In our latest episode, we have a special guest, Jill Fisher, the director of the genetic counseling program at Kean University. Join us as we explore the misconceptions surrounding genetic counseling. 

Jill sheds light on the vital role of genetic counselors as decision-makers, policy influencers, and champions of patient-centered care. With the increasing prevalence of genetic testing, genetic counselors play a crucial role in mitigating clinic risk and providing comprehensive counseling to patients. Their expertise spans various areas, including male and female infertility, carrier screening, donor gamete programs, pre-implantation genetic testing, and non-invasive prenatal screening. 

In our conversation, Jill reveals some common misunderstandings about genetic counseling and addresses the misconception that certain diseases are exclusive to specific ethnicities. While some disorders may be more prevalent in certain populations, they can still occur in others.  

Additionally, Jill emphasizes the limitations of genetic testing. A negative result doesn't guarantee a healthy child, as there is always residual risk.  

Join us as we uncover the truth behind genetic counseling! 

The ASRM Today podcast is supported in part by the ASRM Corporate Member Council.

In this thought-provoking episode, we dive into the fascinating world of surrogacy contracts with our guest, Susan Crockin. Susan is a leader in the field, serving as the head of the Crockin Law and Policy group, and as a senior scholar and adjunct professor at the esteemed O'Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law at Georgetown University Law Center.

Join us as Susan sheds light on the pivotal questions surrounding surrogacy contracts and reproductive medicine. Where does the conversation about surrogacy contracts begin? What are the various types of surrogacy? Discover the crucial role of doctors in the screening process and their responsibilities when it comes to legal agreements. 

Delve deeper into the intricacies of surrogacy contracts as Susan explains how they function and what vital components they contain. Uncover the unique aspects of a surrogate pregnancy that set it apart from other forms of reproduction.

Join us as we navigate the legal landscape to better understand the multifaceted aspects of reproductive medicine. 

The ASRM Today podcast is supported in part by the ASRM Corporate Member Council.

Join us as we dive into the ACMG updated guidelines on genetic testing with Aishwarya Arjunan, the clinical product specialist for carrier screening at Myriad Women's Health. Based in San Francisco, Aishwarya shares her expertise on the latest advancements in genetic testing, focusing on cystic fibrosis screening for gestational carriers. Learn about the differences between testing and screening, the importance of comprehensive screening regardless of ethnicity, and how these updates provide more equitable care for all populations. Don't miss this informative conversation that sheds light on the evolving field of genetic testing and its impact on family planning. 

Deignan, J.L., Astbury, C., Cutting, G.R. et al. CFTR variant testing: a technical standard of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG). Genet Med (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41436-020-0822-5

You can learn more about the updated guidelines of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics at their website: https://www.acmg.net/

The ASRM Today podcast is supported in part by the ASRM Corporate Member Council.

Join us in this powerful episode as we sit down with Andrew, a member of the transgender community, who shares their journey of undergoing fertility treatment to build a family. Andrew's story is a testament to resilience, love, and the incredible possibilities that arise when medical professionals truly understand and support their patients. Discover the challenges Andrew faced, the unexpected turns their life took, and the transformative experience of finding a fertility clinic that embraced their unique needs. Tune in to gain insights into the importance of inclusive healthcare and the profound impact it can have on individuals and families. 

To hear a physician's view on this subject, please download the June 11, 2020 episode - Transgender Care: A Physician's View with Paula Amato

To hear another patient's view on this subject, please download the June 12, 2020 episode - Transgender Care: A Patient's View with Trystan Reese

The ASRM Today podcast is supported in part by the ASRM Corporate Member Council.

On this episode, we have a special guest, Dr. Shaalini Ramanadhan, a clinical fellow and family planning expert from the Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, OR. Today, we delve into the fascinating topic of contraception and its connection to infertility treatment. 

Dr. Ramanadhan shares valuable insights on how contraception plays a crucial role in the field of reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI). She highlights three key areas where contraception intersects with this specialty and brings us up to speed with exciting developments.   

Dr. Ramanadhan concludes by sharing three key points that providers should know about contraception and discussing upcoming advancements in contraception, including highlighting the exciting progress in male contraception, such as gels, pills, and even substances for easily reversible vasectomies. These advancements promise to offer more choices and broaden the applicability of contraception. 

