Trying with Dr. Sasha Hakman

Episodes

• 
  What IVF Protocol Did a Fertility Doctor Choose for Herself? 22.07.2026 49m

  You asked for it, and here it is. In this solo episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman walks through her own two IVF cycles in full detail — the exact medications, doses, trigger decisions, lab outcomes, and the reasoning behind every choice she made. As a reproductive endocrinologist who has navigated IVF both as a clinician and a patient, she brings a level of transparency you rarely get from a doctor. From a purely elective embryo freeze at 32 to a second retrieval at 37, this episode breaks down what actually goes into building a family through IVF — and helps you understand your own protocol along the way. In this episode, we cover: Why Dr. Sasha chose to freeze embryos at 32 — before she was ready to have children — and the reasoning behind creating embryos vs. freezing eggs Her diagnosis of Non-Classical Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (NCAH), what it is, and how it contributed to her ovulatory dysfunction Her baseline fertility stats: AMH of 4 ng/mL and 30+ follicles — even while on continuous birth control pills Cycle 1 at age 32: antagonist protocol, 275 units of Gonal-F + 75 units of Menopur, and why she chose a combination Lupron + low-dose hCG trigger The OHSS she developed after her first retrieval — how bad it got, and how she managed it at home Why she got 26 eggs but only 11 were mature — and why she was so disappointed with that outcome Cycle 2 at age 37: what changed in her protocol, and what the data from cycle 1 taught her Final embryo outcome: 6 blastocysts, 3 euploid (1 male, 2 female), 3 aneuploid ICSI — why she chose it even without a male factor diagnosis, and the case for doing it even when sperm looks great Assisted hatching — what it is, why she opted in, and the small but real risk of monozygotic twinning PGT-A genetic testing — how it works and why she would never transfer an aneuploid embryo Delayed vs. immediate egg stripping — an inside look at embryology lab practices most patients never hear about What she did NOT add to her protocol — no growth hormone, no embryo glue — and why she kept it evidence-based and simple The future of IVF: personalized genetic protocols that could one day predict how your ovaries will respond before your first injection Pregnancy update: 23 weeks, scheduled for a fetal echo, and feeling every bit of the third trimester Follow Dr. Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors!  Head to AquaTru.com now and get 20% off your purifier using promocode DRSASHA  Thanks to today’s sponsor, Ogee: A higher standard for beauty. Go to ogee.com/DRSASHA and use code DRSASHA to get 20% off certified organic makeup that performs like luxury. Support your cells and how you age with Mitopure® Gummies from Timeline. Visit timeline.com/SASHA and 20% off your Mitopure® Gummies. That’s timeline.com/SASHA. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  Does a Hysterectomy Cure Endometriosis? An Endo Surgeon Answers Your Top Googled Questions 15.07.2026 1h 11m

  Endometriosis affects at least 1 in 10 women, yet the average patient waits years for a diagnosis — often after being told their pain is normal. In this episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman sits down with board-certified OB/GYN and endometriosis surgeon Dr. Mallory Stuparich to break down what endometriosis actually is, why it's now understood as a systemic immune and neuro-inflammatory condition rather than a purely hormonal one, and how patients can push back when they're being dismissed. If you've ever been told your pain is "just part of being a woman," this episode is for you. In this episode, we cover: What endometriosis actually is — and why "endometrial-like tissue" outside the uterus is now understood as part of a systemic neuro-inflammatory and neuro-immune disorder, not just a hormonal one Why endometriosis so often overlaps with mast cell activation, POTS, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, autoimmune conditions, and migraines The leading theories on what causes endometriosis, and why retrograde menstruation alone doesn't explain it Normal period pain vs. abnormal period pain — and the questions to ask yourself to know the difference Red flag symptoms beyond pelvic pain: GI issues (painful bowel movements, incomplete emptying, bleeding), bladder urgency, pelvic floor dysfunction, painful sex, and brain fog Why the amount of pain a patient feels doesn't always correlate with how much disease is actually present What a real diagnostic workup looks like, and why a "normal" ultrasound or MRI does not rule out endometriosis Post-surgical hormone therapy — why suppression after excision matters, and who isn't a candidate Adenomyosis explained: what it is, how it differs from fibroids, and treatment options including adenomyomectomy, uterine artery embolization, and microwave ablation The links between endometriosis, infertility, and miscarriage — including why 50% of women with endo do not experience infertility Recurrence after excision surgery, and why what looks like "recurrence" is often incomplete removal the first time around Lightning round: Is endometriosis genetic? Can you have it with completely normal labs and imaging? Does a hysterectomy cure it? Can it still affect you after menopause? Follow Dr. Mallory Stuparich! Instagram/social: @MalloryStuparichMD Follow Dr. Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors!  Head to bioptimizers.com/drsasha and use code DRSASHA try OneSkin with 15% off using code DRSASHA at oneskin.co/DRSASHA Head to vitaclean.co and use code DRSASHA for 20% off Shower head Starter Kits Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  What Causes Miscarriage? A Fertility Doctor's Full Breakdown 08.07.2026 1h 9m

