Episode 4
Fertility: One Mom’s IVF Journey
In this episode you’ll meet Ansley Van Epps, an IVF warrior and mother of two beautiful twin girls. We discuss her journey of becoming a mother through the use of in vitro fertilization, get educated on the topic, and dive into getting the support available if you are undergoing the journey yourself.
How To Connect With Our Guest:
Guest: Ansley Van Epps
Follow her on Instagram at @ansleysadventures
Products Recommended In This Episode:
Show Notes:
-Each couple arrives at this journey in a different way. Please talk with your medical providers about the right approach for you.
-According to Mayo Clinic, IVF is a complex series of procedures used to help with fertility or prevent genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child. Before IVF is attempted fertility drugs or intrauterine insemination may be attempted. During IVF, mature eggs are collected and then fertilized by sperm in a lab. Then the egg (embryo) or eggs (embryos) are transferred to a uterus. A couple can use their own eggs and sperm or sperm and embryos from a known or anonymous donor, a gestational carrier or surrogate. One full cycle of IVF takes about three weeks and it can be time consuming, invasive, and expensive. If more than one embryo is transferred to the uterus, IVF can result in multiple pregnancy.
-Why IVF is done:
Fallopian tube damage or blockage
Ovulation disorders
Endometriosis
Uterine fibroids
Previous tubal sterilization or removal
Impaired sperm production or function
Unexplained infertility
A genetic disorder
Fertility preservation for cancer or other health conditions
-PGD testing-Preimplantation genetic testing
-PGS testing-Preimplantation genetic screening
-OHSS-Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is an exaggerated response to excess hormones
-How to support a friend going through IVF: check in, ask how they are doing, stay positive, ask if they need help, ask what they need
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DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMED MOM PODCAST DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE
No material from our hosts or guests is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. We strive to provide you with education and information so that you can then go to your own provider and get an individualized approach to your medical needs and questions. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard in this podcast.