Egg vs Embryo Freezing — Decision Framework
Key Takeaways Egg freezing preserves reproductive potential independently, while embryo freezing requires sperm and preserves a fertilized embryo. Embryo freezing generally has higher success rates, but egg freezing offers greater flexibility. Ideal choice depends on age, ovarian reserve, relationship status, financial planning, and long-term family goals. Both options are safe, widely available, and increasingly recommended […]
Managing Side Effects — Headaches, Bloating, Mood
This article explains managing side effects—headaches, bloating, and mood changes within the IVF Protocols & Medications pathway. It focuses on simple, practical choices that actually improve comfort, reduce stress, and help you move through treatment with more confidence and control. What It Is Managing Side Effects — Headaches, Bloating, Mood in plain English:A guide to […]
Donor Selection with Carrier Status in Mind
how to choose an egg, sperm, or embryo donor whose genetic profile meaningfully reduces risk. Where this decision fits in the pathway, what it changes, and how upstream testing influences downstream results like embryo health, testing needs, and timelines. Who It Helps Signals this approach is a good fit: You or your partner are carriers […]
Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation (OTC) — When to Consider
Key Takeaways Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation (OTC) is the only fertility-preservation technique that works for pre-pubertal girls and patients who cannot delay treatment. OTC can be done within 24–48 hours, making it ideal for urgent medical situations. It preserves not just eggs—but hundreds to thousands of potential follicles. Transplanted ovarian tissue can restore hormones, restart cycles, […]
Grants and Scholarships — Where to Look
These are non-repayable financial supports that reduce the cost of fertility care—IVF, donor cycles, surrogacy steps, medications, or travel. They matter because they can: Lower out-of-pocket costs Change treatment sequencing Reduce delays Make more effective options affordable (e.g., PGT-A, donor gametes) Upstream decisions—accurate diagnosis, correct coding, and clinic choice—directly shape your eligibility and application success. […]
Protein, Fats, and Carbs — Macro Targets During IVF
Key Takeaways Your macro balance directly affects hormone production, egg quality, and metabolic stability during IVF. Most patients benefit from: 30–35% protein, 30–35% healthy fats, and 30–40% slow-burning carbs. Protein is essential for follicle development, embryo quality, and stable blood sugar. Healthy fats fuel hormone synthesis and reduce inflammation (crucial for IVF). Carbs should be […]
Travel and Relocation Clauses — What to Watch
These are contract sections that define where the gestational carrier (GC) can travel and whether she can relocate—temporarily or permanently—during the pregnancy. They exist because any change in physical location can change: Which state laws apply (parentage orders, birth certificates) Which insurance rules apply (in-network vs out-of-network) Hospital options, NICU access, and delivery costs The […]
Both Partners Are Carriers — Options
When expanded carrier screening shows that both partners carry a variant for the same recessive condition, it can feel overwhelming—but this is exactly the stage where clear pathways and thoughtful planning make the biggest difference. This article focuses on options that truly change outcomes, budgets, and timelines, so you can move forward with confidence. What […]
Managing Anxiety and Mood During IVF
Key Takeaways Anxiety during IVF is completely normal and rooted in biological, emotional, and logistical stressors. Tools like CBT reframing, structured routines, boundary-setting, and mindfulness significantly reduce emotional overload. Communication with your partner, clinic, and—if applicable—surrogate helps minimize uncertainty. Tracking emotional patterns, not physical symptoms, leads to better mental resilience. You can build a personalized […]
Intended Parent Profiles — Matching by Values & Goals
This article explains intended parent profiles — matching by values & goals within the Donor Options (Eggs vs Embryos vs Sperm) pathway. We focus on practical choices that shape outcomes, budgets, and timelines—so you can move forward with confidence. What It Is Intended Parent Profiles — Matching by Values & Goals in plain English: a […]
