If your doctor has recommended an HSG (hysterosalpingogram), you may be feeling uncertain about what to expect.

How does an HSG work? Will it be painful? What might the results mean for your fertility journey? How can you best prepare to make the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible?

In this episode of the Baby or Bust Fertility Podcast, Dr. Lora Shahine goes into the details of the HSG test, a diagnostic tool commonly used to evaluate the health of the fallopian tubes and uterine cavity. 

She explains the purpose of the procedure, what happens during the test, and why it’s an essential step for many people exploring their fertility options. Dr. Shahine also provides insight into common concerns like pain and anxiety, shares practical tips to help you prepare, and makes suggestions for self-care after the procedure. She’ll also help you understand the results.

In this episode you’ll hear:

[1:29] Understanding HSG: what & why

[5:03] HSG procedure explained

[10:21] Complications and precautions

[12:16] Preparing for HSG

[13:38] Post-procedure insight & tips

[17:07] Closing thoughts and additional resources

Dr. Shahine’s Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

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How do you know if you’re ovulating? What are the best ways to track ovulation? How can knowing your ovulation status help you optimize your chances of conception? 

In this episode of the Baby or Bust Fertility Podcast, Dr. Lora Shahine is talking all about ovulation––why it’s crucial for fertility, and how to when it’s happening.

You’ll hear how to recognize the physical signs of ovulation, how to use at-home tools like basal body temperature charting and ovulation predictor kits, and the purpose of ultrasounds and blood tests to confirm ovulation.

No matter the stage you’re in while trying to get pregnant, you’ll gain some practical tips that will empower you with new knowledge and ways to optimize your approach to getting pregnant. 

In this episode you’ll hear:

[1:00] Understanding your cycle

[2:38] Physical signs of ovulation

[5:22] Home testing for ovulation: BBT and OPKs

[15:08] Clinic tests for ovulation: Ultrasounds and blood tests

[17:27] Recap & concluding thoughts

Dr. Shahine’s Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

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You’re in the two-week-wait, analyzing every single little cramp, possible symptom, any little difference that could indicate pregnancy. If you’ve been on a fertility journey and trying to get pregnant for any amount of time, this will probably be familiar.

Then comes some spotting or light bleeding–is this your period? Or could it be implantation bleeding? It can be hard to tell.

So in this episode of Baby or Bust Fertility, Dr. Lora Shahine goes over how to tell the difference and what exactly to look for. After this episode, implantation bleeding will feel less like a mystery and you’ll have a clearer perspective on your pregnancy journey. 

In this episode you’ll hear:

[1:25] Implantation bleeding explained

[4:53] Different types of bleeding associated with early pregnancy

[6:54] 6 clues for implantation bleeding

[9:50] Recognizing warning signs

Dr. Shahine’s Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

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Are you struggling with the anxiety and uncertainty of the two-week wait? Wondering what you should or shouldn’t do during this emotionally charged time? How can you take care of yourself while waiting for answers? 

In this episode of Baby or Bust Fertility, Dr. Lora Shahine guides listeners through the two-week-wait, the time between potential conception and pregnancy confirmation. She shares both professional expertise and personal insight and has practical advice on managing this challenging time. 

You’ll walk away from this episode with practical tips for self-care, ways to stay distracted, and strategies for planning for either outcome. This episode is helpful for those actively trying to conceive and those supporting someone through their journey. This is a great one to share since the two-week-wait can be stressful and emotional for many involved.

In this episode you’ll hear:

[2:32] Why is the two-week wait so tough?

[4:15] Don’t #1 - Don’t Google

[5:40] Don’t #2 - Don’t test early

[6:10] Don’t #3 - Don’t (dramatically) change your lifestyle 

[11:29] DOs during the TWW

[16:21] Closing thoughts

Dr. Shahine’s Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

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Are you looking for practical strategies to boost your chances of conceiving? Wondering how to fine-tune your lifestyle for reproductive health? Curious about common mistakes to avoid on your fertility journey?

In this episode of Baby or Bust, Dr. Lora Shahine shares five essential strategies to enhance fertility. You’ll hear tips on optimizing nutrition, tracking ovulation and menstrual cycles, managing stress, improving lifestyle habits, and knowing when to seek specialized care. Dr. Shahine also highlights common pitfalls to avoid when trying to conceive. 

Whether you're actively planning for a family or simply curious about reproductive health, this episode provides valuable tips and encouragement for your journey.