  Pregnancy loss affects 15–25% of clinically recognized pregnancies, yet so many people are left without answers — or without hope. In this solo episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman breaks down everything you need to know about miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss: the five major causes, how each one is diagnosed, what treatment actually looks like, and which lifestyle factors are (and aren't) worth worrying about. If you've experienced a loss and are searching for answers, this episode is for you — and remember, it is not your fault. In this episode, we cover: Why miscarriage is so common, and how the definition of "recurrent pregnancy loss" has evolved to include biochemical losses Bucket 1 — Genetic/Chromosomal causes: why random chromosomal errors (like trisomy 16 and Turner syndrome) account for up to 75% of losses, the U-shaped age-risk curve, and when to test for balanced translocations via karyotype Bucket 2 — Anatomic causes: uterine septums, scar tissue (Asherman syndrome), fibroids, polyps, adenomyosis, and how they're diagnosed via saline infusion sonogram or HSG Bucket 3 — Immune/Autoimmune causes: antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), the antibodies involved, and why diagnostic criteria may lag behind clinical reality Bucket 4 — Endocrine causes: thyroid dysfunction, high prolactin, insulin resistance/diabetes, PCOS, and luteal phase defects The "5th bucket": unexplained pregnancy loss — and additional testing some REs order beyond ASRM guidelines (clotting disorders, chronic endometritis, vaginal microbiome) Treatment options by diagnosis, including PGT-SR, Lovenox + baby aspirin for APS, metformin, and surgical correction of uterine abnormalities Modifiable risk factors: smoking, alcohol, caffeine (the real data), weight/GLP-1 agonists, sleep, sedentary behavior, and why stress is often unfairly blamed The encouraging stats: a 70% live birth rate in the pregnancy following a loss, and how high-touch prenatal care can improve outcomes Follow Dr. Sasha!  TikTok: @sashahakmanmd  Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod  YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors!  Head to cozyearth.com and use my code DRSASHA for an exclusive 20% off. Use code DRSASHA at carawayhome.com for 10% off Subscribe, rate, and review if this episode helped you — and share it with someone who needs to hear it. New episodes drop every Wednesday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  Fertility After 40: Real Stats, Real Options, Real Talk 01.07.2026 1h 4m

  In this solo episode, Dr. Sasha dives into one of the most requested topics on the podcast: trying to conceive and being pregnant after 40. She cuts through the noise of misleading celebrity headlines and online misinformation to give you a clear, honest, and compassionate look at the biology, statistics, and real options available to you. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why more women are having babies in their 40s than ever before — and why that's a good thing The biology of egg aging: how quantity and quality decline, and what's actually happening at the cellular level (mitochondrial dysfunction, meiosis errors, chromosomal abnormalities) What your AMH level means after 40, and why high ovarian reserve can be a game-changer Natural fertility rates by age and when ASRM guidelines say to seek immediate care IVF success rates broken down by age: from 43% live birth rate under 35, all the way down to 3% over 42 Follow Dr. Sasha!  TikTok: @sashahakmanmd  Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod  YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors!  Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to honeylove.com/DRSASHA! #honeylovepod For a limited time, try OneSkin with 15% off using code DRSASHA at oneskin.co/DRSASHA. Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code DRSASHA to get $250 off select AirDoctor air purifiers, including the 3500, 4000, and 5500 models New episodes of Trying with Dr. Sasha Hakman drop weekly. If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs a doctor they can trust in their corner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  The IVF Test That Could Finally Explain Your Failed Transfers with Jeremy Grushcow of Juniper Genomics 24.06.2026 1h 25m

