Fertility in Focus by Fertility Matters Canada

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In the final episode of Fertility in Focus, season 2, we sat down with Jessica Coates, a registered nurse specializing in primary care from Ontario, who opens up about her personal and professional experiences with fertility. At 28, Jessica faced the daunting news of having an extremely low ovarian reserve, leading to a seven-month journey of trying to conceive, which culminated in undergoing IVF.

Jessica delves into the crucial tests and fertility treatments she considered, sharing detailed insights into the emotional, financial, and social hurdles she encountered. She discusses the impact of her journey on her relationship, especially following her partner’s diagnosis of male factor infertility, and how they navigated self-blame and made concerted efforts to support each other equally.

Moreover, Jessica highlights the broader implications of fertility issues on relationships, emphasizing the importance of early intervention, open communication, and the need for greater awareness and support for both partners. This episode sheds light on the emotional and practical aspects of fertility challenges and advocates for more inclusive support networks that address the needs of all individuals affected.

More about our guest speaker: 

Jessica is a mother, Registered Nurse and fertility advocate, who loves her family, travel, the outdoors and adventure! After conceiving her first child via IVF, Jessica and her spouse are tackling their biggest adventure yet as they raise their family. As Jessica & Nathan have been together since elementary school they have experienced many different versions of one another, going through many changes and growth over the last two decades. Infertility was the most difficult obstacle to overcome so far, and after so long together, remaining best friends through it all helped to strengthen their relationship. After her fertility journey, Jessica developed a special interest in directing her career as a Registered Nurse to support and educate other couples navigating the world of infertility. You can check out her social media page and website here. 

Follow her journey at her website www.jcrneducation.com and on Instagram @jes_coates.

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This week on Fertility in Focus, we are joined by Dr. Sarah Zadek, a remarkable Naturopathic Doctor specializing in women's health and fertility, who sheds light on the complexities of reproductive aging. 

Together, we discuss the hidden intricacies of how cellular aging impacts egg and sperm health. As we navigate the often-overlooked consequences of aging on fertility, Dr. Zadek shares strategies to help maintain reproductive health. Bringing attention to the shared responsibility of both partners in conception, we challenge the outdated notion that fertility issues primarily arise from the woman's side. 

Our discussion highlights the essential roles both egg and sperm quality play, especially as they age. We explore how hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, influence egg quality, uterine health and the overall viability of pregnancy. Listeners’ concerns about preserving or even reversing the effects of aging on reproductive health are thoughtfully addressed, offering potential strategies for improving outcomes.

More about our guest speaker:
Dr. Sarah Zadek is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor in Ontario with a clinical focus on women’s health, endocrinology and fertility. Sarah graduated from Nipissing University with an honours degree in biology after completing her thesis on genetics, oxidative stress and immune function.

She graduated from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto in 2014. With her own health issues unsolved by medical doctors and specialists, Sarah turned to naturopathic medicine to help solve many of the ailments she had carried for years, including endometriosis and other autoimmune conditions.

Dr. Zadek uses the latest evidence-based medicine, orthomolecular medicine, botanicals and antioxidant therapies to help patients correct hormonal imbalances and immune disorders including: endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypothyroidism, painful and/or irregular menstruation, and challenges with fertility.

As well, she has a passion for empowering women and their partners to take charge of their health, assisting them on their journey to reproductive success. This includes educating women to better understand their cycles, and improve health outcomes with diet and lifestyle factors, whether they’re looking to conceive now or in the future.

Her working background includes 14 years in pharmacy and experience as a birth doula in the Greater Toronto Area. Sarah is an author and has written for multiple publications across North America including NaturalPath, Naturopathic News and Review (NDNR), Naturopathic Currents, and Eco Parent Magazine online.

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This week on Fertility in Focus, we warmly welcome Weronika Gallant, the Clinical Operations Manager at TRIO Fertility, who brings a wealth of knowledge and empathy to our conversation on mental health support in fertility care. As a former fertility nurse, Weronika provides a unique perspective on the emotional hurdles and mental toll faced by individuals navigating fertility treatments. We talk about the often-overlooked emotional fatigue and stress patients experience, the unmet expectations, and the profound isolation that can accompany a fertility journey. Weronika underscores the critical importance of seeking support, such as reproductive counsellors, to maintain mental well-being throughout this demanding journey. Tune in for insights, resources, and encouragement as we aim to support those navigating the emotional landscape of fertility treatments.