In this episode you’ll hear:

[1:32] Tip #1 Optimizing nutrition

[4:38] Tip #2 Tracking ovulation & cycles

[7:00] Tip #3 Managing stress & mental health

[10:40] Tip #4 Optimize your lifestyle

[14:51] Tip #5 When to see a fertility specialist

[18:33] Common mistakes

Dr. Shahine’s Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

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Can birth control really cause infertility? Is the obsession with hormonal balance grounded in fact or fiction? Does hovering over a public toilet protect you from disease? Don’t let “medical” myths affect your health decisions!

Dr. Karen Tang, board certified OBGYN, founder of Thrive Gynecology and women’s health expert, is back for an eye-opening conversation that will tackle these questions and more, addressing the widespread misinformation about women’s health. 

In this episode, Dr. Lora Shahine and Dr. Tang explore how social media influences health narratives, for bad and good. They also emphasize the importance of individualized care, empowering women to make informed choices about their health and well-being. 

After this episode, you’ll have a deeper understanding of women's health topics, including painful periods, endometriosis, PCOS, and the myths surrounding tampons, fertility, and toilet etiquette. Learn why severe pain should never be dismissed, how to address "butt pain" during menstruation, and why patient advocacy is vital. This episode is packed with actionable advice and empowering insights to help you take charge of your health.

In this episode you’ll hear:

[3:31] Birth control myths

[16:03] Understanding hormonal balance

[22:31] Do you have painful periods?

[27:34] The truth about tampons and endometriosis

[29:32] Public toilet etiquette: to hover or not to hover

[35:46] PCOS & the misconception of weight and symptoms

[38:04] Advocating for your health

Resources mentioned: 

karentangmd.com

It’s Not Hysteria: Everything You Need to Know About Your Reproductive Heath (But Were Never Told)

Follow @karentangmd on Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok 

Dr. Shahine’s Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

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Have you been told your debilitating period pain is normal?

Have you ever wondered if you have endometriosis?

Maybe you’re curious how you can find out for sure?

In this conversation Dr. Karen Tang, author of It’s Not Hysteria and founder of Thrive Gynecology, joins Dr. Lora Shahine to delve into the complexities of endometriosis, a common, often-misdiagnosed condition that affects many women. In this episode you’ll hear the symptoms, challenges, myths, and various treatment options available. 

Drs. Tang and Shahine share their experiences caring for women with endometriosis for years - Dr. Tang’s perspective as a minimally invasive gynecology surgeon and Dr. Shahine as a reproductive endocrinologist and fertility specialist. They share how little they learned about endometriosis in early medical training, patient stories of doctor’s dismissing obvious symptoms of the disease, and how much we still need to learn and research to help.

You’ll finish this episode empowered to advocate for your care and find the right doctor to help you with your next steps.

In this episode you’ll hear:

[3:46] Understanding endometriosis

[9:18] Causes and theories for endometriosis

[17:24] Diagnosis & surgical confirmation

[26:57] Treatment options 

[35:32] Advocating for yourself and your health

Resources mentioned: 

karentangmd.com

It’s Not Hysteria: Everything You Need to Know About Your Reproductive Heath (But Were Never Told)

Follow @karentangmd on Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok 

Dr. Shahine’s Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Do you dread holiday gatherings because of those awkward “When are you going to have a baby?” questions? Why do people feel it’s appropriate to ask if you’re “trying” [wink wink] yet? Nothing sucks the fun out of a party like “you better not wait too long” or “when are you going to make your mom a grandma”?

Painful comments and questions come up year round, but holiday parties can be a real minefield. To help, Yoga, Pilates, Meditation, and Breathwork teacher Jennifer Edmonds is joining Baby or Bust to help you navigate inappropriate small talk. 

In this conversation, Dr. Lora Shahine and Jennifer discuss the necessity of setting boundaries around your fertility and parenthood journey, particularly during the holiday season. Learn to shut down awkward questions from others, indulge in some genuine self-care, and get the joy of the holiday season back. 

Here’s an idea: share this episode with a family member or friend before a gathering, and engage them as your ally. Start setting those boundaries so you can relax and enjoy yourself during the next holiday gathering. 

