Episode Summary

Fertility testing can feel overwhelming, confusing, and even discouraging when you’re not sure what the numbers mean. In this episode of Fertility Village Live, we welcome Dr. Rachel Corradetti-Sargeant, a naturopathic doctor with years of experience supporting fertility patients.

Rachel specializes in a holistic, evidence-informed approach to fertility testing and treatment, helping patients understand their results while offering tools to address common hormonal and metabolic challenges. This episode takes a closer look at the tests most often ordered, how to interpret them with context, and what steps you can take when your results don’t tell the full story.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

*Rachel’s personal journey into supporting fertility patients

*How naturopathic fertility testing differs from conventional care

*The most common hormone tests and what they reveal about reproductive health

*AMH, FSH, thyroid markers, and inflammation — what they mean and when to test

*Why timing during the menstrual cycle matters for accuracy

*The importance of interpreting test results holistically rather than in isolation

*How to advocate for yourself when results come back “normal” but something still feels wrong

*Practical lifestyle and nutrition recommendations that support hormone balance

Key Takeaways

--Fertility testing isn’t about one number or marker — it’s about looking at the full picture

--AMH and FSH are useful but limited without broader context

--Inflammation and thyroid health are often overlooked but play a critical role in fertility outcomes

--Patients have the right to ask more questions, seek further testing, and get clarity on their results

--Holistic interpretation can provide reassurance and direction where numbers alone fall short

About Our Guest

Dr. Rachel Corradetti-Sargeant, ND is a licensed naturopathic doctor with a clinical focus on fertility, pregnancy, and women’s health. Through her practice, she helps patients uncover the root causes of fertility challenges and supports them with personalized treatment plans that combine medical testing, nutrition, lifestyle, and naturopathic care.

Website: rachelcorradetti.com

Instagram: @dr.rachelcorradetti

Final Message

“Your fertility journey is about more than numbers on a lab report. When testing feels overwhelming, remember: you can ask questions, you can advocate for yourself, and you are not alone.”

Stay connected with Oasis Fertility Support Network at oasisfsn.com and follow us on Instagram @oasisfsn

Catch up on past episodes of Fertility Village Live on Spotify, YouTube, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.

Boundaries can feel hard to set—especially when you’re navigating infertility and the emotional weight that comes with it. Yet, they’re one of the most powerful ways to protect your mental health.In this episode of Fertility Village Live, hosts Erin and Ashley welcome Kristina Virro, a registered psychotherapist, holistic nutritionist, and founder of Fresh Insight. Kristina specializes in helping people improve their mental health, strengthen relationships, and navigate complex challenges, including the unique struggles of infertility.Together, we dive into what boundaries really are, how to create them without guilt, and why giving yourself permission to step back or say “no” can be an act of self-care.What You’ll Hear in This Episode* What boundaries are and why they matter during the fertility journey* Navigating family and friend dynamics with respect and compassion* How to handle guilt, conflict, and people who don’t respect your boundaries* Giving yourself permission to say no and reclaim control* Building a supportive system that nourishes rather than drains you* Practical tools for grounding, emotional wellness, and self-advocacyKey Takeaways-- Boundaries are not about shutting people out—they’re about protecting your energy and mental wellness-- Saying “no” is not selfish, it’s self-care-- Support systems matter: lean into relationships and practices that help you feel safe, seen, and respected-- Guilt often comes with boundary-setting, but it eases with practice and self-compassionAbout Our GuestKristina Virro is a registered psychotherapist and holistic nutritionist based in Ontario, and the founder of Fresh Insights. She works with individuals, couples, and families to strengthen mental health, improve communication, and find holistic strategies for healing.Website: www.fresh-insights.caInstagram: @freshinsights_Final Message“Boundaries don’t make you unkind. They make it possible to protect your heart, your energy, and your healing during a journey that can already feel overwhelming.”Stay connected with Oasis Fertility Support Network at oasisfsn.com and follow us on Instagram at @oasisfsn or @fertility__villageCatch up on past episodes on Spotify, YouTube, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.

