🎙️ Fertile-ish — Season 2, Episode 3:

“Lining Check: Not Thick Enough”

Episode Overview

In this week’s episode of Fertile-ish, Laura and Brandis dive deep into one of the most common — and frustrating — fertility concerns: a thin endometrial lining. Whether you’ve had a cancelled transfer, are anxiously waiting for that “trilaminar” ultrasound report, or just trying to understand why your lining won’t thicken — this episode breaks down the science, the causes, and the real-life stories behind the numbers.

They’ll answer questions like:

• What is a healthy lining thickness?

• Why does “trilaminar” matter more than just the millimeters?

• Can you still get pregnant with a thin lining?

• And what can you actually do to help thicken it?

What You’ll Learn

💡 Anatomy Refresher:
Laura and Brandis explain the layers of the uterus — the serosa, myometrium, and endometrium — and why only the innermost layer (the one that sheds each month) really matters for implantation.

🩺 Lining Goals & Measurements:

• For frozen transfers: ideal lining ≥ 7mm and trilaminar

• For fresh cycles: ≥ 8mm and trilaminar

• Why measurement consistency (same sonographer, same technique) is key

• And why organization (that three-layer trilaminar look) can matter more than pure thickness

💊 Common Causes of Thin Lining:

• Hormonal birth control and prolonged progesterone exposure (like Depo-Provera or Mirena)

• Scar tissue and Asherman’s syndrome from D&C, C-section, or retained placenta

• Uterine abnormalities (polyps, fibroids, septum)

• Long-term suppression of ovulation or endometrial regeneration issues

🧬 Solutions & Treatment Options:

• Estrogen therapy (oral, vaginal, patch, or injectable)

• Sildenafil (Viagra) to boost blood flow

• PRP or Neupogen washes

• Vitamin E supplementation

• Switching to a natural or modified natural protocol if your body responds better to its own estrogen

Real Talk: Why Every Case Is Different:

From Facebook group myths to “what worked for her” advice, Laura and Brandis explain why fertility protocols can’t be copy-pasted. Even patients with identical labs may respond completely differently. Your baseline lining, hormone response, and surgical history all shape your protocol — and no single “magic number” applies to everyone.

Patient-to-Patient Tips:

✨ Advocate for Yourself: Ask why your provider recommends certain meds, protocols, or tests.
🩻 Don’t Skip the SHG or Hysteroscopy: It’s quick, simple, and can reveal polyps, fibroids, or scar tissue that may be silently affecting implantation.
💗 Remember: Thickness isn’t everything. A 6mm trilaminar lining might be more promising than an 8mm that’s disorganized.

The Fertile-ish Takeaway:

A thin lining doesn’t mean it’s the end of your fertility journey — it’s just another piece of the puzzle. The key is understanding your baseline, working closely with your team, and staying proactive about testing and timing.

Join the Conversation:

If this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow fertility warrior or leave a review to help more listeners find Fertile-ish.
💬 Have a topic you’d love Laura and Brandis to tackle next? DM them on Instagram or drop a comment on Spotify!

🎧 Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music
📱 Follow: @fertileishpodcast

🎙️ Episode TitleEgg Donation: Inside Edition
Season 2, Episode 2

💬 Episode Summary

In this week’s episode, Laura and Brandis pull back the curtain on egg donation—what it is, who can donate, and how the process really works at CNY Fertility. Whether you’ve thought about donating eggs yourself, are curious about using a donor, or just want to understand what “open ID” means, this episode offers a transparent, compassionate, and empowering look inside the world of egg donation.

They break down the qualifications, medical steps, compensation, and emotional considerations of becoming an egg donor—plus, they share personal experiences from their own egg retrievals to help listeners know what to expect.

🧬 Key Topics Covered

• CNY’s In-House Donor Program: How it works and what makes it unique.

• Qualifications for Egg Donors:

  • Ages 21–32

  • BMI between 18–35

  • Non-smoker/non-drug user

  • AMH level of 1.5 or greater

• Open ID Policy Explained: What “open ID” means, how donor privacy is maintained, and how donor-conceived individuals can access medical information at age 18.

• The Donation Process:

  • Medical screening and genetic testing

  • The IVF cycle timeline (injections, monitoring, egg retrieval)

  • Recovery tips and aftercare (yes—bring sweatpants!)