In this episode you’ll hear:

[1:10] Meet Jennifer Edmonds

[3:30] Jennifer’s fertility story

[9:55] Coping mechanisms for family gatherings

[17:55] Prepping for nosy questions

[20:23] Setting boundaries with kindness

[21:44] Handling unwanted advice

[25:22] Take care of yourself

[27:44] Finding joy amidst the struggle

[33:20] Practical tips for daily calm

[37:25] Connecting with Jennifer

Resources Mentioned:

www.elementpilatesyoga.com 

Follow Jen on Tiktok @elementpilatesandyoga 

Follow Jen on YouTube @elementpilatesyoga 

Follow Jen on IG @jen.elementpilatesyoga

Dr. Shahine’s Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

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On July 25, 1978, family building changed forever when the world's first IVF baby was born. Over 12 million babies have been born through in vitro fertilization worldwide, and Louise Joy Brown was the first. 

In this very special 100th episode of Baby or Bust, Dr. Lora Shahine sits down with now-adult Louise Brown. They discuss her experience as a living symbol of the powers of fertility medicine. Louise shares her parents' journey of choosing IVF, questions she got from friends growing up, and how she advocates for IVF now.

You can catch the Netflix movie, Joy starring Bill Nighy, out now, which is the biological drama set in the 1960s and 1970s about the nurse, scientist, and surgeon determined to develop the first “test tube baby.” 

In this episode you’ll hear:

[0:30] The Birth of IVF: A Historical Milestone

[1:21] Growing Up as the First IVF Baby

[4:16] Family and Media Challenges

[7:05] Personal Reflections and Advocacy

[16:31] Modern IVF and Future Hopes

[27:09] Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

Resources mentioned: 

Joy 2024 film

Dr. Shahine’s Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

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Do you have a friend or family member struggling to build their family? How about someone in your life who recently experienced a miscarriage or loss? What can we give people that helps them feel better, know that we’re thinking of them, and provides the right kind of support? 

In this special episode of Baby or Bust, Dr. Lora Shahine is providing five thoughtful gift ideas for loved ones facing family building challenges. Within each category, Dr. Shahine provides specific examples and ways to personalize these gifts for the person in your life.

It can be hard to know how to support those facing the challenges of infertility, pregnancy loss, or IVF treatments. You’ll walk away from this episode with lots of ideas to provide encouragement and meaningful ways to show you care. 

If you have other ideas of gifts you think should be added to the list, find Dr. Shahine @drlorashahine on Instagram and drop a comment on the episode post!

In this episode you’ll hear:

[1:10] Gift ideas overview

[2:35] Gift #1: Inspirational books or affirmational cards

[4:21] Gift #2: Jewelry or charms

[5:44] Gift #3: Self-care kits

[7:50] Gift #4: Pineapple-themed items

[12:31] Gift #5: Self-care beauty items

[14:32] Discount codes!

Resources mentioned: 

Roxhill Candle Company - Pineapple Candle - portion of proceeds donated to fertility nonprofits

Doctor Rogers Restore - safer skincare products. Save 15% with DRSHAHINE code at checkout 

Shop Sorette - collection of products vetted for transparency, accountability, and safety profile. Save 15% with DRSHAHINE15 at checkout

Dr. Shahine Amazon Storefront - collection of ideas (Using link results in Dr. Shahine receiving small commission)

Dr. Shahine’s Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

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Are you curious about the latest weight loss drugs? Considering Ozempic or other semaglutides but also planning to try to conceive? With all the buzz around these medications, it can feel like everyone is trying them—but what do we really know about their impact on fertility?

In this episode of Baby or Bust, host Dr. Lora Shahine is joined by Dr. Spencer Nadolsky, a board-certified family physician specializing in obesity and lipidology, and co-host of the popular podcast Docs Who Lift. Together, they dive into the intersection of weight loss medications and fertility, answering your most pressing questions.

Topics include:

• The history and science behind semaglutides.
• Key differences between popular weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy.
• Short- and long-term side effects of these medications.
• What fertility patients need to know about using semaglutides while trying to conceive.

Dr. Nadolsky shares expert insights and actionable tips, providing clarity on managing the chronic condition of obesity and navigating the latest advancements in weight loss medications. Whether you're on a fertility journey or simply curious about these treatments, this episode is packed with valuable information.

Tune in for expert guidance on how semaglutides and weight loss medications could impact your fertility goals!

In this episode you’ll hear:

[2:20] Meet Dr. Spencer Nadolsky

[5:26] Specializing in obesity medicine & lipidology

[8:10] The evolution of weight loss medication

[12:46] Patient access & experience with weight loss medications

[18:25] The reason people lose weight with semaglutides

[29:04] Weight loss medication & fertility

[41:52] The future of weight loss medication

[43:58] Listener questions from IG

Resources mentioned: 

drspencer.com 

Docs Who Lift Podcast 

Dr. Shahine’s Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books