Brave & Curious with Dr Lora Shahine

Are you confused about prenatal vitamins? Wondering whether folic acid or folate is best? And what about those MTHFR conversations on the internet? Should you be worried?  In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine is asking the questions so many people have but rarely get clear answers to. Her guest is fertility expert Dr. Prati Sharma who is here to address the fear, the science, and the nuance behind one of the most debated supplements in pregnancy health. Folate and folic acid may sound interchangeable, but as Dr. Shahine and Dr. Sharma explain, the topic gets complicated fast — especially once genetics, supplements, and internet opinions enter the chat.  Together they explain the definitions, evidence-based guidelines, genetic polymorphisms like MTHFR, and how the supplement market (and sometimes fear-based messaging) can mislead patients.  Listeners will hear balanced, thoughtful insight rooted in reproductive endocrinology, science-backed recommendations, and compassionate care, not panic or overwhelm. And most importantly, you'll leave feeling calmer, more empowered, and equipped with the right questions instead of fear. In this episode you'll hear: [1:25] Why is folate vs. folic acid such a heated topic? [3:37] What is folate? [4:067 What is folic acid? [5:35] MTHFR gene variant explained [6:40] The history & science behind the recommendations [9:58] How much folic acid do you actually need? [12:56] What newer studies show [20:23] How to choose a prenatal [28:06] Final takeaways and connecting with Dr. Sharma   Resources mentioned:  @drpratiaharma on IG createivf.com/about/prati-sharma-fertility-doctor birdandbe.com ABOG Folic Acid Recommendations Review from Integrative Medicine Journal Review by Jen Gunter, MD   Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Have you ever wondered what meaningful, supportive gifts look like when someone you love is navigating infertility or a fertility journey? How can you shop with intention, without the toxins, overwhelm, or "one-size-fits-all" gifting? Ready to treat someone special (especially yourself)?  In this episode of Brave and Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine invites you into holiday joy with courage, compassion, and thoughtful connection, all through the lens of reproductive health and emotional well-being.  She is sharing a curated list of gift ideas specifically designed with the fertility community in mind. Gift-giving isn't just about objects. It's about connection, acknowledgment, and gentle encouragement during a deeply personal chapter.  Treat someone you love… and don't forget to include yourself! In this episode you'll hear: [1:43] Gift guide overview [2:12] Idea #1: SheCanter [3:43] Idea #2: Infertile Tees [5:41] Idea #3: Fertility socks [6:44] Idea #4: Candle (toxin-free!) [9:27] Idea #5: Self-care/beauty products Resources mentioned:  shecanter.com Roxhill Candle Company  infertiletees.com [discount code HOPE15 through 12/31/25] ivfeet.com [discount code BRAVE10 through 12/31/25] doctorrogers.com [discount code DRSHAHINE all year long] LINNÉbotanicals.com [discount code DRSHAHINE15 all year long] shopshorrette.com [discount code DRSHAHINE15 all year long]   Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

What happens when chronic endometriosis meets fierce advocacy and a wicked sense of humor? What if your most painful experiences become the catalyst for empowering others? And how does a uterus-shaped wine decanter become a national conversation piece for women's reproductive health?  In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine chats with Erica Loring, the self-declared "brains and uterus behind Shecanter," to talk about turning pain into purpose and stigma into laughter. Erica shares her deeply personal health journey, from fainting spells through high-school to finally being heard, diagnosed, and validated after years of dismissal. Her story shines a light on endometriosis, PCOS, women's healthcare funding inequality, reproductive rights advocacy, and the power of representation through design.  Her viral product line, including uterus decanters, mugs, and more, has become both a feminist cultural symbol and a fundraising tool fueling research and resources for women with reproductive health conditions. Listeners will learn how Erica transformed a frustrating medical experience into a thriving brand, using humor as activism and novelty products as conversation starters.  In this episode you'll hear: [2:37] Erica's endometriosis journey [4:14] Medical dismissal [4:58] Diagnosis barriers [7:18] Women's health funding [11:40] Novelty feminist products [15:26] Patient self-advocacy [17:22] Reproductive health organizations [19:07] Product design process [23:21] Empowering healthcare advocacy [28:08] Finding and purchasing the products   Resources mentioned:  shecanter.com @the_shecanter on IG endometriosisassn.org pcoschallenge.org plannedparenthood.org   Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