• Compensation & Split Cycles:

  • Donors earn $4,000 per cycle

  • Option to split cycles—freeze or use half of your eggs while donating the rest

• Known vs. Anonymous Donors:

  • How it works if you’re donating to someone you know

  • Why “anonymous” donation is evolving with DNA testing and transparency

• Egg donation is an incredibly generous and life-changing act that helps individuals and couples create families.

• The process is safe, structured, and supported—with donor privacy, medical safety, and emotional care at the forefront.

• Learn more or apply: cnyfertility.com/become-an-egg-donor

• Ask a question or share your story: Submit anonymously at cnyfertility.com/fertileish

• Connect with Laura & Brandis: DM @fertileish_podcast on Instagram

🎧 Listen NowAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

🎙️ Season 2: Episode 1

Cannabis & Conception: The Science & Stories

🧠 Episode Summary

In the Season 2 premiere, Laura and Brandis dive deep into one of the most frequently asked questions in fertility care — how does marijuana use affect fertility, conception, and pregnancy? From breaking down the science of how THC interacts with reproductive hormones to sharing real-life stories of patients who’ve seen the impact firsthand, this candid conversation gets to the truth about cannabis and conception, without judgment, stigma, or shame.

The hosts discuss:

• How marijuana impacts both male and female fertility

• The effects of THC on ovulation, sperm production, and hormone regulation

• The link between cannabis use and lower IVF success rates

• What current research shows about THC exposure in pregnancy and child development

• Why being honest with your fertility provider matters and how to have that conversation

Whether you’re using cannabis medicinally, recreationally, or considering conception in the near future, this episode arms you with the knowledge to make informed choices and optimize your fertility health.

🔬 Key Topics Covered

• The Science: How THC disrupts FSH, LH, and testosterone production and what that means for egg and sperm quality.

• Male Fertility: Why men who stop THC use 3 months before conception often see dramatic sperm improvements.

• Pregnancy & Beyond: The risks of THC exposure to the placenta, fetal growth, and long-term child development.

• Real Talk: Why “my friend smoked and got pregnant fine” isn’t the full story and how fertility outcomes are more complex than we think.

• “Even short-term THC use can affect sperm count and egg quality.”

• “Just because you have regular cycles doesn’t mean you’re ovulating normally.”

• “We’re not asking to judge; we’re asking so we can help you optimize your chances.”

Fertility is complex, and while THC may be natural, its impact on reproductive health is very real. Knowledge and transparency are key. The goal isn’t judgment — it’s empowerment, understanding, and helping you take the best possible steps toward your family-building goals.

💕 Episode Resources

• Learn more about CNY Fertility and our comprehensive fertility and reproductive immunology programs.

• Explore research on marijuana use and fertility via ASRM, NIH, and Fertility & Sterility Journal.

Listen to Fertile-ish on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Follow along on Instagram @fertileishpodcast for behind-the-scenes clips, fertility tips, and TMI Tuesday stories.

🎙️ Episode 25: “Preconception Testing: Glow Up Starts Here”

💡 Episode Summary

Before you jump into treatment—or even start trying—it’s time for your fertility glow-up. In this episode, Laura and Brandis walk listeners through preconception testing: what it is, why it matters, and how to make the most of it. From bloodwork and imaging to sperm health and hormone tracking, they unpack the essentials that can help you understand your fertility baseline and optimize your health for conception success.

Whether you’re TTC, freezing your eggs, or just curious about your reproductive health, this episode is your roadmap for understanding your body before the first shot, scan, or supplement.

🧬 What You’ll LearnThe Basics of Preconception Testing:Why testing before treatment can save time, money, and heartbreak later.

🎧 Listen & SubscribeFollow Fertile-ish wherever you get your podcasts:
🎵 Spotify | 🍎 Apple Podcasts | 💗 CNYFertility.com/Fertileish

📲 Join the Conversation💬 What preconception tests surprised you most?
📸 Tag us @fertileishpodcast on Instagram and share your #FertilityGlowUp moments.
🩷 Don’t forget to rate & review; it helps more listeners find hope, humor, and help on their fertility journey.

