ASRM Today Podcast

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.

In today's episode, we talk with Dr. Lowell Ku, the medical director of Dallas IVF, who sheds light on the world of telehealth. Join us as we explore the advantages and challenges of incorporating telehealth into reproductive health practices.

Dr. Ku, an expert in the field, provides valuable insights into the definition of telehealth, differentiating it from telemedicine and highlighting the role it plays in connecting patients and clinicians through real-time audio and video technology. With COVID-19 reshaping healthcare, telehealth has become an essential tool, allowing doctors and patients to interact seamlessly.

Discover the advantages telehealth offers to reproductive health patients. While certain situations still require in-person examinations, telemedicine serves as a powerful tool for non-emergent care, including consultations and new patient visits. Dr. Ku shares how Dallas IVF utilizes telemedicine exclusively, leveraging popular platforms like Zoom to maintain patient care and ensure continuity.

Of course, with any innovation, there are challenges to overcome. Dr. Ku dives into the barriers faced by telehealth, including inconsistent reimbursement models, licensure challenges, and concerns over security and privacy. However, he also highlights the accessibility of technology among the younger patient population, making telehealth adoption more feasible. Moreover, Dr. Ku discusses specific hurdles like audio connectivity, internet reliability, and the difficulty of obtaining vital signs remotely.

If you're a healthcare practitioner interested in incorporating telehealth into your practice, this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Ku shares valuable resources, including the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American Association of Family Practice, where you can find accurate information and guidance to navigate this exciting frontier.

Join us in this enlightening episode as we explore the world of telehealth with Dr. Lowell Ku, bringing you closer to the future of healthcare.

• AMA quick guide to telemedicine in practice
• AAFP: Using Telehealth to Care for Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic
• ASRM Webinar: Telehealth During the Pandemic and Beyond: A Tool for your Clinical Arsenal

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

Join us for a special episode as we speak with Dr. Matheus Roque, an expert in reproductive medicine who has been on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Roque shares his experiences working with patients during this difficult time, including the changes he has seen in San Paulo and Brazil as the pandemic began to spread. He also discusses the approach he has taken to deal with COVID-19, including the use of telehealth and alternative methods. Finally, Dr. Roque shares his insights on what we can learn from COVID-19 and how we can move forward in reproductive care during this challenging time. Don't miss this informative and thought-provoking episode!

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 today's podcast, we have Becca O'Connor, government affairs manager for ASRM's Office of Public Affairs in Washington, DC, to discuss the ASRM 2020 Advocacy Day. Advocacy Day is an annual event where the infertility community, including providers, patients, family members, and others, come together to educate members of Congress about issues and legislation important to the community. Becca shares the type of asks that are made to the members of Congress and how the first virtual Advocacy Day was a record-breaking and resounding success.

ASRM Press Release: Advocates From 50 States to Participate in First Virtual Federal Advocacy Day: https://www.asrm.org/advocates-from-50-states-participate-in--first-virtual-advocacy-day/

Get involves in Advocacy Day via RESOLVE's website: https://resolve.org/get-involved/events/advocacy-day/

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

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Joop Laven, a reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist based in the Netherlands. Dr. Laven shares his experience on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic and how it has impacted reproductive care. He discusses the decision to stop treatment, the latest research on COVID-19 and its effects on reproductive health, and the outlook for the future of reproductive care. Join us as we dive into this important conversation on how COVID-19 is affecting reproductive medicine.

See 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.