What if you could walk into every holiday gathering feeling grounded instead of guarded? How would it feel to have a plan when the nosy fertility questions inevitably come your way? And what if you could protect your emotional well-being while enjoying the holidays full of joy and with boundaries intact?  In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine tackles the complicated reality of holiday conversations, fertility questions, and family-building pressure.  Listeners will learn practical, empowering tools for navigating holiday gatherings with confidence: how to identify an ally for support, and how to use communication strategies that range from soft deflection to strong boundary-setting.  In this episode you'll hear: [1:08] Tip #1 Don't Go [2:47] Tip #2 Find Your Ally [4:55] Tip #3 Plan Your Answers to Awkward Fertility Conversations [6:20] Tip #4 Plan an Exit Strategy [6:50] Tip #5 Plan Self Care and Recharge   Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

What does it really take for men to build a family through IVF and surrogacy? How do you navigate the maze of sperm testing, egg donors, legal contracts, and international laws? And where do transparency, trust, and heart fit into this complex process?  In this honest and empowering episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine is talking to Richard Westoby, author, advocate, and host of IVF Daddies. Their conversation pulls back the curtain on the real journey of gay men pursuing parenthood. Richard shares his deeply personal experience of becoming a father to twins through surrogacy and his decade-long mission to help others do the same. Together, he and Dr. Shahine break down every step of the process. They talk about everything from fertility testing and choosing an egg donor to finding the right clinic, lawyer, and surrogate.  With humor and compassion, they discuss the emotional highs and lows, the legal and ethical complexities, and the hard truths about cost, timelines, and international options. This conversation offers clarity, courage, and connection for anyone dreaming of becoming a parent through IVF and surrogacy. In this episode you'll hear: [0:51] Meet Richard Westoby: author, advocate, and podcast host [4:29] Richard's personal story [6:05] Choosing the right egg donor [15:57] Fresh vs. frozen donor eggs [22:14] Finding the right clinic [30:48] International surrogacy insights [35:59] Legal must-knows [40:28] Realistic timeline & budgets [41:54] Red flags & green flags [43:19] Making it manageable [57:03] Trusted resources Resources mentioned:  ivfdaddies.com menhavingbabies gayswithkids.com familiesoutloud.org pnwfertility.com Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

What does Trump's "Father of Fertility" claim really mean? How might his new IVF announcements impact real patients? And could policies disguised as "restorative" actually restrict reproductive freedom?  In this timely episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine sits down with Jessie Losch, Director of Government Affairs at the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), to talk about the politics, promises, and pitfalls surrounding the latest White House statements on fertility care. Jessie helps clarify what the October 16th announcement actually said — and what it didn't. Together, they explain Trump's partnership with pharmaceutical company EMD Serono, the creation of TrumpRx, and the proposed insurance coverage changes that claim to make IVF more affordable.  With so much misinformation swirling, Jessie explains how ASRM advocates for patients and providers in a rapidly shifting policy landscape, especially as fertility care becomes increasingly politicized in a post-Roe world. Listeners will learn what's real and what's rhetoric in these "pro-IVF" promises, what the emerging term Restorative Reproductive Medicine (RRM) really means, and how it could threaten access to standard fertility treatments.  Dr. Shahine and Jesse discuss the nuance behind headlines, the importance of informed consent, and practical steps patients and clinicians can take to support advocacy efforts through ASRM and RESOLVE. In this episode you'll hear: [2:12] Understanding ASRM's role in advocacy [6:15] An explanation of Trump's IVF announcement [12:13] What is TrumpRX? And what does it mean for patients? [19:55] The red flags in "root cause" language [26:28] The rise of restorative reproductive medicine (RRM) [38:05] Legislation to watch: the Restore Act and Moral Framing [47:11 How to stay informed and take action  Please note there is no funding or sponsorship for this episode. See links below for facts and updates as policies change. Resources mentioned:  @Jessie-Losch on LinkedIn @jessielosch on BlueSky asrm.org resolve.org   Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Why do our moods shift so dramatically across the month? What's really happening in our brains during the luteal phase of our cycle? And could understanding our hormones actually make us feel better?  In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine sits down with evolutionary psychologist and author Sarah E. Hill, PhD to talk about the fascinating link between hormones, brain function, and overall health.  They explore how deeply our cycles shape our energy, emotions, and resilience—and why this understanding is long overdue. Dr. Hill brings her groundbreaking insights from her books This Is Your Brain on Birth Control and The Period Brain to explain how estrogen and progesterone guide us through distinct physiological "seasons."  She and Dr. Shahine discuss PMS, PMDD, and why women have two primary sex hormones when men only have one. With empathy, curiosity, and humor, they trace the science, the evolutionary logic, and the societal biases that have kept women's hormonal health misunderstood for generations. This episode invites you to stop fighting your biology and start partnering with it because understanding your cycle is one of the bravest, smartest things you can do for your health. In this episode you'll hear: [1:56] Why PMS exists [6:13] A simple, clear breakdown of the menstrual cycle [9:48] The roles of estrogen & progesterone [13:05] The Brain–explained [24:23] A little more about progesterone [30:37] The link between progesterone and autoimmune disease [38:21] Is your PMS actually PMDD? [40:50] The five pillars of hormone health: sleep, nutrition, movement, stress management, and social support [44:13] Some surprising research [46:02] Stress and ovulation  [51:55] Hormone "balancing" is a myth [57:17] Practical, and hopeful, lifestyle shifts [1:12:19] Conclusion & final thoughts Resources mentioned:  sarahehill.com @sarahehillphd on Instagram substack.com/sarahehillphd floatingkitchen.net/roasted-cauliflower-tacos-with-chipotle-cream Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