This week on Fertility Village Live, we welcome Baden Colt, a mom via surrogacy, fierce advocate, and the founder of Not My Tummy. Baden also founded Canada’s first surrogacy-specific grant through Fertility Friends Foundation.Baden joins us to share her personal story, including the emotional ups and downs of her journey to parenthood, her experiences navigating the embryo creation process, and the unique challenges intended parents and surrogates face. Together, we explore how storytelling, advocacy, and community support can create meaningful change in the fertility space.This conversation covers everything from the emotional side of infertility to the need for more transparency and funding in reproductive care. Baden’s honesty and strength shine through, making this a truly empowering and heartfelt episode.What You’ll Hear in This Episode* Baden’s personal journey to parenthood through surrogacy* The emotional and practical challenges along the way—and what helped her keep going*Embryos: why quality matters more than quantity, and what she wishes more people knew about testing and decision-making*The story behind Not My Tummy and how lived experience became a platform for advocacy and support*The role of social media in building community and breaking stigma*The reality of fertility treatment costs, policy gaps, and what needs to change in CanadaKey Takeaways-- Surrogacy journeys are filled with both resilience and vulnerability, and storytelling helps normalize these paths to parenthood-- Embryo numbers don’t tell the whole story—hope, science, and personal decisions all play a role-- Advocacy matters: funding and policy need to catch up with the lived realities of fertility patients-- Community and connection—whether through social media or grassroots support—can be a lifelineAbout Our GuestBaden Colt is a mom via surrogacy, infertility advocate, and the founder of Not My Tummy. Through her platform, she supports intended parents and surrogates while raising awareness about the need for more accessible and inclusive fertility care.Website: https://www.notmytummy.com/Instagram: @notmytummyFinal Message“No matter where you are in your journey—trying, waiting, grieving, or parenting—you’re not alone. Your story has power, and this community is here to walk alongside you.”Stay connected with Oasis Fertility Support Network at oasisfsn.com and follow us on Instagram @oasisfsnCatch up on past episodes of Fertility Village Live on Spotify and YouTube.

Episode Summary:

Weight is often at the center of fertility conversations—but is BMI really the whole picture?

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Dr. Sarah Zadek, a licensed naturopathic doctor specializing in women’s health, endocrinology, and fertility. Together, we unpack the complex relationship between body weight, hormones, and reproductive health.

From PCOS to inflammation, from weight stigma to evidence-based interventions, Dr. Zadek explores the nuance behind the numbers and offers a compassionate, science-backed perspective. Whether you’re actively in treatment or planning for the future, this conversation will leave you informed and empowered.

Topics We Cover:

• Is BMI a reliable indicator of reproductive health?
• How do inflammation and hormones intersect with weight?
• What role does intentional weight loss play in fertility outcomes?
• Why “just lose weight” is not a helpful prescription
• Supportive, body-inclusive steps to improve fertility health

Key Takeaways:

1. BMI is not the be-all and end-all: it overlooks metabolic health and creates barriers for many patients
2. Hormones & inflammation matter more: factors like insulin resistance and estrogen production are key drivers in fertility
3. Weight stigma harms care: dismissing patients’ needs until they lose weight is both unfair and ineffective
4. Health-promoting behaviors (balanced nutrition, movement, stress reduction) matter more than the scale

About Our Guest:

Dr. Zadek brings 14+ years of experience in pharmacy, naturopathic care, and fertility support. She currently practices with Conceive Health at Lakeridge Fertility in Whitby, ON, and is a passionate advocate for helping women and their partners take charge of their reproductive health.

Read her article: Does a High BMI Affect Fertility?

Website: ConceiveHealth.com

Instagram: @dr.sarahzadek.nd

Final Message:

“You are more than a number. Your fertility care should reflect your whole body, not just your weight.”

Follow @oasisfsn for more conversations and catch up on past episodes of Fertility Village Live on Spotify and YouTube

In this myth-busting episode, co-founder of Oasis FSN Erin catches up with Dr. Kaajal Abrol from TRIO Fertility to take on the most common—and confusing—fertility myths. From cough syrup and pineapple cores to IVF myths and embryo grading, we separate fact from fiction in a candid, evidence-based conversation.If you’ve ever been overwhelmed by conflicting fertility advice online, this one’s for you. Dr. Abrol brings both compassion and clarity to a topic full of misinformation.🧠 Myths Debunked:Does IVF use up your eggs?Are fresh embryo transfers more successful than frozen?Is stress alone stopping conception?Can men be ruled out after a single semen analysis?Does birth control cause long-term infertility?And more—from caffeine to cervical mucus “hacks”✅ What Does Work:Lifestyle and medical interventions that truly support fertilityUnderstanding ovulation, timing, and when to seek testingWhy it's okay to feel frustrated when you're doing “everything right”❓ Listener Questions We Cover:What is secondary infertility—and how common is it?Does sperm count matter if sperm quality is high?How many IUI or IVF rounds should someone expect?What does the latest evidence say about post-transfer activity and rest?🔗 Resources:Learn more about Dr. Abrol and TRIO Fertility at triofertility.comDr. Abrol’s podcast FERTILITY DOC TALK - https://open.spotify.com/show/4lbKGkOptt7U679PxSzJH3?si=976e11dff46d468fINSTAGRAM @kaajalabrolmdFollow Oasis Fertility Support Network: @oasisfsnCatch up on past Fertility Village episodes on Spotify and YouTube

