As a reproductive endocrinologist who works with fertility patients every day, I hear about a lot of the insensitive “tips” given to them. Patients will tell me they've heard that if they just stop worrying, they will magically get pregnant, or that a specific diet will help.

After years of wondering if she would ever become a mother, Nicole and her husband Scott decided to seek guidance from the fertility experts at Illume Fertility to see if it was possible for her to conceive with her diagnosis of Cystic Fibrosis. This is their journey through IVF, a multiple pregnancy, heartbreaking loss and finding light on the other side. ⚠️ Content Warning: This story includes discussion of pregnancy loss and stillbirth. If you're in a vulnerable place, please protect your mental wellbeing by skipping this post for now.

This is Part 1 of our Katie's Story series. Read Part 2 and Part 3. After coming to terms with the fact that my husband and I likely wouldn't be able to conceive on our own, we decided to seek out the help of a fertility specialist. What followed was a long journey through fertility testing, procedures, multiple pregnancy losses, three rounds of IVF, and finally meeting our rainbow baby girl. Skip to a specific section: The First Step: Fertility Testing Understanding the World of Fertility Our First IVF Cycle Trying Again: Our Second Embryo Transfer Experiencing a New Kind of Loss Getting More Answers with an ERA Cycle Giving It One More Try: Our Third Transfer Overcoming Loss & Grief A High-Risk Pregnancy & The Greatest Reward Preview: The Journey to Baby #2 More IVF Resources

Every day of every year, fertility clinic laboratories are monitoring, observing and essentially “babysitting” patients' embryos, sperm and eggs. Their security systems are always active to keep these precious materials safe and protocols are strictly followed with every movement.

After struggling to conceive on their own, Danielle and Rob began a path to parenthood that would lead them through ICSI and IVF to a huge surprise they never could have anticipated. Read about their journey through infertility, a complex and challenging pregnancy and their advice to fellow fertility warriors in this honest account of how they grew their family. Skip to a specific section: Meet Danielle & Rob The First Step: Seeking Out Help Uncovering Male Factor Fertility Issues Leaning on Their Care Team for Support The Challenges of the IVF Process Remaining Hopeful & Preparing for Transfer #2 The Shock of a Lifetime Becoming Parents x 2 Advice for Other Fertility Patients Staying Connected to the Fertility Community More Resources

When it comes to the language of fertility, we have to admit – a lot of the lingo tends to favor the ladies’ side of the equation. From AMH levels, to basal body temperature, to cycles, moms-to-be have a whole list of ABCs to learn as they go through treatment.

Sometimes the word “salad” is a turnoff. Some people see it as a “diet” food or what you’re forced to eat when you want to lose weight. People think "boring…leafy…unsatisfying." Who really eats salads for fun? You do! Well, maybe not yet… but by the end of this article, you’ll be ready to whip up one of these hearty, nutrient-rich, satisfying salads. Take that, “diet.” It’s time to be healthy because we want to be, not because we are forced to be. Preparing your body for the healthiest pregnancy possible can be a delicious pursuit too - and these seasonal salads are the perfect proof!

If you need to pursue fertility treatment, your next question is likely “How in the world am I going to pay for this?” Hopefully, your answer is your insurance provider! The first step is to figure out if your insurance policy includes fertility coverage and will help pay for the infertility treatments, tests, or other procedures your doctor may recommend. Learn how to explore your plan's coverage and get the most out of your insurance with our detailed guide below.