What does infertility feel like from a man's point of view? How do couples navigate years of uncertainty, loss, and hope when answers never come? And can creative expression, like writing a book, help rebuild connection in the midst of pain? In this powerful and vulnerable conversation of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine sits down with The Empty Nest author Jared Walker to talk about infertility, grief, and how storytelling can bridge emotional distance between partners. Jared shares the deeply personal journey that inspired his illustrated book The Empty Nest, written for his wife after years of infertility and miscarriage. What began as private journaling became a love letter to their shared resilience. And ultimately, a gift to the fertility community.  Jared's story captures the isolation, longing, and quiet courage that so many couples experience. This episode is full of honesty and vulnerability that can heal and connect, even in the hardest moments. This episode is a moving reminder that infertility is never just "her story". It's their story, and hope can take many forms. In this episode you'll hear: [1:13] Jared's story of love, loss, & creation of The Empty Nest [5:09] Couples grieve differently  [9:04] The silence around men's experience with infertility [13:50] Vulnerability, social media, & the courage to share publicly  [24:14] Reading from The Empty Nest: isolation, grief, and quiet beauty  [30:29] Why men need to be part of the fertility conversation [40:03] Connect with Jared & find his book    Resources mentioned:  www.dollarfor.org/gethelp @dollarfor on Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn | YouTube   Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

What if your skin cells could help you have a baby? Could the future of fertility mean having genetically related children even if a woman is in menopause or lost fertility due to cancer treatments? In this fascinating episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine sits down with Dr. Paula Amato, reproductive endocrinologist and researcher at Oregon Health & Science University, to unpack the groundbreaking study that made headlines around the world — creating human embryos from skin cells. Dr. Amato explains the science behind this breakthrough, known as in vitro gametogenesis (IVG), and how her team combined genetic material from skin cells and eggs to explore what could one day help people with infertility. She describes the painstaking process of somatic cell nuclear transfer, the ethical oversight behind this research, and the incredible collaboration that led to this first step forward.  Together, Dr. Shahine and Dr. Amato break down complex genetics, discuss the difference between this and "three-parent IVF," and reflect on what it all means for the future of reproductive medicine. In this episode you'll hear: [2:06] Ripped from the headlines: Human Embryos Made From Skin Cells [4:15] A refresher on chromosomes [7:55] Step-by-step explanation of the science [11:27] Introducing IVG (in vitro gametogenesis ) [15:24] IVG vs IVF [19:38] Who does this benefit? [22:20] How might it change the future? [25:37] Ethical and societal questions [28:03] Balancing progress with responsibility [33:45] What is next in fertility science? Resources mentioned:  Research Study in Nature Communications OHSU Center for Embryonic Cell and Gene Therapy @paula-amato on LinkedIn   Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

