDoctor models Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

IVF medication protocols can be one of the most confusing parts of fertility treatment. In this solo episode, reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Sasha Hakman explains how IVF medications actually work, why different patients may need different stimulation protocols, and how factors like AMH, ovarian reserve, age, previous IVF response, and risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) influence treatment decisions. In this episode, we cover: How the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis controls the menstrual cycle, including the roles of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, and progesterone How IVF medications recruit multiple follicles and why AMH, antral follicle count, and ovarian reserve influence your stimulation protocol and medication dose The main IVF stimulation medications, including recombinant FSH, human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG/Menopur), GnRH agonists, GnRH antagonists, and hCG How IVF trigger shots work, including Lupron vs. hCG, dual or co-triggers, double Lupron triggers, final egg maturation, and meiosis The antagonist IVF protocol, how Ganirelix and Cetrotide help prevent premature ovulation, and why this is one of the most commonly used IVF protocols Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), how hCG and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) contribute to risk, and why trigger selection matters for high responders The microdose Lupron flare protocol, who may benefit from it, and why Dr. Sasha often considers it for diminished ovarian reserve or a previous poor response to IVF stimulation The long Clomid protocol, Provera protocols, and mini IVF, including when lower-dose stimulation may make sense and why mini IVF does not automatically mean better egg quality IVF add-ons including letrozole, Clomid, and Omnitrope (growth hormone), what the research actually shows, and why letrozole may be useful for breast cancer, endometriosis, and other estrogen-sensitive conditions IVF priming with birth control, estrogen, testosterone or AndroGel, and growth hormone, plus why Dr. Sasha does not routinely recommend DHEA supplementation How estrogen priming and luteal-phase starts may help patients with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) prevent early follicle recruitment and improve follicle synchrony Why a previous IVF cycle can provide valuable information for choosing your next protocol, and the surprising research on repeating the same IVF protocol vs. switching protocols after a poor response Why there is no single “best” IVF protocol and when individualized protocols may matter most, particularly for patients approaching or over 40, diminished ovarian reserve, poor egg maturity, or previous failed IVF cycles Episodes Dr. Sasha mentions: IVF 101: A foundational breakdown of IVF, follicle development, and the IVF process Dr. Sasha's IVF cycles at 32 and 37: Dr. Sasha shares the different medication protocols she personally used and how her blastocyst yield compared between cycles five years apart Quick terminology guide: HPO axis = hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis | GnRH = gonadotropin-releasing hormone | FSH = follicle-stimulating hormone | LH = luteinizing hormone | AMH = anti-Müllerian hormone | hMG = human menopausal gonadotropin | hCG = human chorionic gonadotropin | OHSS = ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome | VEGF = vascular endothelial growth factor | DOR = diminished ovarian reserve Follow Dr. Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd @tryingwithdrhakman Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingwithdrhakman YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors! For a limited time only, our listeners get 10% off + free shipping at ⁠Tumbleliving.com⁠/DRSASHA Support your cells and how you age with Mitopure® Gummies from Timeline. Visit ⁠timeline.com/SASHA⁠ and 20% off your Mitopure® Gummies. Use my link ⁠thrivemarket.com/TRYING⁠  to get $20 off your first three orders —  That covers your membership fee! Sign up now before this exclusive offer ends. Visit ⁠Carawayhome.com/DRSASHA⁠ to take an additional 10% off your next purchase Head to ⁠AquaTru.com⁠ now and get 20% off your purifier using promocode DRSASHA Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We share more with a reproductive endocrinologist than you'd think — hormones drive skin and hair just as much as fertility. In this episode, Dr. Sasha sits down with triple board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mamina Turegano to break down what's really behind hormonal acne and hair loss, the environmental factors quietly wrecking our skin, and the exact prescriptions, supplements, and skincare routines that actually work. In this episode, we cover: Why acne is so common (80-90%+ of women experience it) and why it's rising in adulthood The environmental theories behind the "acne epidemic" — diet, sugar, dairy, fiber intake, caffeine, microplastics, and endocrine disruptors Why chronic stress, poor sleep, and constant phone/screen stimulation are affecting our hormones and skin How to tell if your acne is truly "hormonal" — jawline breakouts, cystic bumps, and the testosterone-to-estrogen ratio (not the absolute number) that drives flares PMOS (formerly PCOS) and how androgen imbalances show up as cystic acne, hirsutism, and hair loss Dr. Turegano's diagnostic workup: history, hormone testing, functional medicine referrals, Dutch tests, and gut microbiome testing The acne treatment ladder — topical retinoids, spironolactone, isotretinoin (Accutane), and where supplements like omega-3s, zinc, pumpkin seed oil, vitex, and DIM fit in Why the type of progestin in your birth control can make acne better or worse — and the role of drospirenone (Yasmin) Coming off birth control or spironolactone without your skin spiraling Normal vs. abnormal hair shedding, telogen effluvium vs. androgenic alopecia, and why postpartum hair loss hits so hard The most common hidden cause of hair loss: iron deficiency (even without anemia) — plus the trick to actually absorbing your iron supplement Dr. Turegano's hair loss lab panel: thyroid (TSH, free T3/T4, antibodies), vitamin D, zinc, ANA, ferritin, and androgens Hair growth treatments ranked: topical and oral minoxidil, finasteride/dutasteride, spironolactone, and the supplements worth trying (Nutrafol, Viviscal Pro, biotin myths) The truth about biotin — why it can mask a real heart attack on lab testing Building a skincare routine: cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen as the non-negotiable foundation, plus where retinoids and vitamin C serums fit in Dr. Turegano's personal AM/PM skincare routine and product picks Follow Dr. Mamina Turegano! Instagram/social: @dr.mamino Follow Dr. Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors!  For a limited time, try OneSkin with 15% off using code DRSASHA at oneskin.co/DRSASHA Thousands of people are already using Rula to get affordable, high-quality therapy that’s actually covered by insurance. Visit Rula.com/DRSASHA to get started Use my link at thrivemarket.com/trying to get $20 off your first three orders —  That covers your membership fee! Sign up now before this exclusive offer ends. Head to vitaclean.co and use code DRSASHA at checkout for 20% off your Starter Kits purchase. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Secondary infertility affects millions of women — and yet it remains one of the most isolating diagnoses in the fertility space. You already have a child, so you feel like you can't complain. But the confusion, grief, and frustration are completely real. In this solo episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman breaks down exactly what secondary infertility is, why it happens, and what to do about it — including causes that will genuinely surprise you. If you've been pregnant before and are struggling to get pregnant again, this episode was made for you. In this episode, we cover: What secondary infertility actually is by definition — and why pregnancy loss counts too, even if you never brought a baby home Ovulatory dysfunction: why it's the #1 cause of secondary infertility, how PCOS, thyroid disease, and high prolactin play a role, and how postpartum weight changes can quietly shut down ovulation How to track your cycle and confirm ovulation at home — including Dr. Sasha's favorite tools (Inito, LH strips, and progesterone testing) The age factor no one talks about enough: what the statistics actually say about childless-not-by-choice rates for women 35–40 and 40+ Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI): why some women enter early menopause between babies — and why waiting too long between pregnancies can dramatically change your options Tubal disease and endometriosis: how tubes that were once open can become blocked between pregnancies, and what an HSG actually involves Uterine factors: fibroids, polyps, Ashman syndrome, and why a saline infusion sonogram catches what a regular ultrasound misses Male factor infertility: why "he already has kids" is not a reason to skip the semen analysis, and how sleep deprivation, weight gain, and lifestyle changes after baby can tank sperm quality Unexplained secondary infertility: why it's the most frustrating diagnosis, and how Dr. Sasha expands her workup to look for hidden endometriosis, insulin resistance, and sleep disruption C-sections and fertility: what a meta-analysis of 600,000 women found about C-section's impact on subsequent pregnancy and live birth rates Isthmocele explained: what it is, how a C-section scar defect can trap fluid and create a hostile environment for embryos, and how it's diagnosed and treated Why Dr. Sasha pursued a VBAC after her first C-section — and the fertility reasoning behind that decision The full diagnostic workup for secondary infertility: what your doctor should be evaluating and what to ask for if they're not Treatment options: from super ovulation with IUI to IVF, to surgical correction of structural issues — and how the approach depends entirely on what the workup reveals Why breastfeeding may be the simplest thing standing between you and your next pregnancy Follow Dr. Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors! If you're in the infant stage or know someone who is, check out the Momcozy Night Pro Bottle Warmer or the DeepClean Bottle Washer D8. They're offering 20% off if you go to momcozy.com and use code TRYING. For a limited time, our listeners get $20 off to unlock their new health intelligence. Head over to Superpower.com and use code TRYING for $20 off your $199 Superpower membership. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most women have been told at some point that their menstrual cycle should dictate how they train, that fasted workouts are wrecking their hormones, or that muscle-building becomes nearly impossible after 40. In this episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman sits down with researcher and women's health expert Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple to separate what the science actually shows from what the fitness industry is selling. They break down why cycle syncing isn't backed by the data, whether fasted training really matters, how much protein your body can actually use at once, and what's really true (and not true) about building muscle in perimenopause and menopause. If you've ever felt confused, discouraged, or like you needed to buy one more program to finally "get it right," this episode is for you. In this episode, we cover: Why the fitness industry profits from confusion — and how "cycle syncing" programs oversell the effect of hormones on your training Fasted vs. fed training: does it affect fat loss, muscle growth, or strength adaptations? (Spoiler: no) Low energy availability explained — who's actually at risk, and why it's different from simply training fasted The truth about the "anabolic window" and post-workout protein timing How much protein your body can actually use in one sitting, and why more isn't always better Why weight training under stable, loaded conditions beats unstable-surface or "functional" exercises for building muscle Understanding "the neighborhood of failure" — how close to failure you really need to train, and how to get started if you're intimidated by the weight room Rep ranges myths: why sets of 5 and sets of 25 can build the same amount of muscle Does the menstrual cycle affect training performance or adaptation? What the actual research says (not the extrapolated animal studies) Hormonal birth control, "brain changes," and exercise capacity — what's real and what's not Why so much of exercise science excluded women — and why that gap is closing faster than the internet gives it credit for Testosterone and muscle growth: why massive differences in testosterone levels between men and women don't translate to massive differences in ability to build muscle Can you make up for "lost time" if you didn't start lifting until your 40s, 50s, or later? Menopause and muscle: does estrogen decline really make it harder to build muscle, and does hormone therapy change that? Supplements that are actually worth your money — creatine dosing, why BCAAs are a waste, and why collagen is a poor protein source for muscle Whey vs. pea protein, jumping for bone health, and whether weighted vests actually do anything The single biggest myth stopping women from reaching their fitness goals Follow Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple! Instagram: @drlaurencs1 Follow Dr. Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors!  Use code DRSASHA at ⁠carawayhome.com⁠ for 10% off Head to https://airdoctorpro.com/ and use promo code DRSASHA and get up to $300 off ANY of their select AirDoctor models, plus you will get a 3-year warranty,absolutely FREE!  All AirDoctor air purifiers come with a 30-day money back guarantee.  Get this exclusive, podcast-only offer NOW at https://airdoctorpro.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You asked for it, and here it is. In this solo episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman walks through her own two IVF cycles in full detail — the exact medications, doses, trigger decisions, lab outcomes, and the reasoning behind every choice she made. As a reproductive endocrinologist who has navigated IVF both as a clinician and a patient, she brings a level of transparency you rarely get from a doctor. From a purely elective embryo freeze at 32 to a second retrieval at 37, this episode breaks down what actually goes into building a family through IVF — and helps you understand your own protocol along the way. In this episode, we cover: Why Dr. Sasha chose to freeze embryos at 32 — before she was ready to have children — and the reasoning behind creating embryos vs. freezing eggs Her diagnosis of Non-Classical Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (NCAH), what it is, and how it contributed to her ovulatory dysfunction Her baseline fertility stats: AMH of 4 ng/mL and 30+ follicles — even while on continuous birth control pills Cycle 1 at age 32: antagonist protocol, 275 units of Gonal-F + 75 units of Menopur, and why she chose a combination Lupron + low-dose hCG trigger The OHSS she developed after her first retrieval — how bad it got, and how she managed it at home Why she got 26 eggs but only 11 were mature — and why she was so disappointed with that outcome Cycle 2 at age 37: what changed in her protocol, and what the data from cycle 1 taught her Final embryo outcome: 6 blastocysts, 3 euploid (1 male, 2 female), 3 aneuploid ICSI — why she chose it even without a male factor diagnosis, and the case for doing it even when sperm looks great Assisted hatching — what it is, why she opted in, and the small but real risk of monozygotic twinning PGT-A genetic testing — how it works and why she would never transfer an aneuploid embryo Delayed vs. immediate egg stripping — an inside look at embryology lab practices most patients never hear about What she did NOT add to her protocol — no growth hormone, no embryo glue — and why she kept it evidence-based and simple The future of IVF: personalized genetic protocols that could one day predict how your ovaries will respond before your first injection Pregnancy update: 23 weeks, scheduled for a fetal echo, and feeling every bit of the third trimester Follow Dr. Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors!  Head to AquaTru.com now and get 20% off your purifier using promocode DRSASHA  Thanks to today’s sponsor, Ogee: A higher standard for beauty. Go to ogee.com/DRSASHA and use code DRSASHA to get 20% off certified organic makeup that performs like luxury. Support your cells and how you age with Mitopure® Gummies from Timeline. Visit timeline.com/SASHA and 20% off your Mitopure® Gummies. That’s timeline.com/SASHA. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Endometriosis affects at least 1 in 10 women, yet the average patient waits years for a diagnosis — often after being told their pain is normal. In this episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman sits down with board-certified OB/GYN and endometriosis surgeon Dr. Mallory Stuparich to break down what endometriosis actually is, why it's now understood as a systemic immune and neuro-inflammatory condition rather than a purely hormonal one, and how patients can push back when they're being dismissed. If you've ever been told your pain is "just part of being a woman," this episode is for you. In this episode, we cover: What endometriosis actually is — and why "endometrial-like tissue" outside the uterus is now understood as part of a systemic neuro-inflammatory and neuro-immune disorder, not just a hormonal one Why endometriosis so often overlaps with mast cell activation, POTS, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, autoimmune conditions, and migraines The leading theories on what causes endometriosis, and why retrograde menstruation alone doesn't explain it Normal period pain vs. abnormal period pain — and the questions to ask yourself to know the difference Red flag symptoms beyond pelvic pain: GI issues (painful bowel movements, incomplete emptying, bleeding), bladder urgency, pelvic floor dysfunction, painful sex, and brain fog Why the amount of pain a patient feels doesn't always correlate with how much disease is actually present What a real diagnostic workup looks like, and why a "normal" ultrasound or MRI does not rule out endometriosis Post-surgical hormone therapy — why suppression after excision matters, and who isn't a candidate Adenomyosis explained: what it is, how it differs from fibroids, and treatment options including adenomyomectomy, uterine artery embolization, and microwave ablation The links between endometriosis, infertility, and miscarriage — including why 50% of women with endo do not experience infertility Recurrence after excision surgery, and why what looks like "recurrence" is often incomplete removal the first time around Lightning round: Is endometriosis genetic? Can you have it with completely normal labs and imaging? Does a hysterectomy cure it? Can it still affect you after menopause? Follow Dr. Mallory Stuparich! Instagram/social: @MalloryStuparichMD Follow Dr. Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors!  Head to bioptimizers.com/drsasha and use code DRSASHA try OneSkin with 15% off using code DRSASHA at oneskin.co/DRSASHA Head to vitaclean.co and use code DRSASHA for 20% off Shower head Starter Kits Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pregnancy loss affects 15–25% of clinically recognized pregnancies, yet so many people are left without answers — or without hope. In this solo episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman breaks down everything you need to know about miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss: the five major causes, how each one is diagnosed, what treatment actually looks like, and which lifestyle factors are (and aren't) worth worrying about. If you've experienced a loss and are searching for answers, this episode is for you — and remember, it is not your fault. In this episode, we cover: Why miscarriage is so common, and how the definition of "recurrent pregnancy loss" has evolved to include biochemical losses Bucket 1 — Genetic/Chromosomal causes: why random chromosomal errors (like trisomy 16 and Turner syndrome) account for up to 75% of losses, the U-shaped age-risk curve, and when to test for balanced translocations via karyotype Bucket 2 — Anatomic causes: uterine septums, scar tissue (Asherman syndrome), fibroids, polyps, adenomyosis, and how they're diagnosed via saline infusion sonogram or HSG Bucket 3 — Immune/Autoimmune causes: antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), the antibodies involved, and why diagnostic criteria may lag behind clinical reality Bucket 4 — Endocrine causes: thyroid dysfunction, high prolactin, insulin resistance/diabetes, PCOS, and luteal phase defects The "5th bucket": unexplained pregnancy loss — and additional testing some REs order beyond ASRM guidelines (clotting disorders, chronic endometritis, vaginal microbiome) Treatment options by diagnosis, including PGT-SR, Lovenox + baby aspirin for APS, metformin, and surgical correction of uterine abnormalities Modifiable risk factors: smoking, alcohol, caffeine (the real data), weight/GLP-1 agonists, sleep, sedentary behavior, and why stress is often unfairly blamed The encouraging stats: a 70% live birth rate in the pregnancy following a loss, and how high-touch prenatal care can improve outcomes Follow Dr. Sasha!  TikTok: @sashahakmanmd  Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod  YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors!  Head to cozyearth.com and use my code DRSASHA for an exclusive 20% off. Use code DRSASHA at carawayhome.com for 10% off Subscribe, rate, and review if this episode helped you — and share it with someone who needs to hear it. New episodes drop every Wednesday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, Dr. Sasha dives into one of the most requested topics on the podcast: trying to conceive and being pregnant after 40. She cuts through the noise of misleading celebrity headlines and online misinformation to give you a clear, honest, and compassionate look at the biology, statistics, and real options available to you. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why more women are having babies in their 40s than ever before — and why that's a good thing The biology of egg aging: how quantity and quality decline, and what's actually happening at the cellular level (mitochondrial dysfunction, meiosis errors, chromosomal abnormalities) What your AMH level means after 40, and why high ovarian reserve can be a game-changer Natural fertility rates by age and when ASRM guidelines say to seek immediate care IVF success rates broken down by age: from 43% live birth rate under 35, all the way down to 3% over 42 Follow Dr. Sasha!  TikTok: @sashahakmanmd  Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod  YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors!  Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to honeylove.com/DRSASHA! #honeylovepod For a limited time, try OneSkin with 15% off using code DRSASHA at oneskin.co/DRSASHA. Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code DRSASHA to get $250 off select AirDoctor air purifiers, including the 3500, 4000, and 5500 models New episodes of Trying with Dr. Sasha Hakman drop weekly. If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs a doctor they can trust in their corner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've ever gone through a failed embryo transfer and wondered why , this episode is for you. Dr. Sasha sits down with Jeremy Grushcow, co-founder and CEO of Juniper Genomics, to break down a groundbreaking advancement in IVF: whole genome and transcriptome embryo testing. Jeremy holds a PhD in molecular genetics and cell biology from the University of Chicago, along with a law degree, and has published research in DNA repair, cancer, gene therapy, bioethics, and patent law. He's building the technology that could change the odds for IVF patients everywhere. In this episode, we cover: What whole genome sequencing actually is — and why IVF has lagged behind every other field of clinical medicine in adopting it The brilliant "books on a shelf" analogy that finally makes PGT-A vs. whole genome sequencing click Why failed embryo transfers are not your fault, your doctor's fault, or your lab's fault — and what the embryo's genetics have to do with it What the transcriptome tells us that the genome alone can't The difference between PGT-A, PGT-M, and Juniper's PGT-G testing How Juniper looks at both the embryo and the parents' DNA to identify where variants are coming from (egg or sperm?) The 6,000+ known genetic diseases — and why 10–15% of embryos being transferred today carry a detectable single-gene disorder that standard carrier screening missed Why "reduced viability variants" matter and how they impact IVF success rates The emotional and financial cost of failed transfers — and how more information can reduce both Pricing breakdown: what Juniper's PGT-A and PGT-G costs, how to make it more affordable, and how it stacks up against the cost of a failed transfer cycle Why patient autonomy in the US and Canada is driving better IVF outcomes globally Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingwithdrhakman YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Resources & Links: Juniper Genomics website: junipergenomics.com Instagram: ⁠@junipergenomics⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more !If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! If this episode helped you, the best thing you can do is subscribe, rate, review, and share it with a friend. So many women deserve this information, help get it to them. Episodes drop every Wednesday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trying with Dr. Sasha Hakman is a women's health podcast hosted by a reproductive endocrinologist, covering everything from fertility and IVF to perimenopause, endometriosis, and hormonal health, all in plain, evidence-based language. No jargon, no shame, just the answers you've been searching for. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it actually mean to try as a woman, as a patient, as a person navigating a healthcare system that wasn't built with you in mind? In this first solo episode of the newly rebranded Trying with Dr. Sasha Hakman, Dr. Sasha shares why she changed the name, what this podcast is really about, and who it's for. She opens up about the conversation that sparked the rebrand, the reality of practicing medicine in a field driven by IVF incentives, and why she started a podcast in the first place. She also shares a personal update (18 weeks pregnant with baby #3!) and answers one of the most frequently asked questions from her community: how do you know if you can actually trust your doctor? In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why Dr. Sasha rebranded from Trying to Conceive to Trying with Dr. Sasha Hakman What a Reproductive Endocrinologist actually specializes in beyond IVF How to know if your doctor's IVF recommendation is truly evidence-based or financially motivated The green flags to look for when choosing a fertility doctor or clinic How to read online reviews and pregnancy success rates without being misled What actually makes an exceptional doctor Follow Dr. Sasha!  