Fertility in Focus by Fertility Matters Canada

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2083955/open_sms] In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ari Baratz to discuss recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). October is Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month. Dr. Baratz discusses the incidence of RPL, its causes, the emotional and medical impact on patients, and what RPL means for your family-building plans.  At Fertility Matters Canada, our hearts are with everyone who has experienced the profound loss of a pregnancy or infant. We honor the strength, resilience, and love that carry you forward, and we're here to support you every step of the way. About Dr. Ari Baratz Dr. Ari Baratz has been dedicated to women’s health and reproductive medicine for over twenty years. He is one of a select few physicians in Canada with the accreditation and advanced level of training required for caring for people with infertility and recurrent miscarriages. Upon joining CReATe, Dr. Baratz assumed a faculty position in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Toronto. Dr. Baratz has played an integral role in the Department of Gynecology at the New Women’s College Hospital, University of Toronto. He is a leader in Ambulatory Gynecology and Surgical education and has mentored many students, residents, and fellows in reproductive medicine. Through CReATe, Women’s College Hospital, and the University of Toronto, Dr. Baratz continues his research in medical education and several aspects of clinical infertility and reproductive endocrinology.  Focused on providing ‘patient-centered’ fertility care, Dr. Baratz’s clinical interests include providing all forms of assisted reproductive technologies, reproductive endoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery, and Reproductive Telemedicine (Ontario Telemedicine Network). A compassionate practitioner and dedicated researcher, Dr. Baratz has presented his research at several national and international forums. Dr. Baratz has a special interest in all forms of third-party reproduction, including anonymous and known egg/sperm donation and surrogacy. He has provided consultations on reproductive medicine matters for intended parents throughout Ontario, across Canada, and internationally. Dr. Baratz is an active member of the College of Physicians & Surgeons of Ontario, the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada, the Society of Obstetricians & Gynecologists of Canada, the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists, the Canadian Fertility & Andrology Society, and the American Society of Reproductive Medicine. Dr. Baratz has been an Executive Board member for the Women’s College Hospital, Medical Staff Association, the Women’s College Hospital Alternate Funding Plan, and Chair of the Ontario Medical Association Reproductive Biology Section. First Response Canada [https://firstresponsecanada.ca] Afynia Laboratories, a Canadian biotechnology company, is pleased to announce the availability of EndomiR, the first validated diagnostic blood test for endometriosis. Afynia is currently offering EndomiR to Canadian fertility clinics for patients with unexplained infertility and/or symptoms suggestive of endometriosis. EndomiR shortens the diagnostic pathway by providing physicians with actionable data to inform safe and effective treatment options.  This episode is sponsored by First Response Canada [https://firstresponsecanada.ca/].

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2083955/open_sms] In this episode, we explore the complex and often frustrating journey many people face when receiving a diagnosis of endometriosis. Despite advancements in medical testing and imaging, it still takes an average of 8-10 years for patients to be diagnosed. Dr. McNaught reviews the symptoms, signs, and challenges surrounding its diagnosis and the patient experience of those who do not have the typical signs and symptoms of endometriosis. He discusses his conversations with patients who have lived for years with unexplained infertility and why reviewing the patient’s experience with pelvic pain as a teenager, as well as family history with endometriosis, can aid in the discovery.  While treatments for endometriosis symptoms are well known, research on the disease is more limited. In the past several years, the toolbox for treatment options has expanded significantly beyond traditional options, with new, less invasive, and time-consuming diagnostic advancements on the horizon.  Receiving a diagnosis is often a validating experience for patients who have felt ignored or dismissed for years. This information allows them to explain their symptoms to schools and workplaces, making it easier to manage the impact of this invisible disease.  Dr. McNaught highlights the need for better research, less invasive diagnostics, and more comprehensive care for those with endometriosis. Join us as we explore the evolving landscape of diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the challenges and breakthroughs in managing this complex condition. As frustrating as this disease can be, Dr. McNaught says the future is bright for patients. MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST SPEAKER Dr John McNaught is a leading reproductive endocrinologist based in London, Ontario. He is the Medical Director of CReATe Fertility London – a Partner Clinic of CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto – one of Canada’s largest IVF Centres and nationally acclaimed in reproductive medicine and ground-breaking research. He specializes in treating women with PCOS, endometriosis, recurrent IVF failures, recurrent pregnancy losses and male infertility cases. He has expertise in individualized personal care, assisted conception, male infertility, pelvic ultrasound, embryo transfer and IUI. Over the years he has helped thousands of single, heterosexual and LGBTQ+ patients build their families. Dr McNaught’s medical approach is refreshingly unique, personalized and backed with medical research – all aimed at providing individual patients with their best possible outcome. Dr. McNaught’s empathetic style focuses on counseling and he considers natural fertility therapy as an area of specialization. He also participates and conducts numerous online sessions and webinars to educate patients of all types about their options with fertility treatments. Most importantly, Dr. McNaught is passionate about his work. He treats each case with the care and respect it deserves, working tirelessly to help patients reach their ultimate goal: a healthy child. Afynia Laboratori First Response Canada [https://firstresponsecanada.ca] Afynia Laboratories, a Canadian biotechnology company, is pleased to announce the availability of EndomiR, the first validated diagnostic blood test for endometriosis. Afynia is currently offering EndomiR to Canadian fertility clinics for patients with unexplained infertility and/or symptoms suggestive of endometriosis. EndomiR shortens the diagnostic pathway by providing physicians with actionable data to inform safe and effective treatment options.  This episode is sponsored by First Response Canada [https://firstresponsecanada.ca/].

