What if you could screen your embryos for over 1,200 genetic conditions before pregnancy even begins? In this episode, genetic counselor Maria Katz reveals her company's groundbreaking technology that is changing the way you think about your family's future.

Maria Katz is a passionate genetic counselor with a background in high-risk obstetrics and a deep commitment to supporting families impacted by genetic conditions. Now part of the team at Orchid Genetics, Maria specializes in reproductive genetics and embryo screening, helping families understand and navigate their genetic testing options. Drawing from her experience in both clinical genetics and the latest advancements in whole genome sequencing, Maria is dedicated to providing comprehensive information that empowers families to make informed choices on their fertility journeys.

Below are the key takeaways from this episode:

• Orchid Genetics' Whole Genome Screening: Orchid offers a new form of preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) that goes beyond traditional methods by performing whole genome sequencing on embryos. This allows for a much deeper and broader analysis than standard PGT approaches.
• Limitations of Standard PGT: Traditional tests like PGT-A and PGT-M have significant limitations. PGT-A only counts chromosomes (like counting books in a library), while PGT-M tests for just one specific condition (one chapter in a book), often missing many other possible genetic risks.
• Scope of Orchid's Testing: Orchid screens for approximately 1,200 genetic conditions, including many serious neurodevelopmental disorders, birth defects, and hereditary cancer risks—far surpassing the reach of current standard methods.
• Process and Accessibility: The biopsy process for Orchid's testing is identical to standard PGT, requiring no extra steps or changes from IVF clinics or embryologists. Consultation with an Orchid genetic counselor is free, and families can connect at any stage for advice and information.
• Cost and Value: While the cost per embryo is higher, the comprehensive insights and potential peace of mind offered by Orchid's technology can be invaluable—especially for families at risk or those who want the fullest understanding of their embryos' genetic health.

Todays guest, Maria Katz, can be found online at:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-katz-72880bb5/

Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at:

Website: smartpathfertilityintl.com

Website: mariafeekes.com

Facebook: facebook.com/mariafeekes

Instagram: instagram.com/mariafeekes

Join us for an eye-opening episode of Your Fertility Story, where Whitney shares her resilient journey through the world of surrogacy in Ukraine. Against the backdrop of the war, she dives into the ethical nuances and unexpected hurdles faced when choosing surrogacy abroad. With candid insights into her personal trials and triumphs, Whitney reveals how her determination, filmmaker's vision, and the unwavering spirit of Ukrainian surrogates shape her fertility journey. Get ready for a story that explores the heart of what it means to create a family against all odds.

Whitney Shefte is an intended parent, documentary filmmaker and journalist. She is currently working on a documentary film about her surrogacy journey and the state of the surrogacy industry around the world. See some of her work on her website.

Here are the key takeaways from this episode:

• Ethics in Surrogacy: Whitney emphasized choosing surrogacy destinations like Ukraine that provide ethical treatment and compensation for surrogates, along with legal security for intended parents.
• Fertility Struggles: Her story of overcoming multiple failed IVF attempts and working with several surrogates underlines perseverance in the face of challenges.
• Ukrainian Resilience: Whitney noted the resilience and determination of Ukrainians, especially surrogates, to continue their roles amidst the war.
• Support Systems: The importance of having a support network was highlighted as essential for navigating the emotional and logistical challenges of the fertility journey.
• Insightful Documentary: Whitney is creating a documentary to shed light on surrogacy in Ukraine, addressing ethical concerns and educating others about the journey's complexities.

Todays guest, Whitney Shefte, can be found online at:

Website: https://www.whitneyshefte.com/

Blog: https://whitneyshefte.tumblr.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wshefte/

Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at:

Website: smartpathfertlityintl.com

Facebook: facebook.com/mariafeekes

Instagram: instagram.com/mariafeekes

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/

Join Maria Feekes in this episode of "Your Fertility Story" as she explores postpartum nutrition with expert Kameryn. Discover the importance of preparing for postpartum well-being, learn impactful nutrition strategies, and gather practical tips for a smooth recovery. Whether you're on a fertility journey or a new mom, gain valuable insights that can enhance your postpartum experience and help you prioritize self-care.

Kameryn is a devoted mother of three who champions the importance of postpartum nutrition. With children aged four, two, and six months, she expertly balances family life and self-care. Her interest in postpartum wellness, inspired by her positive experiences and her sisters' journeys, led her to establish the blog Empowered Mothers. Kameryn shares her insights and empowers new moms with valuable guidance. She further honed her expertise with a certification in postpartum nutrition from Postpartum University. Her mission is to assist mothers in creating personalized postpartum plans for optimal recovery and well-being.

Below are the key takeaways from this episode:

• Importance of Early Planning for Postpartum: Begin thinking about your postpartum care plan by mid-pregnancy, focusing on what support you might need in terms of meals and rest.
• Focus on Nutrition: Post-birth nutrition is crucial. Prioritize warm foods and calorie-dense meals, like bone broths and iron-rich foods, to aid in recovery. Avoid cold foods as they can delay healing.
• The 5-5-5 Rest Rule: Follow the guideline of five days in bed, five days on the bed, and five days around the bed to ensure proper rest and recovery after childbirth.
• Saying Yes to Help: Be open to accepting help and support from family, friends, and community. Don't hesitate to ask for assistance and involve others in your postpartum plan.
• Value of Rest and Self-Care: Prioritizing rest and self-care is beneficial not only for your own well-being but also for your family's. It can help reduce postpartum anxiety and depression, allowing you to be more present and capable for your loved ones.

Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at:

Websites: mariafeekes.com & smartpathfertilityintl.com

Facebook: facebook.com/mariafeekes

Instagram: instagram.com/mariafeekes

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/