More about our guest speaker:

Weronika Gallant, RPN (She/Her), Clinical Operations Manager at TRIO fertility. 

With over 15 years of experience in the service industry, Weronika made the decision to pursue nursing, driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact on patient care. After graduating from Centennial College in 2016, she quickly developed a passion for fertility medicine.

Since joining TRIO in 2017, Weronika has had the privilege of collaborating with exceptional nurses and doctors, supporting patients across primary care settings in TRIO’s downtown, Burlington, North York, and Thornhill locations to provide patient-centered care; this opportunity has allowed her to progress from Primary Care Nurse to Satellite Clinic Manager and now Clinical Operations Manager.

Weronika is a proud member of the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO), the Registered Practical Nurses Association of Ontario (WeRPN), and the Canadian Fertility and Andrology Society (CFAS). She is committed to upholding the highest standards of care and service, ensuring that patient needs remain at the forefront of every decision.

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Allie and Sam Conway, two prominent voices in the online community, embarked on a journey to parenthood that was far more complex than they ever imagined. From the frustration of long wait times at fertility clinics to the unexpected challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Allie and Sam's story is one of grit and perseverance. 

Their new book, "How to Make a Baby: Everything LGBTQ Families Need to Know About IVF," serves as a beacon for those navigating similar paths, especially within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. We delve into the unique considerations that queer families face when choosing donors in Canada. Allie and Sam discuss the legal restrictions that necessitate looking beyond borders for donor options, and the intricate process of fostering connections among donor siblings. 

Their advocacy work alongside Fertility Matters Canada underscores the importance of community support and access to resources. As we reflect on their inspiring journey, we invite listeners to consider supporting this invaluable charity and the mission to make family-building accessible to all.

More about our guest speakers:

Allie and Sam Conway, are a same-sex couple who have been together for nearly a decade. Their beautiful journey starts on a dating app, like any modern love story. They are wives, moms to twins, and pet parents to five animals in Nova Scotia, Canada! They started sharing their life together online as a way to keep their families updated on their adventures around the globe together, but it quickly became a way to share much-needed queer representation; to showcase that a happy, full life is possible as an out and proud LGBTQ+ person. They have shared their journey with reciprocal IVF, and parenthood as a two mom family! Now they share the ups, downs, and everything from parenthood, to love, travel, life and everything in between! 

They have amassed an amazing, engaged online community over their 6+ years of sharing their lives on the internet with over 400k followers on social media! They have also done public speaking engagements about various LGBTQ+ issues in schools, for non-profits, and for major brands. They recently published their first book: How to Make a Baby: Everything LGBTQ+ Families Need to Know About IVF and Fertility Treatments. 

You can find them on:

Instagram: @allieandsam

Youtube: @AllieandSam

TikTok: @allieandsam

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This week on Fertility in Focus we are joined by Dr. Stéphanie Dufour to learn about the impact of cancer and its treatments on fertility, a topic that is often overlooked but incredibly important for patients and their families. We discuss how chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery can affect reproductive health, as well as the fertility preservation options available before treatment begins. This conversation is especially relevant for the Fertility Matters community, as many patients are unaware of the urgency and importance of discussing fertility preservation at the time of diagnosis. By providing clear, practical information, this episode aims to empower individuals to advocate for their reproductive health, ask the right questions, and make informed decisions about their future family-building options.

More about our guest:
Dr. Stéphanie Dufour is a pediatric and adolescent gynecologist, reproductive endocrinologist, and infertility specialist with a passion for fertility preservation, particularly for individuals facing cancer. As an expert in oncofertility, she is dedicated to providing cutting-edge reproductive options to help patients navigate fertility challenges before and after cancer treatment. She is committed to advancing reproductive health through clinical care, research, and education 

Social Media: IG @drstephaniedufour

If you or your organization would like to sponsor educational episodes just like this, please contact us at [email protected].

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This week Fertility in Focus invites you on an emotional journey through the complexities of fertility-related PTSD and trauma with a poignant personal story from our guest, Filipa Jackson. Filipa shares her candid and heartfelt account of the emotional and physical struggles she and her husband faced during their path to parenthood, shedding light on the persistent challenges of infertility, even after becoming a mother. Her story offers empathy and understanding for anyone navigating similar turbulence in their fertility journey.