TikTok: @sashahakmanmd  Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod  YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors! head to http://www.bioptimizers.com/DRSASHA and use my exclusive code DRSASHA to get 15% off any order Use our exclusive link to save 20% off Honeylove at honeylove.com/DRSASHA Go to ogee.com/DRSASHA and use code DRSASHA for 20% off. New episodes of Trying with Dr. Sasha Hakman drop weekly. If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs a doctor they can trust in their corner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you being told to stop exercising while trying to conceive or going through IVF? You're not alone and according to today's guest, you're also likely being given advice that isn't backed by science. In this episode, Dr. Shannon joins us for a conversation that is equal parts empowering and eye-opening. As both a physical therapist and a patient who exercised throughout her own fertility journey, she brings a rare dual perspective to the table. She and host Dr. Sasha take on the pervasive fear around exercise during fertility treatment, break down why the "rest and raise your legs" mentality is outdated (and potentially harmful), and share a practical, research-backed framework for building and maintaining muscle at every stage of the journey. Whether you're in the thick of fertility treatments, newly pregnant, postpartum, or just trying to understand your body better, this episode is packed with actionable guidance and a refreshing dose of truth. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why most doctors tell patients to stop exercising during IVF — and why there's no evidence behind it How months of exercise restriction can harm your long-term recovery and postpartum body The REPS Framework: the four principles that actually build muscle while TTC or pregnant What "training to failure" really means — and why it's safe even during fertility treatment Why you need to train near failure just to maintain the muscle you already have How to choose exercises that actually target the right muscles (and why combo moves fall short) Protein targets for TTC and pregnancy, and how to realistically hit them When HIIT is okay to keep during TTC — and when it may be hurting your chances How to safely return to exercise postpartum without setting yourself back One simple trick to improve your form without a personal trainer Follow Dr. Shannon@dr.shannon.dpt @evlofitness  Follow Dr Sasha!TikTok: @sashahakmanmdInstagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepodYouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Resources Mentioned: Evlo App (Dr. Shannon's fitness app) — Use code DRSASHA for 6 weeks free (first 2-week trial + 1 month at $0) American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) — exercise contraindications list available on their website Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more!If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! New episodes of Trying to Conceive with Dr. Sasha Hakman drop weekly. If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone on their fertility journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, Dr. Sasha goes deep on one of her most-requested topics: endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). What they are, where they're hiding, how they affect your hormones and fertility, and exactly what you can do about it. As a reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist, she brings both clinical expertise and personal practice to this conversation. This episode is grounded in evidence-based research, including a 136-page scientific statement from the Endocrine Society, and is designed to inform, not alarm. In This Episode, You'll Learn: What the endocrine system is and why hormones are the body's "keys and locks" The definition of EDCs and why exposure is considered a global public health crisis Why even tiny exposures can have outsized health impacts (it's not always dose-dependent) The major classes of EDCs to know: BPA/bisphenols, phthalates, PFAS (forever chemicals), parabens, glyphosate, heavy metals, and triclosan and where each one hides The 4 mechanisms EDCs use to disrupt your hormones - including epigenetic modification that can be passed down through generations Why in utero exposure is the most critical window, and what effects have been linked to fetal EDC exposure (including hypospadias, cryptorchidism, diminished egg reserve, and premature ovarian insufficiency) How EDC exposure impacts puberty, fertility, and the TTC window specifically - including the finding that phthalate metabolites were detected in the follicular fluid of 99% of women undergoing egg retrieval The link between EDC exposure and sperm count decline (down 50% in 50 years, per Dr. Shanna Swan's research) Health risks in adulthood: endometriosis, PCOS/PEMOS, diminished ovarian reserve, thyroid dysfunction, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and more The Tier 1 vs. Tier 2 framework for prioritizing what to eliminate first Why "BPA-free" is a marketing gimmick and what to look for instead Why "unscented" ≠ fragrance-free - and what that means for your products Why fragrance is banned entirely in IVF embryology labs (and what that tells us) A study showing BPA urinary levels drop significantly after just 3 days of cutting out heated plastic Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepodYouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. Thank you to our sponsors!  Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code DRSASHA to get $250 off select AirDoctor air purifiers. Head to cozyearth.com and use my code DRSASHA for an exclusive 20% discount. New episodes of Trying to Conceive with Dr. Sasha Hakman drop weekly. If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone on their fertility journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Sasha Hakman is finally joined by her husband, Dr. Eryk Hakman. In this honest, funny, and surprisingly emotional episode, Sasha and Eryk sit down together for the first time to share the full story: how they met on labor and delivery, why Eryk almost didn't commit, and what it has really been like to navigate three rounds of IVF as a couple, including a failed embryo transfer that hit them both harder than either expected. Eryk opens up about feeling powerless in a process driven by his wife's expertise, what grief looked like from the partner's side, and what finally convinced him to say yes to baby number three. They wrap it all up with a fertility quiz that is equal parts educational and hilarious. In This Episode, You'll Learn: How Sasha and Eryk met during residency, why Eryk ghosted her, and the ultimatum that changed everything Why Sasha froze embryos early in their relationship and how it led to their first son, Remy What IVF felt like from Eryk's perspective as the non-REI doctor in the relationship The male side of fertility treatment: the semen collection experience, lifestyle changes, and feeling like a passenger How they conceived Rocky naturally after Sasha ovulated on her own for the first time post-IVF Why Eryk initially said they were done after two kids and what changed his mind Their decision to pursue gender selection for family balancing and what that process looked like The emotional weight of their failed embryo transfer: the biochemical pregnancy, the grief, and the delayed reaction Why Sasha chose a programmed cycle with progesterone in oil for the second transfer despite the pain and the disagreement it caused How two doctors with completely different approaches to data and uncertainty navigate fertility decisions together Eryk's fertility quiz results and the one lie Sasha told him about his own sperm Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors: Go to aquatrue.com and use code DRSASHA for 20% off Go to bioptimizers.com and use code DRSASHA for 15% off Go to oneskin.co and use code DRSASHA for 15% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Sasha Hakman goes solo to finally answer the question her community has been asking for weeks: what exactly did she do differently for her second embryo transfer, the one that worked? Now 14 weeks pregnant, Dr. Sasha walks through her full protocol in detail, from the switch to a programmed FET to every medication, supplement, and lifestyle change she made. She also opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of a failed transfer, a terrifying bleed at seven weeks, and what it's like to be a fertility doctor going through fertility treatment herself. This episode is one of the most personal and detailed she's ever shared, and it's been a long time coming. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why Dr. Sasha switched from a modified natural cycle to a programmed FET, and what that actually means Her exact medication protocol: estrace, progesterone in oil, Prometrium suppositories, Ganirelix, and prednisone , with doses and timing What the antihistamine protocol is (prednisone + Pepcid + Claritin) and why she added it despite limited evidence How acupuncture became a non-negotiable addition to her second cycle Why she took a full week off work after transfer and what she did instead Her supplement stack, pescatarian diet, and why she stopped being so strict about sugar this time The emotional experience of home testing, a lighter line, spiraling, and what snapped her out of it Her beta number progression and what she was watching for The scary seven-week bleed, the subchorionic hematoma diagnosis, and how her colleague met her at the clinic at 8pm How she emotionally survived a failed transfer and built her "plan A through G" for what came next How she manages non-classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NCAH) and why it influenced every protocol decision Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks.If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsor Ogee Beauty. Go to ogee.com/DRSASHA and use code DRSASHA for 20% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Sasha Hakman sits down with Dr. Felice Chan, a Chinese medicine practitioner and licensed acupuncturist based in Los Angeles, to explore how traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can support women's health and fertility. What starts as a curiosity from a fertility doctor who regularly refers patients for acupuncture quickly turns into one of the most eye-opening conversations yet covering everything from reading the tongue to treating endometriosis, PCOS, and preparing for IVF. Dr. Felice shares her unexpected journey from a pre-med neuroscience track to becoming a Chinese medicine practitioner, and breaks down the four pillars of TCM: acupuncture, herbal medicine, food as medicine, and nervous system-focused lifestyle practices. Together, they bridge the gap between Eastern and Western approaches (they're more compatible than you might think). Follow Felice Chan Instagram: @drfelicechan @feliceacupuncture Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Resources Mentioned: Pericardium 6 acupressure point (for nausea relief) Ear seeds for at-home acupressure Erewhon Pinnacle Trail Mix (goji berries + walnuts — blood nourishing!) Chrysanthemum tea for stress and liver support Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, I’m breaking down one of the most misunderstood topics in women’s health: hormonal contraceptives. With so much misinformation online, it’s easy to feel confused or even scared about your options. As a reproductive endocrinologist, I want to give you the science-based facts so you can make informed decisions about your body and your future fertility. I walk you through the different types of hormonal birth control, including the pill, patch, ring, IUD, Depo shot, and implant. I explain how they actually work in your body, the real risks versus exaggerated claims you might see online, and the benefits that often get overlooked. We also dive into some of the biggest questions I get from patients and my community: Does birth control cause infertility? What happens when you stop the pill? Is there a link to cancer or blood clots? Can it affect your mood, gut health, or brain? Which option is best if you plan to conceive in the future? I also share my personal experience with birth control, how different formulations can affect you differently, and why there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Whether you’re currently on birth control, considering starting it, or planning to stop soon to try to conceive, this episode will give you clarity and confidence in your choices. Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to your reproductive health. Follow Dr Sasha!TikTok: @sashahakmanmdInstagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepodYouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when you're the picture of health, crushing it in your career, and then find out you can't get your partner pregnant? In this episode, I sit down with Brian Mazza, entrepreneur, founder of High Performance Lifestyle Training, and one of the few men openly talking about male infertility. Brian shares his deeply personal journey from receiving devastating test results to navigating IVF, relationship strain, and ultimately becoming a father to two boys through ICSI. We talk about the moment he found out about his low sperm count, motility, and morphology, and how that diagnosis made him feel like a failure despite being in incredible shape. Brian opens up about the shame, the embarrassment, and the defensiveness that came with being told he was the reason they couldn't conceive naturally. He also shares how it nearly broke his marriage, the moment he offered his wife a divorce so she could have kids with someone else, and the turning point that brought them back together. This conversation goes beyond the medical side of infertility. We dive into the emotional toll on men, the lack of conversation around male factor infertility, and why so many guys suffer in silence. Brian explains why he decided to go public with his story, how he raised over $80,000 by running 50 miles from Cornell to his home, and why he believes every man should get tested early and often. We also talk about fatherhood, what it means to show up for your kids every single day, and why Brian has made a personal pledge to never let his sons see him tired or drink alcohol. His approach to parenting is rooted in presence, discipline, and leading by example, and it's clear that his infertility journey shaped the father he is today. If you're a man navigating infertility, a woman supporting a partner through it, or anyone who wants to understand the male perspective on fertility struggles, this episode will give you insight, hope, and a reminder that infertility does not define your masculinity or your ability to be an incredible parent. Brian's story is proof that with the right medical care, emotional resilience, and a strong partnership, you can get through this and come out the other side with everything you've been hoping for. _____ Follow Brian Mazza on Instagram: @brianmazzaHigh Performance Lifestyle Training: @hpltraining Follow Dr Sasha!TikTok: @sashahakmanmdInstagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepodYouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more!If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks.If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I see this all the time. You’re doing everything right, your tests look “normal,” and yet… you’re still not getting pregnant. What if something is being missed? In this episode, I’m breaking down one of the most underdiagnosed and misunderstood conditions in fertility: endometriosis. I walk you through what endometriosis actually is, how it impacts your body, and more importantly, how it can affect your ability to conceive. From inflammation and egg quality to blocked tubes and implantation issues, this condition can interfere with fertility in ways most people don’t even realize. We also talk about why symptoms don’t always match severity. Some women have severe pain and no fertility issues, while others have zero symptoms and struggle to conceive. This is what makes endometriosis so difficult to diagnose and why so many cases go unnoticed. I dive into how we evaluate for endometriosis today, including updated guidelines that no longer require surgery for diagnosis, as well as newer testing options and imaging limitations. Then we get into the big questions: When should you suspect endometriosis? Should you consider surgery or avoid it? Does removing endometriosis actually improve fertility? When is it time to move to IUI or IVF? I also break down real clinical scenarios so you can understand how treatment decisions are made based on age, symptoms, ovarian reserve, and fertility goals. If you’ve been told you have “unexplained infertility,” or you suspect something deeper is going on, this episode will give you clarity on what might be happening and what your next steps could look like. Endometriosis is complex, but understanding it can completely change your fertility journey. _____ Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can you really get pregnant after seven failed embryo transfers? What does it take to keep going when nothing seems to work? In this episode, I sit down with Abbe Feder to talk about one of the most intense fertility journeys I’ve ever heard. After 6 years of trying to conceive, 8 embryo transfers, a miscarriage, an ectopic pregnancy, and multiple failed IVF cycles, Abby finally got her miracle… twins. But this conversation goes far beyond just the outcome. We break down what unexplained infertility actually means, why IVF doesn’t always work even when everything looks “perfect,” and the emotional toll that no one prepares you for. Abbe shares the mindset shifts that helped her keep going, the financial realities of fertility treatment, and the truth about resilience during infertility. We also talk about the hardest moments