Join us as we explore the world of contraception and discover the latest advancements in this ever-evolving field. 

The ASRM Today podcast is supported in part by the ASRM Corporate Member Council.

In this episode, Dr. Nicolas Plachta a recounts his personal experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Plachta is an associate professor in the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology in the Smilow Center for Translational Research in the Perelmen School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.

View all of ASRM's COVID-19 Resources at https://www.asrm.org/covid-19

The ASRM Today podcast is supported in part by the ASRM Corporate Member Council.

On this episode of ASRM Today, Eve Feinberg discusses the Joint Statement issued by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), and the International Federation of Fertility Societies (IFFS) concerning the global COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Eve Feinberg is the president of the Society for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (SREI), and an associate editor for the journal, Fertility and Sterility. She sits on both the Executive Board of the American Collegee of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) as well as the ASRM.

To view all of ASRM's resources on COVID-19, please visit https://www.asrm.org/COVID-19

The ASRM Today podcast is supported in part by the ASRM Corporate Member Council.

Today we welcome Trystan Reese, a member of the transgender community, who joins us today to share their personal experience of undergoing fertility treatment to build a family. Trystan's journey has been one of resilience, growth, and overcoming obstacles. In this candid conversation, we delve into the complexities of transgender reproductive choices and the transformative power of medical advancements. 

Trystan takes us back to their early transition years, when misconceptions about transgender health prevailed. They recount the challenges they faced in accessing hormone treatment and the societal pressure to relinquish their reproductive rights. But as Trystan enlightens us, the landscape of transgender fertility has evolved significantly since then. 

Today, Trystan and their partner have a beautiful family that defies societal norms. They share their joy of parenting two older adopted children and the decision to explore biological parenthood. We learn about the extensive research Trystan conducted and the inspiring stories of transgender individuals worldwide who have successfully given birth.  

Drawing from their role as the director of family formation at Family Equality, Trystan imparts invaluable insights to reproductive medicine specialists and practitioners.  

Join us for this eye-opening conversation with Trystan Reese, where we challenge outdated beliefs, celebrate resilience, and explore the transformative possibilities of modern reproductive medicine. 

To hear a physician's view on this subject, please download the June 11, 2020 episode - Transgender Care: A Physician's View with Paula Amato

To hear another patient's view on this subject, please download the June 26, 2020 episode - Transgender Care: A Patient's View Part II

The ASRM Today podcast is supported in part by the ASRM Corporate Member Council.

Welcome to today's episode, where we dive into the fascinating intersection of medically assisted reproduction and transgender communities. Joining us is our special guest, Dr. Paula Amato, Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, OR. 

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Amato sheds light on the definition of transgender and the importance of understanding gender dysphoria.  

Delving into the topic of creating trans-friendly clinics, Dr. Amato provides practical insights on inclusive practices and highlights the significance of a welcoming environment. 

The ethical issues surrounding transgender reproduction and fertility preservation are also explored. Dr. Amato discusses reproductive autonomy, the welfare of children, informed consent, access to care, justice, and counseling transgender patients regarding fertility preservation and reproductive options. 

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Paula Amato for sharing her expertise and insights on medically assisted reproduction and transgender communities. 

To hear a patient's view on this subject, please download the June 12, 2020 episode - Transgender Care: A Patient's View with Trystan Reese

To hear another patient's view on this subject, please download the June 26, 2020 episode - Transgender Care: A Patient's View Part II

The ASRM Today podcast is supported in part by the ASRM Corporate Member Council.

Today, we have Dr. Fleur Cattrall, the Medical Director of IVF in Melbourne, Australia, sharing her experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. From devastating bushfires to international travel bans and the closure of non-essential services, Dr. Cattrall discusses the challenges faced by her IVF center. Despite initial fears, Australia saw relatively low infection rates. Now, as the centers reopen, Dr. Cattrall highlights the importance of communication, safety protocols, and the adoption of telehealth. 

View all of ASRM's COVID-19 Resources at https://www.asrm.org/covid-19

The ASRM Today podcast is supported in part by the ASRM Corporate Member Council.