Are you starting to think about fertility testing? Have you been trying to conceive and wondering which tests actually matter? Or are you overwhelmed by conflicting advice and unsure where to begin?

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine breaks down fertility testing with clarity, compassion, and evidence. Now you can move forward feeling informed instead of intimidated.

Dr. Shahine covers the basics of fertility testing including the essentials of a thorough health history. She also explains how menstrual cycles, ovulation patterns, pain, PCOS, endometriosis, lifestyle factors, and mental health all shape a fertility workup.

This episode empowers couples with realistic expectations, evidence-based guidance, and the confidence to advocate for personalized fertility care, because understanding your options is the first step to feeling as ready as you can for what comes next.

In this episode you'll hear:

• [1:36] Key fertility tests for women: AMH, FSH, estradiol, ultrasound, and HSG
• [3:42]] The full work up: lifestyle, medical history, menstrual cycles, and past pregnancies
• [7:54] Ovarian reserve and AMH explained
• [13:19] Fertility tests for men: semen analysis and hormone evaluation
• [16:13] Preconception testing including genetic carrier screening
• [21:48] When to see a fertility specialist and what to ask your doctor after testing

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

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Can you really get pregnant after menopause? Why do celebrities seem to defy biology when it comes to age and fertility? And just because pregnancy is possible at later ages, is it actually safe?

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine explores the questions so many people are quietly asking as they navigate fertility, aging, and family-building decisions.

Dr. Shahine breaks down what the science actually says about age and fertility, including why it becomes harder to conceive with age, how eggs and sperm age differently, and what role options like IVF, egg freezing, and donor eggs play.

She also reviews headline-making cases of pregnancy at advanced reproductive age and explains why these headlines, while eye-catching, don't always tell the full medical story. She explains how clinicians think about risk, safety, and counseling for pregnancy later in life.

This episode offers evidence-based clarity, compassionate context, and practical guidance to help you make informed decisions. At any age.

In this episode you'll hear:

• [1:22] What record-breaking pregnancies really tell us
• [3:00] Understanding age & fertility
• [7:19] Health risks of pregnancy at 40s, 50s, and beyond
• [9:28] Men's reproductive age & health of pregnancy
• [10:21] Ethical considerations for older parents
• [11:27] Updated ASRM recommendations
• [13:35] Final thoughts

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

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Could your DNA explain why one-size-fits-all nutrition advice doesn't always work? Why do some people thrive on certain diets while others struggle, even when they're "doing everything right"? What if your genetics could help guide smarter nutrition choices before pregnancy, during pregnancy, and across your entire lifespan?

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine explores how genetics, nutrition, and reproductive health are deeply intertwined. She is joined by Dr. Steven Zeisel, a physician-scientist whose groundbreaking research helped redefine choline as an essential nutrient.

Their discussion traces how decades of work in biochemistry, genetics, and medicine led to the concept of precision nutrition. Dr. Zeisel explains how nutrients like choline, folate, methylfolate, betaine, and vitamin B12 interact with our genes. And he explains why common genetic variants can change how much of these nutrients our bodies actually need.

They also touch on why pregnancy, estrogen, fertility, and even sperm health are profoundly influenced by these metabolic pathways, and why traditional nutrition guidelines may miss the mark for many people.

Listeners will learn how emerging genetic tests can help identify individual "roadblocks" in metabolism. This episode is a powerful reminder that when it comes to nutrition, personalized science matters.

In this episode you'll hear:

• [0:48]Why one-size-fits-all nutrition advice doesn't work
• [2:19] Choline goes from non-essential to critical
• [8:16] The surprising role of estrogen
• [10:11] What can genetics influence?
• [15:33] Precision nutrition testing and what it can reveal
• [28:06] Challenges and acceptance in nutritional science
• [33:29] Genetic testing for personalized nutrition
• [45:56] What does all this research mean?

Resources mentioned:

genate.com

@TheGenateTest on Facebook

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

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Disclaimer: This episode is sponsored by SNP Therapeutics. All opinions and thoughts expressed are our own and were not influenced by the sponsor.

Have you had a C-section and now you're wondering if it could affect future conception? Are you planning one and feeling unsure how it may influence your reproductive health?

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine goes beyond headlines and reviews a landmark study to better understand how C-sections may impact future fertility, miscarriage rates, and pregnancy complications.

This episode will arm you with three essential questions to ask your provider and help you make informed decisions and have empowered conversations, all grounded in clarity, not fear.