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2083955/open_sms] In this poignant episode of Fertility in Focus, we sit down with  Val Gale, a dedicated nurse from Kitchener, to share her deeply personal fertility journey that began over 20 years ago. At 30, Val faced the daunting path of trying to conceive, a journey that stretched over four challenging years and included two courses of IVF before she finally became pregnant with her now 19-year-old daughter. Val candidly discusses the rollercoaster of emotions and experiences, from starting with oral medication and undergoing daily bloodwork to the complex process of dealing with an unexplained infertility diagnosis. She opens up about the strain this journey placed on her relationship with her then-partner and the importance of having open communication, setting limits, and having a contingency plan.  Val offers valuable insights into how she maintained hope and found solace in seeing other women navigating similar struggles at the fertility clinic. She underscores the importance of understanding your limits, aligning with your partner, and finding strength in community support. Tune in to hear Val’s inspiring story and gain wisdom on managing the emotional and practical aspects of fertility challenges. MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST SPEAKER Val Gale is a devoted mother to an 18-year-old daughter and a 25-year-old stepdaughter. She found love later in life, marrying her husband Kevin four years ago when they were 50 and 51. Professionally, Val is an Advanced Practice Nurse working in an acute care mental health program. In addition to this demanding role, she holds a casual nursing position and teaches internationally trained nurses at the college level, enjoying the variety and challenge that comes with juggling multiple roles. Val’s personal journey with infertility began at age 30. After five years of various treatments and interventions, she conceived her daughter at 35 and gave birth at 36 via IVF. Despite her efforts to have a second child without medical interventions until age 40, she was not successful.  Throughout her fertility journey, Val learned the importance of maintaining hope, setting realistic goals, and establishing personal limits. Her experiences have given her valuable insights into staying positive during challenging times, and she is passionate about sharing these insights with others facing similar struggles. First Response Canada [https://firstresponsecanada.ca] Afynia Laboratories, a Canadian biotechnology company, is pleased to announce the availability of EndomiR, the first validated diagnostic blood test for endometriosis. Afynia is currently offering EndomiR to Canadian fertility clinics for patients with unexplained infertility and/or symptoms suggestive of endometriosis. EndomiR shortens the diagnostic pathway by providing physicians with actionable data to inform safe and effective treatment options.  This episode is sponsored by First Response Canada [https://firstresponsecanada.ca/].