What happens when a fertility doctor becomes the patient? How does infertility change the way you practice medicine? And what can we all learn from a journey that blends science, compassion, and lived experience?  In this special episode of Brave and Curious, the tables are turned as Dr. Lora Shahine takes the guest seat to share her personal fertility story. Interviewed by fertility advocate Jennifer Edmonds, this heartfelt conversation dives into the vulnerable, complex, and sometimes humorous realities of being both doctor and patient on the path to parenthood. Dr. Shahine opens up about her own struggles with infertility, secondary infertility, and the emotional rollercoaster of IVF. She offers insight into how those challenges deepened her empathy for patients and reshaped her medical approach.  Together, she and Jennifer explore the evolution of fertility care over the past two decades, the importance of early education, and how social media has transformed community and connection in the fertility world. In this episode you'll hear: [0:26] Meet the interviewer: Jennifer Edmonds [0:49] Dr. Lora Shahine's fertility journey [2:15] Professional background & teacher [3:08] Social media & support [9:23] Fertility trends and patient insights [13:15] Holistic health & fertility [17:02] Stress management & mental health [24:33] Realistic expectations & success rates [30:05] Advice for the journey Resources mentioned:  drlorashahine.com Your Journey to Fertility Podcast with Jennifer Edmonds www.elementpilatesyoga.com  Follow Jen on Tiktok @elementpilatesandyoga  Follow Jen on YouTube @elementpilatesyoga  Follow Jen on IG @jen.elementpilatesyoga   Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books  

Why does hair loss happen to so many women? And how do you know when it's more than just shedding? Could stress, hormones, or nutrition be the culprit? And most importantly, when should you see a dermatologist instead of just buying another supplement from social media?  In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine sits down with dermatologist and hair loss expert, Dr. Joyce Park, to answer your most pressing questions about female hair loss. Their conversation uncovers the science behind shedding and the practical steps to support healthy regrowth. Dr. Park explains the hair growth cycle, from anagen to telogen, and why stressful life events like childbirth, major illness, or even weight loss can trigger telogen effluvium, a temporary but dramatic shedding phase. You'll also learn when to see a dermatologist, what to expect from a scalp biopsy, and how to advocate for yourself when your concerns are dismissed as "just normal shedding." Listeners will walk away with clear, actionable guidance. This episode will empower women to better understand their bodies, seek expert care, and take thoughtful steps toward hair health. In this episode you'll hear: [0:46] Hair loss is an emotional issue [2:58] What is telogen effluvium? [3:23] Dr. Joyce Park explains the three stages of the hair cycle [6:07] You should see a dermatologist, not your primary doctor [14:04] Nutritional factors [17:14] Hormonal factors [18:36] How minoxidil (Rogaine) works [24:04] Everyday habits to support hair regrowth [28:34] Supplements for hair loss [32:51] Does red light therapy help? [37:14] What is PRP therapy? [38:34] Dr. Park summarizes her key takeaways   Resources mentioned:  teawithmd.com @TeawithMD: YouTube, Tiktok, and Instagram   Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

What happens when a DNA test reveals more than you bargained for? How do you process finding out that your family story isn't what you thought it was? And can identity, belonging, and love transcend genetics?  In this moving episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine sits down with actress and writer Lisa Brenner to explore how an unexpected DNA result changed her life and inspired her new film, One Big Happy Family. Lisa shares the deeply personal journey of discovering she was an NPE (non-parent expected), what it meant for her relationship with her mother, and how decades of secrecy around fertility treatments in the 1960s and 70s shaped her story. Through candid reflection and humor, Lisa reveals how grief, resilience, and identity intertwine with the powerful theme of family—both the one we are born into and the one we build. Listeners will learn about the hidden history of fertility medicine, the emotional complexity of uncovering DNA surprises, and the healing power of transparency and connection. This episode is filled with honesty, curiosity, and hope, reminding us that family is love—no matter how it's formed. In this episode you'll hear: [1:58] Lisa Brenner's "just for fun" DNA test [5:36] A life-changing moment [9:57] Fertility treatments in the 1960s and 70s [20:47] One Big Happy Family, the film, is born [28:46] Nature vs. nurture [32:33] Reflections on faith, belonging, & reconciling a hidden identity [42:48] Lisa's message of hope Resources mentioned:  onebighappyfamilymovie.com @onebighappyfamilymovie on IG @thelisabrenner on IG   Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

