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Fertility Blog by Illume Fertility

Everything you need to know about reproductive health, fertility testing, fertility treatment (like IUI and IVF) and how to navigate fertility challenges.

Donor Conception | Sperm Donor | Genetics

By: Monica Moore, MSN, APRN
August 31st, 2024

Choosing a sperm donor can be an emotional and daunting task, regardless of the circumstances that brought you to this point. In this guide, we'll provide expert insights on where to begin your search, how many vials of sperm to order for IUI and IVF, the differences between IUI, ICI, and IVF-ready sperm, and everything else you need to know on this journey.

LGBTQ+ Family Building | Advocacy | Affording Care

By: Sierra Dehmler
August 29th, 2024

Last updated April 30, 2026 The list of companies offering LGBTQ+ inclusive fertility benefits continues to grow, with employers like Starbucks, Amazon, and Microsoft leading the way. But even if you're lucky enough to have coverage, it can still be hard to determine what your insurance policy will (or won't) cover. In this guide, you'll learn the right questions to ask and where to turn for support.

Infertility | Mental Health | Pregnancy & Infant Loss

By: Lisa Rosenthal
August 22nd, 2024

Pregnancy loss is finally being talked about more openly, and it’s normal to have questions about how to process grief around this heartbreaking experience. You likely felt so much hope, happiness and anticipation when you found out you were pregnant, and now you're suddenly trying to make sense of what happened.

LGBTQ+ Family Building | Donor Conception | Reciprocal IVF | Success Rates

By: Dr. Laura Meyer
August 15th, 2024

Last updated April 24, 2026 For LGBTQ+ couples who both wish to play a biological role in the conception and carrying of their future child, reciprocal IVF can be the perfect family-building pathway. Here's what to know about the entire process, straight from a fertility specialist.

PCOS | Fertility Treatment | Success Rates

By: Barry R. Witt, M.D.
August 10th, 2024

Ovulation induction is utilized in around 50% of fertility treatment cycles, either as a first line approach, or as part of a more complex treatment plan involving IUI or IVF. Learn about the benefits of this more affordable treatment option and what to expect from the process.

Infertility Awareness | IVF | Patient Stories

By: Sierra Dehmler
August 1st, 2024

When most people dream of starting a family, they don't envision needing the help of a fertility specialist. But when trying to conceive stretches from months into years, it becomes clear that something is wrong. In this powerful story, new parents AmyKate and Brian open up about their emotional journey, and how love and hope carried them through.

PCOS | Fertility Preservation | Egg Freezing | Reproductive Health | Patient Stories

By: Alexandra Fontaine
July 24th, 2024

What happens when you're concerned about the dreaded "biological clock" but not ready to have children yet? Alex, a 27-year old medical student pursuing big career goals, shares why she made the decision to freeze her eggs while still in her twenties, plus the financial and physical challenges she faced along the way.

LGBTQ+ Family Building | Surrogacy | Egg Donor | Affording Care

By: Sierra Dehmler
July 23rd, 2024

Looking for help navigating your surrogacy journey? Our detailed guide offers a comprehensive collection of financial support resources, LGBTQ-friendly organizations and charities, peer networks, personal stories, and much more.