🎙️ Episode 24: Affording Hope: Fertility & Finances

Paying for IVF can feel overwhelming, sometimes even impossible. In this episode of Fertile-ish, Laura and Brandis get real about the financial side of fertility treatment and share resources, strategies, and stories to help make hope more affordable. 💛

From the shocking national averages to creative fundraising ideas and CNY’s unique approach to affordability, this episode covers everything you need to know about navigating fertility costs without losing your sanity (or your savings).

What We Cover in This Episode:

• 💸 The true cost of IVF: why $20–30K per cycle is the national average—and why it often doesn’t include meds.

• 🏷️ Breaking down costs: medications, monitoring, anesthesia, and all those “surprise” fees that can sneak up.

• 🧩 Creative funding options: from IVF puzzle pieces and bake sales to crowdfunding and grants.

• 🌍 CNY’s affordability model: transparent pricing, medication bundles, and packages designed to make treatment accessible worldwide.

• 💳 Financing & discounts: in-house 100% approval financing, gift card promos, military discounts, pay-in-full savings, and more.

• 🎁 Grants & giveaways: how to apply for CNY’s monthly IVF grant and where to find other nationwide opportunities.

• 📊 Helpful tools: the online pricing calculator, insurance worksheets, and financial packets every patient should know about.

Fertility treatment is more than a medical journey; it’s an emotional and financial one too. Understanding your options can help you feel empowered, prepared, and supported. Whether you’re just beginning your path or already deep in treatment, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways (and a little hope).

Resources & Links:

• 🌐 CNY Fertility – Pricing & Affordability

• 📝 Apply for the CNY IVF Grant

• 🧘 Fertile Hope Yoga Membership

• 📑 Financial Welcome Packet & Resources

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. Your support helps us continue bringing real, raw, and hopeful conversations to the fertility community.

🎙️ Episode 23: Doing the Most: Immune Protocols Edition

When it comes to IVF, add-ons and immune protocols can feel like a never-ending menu of “should I or shouldn’t I?” treatments. From PRP therapies and uterine washes to IV infusions and immune-modulating meds, there’s a lot of science, a lot of opinions, and even more patient questions.

In this episode, Laura and Brandis break it all down: what immune protocols actually are, why they’re sometimes recommended, and which scenarios they can make a difference in. We’re covering:

✨ PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapies: intra-ovarian, high-volume, and uterine washes
✨ Infusions like IVIg, intralipids, and Omegaven
✨ Add-ons including Neupogen, HCG washes, endometrial scratch, and more
✨ The four levels of CNY’s immune protocols, and who might benefit from each
✨ Real-life patient experiences and what’s hype vs. what’s helpful

We also get real about the cost, the controversy, and the fact that *spoiler alert* sometimes it’s just about finding the right embryo.

Whether you’re dealing with unexplained infertility, recurrent loss, autoimmune conditions, or just want to know what “immune protocol” even means, this episode is for you.

🔗 Learn more at cnyfertility.com/fertileish
📱 Follow along on IG: @fertileishpodcast
⭐ Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe so you never miss an episode!

🎙️ Episode 22: Faith + Fertility (or not)

Faith and fertility - it’s a conversation many avoid, but one that so many of us are living. 🌿 Whether your beliefs shape how you pursue treatment, cause hesitation, or provide strength through the struggle, faith is deeply intertwined with fertility journeys.

In this episode, Laura and Brandis open up about:

• Navigating the sometimes-controversial intersection of faith and fertility treatment

• How religious beliefs can influence decisions around IVF, IUI, sperm collection, embryo creation, genetic testing, and compassionate transfer

• Provider perspectives on supporting patients without bias while honoring personal values

• Common fears about judgment, shame, or conflict with family or faith communities; and how to find support

• The unique ways CNY Fertility accommodates religious preferences, from natural IVF to alternative sample collection to prayer and music during transfers

• The importance of informed choice, respect, and knowing you’re not alone - whatever your beliefs may (or may not) be

✨ Whether you find strength in faith, science, community, or all of the above, this episode is here to remind you: your journey is valid, your beliefs matter, and there’s space for everyone at the table.

🔗 Learn more: cnyfertility.com/fertileish
📲 Follow along on Instagram: @fertileishpodcast
💬 If this episode resonated with you, please rate, review, and subscribe to Fertile-ish wherever you listen to podcasts.