What's the truth about egg freezing success rates? Is IVF really a guarantee for building a family? And how do you separate fertility facts from fiction when the internet is full of clickbait headlines?  In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine sits down with her friend and fellow reproductive endocrinologist, Dr. Lucky Sekhon, to explore the myths and realities of modern fertility care. Dr. Sekhon shares both science and lived experience through her personal journey with IVF and personal expertise in guiding patients through tough choices. This episode focuses on how fertility education, patient empowerment, and evidence-based medicine intersect in today's world of reproductive health. It's a conversation that blends heart, hope, and hard science to give you tools to make informed choices on your fertility journey. In this episode you'll hear: [0:19] Online fertility education: empowering but overwhelming [8:32] Dr. Lucky Sekhon's personal story [13:19] Grief, shame, and resilience: the emotional side of IVF [23:29] Balancing patient expectations with IVF success rates [26:50] ERA and other 'add-ons': the truth [32:21] Creating reliable online resources for patients [34:12] No more scary headlines: Tylenol, autism, and fertility myths [38:49] Dr. Sekhon's book The Lucky Egg  Resources mentioned:  The Lucky Egg by Dr. Lucky Sekhon theluckyegg.com @lucky.sekhon on IG @drluckyegg on TikTok Fertility 101 with Dr. Lucky Sekhon on YouTube Brave & Curious Episode 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

What does balance really mean in fertility care? Can Eastern medicine like acupuncture and herbs truly support reproductive health? And how can Western and Eastern approaches come together for better outcomes?  In this episode of Brave and Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine leans into these big questions in a conversation that bridges two worlds of medicine. Joining Dr. Shahine is Dr. Lorne Brown, acupuncturist and host of the Conscious Fertility podcast, who brings a holistic perspective rooted in traditional Chinese medicine.  Together, they explore how Eastern practices—like acupuncture, nutrition, and stress reduction—align with Western science and treatments such as IVF, IUI, and recurrent miscarriage care. This integrative dialogue sheds light on how patients can benefit from both evidence-based medicine and time-honored approaches. In this episode you'll hear: [1:37] Welcome Dr. Lorne Brown and Dr. Lora Shahine [3:15] Men's role in fertility and miscarriage [6:10] Integrating Eastern and Western medicines in fertility care [9:20] Myths & realities with age and fertility [14:07] Optimizing fertility through lifestyle and health [19:24] Embryo transfers: fresh vs. frozen [26:49] The importance of sperm health [33:18] The role of stress in fertility [41:44] Nutritional guidance for fertility [47:22] Recommended supplements for fertility [49:09] Final thoughts and resources Resources mentioned:  Resolve.org acubalance.ca   Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

