Have you ever wondered what a semen analysis actually measures? What do the numbers mean, and how do you know if the results are normal? If something is off, what are the possible causes, and what can be done about it?

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine breaks down everything you need to know about semen analysis and its role in fertility evaluations. She explains the key measurements, what’s considered normal, and why male factor infertility is an important part of the conception journey.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of semen analysis results, learn how to prepare for the test, and discover what steps to take if results indicate potential concerns. Dr. Shahine also shares practical advice on treatment options and essential questions to ask your doctor, ensuring you feel informed and empowered in your fertility

In this episode you’ll hear:

[0:55] Importance of semen analysis in fertility

[2:17] Understanding results

[5:48] Factors affecting sperm count

[12:00] Motility and morphology explained

[19:07] Next steps and treatment options

[21:41] Questions to ask your doctor

[22:44] Closing thoughts

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

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Have you ever wondered if your menstrual bleeding is heavier than normal? What are the key signs that your flow might be excessive? How can you best prepare for a doctor’s visit if you suspect something isn’t right?

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine covers the topic of heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) and how to determine whether your bleeding is abnormal. She explains what constitutes a normal period, highlights seven clues that signal excessive bleeding, and explores the various potential causes of menorrhagia.

You’ll learn practical strategies for tracking your cycle, why keeping a list of medications and supplements matters, and how small lifestyle adjustments can help manage symptoms while awaiting medical care. 

In this episode you’ll hear:

[1:20] What is ‘normal’ period bleeding?

[2:58] Seven clues for deciding if bleeding is abnormal

[4:34] Causes of heavy menstrual bleeding

[6:40] Preparing for a visit to your doctor

[7:51] Tips for managing heavy bleeding

[9:28] Final thoughts

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

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Welcome to Brave & Curious with Dr. Lora Shahine: new name, same trusted information.

The mission behind Baby or Bust is not changing! It is still Dr. Shahine’s passion to educate and teach about women’s health and fertility. The new show, Brave & Curious, will continue to explore fertility and reproductive health. 

AND it is also expanding to include broader wellness topics that impact individuals on their reproductive journeys and beyond. With this evolution, Dr. Shahine aims to foster a space where listeners can embrace both bravery and curiosity in navigating their personal health experiences.

In this episode, Dr. Shahine shares her vision for Brave & Curious and what listeners can expect from the new format. The podcast will feature insightful expert interviews, providing medical and holistic perspectives on reproductive health and wellness. 

Additionally, she will highlight personal stories from patients and individuals who have faced fertility challenges, offering real-life experiences that inspire and inform.

Dr. Shahine strongly believes that women need a space like Brave & Curious. 

Why?  

So we can share knowledge and experiences to empower individuals navigating fertility and reproductive health. So we can highlight the roles bravery and curiosity play in advocating for our own wellness.

Brave & Curious is here to guide and empower you. Thanks for being here.

In this episode you’ll hear:

[00:15] Why is Baby or Bust now Brave & Curious?

[00:51] Bravery and curiosity in fertility

[2:09] What should you expect from Brave & Curious?

[3:17] Let’s build community

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

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Are you in the dreaded two-week wait and wondering what symptoms to look for? How can you tell the difference between early pregnancy signs and normal cycle symptoms? What are the most common mistakes people make when testing for pregnancy too early?

In this episode, Dr. Lora Shahine is easing your uncertainty around the two-week wait, explaining the early signs of pregnancy and how they relate to different phases of the menstrual cycle. She explains the role of progesterone, potential implantation symptoms, and what to expect during this time.

Dr. Shahine also shares the biggest misconceptions about detecting pregnancy early and provides expert advice on the best ways to test accurately. Listeners will walk away with a better understanding of their body, practical tips for symptom interpretation, and the reasons it’s so important to consult a medical professional for guidance. 

In this episode you’ll hear:

[1:10] Understanding the menstrual cycle

[3:02] Recognizing early pregnancy signs

[6:00] Common mistakes

[9:13] Closing thoughts

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

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How long does the IVF process take from start to finish? What are the key stages involved in egg freezing versus embryo creation? What factors can influence the overall timeline to pregnancy?

In this episode of Baby or Bust Fertility, Dr. Laura Shahine breaks down the IVF process and its timeline, to help you navigate this complex journey. She explains the four main stages of IVF: the compliance checklist, preparation for stimulation, the stimulation cycle, and for those pursuing embryo creation, the embryo transfer stage.