In this episode you'll hear:

• [0:50] Overview of C-section impact study
• [1:08] Fertility after C-section
• [7:59] Pregnancy risks after C-section
• [18:36] Benefits of a C-Section
• [19:45] FAQ
• [21:14] Advocating for your care
• [22:51] Final thoughts

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

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Are you exhausted but still can't sleep through the night? Do you wake up feeling unrefreshed, foggy, or wired-tired no matter how early you go to bed? Could your sleep habits—or an undiagnosed sleep disorder—be quietly impacting your hormones, mental health, fertility, and long-term wellbeing?

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine and her guest, Dr. Meredith Broderick, invite you to rethink everything you've been told about sleep and why "pushing through" exhaustion is not a badge of honor.

Dr. Broderick shares how her own experience with sleep deprivation led her into sleep medicine, why sleep disorders are vastly underdiagnosed in women, and how poor sleep is linked to conditions like depression, migraines, cardiovascular disease, metabolic dysfunction, and infertility.

Together, they explain the difference between true sleep and sedation, why sleeping pills and alcohol disrupt restorative sleep, and how sleep apnea and chronic insomnia show up differently in women.

You'll learn when to ask for a sleep study, common red flags you shouldn't ignore (like morning headaches and daytime fatigue), and practical, evidence-based steps to start improving your sleep—without shame, perfection, or fear.

In this episode you'll hear:

• [1:23] Sleep is a non-negotiable pillar of health
• [5:10] Recognizing sleep disorders
• [12:59] The science behind sleep
• [14:19] Sleep & reproductive health
• [19:04] Practical sleep solutions
• [27:52] Understanding mid-night awakenings
• [29:21] Cultural variations in sleep patterns
• [31:23] Sleep trackers
• [33:20] Key reasons to consider a sleep study
• [36:50] Conclusion & final thoughts

Resources mentioned:

soundsleepguru.com

@sleepdoctormer on Instagram

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

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How can you give yourself the best chance of conceiving in the year ahead? Which habits truly influence fertility? And when is it appropriate to seek additional support or consult a specialist?

In this New Year episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine shares a practical and compassionate Fertility Reset—a clear roadmap for anyone preparing to conceive or looking for guidance after months of trying.

She reviews the foundations of cycle tracking and timed intercourse, strategies for reducing harmful exposures, and lifestyle and nutrition changes that can support reproductive health. Dr. Shahine also explains how stopping birth control varies by method, why understanding ovulation is essential, and how to decide whether at-home testing or a medical evaluation is the next right step.

This episode offers an evidence-based guide to enhancing fertility, improving overall wellness, and approaching the year ahead with clarity and confidence.

In this episode you'll hear:

• [0:32] Kicking off a fertility reset
• [1:27] Get your health in check
• [2:59] Stopping birth control
• [5:08] Cycle tracking
• [7:19] Timing intercourse
• [9:25] Lifestyle changes: what to stop and what to start
• [20:31] Prenatal vitamins
• [21:55] When to see a fertility specialist

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

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Is IVF the answer for recurrent pregnancy loss? Why would IVF with genetic testing of embryo be helpful for people that are 'getting' pregnant but can 'stay' pregnant?

In this educational episode, Dr. Lora Shahine explains the complex relationship between IVF, genetics, and recurrent pregnancy loss. She reviews the science behind why chromosomal imbalances are one of the most common causes of first-trimester miscarriage and discusses how preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) may help select embryos with the highest chance of success for some patients.

Through real patient examples and evidence-based guidance, this episode explores the nuances of testing, timing, emotional well-being, and the ethical and financial considerations that shape decision-making. Listeners will walk away informed, empowered, and reminded that no matter their fertility path, they are not alone.

In this episode you'll hear:

• [2:03] Why consider IVF for recurrent pregnancy loss?
• [4:10] IVF process & genetic testing
• [11:02] Real world counseling & patient scenarios
• [16:12] Pros & cons of IVF for recurrent pregnancy loss
• [24:58] Key considerations for IVF
• [28:15] Patient examples and recommendations
• [31:12] Final thoughts

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

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Are you confused about prenatal vitamins? Wondering whether folic acid or folate is best? And what about those MTHFR conversations on the internet? Should you be worried?

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine is asking the questions so many people have but rarely get clear answers to. Her guest is fertility expert Dr. Prati Sharma who is here to address the fear, the science, and the nuance behind one of the most debated supplements in pregnancy health.

Folate and folic acid may sound interchangeable, but as Dr. Shahine and Dr. Sharma explain, the topic gets complicated fast — especially once genetics, supplements, and internet opinions enter the chat.

Together they explain the definitions, evidence-based guidelines, genetic polymorphisms like MTHFR, and how the supplement market (and sometimes fear-based messaging) can mislead patients.