What happens when the most fertile years of your life are taken from you? How do you rebuild when trauma collides with your deepest hopes for motherhood? What does it mean to pursue fertility after prison?  In this powerful episode of Brave & Curious, you'll hear Dr. Lora Shahine's conversation with Amanda Knox who spent four years in an Italian prison and eight years fighting a wrongful murder conviction. Amanda has turned her pain into purpose.  With the recent release of her groundbreaking miniseries on Hulu 'The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox', she sheds light on an often overlooked consequence of incarceration: the profound impact on women's reproductive health.  In this conversation with Dr. Shahine, Amanda shares her journey through miscarriage, the emotional weight of delayed motherhood, and the stigma women face when fertility collides with trauma and injustice. In this episode you'll hear: [0:50] Amanda Knox's background and wrongful conviction [1:34] The impact of incarceration on fertility [4:27] Amanda's fertility journey & personal struggles [7:36] A new beginning with  Christopher Robinson [14:51] Amanda's miscarriage experience [17:04] Reflections on miscarriage and fertility   Learn more about Amanda Knox, her books, podcasts, and projects at amandaknox.com.    Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Have you ever wondered if flying could impact your fertility? Worried about what happens if you need to travel after an egg retrieval? Curious whether that long-awaited vacation might interfere with success with embryo transfer?  In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Shahine answers the most common questions about fertility, flying, travel and IVF. She includes practical tips for travel days and leaves you informed to make the right decisions for you with your own doctor's guidelines.  In this episode you'll hear: [1:18] Flying & fertility treatments [2:20] Traveling & fertility care: what the evidence shows [4:55] Egg retrieval & travel tips [8:02] Embryo transfer & flying [10:19] Advice from a doctor [12:43] Essential travel tips for IVF patients [15:04] A few final tips   Resources mentioned:  Article on circadian rhythms, international travel, and reproductive health https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21872642/   Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Trying to get pregnant in your 40s and feeling bombarded with terms like "geriatric pregnancy" or "diminished ovarian reserve"? Wondering if age is the final word in fertility? Curious about what you can do instead of what you can't? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine is getting real about trying to conceive after 40—with clarity, compassion, and science-backed strategies. She covers the impact of age on fertility, the power of early testing, and why aligning your family-building goals with real timelines is more important than ever. You'll learn practical steps to optimize your fertility, when to consider IVF, and how to feel empowered—not discouraged—by the numbers. Whether you're just starting or still holding onto hope, this episode is your go-to guide for navigating conception in your 40s with confidence. In this episode you'll hear: [1:47] Age & fertility [9:40] An important first step: family building goals [12:25] Next step: don't wait for testing [15:38] Tips for trying to conceive [18:44] Is IVF right for me? Stay Up to Date in Fertility News and Events:  Weekly Newsletter Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Thinking about adding supplements to your fertility journey? A quick search online can leave you swimming in advice—or drowning. How do you know what really works and what's just hype? In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine takes a deep dive into one of the most talked-about fertility supplements: CoQ10. This naturally occurring antioxidant has been linked to improvements in egg quality and sperm health—but is it right for you?  Dr. Shahine breaks down what the research actually says, the potential benefits, and what risks to keep in mind. In this episode, you're getting clear, evidence-based insights that can help you have a more informed conversation with your healthcare provider—and decide if CoQ10 deserves a spot in your supplement lineup. In this episode you'll hear: [2:04] What is CoQ10? [3:41] How CoQ10 works [4:45] Possible side effects [5:47] Evidence of CoQ10 for female fertility [14:55] Evidence of CoQ10 for male factor [17:46] What Dr. Shahine tells her own patients about CoQ10   Resources mentioned:  Review article of nutrients for IVF, Hart et al. 2024 RBMO www.rbmojournal.com/action/showPdf?pii=S1472-6483%2823%2900869-6 Review article CoQ10 info, Rodriguez-Valera 2021 J Molecular Science www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/22/17/9541 CoQ10 levels decrease in levels with age, Ben-Meir et al. 2015 Fert Stert www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S001502821500374X Animal studies showing improved egg and embryo quality with CoQ10 supplementation journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.4137/CMRH.S14681 Randomized controlled trial CoQ10 aneuploidy rates in women doing IVF/ICSI, Bentov et al. 2014 Sage  journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.4137/CMRH.S14681 Review article on antioxidants (including CoQ10) and male fertility, Kaltsas et al. Medicine 2023  www.mdpi.com/1648-9144/59/10/1769 Sperm motility improved in men given CoQ10, Balercia, G.2009 Fert Stert www.fertstert.org/article/S0015-0282(08)00487-1/fulltext   Stay Up to Date in Fertility News and Events:  Weekly Newsletter Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Is your morning coffee helping or hurting your fertility? Should you quit caffeine cold turkey while trying to conceive—or during pregnancy? And where can you turn for solid, trustworthy advice? (Hint: NOT random internet forums) In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine breaks down what we really know about caffeine and reproductive health—from both Western and Eastern medical perspectives.  Dr. Shahine shares the actual caffeine content in your favorite drinks, answers the most common questions she hears from patients, and offers guidance on how to personalize your caffeine habits based on your own goals and body. Listeners will walk away with clear, practical information—and a little more peace of mind. Just remember: there's no one-size-fits-all answer, so be sure to check in with your own healthcare provider, too. In this episode you'll hear: [1:55] Western evidence-based approach to caffeine and fertility [7:00] Eastern medicine approach to caffeine and fertility [9:27] How much caffeine is in your favorite pick-me-ups? [10:30] Dr. Shahine's personal recommendations Resources mentioned:  Caffeine Chart - find out how much is in what you're having: www.cspinet.org/caffeine-chart 1988 Wilcox Study Caffeine Harms Fertility Large Danish Study Reassuring Results on Caffeine and Fertility Men's Fertility and Caffeine Study mentioned  Planting the Seeds of Fertility: An Integrative Approach to Fertility Care    Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Wondering what's actually 'normal' in the first trimester? You're not the only one frantically Googling every twinge and symptom. Early pregnancy can feel like a rollercoaster of questions—and not always a fun one.  In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine walks you through the first trimester with clarity and calm. She shares the most common concerns she hears from patients and what might warrant a closer look, all while offering practical advice to help you feel more grounded. This episode is a reassuring guide through those uncertain early weeks. And if it's not the right time to listen, that's okay too—save it for when you're ready, and always talk to your own provider about your specific care. In this episode you'll hear: [2:24] What is going on in your body during the first trimester? [4:45] Common symptoms during the first trimester [10:10] Top first-trimester questions: weight gain, cramping, bleeding/spotting, foods to avoid, and exercise [17:15] Tips for taking care of yourself during the first trimester   Stay Up to Date in Fertility News and Events:  Weekly Newsletter Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books