We also explore the often-neglected impact of infertility on relationships and mental health, discussing the potential strain it brings for many couples. Even after the joy of pregnancy and parenthood, the shadows of trauma can linger, challenging the societal expectation that a baby solves everything. By acknowledging these ongoing emotional battles, we hope to provide solace and support, highlighting the silent struggles faced by many and the importance of giving voice to these experiences.

More about our guest speaker:
Originally a travel and lifestyle content creator, Filipa has developed an active voice in the BIPOC community and is passionate about sharing her truths as a mother. Through her vulnerability, she has cultivated a community of supportive women with whom she has shared her journey through infertility, pregnancy, and now motherhood.

Follow Filipa on Instagram

If you or your organization would like to sponsor educational episodes just like this, please contact us at [email protected].

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This week Fertility in Focus is thrilled to welcome Jullin Fjeldstad from Future Fertility and Dr. Sony Sierra from Evolve Egg Freezing Clinic, who sat down with us to discuss how they’re bringing their unique expertise to the forefront of reproductive technology. These esteemed guests illuminate how AI is reshaping fertility preservation, specifically through the lens of egg freezing. Dr. Sierra provides a compelling overview of how egg freezing empowers individuals to align their reproductive plans with personal and professional aspirations, amidst a growing trend on social media. 

As more people turn to fertility preservation, understanding its benefits and implications becomes paramount. With insights from both of our guests this week, we explore how AI not only improves clinical outcomes but also offers patients unprecedented control and understanding over their fertility journeys.

More about our guest speakers:
Jullin Fjeldstad is the Head of Clinical Embryology and Scientific Operations at Future Fertility. Throughout her career, she has always held a passion for innovative ART technologies aimed at improving the fertility journey and IVF outcomes. In her current multi-faceted role, Jullin draws upon her experience as a seasoned embryologist and former lab director to navigate partnering clinics through seamless adoption of Future Fertility’s AI-powered oocyte quality assessment tools, as well as overseeing Future Fertility’s scientific project collaborations. With her extensive IVF experience and comprehensive understanding of the laboratory operations, she also provides invaluable input to the company’s product development processes. Jullin holds a BSc. in Biology from the University of Victoria, Canada and a MSc. in Clinical Embryology from the University of Leeds, UK, where she achieved distinction in both areas.  

Dr. Sony Sierra, MD, FRCSC, REI (She/Her), serves as a distinguished Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility Specialist (REI) and Deputy Medical Director and Partner at TRIO. With nearly two decades of experience, she specializes in reproductive health, recurrent pregnancy loss, and early Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL) programs. As the Medical Director at EVOLVE Egg Freezing Clinic and an Associate Physician at Women’s College Hospital, she contributes significantly to advancing reproductive medicine. Dr. Sierra's research interests include infertility, implantation failure, and PCOS, reflected in her publications and conference presentations. Passionate about patient care, she approaches her practice with compassion and dedication, guided by her belief in excellence and empathy. Dr. Sierra's commitment to ongoing education and involvement in esteemed societies ensures her patients receive the most up-to-date care and expertise. She finds immense fulfillment in helping individuals and couples achieve their dreams of starting a family, making her a valued asset in the field of fertility medicine.

For more info about Dr. Sierra, you can check out the TRIO Fertility Website: https://triofertility.com/team-member/sony-sierra/ or you can follow her on Instagram @drsonysierra.

https://futurefertility.com/
https://instagram.com/futurefertilityai
https://www.youtube.com/@futurefertility

If you or your organization would like to sponsor educational episodes just like this, please contact us at [email protected].

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This week on Fertility in Focus, we welcome community member, Tomilola Vanna. Together, we untangle the emotional web of navigating this unexpected path, discussing the proactive steps Tomi took to seek medical advice and the unique hurdles faced by Black women within the healthcare system. 

Her story is a poignant reminder of the cultural expectations around fertility and the emotional strain that accompanies any fertility journey. Throughout our conversation, we discuss the layers of emotional and financial challenges involved in fertility treatments. Her candor about considering donor eggs and the cultural taboos that complicate such decisions offers a rare glimpse into the personal and ethical dilemmas many face. 

As we journey through these deeply personal stories, we highlight the power of sharing experiences online and in person. The act of opening up about fertility struggles can forge connections, reduce isolation, and empower individuals by challenging societal taboos. Moreover, we emphasize the necessity of compassion and advocacy within medical care, particularly for Black women who often feel overlooked. This episode is more than just a story of infertility; it’s a call to foster empathy, build supportive communities, and recognize the importance of self-advocacy on this challenging journey.