🎙️Episode 21: Endo: She’s Expensive, She’s Exhausting, She’s Extra

Endometriosis isn’t just “bad cramps.” She’s a whole personality-loud, dramatic, and unfortunately, way too common. In this episode, Laura and Brandis get real about the reality of endo: how it shows up, why it often takes 7+ years to diagnose, and what it means for fertility.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• 🚩 Why painful, heavy periods shouldn’t be brushed off as “normal”

• 🔍 Theories on what causes endometriosis (spoiler: it’s still misunderstood)

• 🩸 How endo impacts ovarian reserve, egg quality, and implantation

• 💊 Birth control, Lupron, surgery, and other treatment options -what helps and when

• 📉 The connection between endo and infertility, including what IVF outcomes really look like

• 💡 When to push for a second (or third) opinion if you feel unheard

• Endo affects 1 in 10 women, but symptoms vary from none at all to completely debilitating.

• The stage of endo doesn’t always match the level of pain; tiny lesions can equal massive impact.

• Early recognition and proactive treatment can protect fertility and improve quality of life.

• Your pain is valid. Don’t let anyone minimize it-advocate for yourself.

✨ Whether you’re managing endo, suspect you might have it, or just want to understand it better, this episode is packed with candid conversation, medical insight, and plenty of “she’s doing the most” energy.

🎧 Listen now at cnyfertility.com/fertileish and wherever you get your podcasts.

👉 Follow along on Instagram @fertileishpodcast for bonus clips, reels, and behind-the-scenes chaos.
💖 If you loved this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe-it helps more people find the pod and join the conversation.

Episode 20: TMI Tuesday: Unhinged Edition 🤯💀

We asked, you delivered. 🚨 TMI Tuesday spiraled out of control (in the best way possible), so we turned your submissions into a full episode.

From Icy Hot mishaps and Disney meltdowns to Cardi B in the embryo transfer room, pineapple burn disasters, and semen sample parking lot fumbles, we’re reading the wildest, most unhinged fertility stories you shared with us. 💌

In this episode, Laura and Brandis cover:

• 🔥 The infamous Icy Hot “scheduled intimacy” incident

• 🎢 Aunt Flo crashing Disneyland dreams

• 🎶 Manifesting a baby with Cardi B (oops)

• 🍍 Pineapple core chemical burns & TTC myths

• 🥗 Progesterone oil leaks in public places

• 🌙 Moon water, womb affirmations, and fertility Etsy scams

• 🧪 Pregnancy tests in the office bathroom (and awkward boss encounters)

• 💍 A surprise proposal mid-PIO shot

• 🐐 Goat yoga gone wrong

• …and way more stories we’ll never forget

This one is chaotic, hilarious, and oh-so-relatable. Because sometimes the only way through this fertility journey is to laugh at the mess.

✨ Got your own TMI Tuesday story? Submit it at cnyfertility.com/fertileish or DM us on Instagram @fertileishpodcast.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode 19 – Beyond Biology: All the Ways to Baby 🌈👶✨

When most people picture fertility treatment, they imagine a heterosexual couple going through IVF together. But the truth is, family building comes in so many forms—and today, we’re diving into all the ways to baby.

In this episode, Laura and Brandis break down the diverse paths to parenthood—from single parents by choice to same-sex couples, from gestational carriers and surrogates to donor eggs, donor sperm, and embryo donation. We also talk about the role of reproductive attorneys, navigating sperm banks safely, and how epigenetics shows that motherhood is so much more than DNA.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• 💡 Options for single moms and dads by choice

• 🏳️‍🌈 Fertility pathways for LGBTQ+ couples (including reciprocal IVF!)

• 👩‍👩‍👧‍👦 The difference between surrogates vs. gestational carriers

• 🧬 Why embryo donation can be such a beautiful option

• 📋 The importance of legal protection in donor and carrier arrangements

• 🌱 How CNY Fertility supports inclusivity and accessibility for every family

Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or deep in the decision-making process, this episode is packed with insight, compassion, and real talk about building families beyond biology.

🔗 Resources & Links:

• Learn more about CNY’s donor and surrogacy programs: cnyfertility.com

• Send us your thoughts or TMI Tuesday stories: cnyfertility.com/fertileish

• Follow along on Instagram: @fertileishpodcast

💬 Loved this episode? Share it with a friend, rate us ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ on Spotify/Apple/Amazon/YouTube and help us break the stigma around fertility one story at a time.