along the way, including pregnancy loss, the waiting, the uncertainty, and the constant cycle of hope and disappointment. Abbe now helps women navigate infertility through coaching, and her ability to put feelings into words will make you feel seen in a way that’s hard to explain. If you’re going through infertility, considering IVF, or supporting someone who is, this episode will change how you think about the journey. And if nothing else, I hope it reminds you that you’re not alone. Abbe Feder is a fertility coach and founder of Encircle Fertility. After experiencing 6 years of unexplained infertility, multiple IVF cycles, pregnancy loss, and ultimately having twins, Abbe now helps women navigate the emotional and mental challenges of infertility. Her work focuses on normalizing the experience and supporting women through one of the most difficult journeys of their lives.Follow Abbe Instagram: @abbefeder @encirclefertilityWebsite: https://www.incirclefertility.com_____Follow Dr Sasha!TikTok: @sashahakmanmdInstagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepodYouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks.If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you wasting money on fertility supplements that don’t actually help you get pregnant? In this solo episode, I break down the truth about fertility supplements, what is worth taking when you are trying to conceive, and what may be overhyped or unnecessary. There is so much conflicting information online, especially around prenatal vitamins, folic acid, and trending supplements, so I wanted to walk through this in a clear and evidence-based way. I share what I recommend starting with before pregnancy, including prenatal vitamins and key nutrients that support fertility and early fetal development. I also explain the controversy around folic acid vs methylfolate and MTHFR, and why this topic is often misunderstood. From there, I get into the most popular fertility supplements for egg quality and sperm quality, including CoQ10, omega-3s, vitamin D, melatonin, and antioxidants. I also talk through how age impacts egg quality, when supplements may actually make a difference, and why they should always be used alongside proper medical care and lifestyle support. I also touch on PCOS and why inositol can be a helpful supplement for improving insulin resistance and supporting ovulation in certain cases. If you are trying to conceive, preparing for pregnancy, navigating infertility, or doing IVF, this episode will help you better understand which fertility supplements may actually support your goals and which ones may not be worth your time or money. Follow along for more conversations on fertility, TTC, egg quality, PCOS, hormone health, prenatal nutrition, and pregnancy preparation. _____Follow Dr Sasha!TikTok: @sashahakmanmdInstagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepodYouTube: @tryingtoconceivepodWant to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more!If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks.If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should you freeze your eggs? And if you do, how many do you actually need to feel confident about your future fertility? In this episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman sits down with Dr. Jessica Ryniec, a reproductive endocrinologist based in Boston, to break down everything you need to know about fertility preservation. From egg freezing to embryo banking, this conversation covers the science, the process, the myths, and the practical decisions that come with preserving your fertility. Dr. Ryniec explains why fertility preservation has become so popular, who should consider it, and how the process actually works from evaluation to egg retrieval. You'll learn what ovarian reserve testing really tells you, why AMH matters even if it doesn't predict pregnancy, and how age impacts both egg quality and quantity. They discuss the reality that egg quality declines over time due to DNA repair breakdown, and why waiting too long can significantly reduce your chances of success. This episode dives into the technical side of egg freezing, including how vitrification revolutionized the field, what happens in the lab once your eggs are retrieved. Dr. Ryniec shares her approach to counseling patients on how many eggs to freeze based on age and family goals, and why 70% chance of one live birth is often a comfortable target for many patients. They also tackle the debate between freezing eggs versus embryos in a committed relationship, and why most fertility doctors have done fertility preservation themselves. Dr. Ryniec discusses the role of AI in egg selection, the limitations of current technology, and why fertility preservation is better thought of as a head start rather than insurance. You'll also learn about priming protocols, how birth control pills and IUDs can temporarily suppress ovarian response, and why lifestyle factors like sleep, hydration, and movement matter more than extreme dietary restrictions. Dr. Ryniec shares her thoughts on when it's too old to freeze eggs, how to optimize egg health in the 90 days before a cycle, and why smoking and daily fast food are bigger concerns than occasional gluten or dairy. This episode is essential listening for anyone considering egg freezing, wondering if they should wait to optimize their health first, or trying to decide between eggs and embryos. Whether you're single, in a relationship, or simply want to understand your options, this conversation will give you the knowledge and confidence to make the right decision for your future family. _____ Follow Dr. Jessica Ryniec on Instagram and TikTok: @jessicaryniecmd Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What really happens to your eggs once they leave the operating room? And how much does the embryology lab actually impact IVF success? In this episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman sits down with Shaun Reed, an experienced embryologist from Utah Fertility Center, to break down one of the most misunderstood parts of the fertility journey: the IVF lab. From egg retrieval to embryo transfer, Shaun walks through what happens behind the scenes, why it matters, and what patients should actually care about. You’ll learn what a day in the life of an embryologist looks like, how labs protect eggs and embryos through strict quality control, and why temperature and pH are critical at every step. Shaun explains how eggs are identified and handled, and the debate around when to strip eggs during the IVF process. We also dive into conventional insemination vs ICSI, why most clinics now use ICSI, and how embryologists manually select sperm under a microscope. Shaun shares insights on sperm processing technologies like Zymot, incubation methods including time lapse systems, and what truly impacts embryo development. A major focus of this episode is embryo grading. Shaun explains why grades like AA vs BB are more subjective than patients think, and why even lower graded embryos can still lead to successful pregnancies. We also discuss zero PN embryos and why many still result in normal, healthy outcomes. Finally, we explore the future of IVF, including AI in embryo selection, PGT biopsy, and popular lab add ons. Shaun shares what is worth it, what is not, and why the embryology lab may be one of the most important factors in IVF success. This episode is essential for anyone going through IVF, considering egg freezing, or wanting a deeper understanding of what happens to their eggs and embryos behind the scenes. _____ Follow Shaun Reed on Instagram: @shaun.ology Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Could your PCOS diagnosis actually be something else? In this episode of the Trying to Conceive Podcast, Dr. Sasha Hakman breaks down polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), one of the most common and misunderstood hormonal conditions affecting fertility. She also shares her personal experience of believing she had PCOS for years before discovering through expanded genetic testing that she actually had non-classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NCCAH), a condition that can closely mimic PCOS but requires different treatment. Dr. Hakman explains what PCOS really is, why it has nothing to do with ovarian cysts, and how it is properly diagnosed using the Rotterdam criteria. She also walks through the essential lab work needed to rule out other hormonal conditions, including thyroid disorders, elevated prolactin, adrenal disorders, and testosterone producing tumors. You will also learn why testing 17-hydroxyprogesterone is a critical step that is often missed. The episode explores how insulin resistance and elevated androgens drive many PCOS symptoms such as irregular periods, infertility, acne, and unwanted hair growth. Dr. Hakman also discusses the long term health risks associated with PCOS, including type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and endometrial cancer. Finally, she covers evidence based treatment strategies, from lifestyle changes like nutrition and resistance training to