Listeners will hear balanced, thoughtful insight rooted in reproductive endocrinology, science-backed recommendations, and compassionate care, not panic or overwhelm. And most importantly, you'll leave feeling calmer, more empowered, and equipped with the right questions instead of fear.

In this episode you'll hear:

• [1:25] Why is folate vs. folic acid such a heated topic?
• [3:37] What is folate?
• [4:067 What is folic acid?
• [5:35] MTHFR gene variant explained
• [6:40] The history & science behind the recommendations
• [9:58] How much folic acid do you actually need?
• [12:56] What newer studies show
• [20:23] How to choose a prenatal
• [28:06] Final takeaways and connecting with Dr. Sharma

Resources mentioned:

@drpratiaharma on IG

createivf.com/about/prati-sharma-fertility-doctor

birdandbe.com

ABOG Folic Acid Recommendations

Review from Integrative Medicine Journal

Review by Jen Gunter, MD

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

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Have you ever wondered what meaningful, supportive gifts look like when someone you love is navigating infertility or a fertility journey? How can you shop with intention, without the toxins, overwhelm, or "one-size-fits-all" gifting? Ready to treat someone special (especially yourself)?

In this episode of Brave and Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine invites you into holiday joy with courage, compassion, and thoughtful connection, all through the lens of reproductive health and emotional well-being.

She is sharing a curated list of gift ideas specifically designed with the fertility community in mind. Gift-giving isn't just about objects. It's about connection, acknowledgment, and gentle encouragement during a deeply personal chapter.

Treat someone you love… and don't forget to include yourself!

In this episode you'll hear:

• [1:43] Gift guide overview
• [2:12] Idea #1: SheCanter
• [3:43] Idea #2: Infertile Tees
• [5:41] Idea #3: Fertility socks
• [6:44] Idea #4: Candle (toxin-free!)
• [9:27] Idea #5: Self-care/beauty products

Resources mentioned:

shecanter.com

Roxhill Candle Company

infertiletees.com [discount code HOPE15 through 12/31/25]

ivfeet.com [discount code BRAVE10 through 12/31/25]

doctorrogers.com [discount code DRSHAHINE all year long]

LINNÉbotanicals.com [discount code DRSHAHINE15 all year long]

shopshorrette.com [discount code DRSHAHINE15 all year long]

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

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What happens when chronic endometriosis meets fierce advocacy and a wicked sense of humor? What if your most painful experiences become the catalyst for empowering others? And how does a uterus-shaped wine decanter become a national conversation piece for women's reproductive health?

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine chats with Erica Loring, the self-declared "brains and uterus behind Shecanter," to talk about turning pain into purpose and stigma into laughter.

Erica shares her deeply personal health journey, from fainting spells through high-school to finally being heard, diagnosed, and validated after years of dismissal. Her story shines a light on endometriosis, PCOS, women's healthcare funding inequality, reproductive rights advocacy, and the power of representation through design.

Her viral product line, including uterus decanters, mugs, and more, has become both a feminist cultural symbol and a fundraising tool fueling research and resources for women with reproductive health conditions.

Listeners will learn how Erica transformed a frustrating medical experience into a thriving brand, using humor as activism and novelty products as conversation starters.

In this episode you'll hear:

• [2:37] Erica's endometriosis journey
• [4:14] Medical dismissal
• [4:58] Diagnosis barriers
• [7:18] Women's health funding
• [11:40] Novelty feminist products
• [15:26] Patient self-advocacy
• [17:22] Reproductive health organizations
• [19:07] Product design process
• [23:21] Empowering healthcare advocacy
• [28:08] Finding and purchasing the products

Resources mentioned:

shecanter.com

@the_shecanter on IG

endometriosisassn.org

pcoschallenge.org

plannedparenthood.org

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

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What if you could walk into every holiday gathering feeling grounded instead of guarded? How would it feel to have a plan when the nosy fertility questions inevitably come your way? And what if you could protect your emotional well-being while enjoying the holidays full of joy and with boundaries intact?

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine tackles the complicated reality of holiday conversations, fertility questions, and family-building pressure.

Listeners will learn practical, empowering tools for navigating holiday gatherings with confidence: how to identify an ally for support, and how to use communication strategies that range from soft deflection to strong boundary-setting.

In this episode you'll hear:

• [1:08] Tip #1 Don't Go
• [2:47] Tip #2 Find Your Ally
• [4:55] Tip #3 Plan Your Answers to Awkward Fertility Conversations
• [6:20] Tip #4 Plan an Exit Strategy
• [6:50] Tip #5 Plan Self Care and Recharge

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

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