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2083955/open_sms] In this informative episode of Fertility in Focus, we speak with Dr. Marjorie Dixon as we delve deep into the world of third-party reproduction in Canada, covering essential topics for anyone considering or involved in gamete donation or gestational surrogacy. We start by explaining what third-party reproduction entails, including the roles and processes associated with sperm and ova donation, as well as using a gestational surrogate. Our discussion unpacks the legal landscape governed by the Assisted Human Reproductive Act, clarifying what is permitted and prohibited under Canadian law. Dr. Dixon, a renowned expert in the field, provides an insider's view on the medical and procedural aspects involved. We discuss how egg donors are selected and assessed, including the importance of genetic testing and other health considerations. We cover the steps to obtaining legal counsel, typically facilitated by reproductive programs, and discuss the broader legal implications participants may face. Finally, we address the existing barriers to accessing third-party reproductive services in Canada and discuss ongoing efforts to make these vital services more inclusive and accessible to all potential users. Join us for a comprehensive guide to understanding and navigating the complex, yet hopeful, world of third-party reproduction. MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST SPEAKER Dr. Dixon is a graduate of McGill University’s School of Medicine. She completed her postgraduate training at the University of Toronto in Obstetrics and Gynecology and then went on to complete a 3-year sub-specialty with The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Vermont to obtain an Accredited Fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. Today she is a member of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center and is also Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto. Dr. Dixon is the Founder, CEO and Medical Director of Anova Fertility & Reproductive Health which opened in 2016 as Canada’s newest full-service fertility and IVF centre. It is home to the first next-generation embryology laboratory in Canada and is a leader in innovation, education, and communication for high-quality humanized fertility and reproductive care. Dr. Dixon was recognized by the Canadian Fertility and Andrology Society with the Mathias Gysler Award in 2022 for her leadership in improving reproductive care in underserved communities. She was also featured in the Globe & Mail’s Quantum Shift Class of 2019 as one of Canada’s Top Entrepreneurs. In 2018 she won the RBC Canadian Women of Influence Momentum Award and in 2017 was recognized as the YMCA Woman of Distinction. As a recognized expert in her field, Dr. Dixon is a coveted speaker at both national and international conferences. She is often asked to comment on newsworthy topics related to women’s health in the media and appears monthly on Cityline as a part of their trusted group of experts often speaking to her responsibility and championing of women’s health and reproductive well-being First Response Canada [https://firstresponsecanada.ca] Afynia Laboratories, a Canadian biotechnology company, is pleased to announce the availability of EndomiR, the first validated diagnostic blood test for endometriosis. Afynia is currently offering EndomiR to Canadian fertility clinics for patients with unexplained infertility and/or symptoms suggestive of endometriosis. EndomiR shortens the diagnostic pathway by providing physicians with actionable data to inform safe and effective treatment options.  This episode is sponsored by First Response Canada [https://firstresponsecanada.ca/].

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2083955/open_sms] In this enlightening episode of Fertility in Focus, we sit down with Lana de Bastiani, a remarkable voice in the world of fertility advocacy, who shares her compelling journey navigating the complex terrain of fertility care from Yellowknife, over 1500 kilometres away from the nearest fertility clinic in Edmonton, Alberta. Lana's fertility journey was complicated by her diagnosis of insulin-resistant PCOS and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) after nearly two decades on hormonal birth control. She gives a candid look into the intricate process of interviewing clinics, the detailed conversations that guided her treatment choices, and the meticulous planning that went into her decision to undergo IVF. Beyond the medical procedures, Lana delves into the significant financial and emotional tolls of her journey. From coverage gaps in the Northwest Territories' healthcare system to the additional expenses of travelling for treatment, Lana sheds light on the indirect financial barriers that impact those in remote areas seeking fertility care in Canada. She also shares the self-care rituals and practices that provided comfort and support through her treatments. Join us as Lana de Bastiani offers a deeply personal look at the challenges of accessing fertility care from remote locations, the additional hurdles faced along the way, and her ongoing efforts to advocate for change. Her story is a call to action for more accessible and equitable fertility and reproductive healthcare across Canada. MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST SPEAKER Lana de Bastiani is a pioneering fertility doula in Yellowknife, NWT, and stands out as the only doula specializing in fertility in Northern Canada. Her path to becoming a doula was shaped by her personal battles with infertility, infusing her practice with empathy and understanding. With a rich background in psychology, special education, adult education, and sexual health, Lana offers a holistic and personalized approach to fertility support. Her services are a beacon for Northern Canadians, addressing the significant barriers they face in accessing fertility care. Lana's culturally sensitive methodology is particularly attuned to the needs of Indigenous communities. Through her advocacy and the establishment of a virtual support group, Lana is a vocal proponent for equitable fertility support across Canada, aiming to empower her clients and bridge the urban-rural divide in reproductive healthcare.  To connect with Lana, you can follow her on Instagram @SolsticeFertilityDoula  or her website: https://www.solsticefertilitydoula.com/.  First Response Canada [https://firstresponsecanada.ca] Afynia Laboratories, a Canadian biotechnology company, is pleased to announce the availability of EndomiR, the first validated diagnostic blood test for endometriosis. Afynia is currently offering EndomiR to Canadian fertility clinics for patients with unexplained infertility and/or symptoms suggestive of endometriosis. EndomiR shortens the diagnostic pathway by providing physicians with actionable data to inform safe and effective treatment options.  This episode is sponsored by First Response Canada [https://firstresponsecanada.ca/].