  If you've ever gone through a failed embryo transfer and wondered why , this episode is for you. Dr. Sasha sits down with Jeremy Grushcow, co-founder and CEO of Juniper Genomics, to break down a groundbreaking advancement in IVF: whole genome and transcriptome embryo testing. Jeremy holds a PhD in molecular genetics and cell biology from the University of Chicago, along with a law degree, and has published research in DNA repair, cancer, gene therapy, bioethics, and patent law. He's building the technology that could change the odds for IVF patients everywhere. In this episode, we cover: What whole genome sequencing actually is — and why IVF has lagged behind every other field of clinical medicine in adopting it The brilliant "books on a shelf" analogy that finally makes PGT-A vs. whole genome sequencing click Why failed embryo transfers are not your fault, your doctor's fault, or your lab's fault — and what the embryo's genetics have to do with it What the transcriptome tells us that the genome alone can't The difference between PGT-A, PGT-M, and Juniper's PGT-G testing How Juniper looks at both the embryo and the parents' DNA to identify where variants are coming from (egg or sperm?) The 6,000+ known genetic diseases — and why 10–15% of embryos being transferred today carry a detectable single-gene disorder that standard carrier screening missed Why "reduced viability variants" matter and how they impact IVF success rates The emotional and financial cost of failed transfers — and how more information can reduce both Pricing breakdown: what Juniper's PGT-A and PGT-G costs, how to make it more affordable, and how it stacks up against the cost of a failed transfer cycle Why patient autonomy in the US and Canada is driving better IVF outcomes globally Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingwithdrhakman YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Resources & Links: Juniper Genomics website: junipergenomics.com Instagram: ⁠@junipergenomics⁠ Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more !If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! If this episode helped you, the best thing you can do is subscribe, rate, review, and share it with a friend. So many women deserve this information, help get it to them. Episodes drop every Wednesday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  The Truth About Women's Health, Medical Misinformation, and Advocating for Yourself 17.06.2026 40m

  What does it actually mean to try as a woman, as a patient, as a person navigating a healthcare system that wasn't built with you in mind? In this first solo episode of the newly rebranded Trying with Dr. Sasha Hakman, Dr. Sasha shares why she changed the name, what this podcast is really about, and who it's for. She opens up about the conversation that sparked the rebrand, the reality of practicing medicine in a field driven by IVF incentives, and why she started a podcast in the first place. She also shares a personal update (18 weeks pregnant with baby #3!) and answers one of the most frequently asked questions from her community: how do you know if you can actually trust your doctor? In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why Dr. Sasha rebranded from Trying to Conceive to Trying with Dr. Sasha Hakman What a Reproductive Endocrinologist actually specializes in beyond IVF How to know if your doctor's IVF recommendation is truly evidence-based or financially motivated The green flags to look for when choosing a fertility doctor or clinic How to read online reviews and pregnancy success rates without being misled What actually makes an exceptional doctor Follow Dr. Sasha!  TikTok: @sashahakmanmd  Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingpod  YouTube: @sashahakmanmd Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter for updates, Q&A answers and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors! head to http://www.bioptimizers.com/DRSASHA and use my exclusive code DRSASHA to get 15% off any order Use our exclusive link to save 20% off Honeylove at honeylove.com/DRSASHA Go to ogee.com/DRSASHA and use code DRSASHA for 20% off. New episodes of Trying with Dr. Sasha Hakman drop weekly. If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs a doctor they can trust in their corner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  Your Doctor Is Wrong About Exercise: What a Doctor of Physical Therapy Wants You to Know 10.06.2026 1h 3m