There are some factors that impact the timeline. So it’s important to understand clinic availability and protocols, set realistic expectations, and do some financial and medical preparations. You can’t really “plan” much during IVF, but this episode can at least help you with a realistic timeline. 

In this episode you’ll hear:

[0:48] Understanding the IVF process

[2:07]  Compliance checklist

[6:37]  Preparation phase

[8:41] Stimulation cycle

[11:31] Embryo transfer and final steps

[16:14] Factors that impact the timeline

[17:35] Clinic policies and timing

[22:04] Keeping your expectations realistic

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

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Are you wondering how to improve your egg quality for better fertility outcomes? What impact do toxins, stress, and lifestyle choices have on reproductive health? And how can you take proactive steps without feeling overwhelmed or restricted?

In this episode of Baby or Bust Fertility, Dr. Lora Shahine breaks down five actionable steps to support and improve egg quality. 

She explains the role of limiting harmful toxins (tobacco, alcohol, marijuana) and reducing exposure to endocrine disruptors (BPA and phthalates). She also highlights the importance of managing stress, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through proper sleep, nutrition, and exercise, and considering antioxidant-rich supplements to support reproductive health.

This episode will give listeners a clear understanding of what egg quality is, why it matters, and how age and other factors influence fertility. You will hear practical, science-backed strategies for enhancing your reproductive health AND learn how to balance the journey with joy and flexibility.

In this episode you’ll hear:

[0:46] Understanding egg quality

[1:21] Factors affecting egg quality

[7:30] 5 Tips to improve egg quality

[12:35] Supplements are important

[14:27] A little encouragement

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

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Did you know there are ten types of miscarriage?! What are they? When it comes to a loss, does it really matter what kind of miscarriage you’ve experienced? (Hint: yes it does.) And how can proper diagnosis and evaluation help those facing recurrent miscarriages? 

In this episode, Dr. Shahine breaks down the ten different types of miscarriage, including early and late, clinical and biochemical, threatened, missed, inevitable, complete, septic, and recurrent miscarriages. 

She shares the information from the American Society of Reproductive Medicine on recurrent pregnancy loss and discusses the importance of proper evaluation for those who have experienced multiple losses.

Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of the causes of miscarriage, the importance of proper medical care, and the reassurance that pregnancy loss is never the fault of the person experiencing it. This episode provides knowledge, empathy, and practical guidance for those facing the heartbreak of pregnancy loss. 

In this episode you’ll hear:

[1:51] Understanding miscarriage

[2:33] Emotional impact and misconceptions of pregnancy loss

[4:07 ] Detailed breakdown of miscarriage types

• Timing-Based Miscarriage Types

• Clinical vs. Biochemical Miscarriages

• Labels and Descriptions of Miscarriages

• Recurrent Miscarriage

[17:42] Conclusion & final thoughts

Resources mentioned: 

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

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How does air pollution impact fertility and IVF success rates? What do recent studies reveal about the effects of wildfire smoke on reproductive health? What can you do to improve the air quality in your home to support fertility?

In this episode of Baby or Bust Fertility, Dr. Lora Shahine shares the latest research on air pollution and fertility. She talks about how environmental toxins, especially from wildfires and poor air quality, can influence reproductive health. Dr. Shahine sheds light on why controlled environments are essential in IVF labs and how similar principles can be applied at home.

Listeners will walk away with 10 actionable tips to improve their indoor environment. Tips include choosing the right air filters and minimizing exposure to harmful pollutants. Listen and share! No matter the stage we’re in, we could all use cleaner air to breathe. 

In this episode you’ll hear:

[:36] Wildfires & air quality

[2:06] Air quality research & IVF success

[4:38] Studies on air pollution & fertility

[7:17] Male factor & air quality

[9:22] Improving air quality in your environment

[10:59] 10 tips to improve air quality in your home

[14:03] Closing thoughts

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

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What should you expect on the day of your embryo transfer? How can you best prepare to maximize your chances of success? What are some common misconceptions about the procedure? How soon will you know if you’re pregnant?

In this episode of the Baby or Bust Fertility podcast, Dr. Lora Shahine answers these questions to guide you through this critical step in your fertility journey.

Dr. Shahine walks through the embryo transfer process, offering insight and tips to help you feel confident and informed for transfer day. Dr. Shahine also includes why post-transfer care is an important part of the journey.

In this episode you’ll hear:

[1:44] Preparing for your embryo transfer

[2:19] Embryo transfer: step-by-step

[11:19] Things that can “happen”

[11:50] Post-transfer care and tips

[15:26] Additional resources

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

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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

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

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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