This week we’re joined by Lisa—a certified grief educator and founder of Family Redefined @familyredefinedwithlisa who helps folks navigate life after infertility and pregnancy loss.In this powerful episode Lisa will share what it means to release the dream of motherhood with compassion and clarity. 💔 If you’ve ever wondered how or when to stop trying—and what life could look like on the other side—this conversation is for you. Lisa is an Oasis community member and volunteer whose fertility journey has been filled with courage, reflection, and—ultimately—joy.Lisa previously shared her full story on The Oasis Fertility Podcast, and tonight we reflect on some of the most powerful moments of that conversation, offering listeners a deeper connection to her experience and her heart.Through honest storytelling, this episode reminds us that even the most difficult paths can lead to light. Whether you're in the middle of your journey or reflecting back, Lisa’s story offers comfort, inspiration, and hope.💫 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:A recap of Lisa’s powerful fertility storyWhy joy and grief often exist side by sideEncouragement for those navigating a long roadHow sharing your story can offer healing—for you and othersUpdates on Oasis Support Groups, including new offerings🎧 Want More from Lisa?💛 Listen to her full episode on The Oasis Fertility Podcast – Lisa's Story📍 Connect with her in person at Oasis Fertility support group in Guelph🫶 Community Updates:🌱 Oasis Support Groups run regularly—register at oasisfsn.com💻 Erin facilitates virtual support👥 New! Our Men’s Support Group launches this month with Rob as the conversation starter🗓️ Note: Men's group takes place on Tuesday, not Monday💬 Final Message:“Ask for support—we’re here for you. You are never alone in this.”Follow @oasisfsn for updates, join a support group, and tune in next week for another episode of Fertility Village Live.

This episode is a celebration of something REALLY special—our newly launched “I Can Do Hard Things” Infertility Journal! 🎉Join Erin and Ashley as they dive deep into why this journal was created, how it’s being used, and how it can support your mental health, emotional healing, and self-compassion through every stage of your fertility journey.Whether you're waiting, trying, grieving, healing, or simply surviving the two-week wait, this episode offers real talk, powerful tools, and warm encouragement. 💛📖 In This Episode:✨ Why support groups matter🧠 Mental health tools from the journal💗 Coping with the two-week wait🌈 Affirmations, grief, grounding & self-care🔥 Rage pages, gratitude tracking, and the “control list”💬 Personal reflections from Erin & Ashley🪴 Highlights From the Journal:Affirmations & Mantras: “I am not alone.” “This is hard, and I can do hard things.”Grief Support: Honouring the invisible losses that come with infertilityThe Emotion Wheel & Mental Health Pain Scale: Tools to help name and navigate tough feelingsGrounding Exercises: 5-4-3-2-1 method, soothing visualization, and moreSelf-Care Tools: Journaling prompts, worry jars, and rage pagesTwo-Week Wait Survival Guide: 8 evidence-informed coping tips💬 Conversation Prompts From the Episode:What is one hard thing you’ve done lately that made you proud?What part of the grief journey resonates most with you today?What’s one thing you can control this week?If your emotions today had a color, what would it be?🛒 Want the Journal?📖 The “I Can Do Hard Things” Infertility Journal is currently available through Oasis Fertility Support Groups.More access options coming soon!Visit oasisfsn.com or DM @oasisfsn for info.💛 Final Message:“You are not broken. You are navigating something unbelievably hard—and doing it with so much courage. Let this journal, and this community, be your reminder that healing is possible and support is here.”Follow us at @oasisfsn, and tune in every Wednesday night for Fertility Village Live.Catch up on past episodes on Spotify and YouTube.

In this episode of Fertility Village Live, we welcome back Tammy, the compassionate voice behind Graceful Growth Coaching. A former guest on The Oasis Fertility Podcast (Season 2), Tammy returns to share how she supports others on their healing and fertility journey through coaching, Reiki, and in-person care.Whether you're navigating infertility, loss, or simply seeking deeper self-connection, this conversation is a reminder that your journey matters—and you don’t have to go through it alone.Tammy shares how she blends intuitive support with practical coaching tools, and how the simple act of honouring your emotional, mental, and physical needs can lead to powerful shifts in healing and growth.💫 Where to Find Tammy:🧘‍♀️ In-Person Sessions: The WOMB (Burlington, ON)Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4–8 PMReiki available in-person only. Coaching available in-person or virtually.🌐 Website: www.gracefulgrowth.ca📱 Instagram: @gracefulgrowth.coaching🧠 Topics Touched On:What it means to hold space for your storyHow coaching and Reiki complement fertility and healingWhy self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essentialBuilding a practice of gentleness and self-trustHow to connect with a supportive guide when you’re ready🎙️ Missed Tammy’s Story?Hear more from Tammy in her full story on The Oasis Fertility Podcast – Season 2 -Tammy's Story🫶 Final Words:“Your journey matters. You matter. Your self-care matters.”Follow us at @oasisfsn and catch up on past episodes on Spotify and YouTube. Welcome to the Village—you are never alone.

This week on Fertility Village Live, we’re diving into a topic that’s still too often left in the shadows: male infertility.Join us as Marissa and Erin welcome the Ashley and Kevin Porter, who are opening up about their journey through diagnosis, double donor conception, and the strength it takes to rewrite the story you thought you’d have.This one’s about courage, love, and breaking the silence — and we’re so honoured to hold space for it. it's a conversation that doesn’t get nearly enough airtime and Ashley and Kevin are a couple whose heartfelt and courageous journey includes navigating a male infertility diagnosis, the emotional weight of that experience, and their decision to grow their family through double donor conception.With honesty and vulnerability, Ashley and Kevin walk us through their path—from the first signs that something might be wrong, to the difficult realities of testing and diagnosis, to the brave decisions they made together in order to pursue parenthood. They share what it’s like to face stigma, navigate grief, and ultimately reframe what family and fatherhood can mean.-- In a story filled with love, resilience, and growth, they open up about:-- Receiving a male infertility diagnosis and its impact on identity and mental health-- The emotional decision-making behind using both an egg and sperm donor-- How they’ve supported each other through uncertainty, grief, and hope-- Reimagining parenthood and finding joy in a path they never expected-- What it means to share this story publicly—and why it mattersPlus, we lighten the mood mid-episode with a playful “Couple’s Edition” Q&A, where Ashley and Kevin share sweet, funny, and relatable moments from their fertility journey. Expect laughter, real talk, and maybe even a few tears.Whether you’re in the middle of your own journey, supporting a partner, or just want to better understand what male infertility can look like in real life—this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Key Themes:Male factor infertilityEmotional impact on men and couplesMental health in fertility careDouble donor conception -egg + spermRedefining fatherhood and familyCommunication and support in relationshipsWhy this episode matters:Male infertility is often left in the shadows—rarely talked about, rarely acknowledged, and too often misunderstood. By sharing their story, Ashley and Kevin are helping to break that silence and normalize the conversation. Their vulnerability offers comfort, clarity, and connection to others who may feel alone or unseen.

This week on Fertility Village Live, we’re shifting the spotlight and handing the mic to the men—the partners and intended fathers who have walked beside their loved ones through the emotional, physical, and mental rollercoaster of infertility. In a conversation with Caley and Sarah that’s raw, real, and long overdue, our panel of guests shares their unique perspectives, personal experiences, and hard-earned wisdom on what it’s like to navigate infertility as a man.So often, male voices are left out of the fertility narrative. But behind every treatment, every loss, and every hope is a partner who’s also feeling the pressure, holding space, and carrying their own emotional weight—often in silence. This episode dives into the unspoken: how infertility has shaped their identities, strained or strengthened relationships, affected their mental health, and reshaped their understanding of masculinity, vulnerability, and support.We’ll talk about:--> What it feels like to support a partner through fertility treatment--> How infertility impacts male identity and emotional well-being--> Why many men struggle to open up—and what helps--> Navigating grief, hope, and uncertainty as a couple--> What these men want others to know (and stop assuming)--> How we can create more space for male partners in fertility care and conversationWhether you’re a partner, a patient, or a friend—this is a powerful and necessary dialogue that will resonate deeply and leave you thinking. Bring your partner, bring your questions, and join us as we work together to normalize these stories and create space for every voice in the fertility journey.Let’s keep expanding the village—because no one should walk this road alone.