IVF is no longer a whispered acronym—it's a mainstream fertility option that seems to be everywhere in 2025. But why is it suddenly so common? In this episode, we dig into the cultural, medical, and social shifts that have made IVF feel like a more common path to parenthood. We explore rising infertility rates, delayed family planning, improved technology, and the cultural shift of normalizing IVF treatment.

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Hosted by Said Daneshmand, MD FACOG

Produced by Phoebe Gurrola

In this episode of FertiliTEA with Dr. D, we’re diving into IVF, surrogacy, and the power of community with special guest Richard Westoby; co-host of the IVF Daddies podcast and author of Our Journey: One Couple's Guide to U.S. Surrogacy.

Richard shares his personal experience navigating international surrogacy and offers insight into the most common challenges intended parents face while building their families through IVF and surrogacy.

We discuss:

• The emotional and logistical hurdles intended parents face

• How online communities and peer support networks provide connection across borders

• Navigating varying laws, medical systems, and cultural norms around surrogacy and IVF

• Success stories from around the world that highlight the power of connection

• Key advice for intended parents seeking a strong, supportive community

If you’re navigating IVF, surrogacy, or family-building—and looking for support—you won’t want to miss this conversation.

To submit a question for Dr. D, email us at [email protected] to be featured in a future episode.

This episode is for informational and educational purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice.

Listen to IVF Daddies HERE

Hosted by Said Daneshmand, MD FACOG

Produced by Phoebe Gurrola

In Part 2 of this episode, Dr. D continues speaking with Professor Joyce Harper about all things menopause.  She is a Professor of Reproductive Science at University College London.  She has an extensive background as an embryologist, a research scientist, and is especially known for her groundbreaking work in preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD).  With over three decades in the field, Joyce has not only shaped academic programs but also spearheaded global efforts in reproductive health education.  She is the co-founder of InTune: the UK Menopause Education and Support Programme.  She is the host of the podcast, Why Didn’t Anyone Tell Me This?  She also wrote the book, Your Fertile Years, which explores women’s health from puberty to menopause.

More from Professor Joyce Harper HERE

Hosted by Said Daneshmand, MD FACOG

Produced by Phoebe Gurrola

This week, we have the honor of talking to Professor Joyce Harper about all things menopause.  She is a Professor of Reproductive Science at University College London.  She has an extensive background as an embryologist, a research scientist, and is especially known for her groundbreaking work in preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD).  With over three decades in the field, Joyce has not only shaped academic programs but also spearheaded global efforts in reproductive health education.  She is the co-founder of InTune: the UK Menopause Education and Support Programme.  She is the host of the podcast, Why Didn’t Anyone Tell Me This? She also wrote the book, Your Fertile Years, which explores women’s health from puberty to menopause.

Listen in as her and Dr. D discuss what menopause is, how symptoms can be different for everyone, and why it's important for women of all age to have an understanding of menopause.  This is Part 1 of a 2 part episode!

More from Professor Joyce Harper HERE

Hosted by Said Daneshmand, MD FACOG

Produced by Phoebe Gurrola

Dr. D sits down with a two-time surrogate who shares her perspective on what it’s really like to be a surrogate. Having completed one surrogacy journey and currently in the middle of her second, Heather opens up about why she chose to become a surrogate, how each experience has been different, and the emotional and physical realities that often go unseen. If you've always wanted to become a surrogate but had some questions about the true journey of surrogacy, this episode is for you!

More from Heather at The Connection Hive HERE

Hosted by Said Daneshmand, MD FACOG

Produced by Phoebe Gurrola

In this episode, Dr. D sits down with Sarah Paige, a seasoned expert in third-party insurance, to unpack the often confusing world of insurance coverage for IVF. Sarah shares her insights into how third-party insurance works in fertility treatments, common misconceptions, and what intended parents and surrogates need to know when planning their journeys. 

More Information about the IAE Alliance HERE

Link to Art Risk Solutions HERE

Hosted by Said Daneshmand, MD FACOG

Produced by Phoebe Gurrola

This week, we’re sipping on the science behind mini stim cycles —a low-dose, less invasive alternative to conventional IVF. Dr. D breaks down what mini stim is, who it's best suited for, and how it compares to traditional protocols in terms of cost, success rates, and side effects. Whether you're looking to reduce medication or explore IVF options with a lighter touch, this episode is a must listen for those looking for alternative plans for their IVF journey.

Hosted by Said Daneshmand, MD FACOG

Produced by Phoebe Gurrola

In this episode, Dr. D sits down with Mukti, a former patient whose resilience and determination redefined what it means to persevere through infertility. Mukti opens up about her extraordinary journey—11 egg retrievals, 7 embryo transfers, 4 biochemical pregnancies, and 2 miscarriages—and how she made it through the end to have 2 children. 

Hosted by Said Daneshmand, MD FACOG

Produced by Phoebe Gurrola

Your Beta hCG is positive. Now what? In this episode, Dr. D walks you through some of the medical milestones that follow a successful IVF cycle. From the first blood test to early ultrasounds, he chats about what to expect after you leave the fertility clinic.  We encourage you to be cautiously optimistic when listening to this episode in preparation for a positive outcome post embryo transfer!

Hosted by Said Daneshmand, MD FACOG

Produced by Phoebe Gurrola

In this heartfelt episode, Dr. D sits down with Jen Rachman, a cancer survivor who opens up about her deeply personal journey to motherhood. Jen is the Manager of Intended Parent Support for Circle Surrogacy and has used her own personal story to assist many intended parents on their path to parenthood.  Through the help of an egg donor and a surrogate, Jen found her path to parenthood after her cancer treatment. 

Jen Rachman's article in Elephants & Tea referenced in the episode is linked HERE

Hosted by Said Daneshmand, MD FACOG

Produced by Phoebe Gurrola