medications and fertility treatments such as Letrozole. Whether you have been diagnosed with PCOS, suspect you might have it, or want to better understand hormonal and metabolic health, this episode provides a clear and practical guide to navigating this complex condition. _____ Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you know if the prenatal vitamin you're taking actually contains what it claims? And why do some supplements promise everything but deliver almost nothing? In this episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman sits down with Sam Diamond, co-founder of Bird & Be to pull back the curtain on the supplement industry. From sourcing ingredients to third party testing, manufacturing challenges, and regulatory differences between the US and Canada, this conversation reveals what most brands don't want you to know. Sam Diamond shares her personal journey navigating PCOS and pregnancy loss, and how working with fertility naturopaths opened her eyes to the power of integrative care. That experience led her to co-create a line of supplements built on evidence, transparency, and real clinical input from reproductive endocrinologists and naturopathic doctors. We discuss why not all prenatals are created equal, the truth about folic acid versus methylated folate, how to spot misleading labels like proprietary blends, and why elemental dosing matters more than you think. Sam also explains the science behind inositol for PCOS and insulin resistance, the 40 to 1 ratio that actually works, and why combining it with medications like Metformin or Letrozole may improve outcomes. You'll learn what third party testing really means, how heavy metals end up in supplements, why some ingredients like choline are nearly impossible to dose correctly in a capsule, and what certifications like Clean Label and NSF actually verify. We also talk about why Canada's pre-market licensing system offers stronger consumer protection than the FDA's supplement regulations, and how that impacts product quality and safety. If you've ever wondered whether your prenatal is safe, effective, or worth the money, this episode will give you the tools to evaluate any supplement with confidence. Sam breaks down what to look for on a label, what red flags to avoid, and why the best prenatal is always the one you'll actually take. This is essential listening for anyone trying to conceive, currently pregnant, or simply wanting to make informed decisions about reproductive health. _____ Follow Bird & Be Co at https://birdandbe.com/ and on Instagram @birdbeco Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How many follicles are too many for an IUI? When should you move on to IVF? And is IUI ever a waste of time? In this episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman sits down with Dr. Blake Evans, a reproductive endocrinologist and researcher whose groundbreaking studies on ovarian stimulation and IUI have changed the way fertility specialists counsel patients every day. Dr. Evans breaks down his widely cited research on follicle count, multiples risk, and pregnancy rates across different age groups. He explains why singleton pregnancy rates stay the same whether you have one, two, three, or even five follicles, and why the only thing that increases with more follicles is the risk of multiples, especially in women under 38. We discuss the real risks of twin and triplet pregnancies, including preterm delivery, NICU stays, maternal complications, and the financial burden that can far exceed the cost of IVF itself. Dr. Evans also shares his second major study showing that patients can still conceive after multiple IUI cycles, with cumulative pregnancy rates reaching over 70% by cycle eight, though he emphasizes this does not mean it is the most efficient or cost effective path. This conversation is packed with practical takeaways for both patients and providers navigating unexplained infertility, insurance limitations, and the decision between continuing IUI or moving to IVF. Dr. Evans also shares candid insights on the Femeseed device, fresh transfers in IVF, and how geography and insurance coverage shape treatment decisions. If you are trying to decide how many IUI cycles to do, whether to cancel a cycle due to too many follicles, or if IVF is worth the investment, this episode will give you the data and clarity you need to move forward with confidence. _____ Follow Dr. Blake Evans on Instagram: @dr.blakeevans Follow me! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I finally share something I know so many of you have been waiting for. My embryo transfer failed. In this episode, I walk you through what happened, what I felt as both a fertility doctor and a patient, and the real reasons embryo transfers sometimes do not work even when everything looks perfect. We talk about the science behind failed implantation, what recurrent implantation failure actually means, and at what point you should start asking deeper questions about your IVF journey. One of the biggest misconceptions is that a chromosomally normal embryo should always work. The reality is more nuanced. Even strong embryos may not implant due to embryo competency, metabolic health, uterine factors, or variables we still do not fully understand. I explain the most common causes of failed embryo transfer including chromosomal abnormalities, embryo quality beyond genetics, uterine environment, inflammation, endometriosis, and metabolic health. We also discuss what testing is useful, what testing is controversial, and when additional investigation makes sense. If you have experienced one or two failed transfers, this episode is meant to ground you in data and help you avoid spiraling. If you are facing recurrent implantation failure, I break down what that diagnosis means and what next steps may look like. I also share my personal protocol, what I am changing for the next transfer, and how I am thinking about resilience in this process. Fertility is one of the few areas in life where doing the same thing again can lead to a different outcome. That does not make it easy, but it does mean there is still reason for hope. If you are preparing for an embryo transfer, navigating IVF, or coping with a failed cycle, this episode will help you understand the science, the decisions, and the emotional reality behind what happens next. _____ Topics covered: Why embryo transfers fail Causes of implantation failure Chromosomal normal embryos that still do not work Recurrent implantation failure explained Uterine testing and controversial tests Metabolic health and IVF success Protocol changes after a failed transfer How to move forward after disappointment _____ If this resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone navigating their own fertility journey. Follow me! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if your fertility struggles are not just bad luck? In this episode, I sit down with Dr Natalie Crawford to unpack one of the most overlooked drivers of infertility… chronic inflammation. We talk about why so many women are told to “just try for 12 months” before testing, why sperm counts have dropped dramatically over the last 50 years, and how inflammation quietly interferes with ovulation, egg quality, sperm health, implantation and even IVF outcomes  . Dr Crawford shares her personal story of experiencing multiple pregnancy losses while training as a fertility specialist and how digging into the research on inflammation changed everything for her. From discovering a short luteal phase to eventually being diagnosed with celiac disease, she explains how lifestyle changes and reducing inflammatory burden impacted her own fertility journey  . If you are doing everything “right” but still not getting pregnant, this episode will give you a deeper understanding of what may be happening at the cellular level and how to proactively support your reproductive health. _____ We cover: • How chronic inflammation disrupts the brain to ovary communication pathway • The connection between stress, cortisol and insulin resistance • Why egg quality is not only about age • How skeletal muscle improves insulin sensitivity and fertility • Why sleep is foundational for hormone balance • The gut microbiome, estrogen metabolism and intestinal permeability • Red meat, ultra processed foods and IVF outcomes • Environmental toxins and endocrine disruptors in daily life • What to optimize 90 days before IVF _____ Fertility is not just about biology. It is a health marker. And you deserve to understand how your daily choices add up. If you found this helpful, make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who is trying to conceive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gestational surrogacy can be one of the most powerful—and misunderstood—paths to building a family. In this episode of Trying to Conceive, Dr. Sasha Hakman sits down with her partner and colleague, Dr. Shahin Ghadir, a double board-certified reproductive endocrinologist with nearly 20 years of experience in third-party reproduction. Together, they break down the essentials of gestational surrogacy, including key definitions, who typically needs a surrogate, how the matching and screening process works, and why legal protections are critical. Dr. Ghadir shares insights into embryo transfer protocols, timelines, costs, and why California is one of the safest places in the world to pursue surrogacy. They also explore the emotional and ethical realities intended parents often don’t anticipate—from boundaries with gestational carriers to single vs. double embryo transfer—and share real-world stories from clinical practice. This episode offers expert guidance and clarity for anyone considering surrogacy or wanting to better understand the process. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo Q&A episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman answers your most common and complex fertility questions with clarity and nuance. She breaks down topics like chronic endometritis and transfer timing, reasons for low egg maturity and fertilization rates, day 7 PGT-normal embryos, and what “normal” HCG rises really look like. Dr. Hakman also shares guidance on natural vs. programmed FETs, exercising during IVF and transfers, protocols for low AMH and diminished ovarian reserve, vaginal microbiome testing, and when to pursue fertility evaluation—even after having children. This episode is packed with practical insights to help you make informed, confident decisions throughout your fertility journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should you delay IVF or egg freezing to improve egg quality—or could waiting actually hurt your chances? In this episode of Trying to Conceive, Dr. Sasha Hakman is joined by renowned reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Philip Romanski to break down what the science really says about timing fertility treatment. They explore ovarian reserve testing, egg quality myths, lifestyle and supplement considerations, and groundbreaking research showing that short delays in IVF—even for women with diminished ovarian reserve—do not negatively impact pregnancy outcomes. This episode offers practical, evidence-based guidance to help patients make confident, informed decisions about when to start treatment and how to optimize results. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our latest episode is here, and it’s one every fertility patient should hear. Dr. Sasha Hakman sits down with Certified Genetic Counselor Meaghan Doyle to break down the confusion around PGT-A, embryo grading, and what mosaic results really mean. In this conversation, Meaghan explains the differences between euploid, aneuploid, and mosaic embryos, why so many early embryos show mosaicism, and how to think about transferring a mosaic when it’s your only option. They also discuss the limitations of PGT-A, when it’s helpful, and why results should always be interpreted within the full clinical picture. If you’ve ever wondered whether PGT-A is worth it—or whether viable embryos are being discarded based on testing alone—this episode brings clarity, nuance, and evidence-based guidance. Listen now to feel more informed and empowered on your fertility journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I’m excited to share my latest solo episode on maximizing natural fertility. In this episode, I cover how to understand your fertile window, the best ovulation-tracking methods, and what really matters for timing intercourse. I break down lifestyle strategies proven to support fertility—from nutrition and resistance training to essential supplements like folic acid and CoQ10. I also address environmental toxins, practical everyday swaps, and the importance of sleep, stress management, and mindful substance use. This episode gives you evidence-based, actionable steps to support your fertility and know when it’s time to seek professional guidance. Listen now to feel informed and empowered. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing reproductive medicine. In this episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman sits down with Dr. Eduardo Hariton—Harvard-trained OB-GYN, reproductive endocrinologist, and innovation leader at US Fertility—to explore how AI is transforming every stage of fertility care. From personalizing IVF medication protocols to improving embryo selection and patient communication, Dr. Hariton shares how technology is enhancing outcomes, increasing accessibility, and allowing doctors to focus on what truly matters: caring for patients on their path to parenthood. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Miscarriage affects one in four pregnancies, yet it’s still spoken about in whispers. In this episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman and Dr. Jessica Zucker confront the stigma head-on—discussing how social expectations, gender norms, and medical systems often fail grieving parents. Drawing from her bestselling book Normalize It, Dr. Zucker shares her insights on how to support loved ones through loss and why changing the language around miscarriage is key to collective healing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For anyone tracking ovulation, this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Sasha Hakman and Dr. Pero from Inito dive into the real science behind fertility monitoring—how to know when you’re actually fertile, what hormonal patterns really matter, and why one-size-fits-all apps don’t cut it. Hear how Inito’s technology is redefining what it means to be informed and empowered while trying to conceive. Get your Inito for $89 with the code TTCPODCAST https://try.inito.com/hormone-tracking/inf/?discount=TTCPODCAST&utm_source=social_media&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast&utm_content=TTCPODCAST Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nearly half of infertility cases involve male factors, yet men are often left out of the conversation. Dr. Justin Houman joins Dr. Sasha Hakman to break down the myths and stigma around male fertility, from the basics of semen analysis to advanced treatment options. They explore how simple lifestyle changes, early testing, and proactive care can make a major difference in outcomes for couples. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman dives deep into one of the most frustrating diagnoses in reproductive medicine: unexplained infertility. She breaks down what it really means when everything looks “normal” on paper—but pregnancy still isn’t happening. From testing protocols to treatment options like IUI and IVF, this episode is your go-to guide for understanding how to navigate the unknown and how to move forward with confidence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if freezing your eggs didn’t have to come with a $15,000+ price tag? Enter Cofertility, the first platform to make egg freezing free when women donate half of their retrieved eggs to intended parents. Dr. Sasha Hakman sits down with co-founder and CEO Lauren Makler to talk about the ethics, logistics, and impact of this model—and how it’s reshaping fertility care for donors, parents, and future families. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, longevity leader and wellness entrepreneur Kayla Barnes joins Dr. Sasha Hakman to share her science-backed approach to fertility preservation. Kayla touches on how she decided to freeze eggs vs embryos and the tools she used that helped her recover faster than any patient Dr. Hakman has seen, Kayla breaks down the why, how, and what’s next in her journey to building a big family. Expect tips on testing, mindset, and why optimizing health before conception might be the most powerful investment of all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Starting IVF can feel overwhelming. In this episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman simplifies the science and the steps so you know exactly what to expect. From understanding your menstrual cycle and ovarian reserve to exploring egg retrieval, embryo culture, and genetic testing, Dr. Sasha gives you the knowledge to feel informed and empowered throughout your fertility journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Sarah Oreck- psychiatrist, mother of three, and co-founder of Mavida Health- opens up about her experience with second trimester loss, IVF, and the emotional complexity of trying to conceive. With Dr. Sasha Hakman, she discusses how mental health is often overlooked in fertility treatment, the stigma around termination for medical reasons, and how her personal story helped shape the way she cares for others. This is an honest conversation about what it means to choose your path and how to survive when things don’t go as planned. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when your lifestyle is optimized, your labs look great—and you still can’t get pregnant? Aggie Lal joins Dr. Sasha to unpack the emotions and realities behind “unexplained” infertility, how her partner’s sperm shifted the narrative, and why being a wellness influencer doesn’t guarantee an easy path to motherhood. This is the story behind the social media highlight reel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices