Brave & Curious with Dr Lora Shahine

Dr. Lora Shahine

Fertility, reproductive health, and wellness are deeply personal—and sometimes, deeply challenging. Brave & Curious is a space for open, honest conversations about the science, emotions, and decisions that shape our reproductive journeys.

Hosted by Dr. Lora Shahine, a double board certified OBGYN and reproductive endocrinologist, author, and advocate, this podcast blends evidence-based medicine with empathy and curiosity. Whether you're navigating infertility, exploring reproductive health, or simply seeking knowledge, this show will equip you with insights, expert interviews, and real stories to support your journey.

New episodes drop weekly—subscribe and join the conversation. Until next time, stay brave and curious.

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S1 · E180
Tuesday · 16 min
Ep 180 Do Fertility Medications Cause Cancer? What the Research Actually Says
Do fertility medications increase the risk of breast cancer? Could IVF raise the chances of ovarian or uterine cancer later in life? And how can you separate scientific fertility research from fear-provoking headlines? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine examines why this fear exists and explores what decades of research actually reveal about fertility medications, IVF, and cancer risk. She explains why this topic is difficult to study, including the need to distinguish the effects of fertility treatment from underlying infertility diagnoses such as endometriosis, PCOS/PMOS, anovulation, and never having carried a pregnancy. Dr. Shahine also discusses the important nuance around prolonged Clomid use, the role of personal risk factors and routine cancer screening, and why patients deserve to make fertility treatment decisions based on evidence rather than fear. In this episode you'll hear: [1:32] A Common Question: Do fertility medications increase my risk of breast cancer? [2:27] Why Research Is Hard [4:44] Breast Cancer Evidence [5:50] Key Study Highlights [9:27] Clomid Cycle Nuance [10:05] Other Cancer Risks (Uterine Cancer, Ovarian Cancer) [12:46] Takeaways And Screening Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.
S1 · E179
August 25 · 25 min
Ep 179 How to Prepare for Your First Fertility Doctor Appointment: What to Ask & What to Expect
How can you make the most out of your first fertility visit? What should you bring? What should you be prepared to talk about? And what questions can help you leave the consultation feeling informed, prepared, and confident about your next steps? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine explains how to prepare for an initial fertility consultation, whether you are trying to conceive, experiencing recurrent miscarriage, exploring egg freezing or embryo freezing, considering IVF, or looking for inclusive family-building options. She shares which medical records to send ahead of time, what health and reproductive history your doctor may ask about, and why partners are encouraged to participate in the appointment when possible. Dr. Shahine also reviews possible fertility treatment options, from ovulation medications and IUI to IVF, donor eggs, donor sperm, and gestational surrogacy, and offers five essential questions to ask before leaving your first fertility specialist appointment. In this episode you'll hear: [2:36] Why See a Specialist [8:12] Send Records Early [9:44] What To Bring (hint: lists of things you don't want to forget) [11:42] What Doctors Ask [14:25] Testing Overview [19:40] Treatment Options [22:09] Five Questions To Ask [24:48] Next Steps Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.
S1 · E178
August 11 · 1 hr
Ep 178 PCOS Got a New Name: PMOS with Dr. Allison Rodgers
Why is PCOS being renamed? And what does the new name PMOS mean? Could irregular periods, acne, hair growth, hair loss, or insulin resistance be signs of a larger whole-body condition? And does a PCOS or PMOS diagnosis mean you will need IVF to get pregnant? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Allison Rodgers, reproductive endocrinologist, joins Dr. Lora Shahine for a hopeful, practical conversation about the shift from polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, or PMOS. They explain why the updated name better reflects the condition's effects on hormones, metabolism, ovulation, fertility, and lifelong health, not simply the appearance of the ovaries. They discuss common symptoms of PCOS and PMOS, how the condition is diagnosed, and why it can affect people of every body size. Dr. Shahine and Dr. Rodgers also explore fertility treatment options, nutrition, exercise, and supplements. They get into long-term risks including diabetes, high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, and uterine cancer. Most importantly, they emphasize that PMOS is manageable, ovulation can often be restored, and there is plenty of reason to feel hopeful about building a family. In this episode, you'll hear: [0:25] Meet Dr. Rodgers [2:42] PCOS Becomes PMOS [7:38] Testing and Diagnosis [10:15] Fertility Outlook [13:58] Long-Term Health [18:37] Lifestyle Support [22:32] PMOS Medications [36:11] Supplements and Nutrition [44:53] Supplement Safety [49:06] Egg Quality [52:55] IVF Necessity [54:09] Teen PMOS [58:08] Hope and Advocacy Resources Mentioned: drallisonrodgers.com https://www.fcionline.com/doctors/allison-rodgers/ Bird and Be Supplements Review Article on Supplements for PCOS/PMOS @dr.allison.rodgers on Instagram and TikTok This episode is sponsored by Bird and Be. Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.
S1 · E177
July 28 · 14 min
Ep 177 Too Old to Conceive? When is it Too Late?
Can you be too old to conceive? What does it really mean when celebrities have babies over 50? And when fertility treatments like IVF, donor eggs, frozen eggs, and embryo transfer make pregnancy possible after menopause, how do we decide when it is safe, ethical, and medically appropriate? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine explores one of the biggest and most emotionally loaded questions in reproductive medicine: when is it too late to have a baby? Using the latest 2025 American Society for Reproductive Medicine guidelines as a starting point, Dr. Shahine breaks down advanced reproductive age, age-related infertility, IVF success with own eggs versus donor eggs, pregnancy after menopause, and the very real health risks that can come with pregnancy over 45 or 50. She also looks at paternal age, sperm health, and why age matters for both partners when building a family. Listeners will understand that there is no one-size-fits-all answer—only thoughtful counseling, informed consent, and brave conversations about the risks, benefits, and possibilities of family building at an advanced reproductive age. In this episode you'll hear: [00:56] Age & Fertility overview [01:41] Record-breaking pregnancy stories [02:37] Why does it get more difficult to get pregnant as we get older? [07:52] Health risks of pregnancy [09:15] Men: reproductive age and health of pregnancy [10:07] Ethical considerations [11:13] 2025 ASRM guidelines [13:42] Next steps Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.
S1 · E176
July 14 · 1 hr
Ep 176 Acupuncture and IVF Success with Hannah Pearn
Can acupuncture really support IVF success? When should you start fertility acupuncture if you're trying to conceive? And how do you know whether an acupuncturist is truly trained in fertility care, or just really confident with a sign on the door? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine welcomes Hannah Pearn, a fertility acupuncturist based in London and host of the podcast. Together, they explore how acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine, and Western fertility treatment can work side by side to support patients through IVF, embryo transfer, egg quality concerns, endometriosis, PCOS, recurrent pregnancy loss, male factor infertility, and the emotional stress of trying to conceive. Listeners will learn what to expect at a first fertility acupuncture appointment, how acupuncture treatment may change during different stages of IVF, what questions to ask when choosing a practitioner, and why the evidence around acupuncture and fertility is promising but still complicated. Dr. Shahine and Hannah also answer listener questions about needle fear, PGT-A testing, microbiome testing, follicle count, and the balance between doing everything you can and remembering that infertility is never your fault. In this episode you'll hear: [1:09] Fertility acupuncture basics [7:28] Hannah's acupuncture path [11:18] Finding specialists and Questions to Ask [29:46] Acupuncture meets IVF [34:34] Needle fear [36:58] PGT-A testing [42:43] When to start [47:31] Can you boost your egg count? [50:38] Microbiome testing [54:46] Evidence and acupuncture Resources mentioned: donttellmetorelax.coc.uk @donttellmetorelax on IG Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.
S1 · E175
June 30 · 38 min
Ep175 IUDs and Your Fertility with Dr. Said Daneshmand
Can a hormonal IUD affect your fertility later? If you used a progestin IUD, should you take it out months before trying to conceive? And how do patients make sense of fertility advice when even doctors are debating the evidence in real time? In this episode of Brave & Curious Dr. Said Daneshmand joins Dr. Lora Shahine for a thoughtful, nuanced conversation about hormonal IUDs, endometrial lining, uterine adhesions, and fertility planning. Their conversation is sparked by a recent online debate in the reproductive medicine community. Dr. Shahine and Dr. Daneshman explore what is known, what is still being studied, and why clinical experience matters alongside published research. Listeners will learn how levonorgestrel IUDs may affect the uterine lining in a small subset of patients, what current research says about return to fertility after IUD removal, and why "rare" does not mean "impossible." This episode offers reassurance, context, and practical guidance for anyone using an IUD, planning pregnancy, navigating infertility, or trying to make informed decisions about contraception and reproductive health. Ongoing Research Study through UCSF: FeRTILE Study is being done to learn whether long-term use of an intrauterine device (IUD) affects how long it takes to become pregnant. By taking part, participants may help researchers learn more about fertility and birth outcomes after IUD use. Learn more here. In this episode you'll hear: [0:40] What is the IUD and Fertility Controversy? [1:11] IUDs: Benefits and Context [7:43] What We're Seeing in Our Practice [15:25] Dr. D's Research on IUDs and Endometrial Lining [20:45] Reflection on Topic [33:56] Future Research Plans Resources: Studies mentioned Abel 2021 J Assist Reprod Genet Carr 2021 Contraception Peipert 2022 Am J OBGYN Dr. Daneshmand Instagram Fertilitea with Dr. D Podcast Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.
S1 · E171
June 16 · 1 hr 3 min
Ep 174 Menopause Symptoms and Hormone Therapy with the OvaryActive Doctors
Could your sleepless nights, mood swings, joint pain, or "I just don't feel like myself" feelings be connected to perimenopause? Do you really need hormone testing to know what is happening? And is menopause hormone therapy actually as scary as we were once told? Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su and Dr. Amy Voedisch, hosts of OvaryActive and co-authors of Estrogen, Interrupted, join Dr. Lora Shahine for this episode of Brave & Curious. Their conversation opens up a thoughtful, funny, and myth-busting conversation about menopause, perimenopause, hormone health, and why women deserve to understand their bodies. They also explain the difference between menopause and perimenopause, why symptoms can start years before periods stop, why hormone labs often do not tell the full story, and how symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, anxiety, vaginal dryness, weight changes, itchy ears (yes, we said "itchy ears"), burning mouth, and joint pain can all fit into the bigger picture. Perimenopause is often a "story-based" diagnosis rather than a single lab result, and treatment options are available. This conversation will walk listeners through all of that and more. Listeners will feel informed, validated, and ready to ask better questions. In this episode you'll hear: [0:24] Meet The Doctors of Ovaryactive Podcast [10:45] Defining menopause and perimenopause [14:55] Common Symptoms (More than Hot Flashes) [18:37] Why labs fall short [23:07] Unusual menopause symptoms [28:05] Diagnosing perimenopause and menopause [32:17] Non-hormonal treatment options [42:18] The WHI study [50:45] Breast cancer risk and Hormone Therapy [59:51] Talking to your doctor Resources mentioned: perimenopausedrs.com/ovaryactive Follow the show @OvaryActive Instagram | YouTube Estrogen, Interrupted by Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su & Dr. Amy Voedisch More information about Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su: Gennev: www.gennev.com/clinician/dr-rebecca-dunsmoor-su LinkedIn @rebecca-dunsmoor-su More information about Dr. Amy Voedisch: Stanford Medical Clinic: stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/v/amy-voedisch.html Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.
S1 · E173
June 2 · 1 hr 1 min
Ep 173 Ovarian Rejuvenation: The Race to Extend Fertility with Roohi Jeelani, MD
What if the "final frontier" of fertility care is not IVF technology, but the aging ovary itself? Can science help improve egg quality, mitochondrial function, and reproductive lifespan? And how do patients sort through what is proven, what is promising, and what is still very much in the "ask your doctor before you try this" category? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine welcomes reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Roohi Jeelani for a fascinating conversation about ovarian rejuvenation, age-related fertility decline, and the future of fertility treatment. Together, they discuss why age remains one of the biggest factors in IVF success, how egg quality changes over time, and why topics like oxidative stress, mitochondrial health, inflammation, and lifestyle optimization are becoming such important parts of the fertility conversation. In this episode you'll hear: [1:07] Meet Dr. Roohi Jeelani [2:32] Age and fertility [4:23] Egg quality basics [8:06] Sleep and fertility [9:35] Stress and cortisol [14:58] Movement and PCOS [16:54] Nutrition for fertility [18:51] Trimester zero prep: Small, sustainable changes [29:25] CoQ10, Inositol, Melatonin [35:38] NAD and egg quality [43:56] GLP-1 fertility questions [47:22] Peptides and PRP [55:33] Ovarian rejuvenation research [1:01:04] Future fertility medicine Resources mentioned: onto.health @roohijeelanimd on Instagram | LinkedIn @onto-health-co on LinkedIn Your Leggings Could be Causing Infertility? with Dr. Lora Shahine on YouTube Can CoQ10 Improve Egg Quality and Sperm Health for TTC? with Dr. Lora Shahine on YouTube Does Growth Hormone Improve IVF Outcomes? with Dr. Lora Shahine on YouTube Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.
S1 · E172
May 19 · 33 min
Ep172 Unexplained Infertility: Finally Explained
Have you been told your fertility tests are normal, but pregnancy still isn't happening? What does unexplained infertility actually mean when it clearly feels like something is going on? And how do age, egg quality, sperm function, endometriosis, inflammation, and implantation issues factor into a diagnosis that can feel more frustrating than reassuring? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine takes a compassionate deep dive into unexplained infertility to explain how it's diagnosed, why it affects so many patients, and what may be happening behind the scenes when standard fertility testing does not reveal a clear answer. Listeners will learn the most common hidden contributors to unexplained infertility, treatment options, and when moving to IVF may be the most effective path forward. In this episode you'll hear: [0:49] Dr. Lora Shahine's personal fertility story [3:06] How Diagnosis Works [4:31] How Common is Unexplained Infertility? [8:07] Possible Cause #1: Age & Fertility [11:51] Possible Cause #2: Hidden Sperm Factors [13:48] Possible Cause #3: Egg Quality Unknowns [14:13] Possible Cause #4: Implantation Mysteries [15:19] Possible Cause #5: Tubal Function Problems [16:49] Possible Cause #6: Endometriosis Link [19:233 Possible Cause #7: Inflammation and Lifestyle [20:39] What to Do Next [23:38] Treatment Plans: IUI vs IVF [31:31] Wrap up and next steps Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.
S1 · E171
May 5 · 35 min
Ep 171 What Your Semen Analysis is Not Telling You with Jeff Lysiak, PhD
Are you frustrated by a diagnosis of unexplained infertility? What if a "normal" semen analysis is not telling the whole story about sperm health? Could a new male fertility test help explain why fertilization is not happening, even when sperm count, motility, and morphology look fine? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine welcomes Jeff Lysiak, PhD. He is a reproductive biologist, and co-founder and Chief Science Officer of PS Fertility. He is here to to talk about what standard semen analysis may miss. Together, Dr. Shahine and Dr. Lysiak explore the science behind sperm fertilization competence, the role of phosphatidylserine (PS) on live sperm, and how Dr. Lysiak's research led to PS Direct, a diagnostic test designed to measure sperm's ability to bind and fertilize an egg beyond traditional semen parameters. Dr. Shahine and Dr. Lysiak also discuss the future of male reproductive health research, including lifestyle factors, environmental exposures, and the growing need for more precise answers earlier in the fertility journey. In this episode you'll hear: [0:39] Meet Jeff Lysiak, PhD [2:01] From Placenta to Sperm [3:24] PS Discovery Explained [5:01] How Sperm Meets Egg [9:02] From Lab to Clinic [10:19] Limits of Semen Analysis [12:46] PS Score and Misdiagnosis [14:12] At Home PS Test Kit [18:20] Where PS Fits Clinically [21:13] Varicocele & Repair Surgery [24:14] Using PS to Guide Care [27:26] Lifestyle Factors [33:006] Future Research Directions [34:21] Where to Find the Test & Connect with Jeff Resources mentioned: PSFertility.com Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode was sponsored by PS Fertility. This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.
S1 · E170
April 22 · 37 min
Ep 170 Cost of Fertility Care: Solutions with Angela Rastegar from Sunfish
What if the hardest part of your fertility journey isn't the medicine, it's affording the best treatment? How do you plan for IVF costs when coverage is unclear or incomplete? And is there a smarter, more supported way to navigate the financial stress of building a family? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Angela Rastegar, CEO and founder of Sunfish, joins Dr. Lora Shahine. They are honoring National Fertility Week through their conversation that explores the real cost of fertility care and why financial planning is just as critical as medical care. Angela shares her deeply personal fertility journey, including multiple rounds of egg freezing without financial support, and how that experience led her to build a platform designed to support patients through every step of their family-building journey, from egg freezing and IVF to surrogacy. Dr. Shahine and Angela talk about the hidden gaps in insurance coverage, the rising reality of fertility-related debt, and how Sunfish's data-driven, AI-powered programs aim to reduce uncertainty with personalized care plans, cost transparency, and even financial protections for IVF and egg freezing outcomes. In this episode you'll hear: [0:34] Angela Rastegar's personal journey, without financial support [3:28] Along comes Sunfish [5:45] The IVF Success Program [8:35] The hidden costs of IVF [13:40] Common misconceptions with insurance coverage [19:53] Step-by-step breakdown of cost [23:01] Grants, loans, and creative solutions [27:08] New AI-powered egg freezing program [30:55]The "silent tax" of egg freezing [37:00] Getting connected to Sunfish Resources mentioned: joinsunfish.com Sunfish provides personalized financial plans using proprietary software to estimate costs for each Program. If actual costs exceed projections, eligible patients may receive a partial refund under program terms. Sunfish is not a medical provider. Terms and conditions apply. Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.
S1 · E169
April 19 · 40 min
BONUS Ep 169 Fighting for Fertility with RESOLVE CEO Danielle Melfi
IVF is under fire. So, what happens when access to IVF is suddenly at risk? How much power should policy have over your ability to build a family? And what can one voice, or one story, really do to protect fertility care for millions? In this timely episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine is joined by Danielle Melfi, the new CEO of RESOLVE, who brings a powerful blend of policy expertise, personal fertility experience, and a deep commitment to family-building equity. Airing at the start of National Infertility Awareness Week, Dr. Lora Shahine and Danielle are talking about the real-world impact of recent legislative threats to IVF, including the Alabama ruling that temporarily halted treatment. They explore how advocacy organizations mobilize quickly to protect patients. Danielle shares her own egg freezing journey, her background in government and healthcare advocacy, and how RESOLVE is working to expand access, improve patient education, and fight misinformation in an increasingly complex fertility landscape. In this episode you'll hear: [1:41] Meet Danielle Melfi, CEO of RESOLVE [5:45] Why IVF Stopped in Alabama [10:55] What RESOLVE Does [14:15] Fertility Care Coverage in California and Recent Advocacy Wins [19:29] The Power of Fertility Stories [21:48] Restorative Reproductive Medicine Movement: A Threat in Disguise? [23:12] Personhood Bills Explained [36:55] RESOLVE's Strategic Plan [38:31] Get Involved Resources mentioned: resolve.org @resolveorg on Instagram Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.
S1 · E168
April 7 · 46 min
Ep 168 Taking Charge of Your PCOS with Cory Ruth, RDN
What if your PCOS diagnosis is about more than fertility? What if the symptoms you've been told to "just manage" are actually your body asking for deeper support? And what if you could take back control in a way that feels empowering rather than restrictive? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine sits down with registered dietitian and author of PCOS is My Power Cory Ruth, RDN to explain all about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and why it's often misunderstood. Cory shares her personal journey to diagnosis and how it shaped her mission to help women better understand the metabolic, hormonal, and reproductive components of PCOS. Dr. Shahine and Cory cover the diagnostic criteria, common misconceptions (like "just lose weight"), and the evolving science around lifestyle interventions, blood sugar regulation, and long-term health outcomes. This episode will give listeners a clearer understanding of how to manage PCOS through sustainable nutrition, movement, and mindset shifts, without falling into restrictive or shame-based approaches. Cory's refreshing expertise helps us reframe PCOS as a potential catalyst for lifelong health—giving you the tools to feel informed, supported, and back in the driver's seat. In this episode you'll hear: [1:56] PCOS "triple threat": reproductive, metabolic, & hormonal [5:40] Cory Ruth's personal journey [8:01] Early signs of PCOS [11:43] The Rotterdam criteria [17:33] PCOS is a weight issue: MYTH [19:09] Nutrition is the foundation of PCOS management [22:24] Simple, realistic meal ideas to support PCOS [31:25] Intermittent fasting & PCOS [34:27] Mental health & PCOS [37:35] Long-term risks of PCOS [40:10] Sustainable lifestyle changes that actually work [43:05] Reframing PCOS as an opportunity for lifelong health Resources mentioned: www.thewomensdietitian.com @thewomensdietition on Instagram Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.
S1 · E167
March 24 · 45 min
Ep 167 Endometriosis Diagnosis Without Surgery? Dr. Bruce Lessey
Are you struggling with unexplained infertility and wondering if endometriosis could be the missing piece? Have you been told that surgery is the only way to get a diagnosis? What if a simple test could offer answers without going into the operating room? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine welcomes guest Dr. Bruce Lessey, a double board certified OBGYN and Reproductive Endocrinologist with decades of research experience and over 150 peer-reviewed publications. Together they explore a groundbreaking question in reproductive medicine: can we diagnose endometriosis without invasive surgery? Dr. Lessey and Dr. Shahine explain the science behind BCL6 testing, a biomarker found in the uterine lining that may signal inflammation linked to endometriosis. Dr. Lessey also shares how this research evolved from studying implantation markers to developing a potential non-invasive diagnostic tool, and why timing in the menstrual cycle is critical for accurate results. They also discuss the realities of delayed diagnosis, the connection between endometriosis and unexplained infertility, and how this test is already being used in clinical settings. In this episode you'll hear: [1:21] Meet Dr. Bruce Lessey [4:27] Why does diagnosing endometriosis take years? [7:16] Introducing BCL6 testing [16:20] Timing the biopsy window [22:51] IVF outcomes study [25:42] Fresh vs. frozen transfers [27:22] Treating expected endometriosis [28:44] Lupron and surgery explained [30:42] BCL6 in recurrent pregnancy loss and recurrent implantation failure [33:04] Progesterone resistance and benefits of letrozole [40:48] Timing and testing pitfalls [43:02] Future research and wrap up Resources mentioned: Overexpression in Eutopic Endometrium of Women With Endometriosis. doi: 10.1177/1933719116649711. Endometrial BCL6 testing for the prediction of in vitro fertilization outcomes: a cohort study. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.09.017. Unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss and unexplained infertility: twins in disguise. doi: 10.1093/hropen/hoz021. This episode is sponsored by Cicero Diagnostics. Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.
S1 · E166
March 10 · 55 min
Ep 166 Is Inflammation Hijacking Your Fertility? Answers from Natalie Crawford, MD
What if inflammation is quietly affecting your fertility? What if the key to improving egg quality and hormonal balance isn't just medical treatment, but the everyday choices you make? And what if understanding your body earlier could change your entire fertility journey? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine welcomes fertility specialist Dr. Natalie Crawford to explore how inflammation influences reproductive health and what women can do to support fertility from the inside out. Dr. Natalie Crawford is the author of The Fertility Formula, and she is here to share how her own experience with infertility and pregnancy loss shaped her passion for empowering patients with science-based fertility education. Together, she and Dr. Shahine discuss the growing role of chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, environmental exposures, and lifestyle factors in fertility challenges. Dr. Crawford explains why fertility medicine often reacts too late in the process and why understanding hormones, ovarian reserve, and reproductive health earlier can help people advocate for themselves and make informed decisions. In this episode you'll hear: [2:32] Dr. Natalie Crawford's fertility journey [7:00] Chronic inflammation and fertility [20:59] Insulin resistance impacts hormones, ovulation, & egg quality [26:34] The connection between stress, cortisol, and fertility outcomes [28:09] Sleep is an important fertility-supporting habit [32:41] Strength training to improve hormone health [41:23] Nutrition basics that work [48:25] Dr. Crawford's framework: Educate, Advocate, Optimize [54:26] Connecting with Natalie Resources mentioned: nataliecrawfordmd.com As A Woman Podcast @nataliecrawfordmd Instagram | TikTok | LinkedIn | YouTube Ep 157 Why Sleep is the Most Powerful Habit You Can't Ignore with Dr. Meredith Broderick Dr. Shahine's Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.
S1 · E165
March 3 · 17 min
Ep 165 Do Progesterone Shots Improve Frozen Embryo Transfer Success?
Are progesterone shots really necessary for a frozen embryo transfer? Why would your doctor recommend intramuscular injections over suppositories or other less painful options? And could the type of progesterone you use actually affect implantation, miscarriage risk, or live birth rates? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine explains the science behind progesterone support in frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles, especially why intramuscular (IM) progesterone is often recommended in certain programmed cycle protocols. Dr. Shahine explains how progesterone supports implantation and early pregnancy, the key differences between programmed or medicated and natural or ovulatory FET protocols, and why not all progesterone options perform the same way. Listeners will learn how IM progesterone compares to other forms and when IM progesterone may meaningfully improve FET success. You'll get some practical guidance on how to talk with your doctor about choosing the right progesterone protocol for your body and your treatment plan. In this episode you'll hear: [1:11] Progesterone shot fears [2:30] Why progesterone matters [4:22] Why supplement in treatment [5:22] Programmed vs. ovulatory FET [7:31] Progesterone options explained [11:07] Landmark 2021 trial set up [13:08] Results: live birth miscarriage [15:14] Next steps Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.
S1 · E164
February 24 · 49 min
Ep 164 Taking Charge of Cycle Tracking with Author Toni Weschler
Are ovulation predictor kits enough to time intercourse? Can an app really tell you when you're fertile? And what if your body has been giving you the answers all along? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine is talking to fertility awareness pioneer Dr. Are ovulation predictor kits enough to time intercourse? Can an app really tell you when you're fertile? And what if your body has been giving you the answers all along? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine is talking to fertility awareness pioneer Toni Weschler, author of Taking Charge of Your Fertility, and her niece, software engineer, Sabrina Nowicki. These three women explore how women can confidently track ovulation, understand cervical fluid, and take charge of their reproductive health with both education and technology. Toni Weschler shares the powerful origin story behind her decades of paper charting and why she once resisted fertility apps altogether. She believed that a thermometer, a pen, and knowledge of your own body were enough. Sabrina explains how that philosophy evolved into Cyclisity, an educational cycle tracking app designed as the perfect companion to the book. Unlike predictive period apps that rely on algorithms and "average" 28-day cycles, Cyclisity follows the sympto-thermal method exactly as taught in Toni's work. It will finally make sense why basal body temperature confirms ovulation but doesn't predict it, how cervical fluid signals approaching fertility, why ovulation predictor kits can miss critical timing, and how improper app use can delay fertility diagnosis or lead to unintended pregnancy. This conversation is a masterclass in reproductive education and body literacy while blending science, privacy, and modern technology. In this episode you'll hear: [0:39] Meet the guests: Author Toni Weschler and Sabrina Nowicki [2:36] Why track your cycle? [4:03] Understanding ovulation and health [6:49] Sabrina's personal journey [10:29] Toni's period story [13:10] The push for technology [14:52] Early software resistance [18:35] The perfect team forms [22:03] Creating Cyclisity [27:07] Using book and app together [31:41] Temperature vs cervical fluid [32:53] Checking cervical fluid Resources mentioned: cyclisity.com tcoyf.com @cyclisity on IG @cyclisityapp on TikTok @wanderingsabrina on IG | on TikTok Ep 50 Over 25 Years of Taking Charge of Your Fertility with Author Toni Weschler Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode!
S1 · E163
February 17 · 15 min
Ep 163 C-Section Scar and Fertility: Should Isthmocele Be Treated?
Did you have a C-section and now notice spotting that won't quit? Are you dealing with pelvic pain, confusing symptoms, or trouble getting pregnant, and wondering if they're connected? Has anyone ever mentioned the word isthmocele to you… or is this the first time you're hearing it? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine explains a condition many patients are never warned about after a C-section: an isthmocele. She tells us what an isthmocele is, how it can form in a prior C-section scar, and why it can sometimes lead to unexpected bleeding, pain, or fertility challenges. You'll learn the five key symptoms that may signal an isthmocele, how this condition can affect fertility and future pregnancy plans, and the pros and cons of monitoring versus treating. Dr. Shahine also talks us through when surgical repair may be helpful, and the exact questions to ask your doctor so you can advocate for informed, personalized care. If you've had a C-section and feel like something isn't quite right, this episode offers knowledge, reassurance, and a clear path forward. In this episode you'll hear: [0:46] Understanding C-section scars: Isthnocele [2:21] What is an isthmocele? [3:24] How common? [4:18] Getting diagnosed [6:06] Symptoms [7:36] Treatment options [9:21] Observation vs. surgical management [14:01] Important questions to ask your doctor [14:57] Conclusion & final thoughts Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode
S1 · E162
February 10 · 29 min
Ep 162 Optimizing Embryo Transfer Success: Your Questions Answered
How do you make an embryo stick? Is there anything you can do to improve embryo transfer success? And how do you know which advice is science-backed versus fertility folklore? In this special solo Q&A episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine answers the questions patients ask most often when preparing for an embryo transfer. What really matters during an IVF embryo transfer? Using real questions from Instagram, YouTube, and her own practice, she walks listeners through fresh vs. frozen embryo transfer, what happens on transfer day, whether you need a full bladder, lying down afterward, Valium use, pineapple cores, French fries, genetic testing, ERA testing, and how uterine lining preparation actually works. Listeners will come away with a clearer understanding of embryo transfer success rates, frozen embryo transfer protocols, and implantation timing, and get their real questions answered. In this episode you'll hear: [1:27] What should I expect on transfer day? [8:00] What happens post-transfer? [9:35] Funny myths: pineapple cores & McDonalds french fries [13:46] Fresh vs. frozen transfer myths [20:18] Pre-transfer testing and ERA [24:37] Natural vs. medicated transfer protocols [28:30] Conclusion & final thoughts Links and Resources: Embryo Transfer: What to Expect on YouTube Does the Embryo Fall Out: Embryo Transfer Tips on YouTube Fresh vs. Frozen Transfers: Pros and Cons on YouTue Studies Mentioned: Randomized Controlled Trial for FET Protocols: PMID: 38944045 Retrospective analysis Perinatal Outcomes with FET protocols PMID:33926401 Randomized Controlled Trial for ERA before FET PMID: 36472596 Randomized Controlled Trial Bedrest after embryo transfer: PMID:31520259 Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode!
S1 · E161
February 3 · 24 min
Ep 161 Understanding Fertility Testing: A Step-by-Step Guide for Couples
Are you starting to think about fertility testing? Have you been trying to conceive and wondering which tests actually matter? Or are you overwhelmed by conflicting advice and unsure where to begin? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine breaks down fertility testing with clarity, compassion, and evidence. Now you can move forward feeling informed instead of intimidated. Dr. Shahine covers the basics of fertility testing including the essentials of a thorough health history. She also explains how menstrual cycles, ovulation patterns, pain, PCOS, endometriosis, lifestyle factors, and mental health all shape a fertility workup. This episode empowers couples with realistic expectations, evidence-based guidance, and the confidence to advocate for personalized fertility care, because understanding your options is the first step to feeling as ready as you can for what comes next. In this episode you'll hear: [1:36] Key fertility tests for women: AMH, FSH, estradiol, ultrasound, and HSG [3:42]] The full work up: lifestyle, medical history, menstrual cycles, and past pregnancies [7:54] Ovarian reserve and AMH explained [13:19] Fertility tests for men: semen analysis and hormone evaluation [16:13] Preconception testing including genetic carrier screening [21:48] When to see a fertility specialist and what to ask your doctor after testing Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

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