More about our guest speaker:

Tomilola is a lawyer, content creator, and working mom who shares her journey through motherhood, career, and life's many transitions with her online community. After facing infertility challenges, she underwent IVF to conceive her child and is passionate about open conversations around fertility, parenting, and work-life balance. Through her platform, she creates a space for honest discussions about infertility, motherhood, career ambitions, and the realities of adulting, offering insight, vulnerability, and support to others navigating similar experiences.

Follow Tomi on Instagram

If you or your organization would like to sponsor educational episodes just like this, please contact us at [email protected].

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A painful knee injury led Dr. Cameron Smith on an unexpected journey into the world of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). What started as a personal quest for relief soon transformed into a profound exploration of holistic health practices, opening doors to understanding men's fertility challenges. In our latest episode of Fertility in Focus, Dr. Smith joins us from Red Deer, Alberta to share insights from his practice. Together, we uncover how TCM techniques, like acupuncture and herbology, can offer much-needed support not only for those facing fertility issues but also for managing chronic conditions such as pain and migraines. Our conversation shines a light on the often-silent struggles men endure, urging a shift towards more open dialogues regarding reproductive health.

More about our guest speaker:
Dr. Cameron Smith is a licensed Doctor of Acupuncture (Dr. Ac) and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCMD). He has spent many years treating patients with injuries, chronic pain, and other ailments. He uses Acupuncture, Cupping, Moxibustion, and Chinese herbal medicine to safely and effectively bring his patients health back to homeostasis. While in college, Doctor Cam had lingering pain from a sports injury and was recommended to try acupuncture. He experienced first-hand the immediate pain relief and the healing ability of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Dr. Cam was hooked and started investigating Traditional Chinese Medicine and its theory. Doctor Cam moved to Nelson, B.C., to study at the Academy of Classical Oriental Sciences. After obtaining his Doctorate in 2005, he apprenticed with Acupuncture and Herbal Masters in Western Canada. Along the way, Doctor Cam taught courses at the Calgary College of Traditional Chinese Medicine and worked as an Acupuncturist on cruise ships. Dr. Cam practiced in Quito, Ecuador for the last decade. In 2022 he moved back to Alberta, becoming a locum throughout the province, as skilled male practitioners are in high demand. Cam has an in depth understanding of male health, and inflammatory responses pertaining to reproductive health.

https://linktr.ee/tcmdsmith

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Fertility in Focus is lucky to have Jessica Chalk and Carly Malo on this episode, where we dive into how technology can empower your fertility journey. After her own experiences, Jessica founded myStoria with the goal of helping patients manage their fertility journey by lifting the burden of tracking their care first-hand. Carly is a registered fertility nurse and leads the concierge team at myStoria to help patients navigate their journeys. In this episode, we discuss the intricacies of the fertility process, gain clarity on some of the common misconceptions, and learn the importance of meticulous cycle tracking, testing procedures, and self-referrals. Jessica and Carly want to shine a light on the essential role of self-advocacy and the transformative power of technology in managing your fertility journey.

More about our guest speakers:
Carly
With over 15 years of nursing experience, including 6 years specializing in fertility, Carly has witnessed firsthand the misinformation and lack of knowledge surrounding women's reproductive health. A master of her craft, Carly is poised to lead the myStoria Concierge Team, ensuring users receive the support and guidance they need. Her dedication and expertise make her an invaluable asset in promoting informed and compassionate care.
https://www.instagram.com/carly_fertilityadvocate/

Jessica
Jessica Chalk is a serial entrepreneur and patient advocate dedicated to transforming fertility care. After six years of trying to conceive, navigating treatments, and spending over $100,000, she founded myStoria—a platform designed to empower patients and drive system-wide change. Before myStoria, she built and successfully exited a digital marketing company. Jessica has been recognized as Young Alumna of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year and completed the Entrepreneurial Masters Program at MIT with EO. She actively volunteers in the community and has served on multiple boards, including the Lazaridis Business School’s Dean’s Advisory Council. Through her work, she continues to push for better patient support and accountability in fertility care.
https://www.instagram.com/jessicalchalk/


https://www.instagram.com/mystoriafertility/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mystoria/
https://www.tiktok.com/@mystoriafertility
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562042291846
https://www.youtube.com/@mystoriafertility

If you or your organization would like to sponsor educational episodes just like this, please contact us at [email protected].

Follow Fertility Matters Canada at @fertility_canada on Instagram and TikTok.