  Are you being told to stop exercising while trying to conceive or going through IVF? You're not alone and according to today's guest, you're also likely being given advice that isn't backed by science. In this episode, Dr. Shannon joins us for a conversation that is equal parts empowering and eye-opening. As both a physical therapist and a patient who exercised throughout her own fertility journey, she brings a rare dual perspective to the table. She and host Dr. Sasha take on the pervasive fear around exercise during fertility treatment, break down why the "rest and raise your legs" mentality is outdated (and potentially harmful), and share a practical, research-backed framework for building and maintaining muscle at every stage of the journey. Whether you're in the thick of fertility treatments, newly pregnant, postpartum, or just trying to understand your body better, this episode is packed with actionable guidance and a refreshing dose of truth. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why most doctors tell patients to stop exercising during IVF — and why there's no evidence behind it How months of exercise restriction can harm your long-term recovery and postpartum body The REPS Framework: the four principles that actually build muscle while TTC or pregnant What "training to failure" really means — and why it's safe even during fertility treatment Why you need to train near failure just to maintain the muscle you already have How to choose exercises that actually target the right muscles (and why combo moves fall short) Protein targets for TTC and pregnancy, and how to realistically hit them When HIIT is okay to keep during TTC — and when it may be hurting your chances How to safely return to exercise postpartum without setting yourself back One simple trick to improve your form without a personal trainer Follow Dr. Shannon@dr.shannon.dpt @evlofitness  Follow Dr Sasha!TikTok: @sashahakmanmdInstagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepodYouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Resources Mentioned: Evlo App (Dr. Shannon's fitness app) — Use code DRSASHA for 6 weeks free (first 2-week trial + 1 month at $0) American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) — exercise contraindications list available on their website Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more!If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! New episodes of Trying to Conceive with Dr. Sasha Hakman drop weekly. If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone on their fertility journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  A Reproductive Endocrinologist's Guide to Protecting Your Hormones 03.06.2026 1h 4m

  In this solo episode, Dr. Sasha goes deep on one of her most-requested topics: endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). What they are, where they're hiding, how they affect your hormones and fertility, and exactly what you can do about it. As a reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist, she brings both clinical expertise and personal practice to this conversation. This episode is grounded in evidence-based research, including a 136-page scientific statement from the Endocrine Society, and is designed to inform, not alarm. In This Episode, You'll Learn: What the endocrine system is and why hormones are the body's "keys and locks" The definition of EDCs and why exposure is considered a global public health crisis Why even tiny exposures can have outsized health impacts (it's not always dose-dependent) The major classes of EDCs to know: BPA/bisphenols, phthalates, PFAS (forever chemicals), parabens, glyphosate, heavy metals, and triclosan and where each one hides The 4 mechanisms EDCs use to disrupt your hormones - including epigenetic modification that can be passed down through generations Why in utero exposure is the most critical window, and what effects have been linked to fetal EDC exposure (including hypospadias, cryptorchidism, diminished egg reserve, and premature ovarian insufficiency) How EDC exposure impacts puberty, fertility, and the TTC window specifically - including the finding that phthalate metabolites were detected in the follicular fluid of 99% of women undergoing egg retrieval The link between EDC exposure and sperm count decline (down 50% in 50 years, per Dr. Shanna Swan's research) Health risks in adulthood: endometriosis, PCOS/PEMOS, diminished ovarian reserve, thyroid dysfunction, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and more The Tier 1 vs. Tier 2 framework for prioritizing what to eliminate first Why "BPA-free" is a marketing gimmick and what to look for instead Why "unscented" ≠ fragrance-free - and what that means for your products Why fragrance is banned entirely in IVF embryology labs (and what that tells us) A study showing BPA urinary levels drop significantly after just 3 days of cutting out heated plastic Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepodYouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. Thank you to our sponsors!  Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code DRSASHA to get $250 off select AirDoctor air purifiers. Head to cozyearth.com and use my code DRSASHA for an exclusive 20% discount. New episodes of Trying to Conceive with Dr. Sasha Hakman drop weekly. If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone on their fertility journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  Sitting Down with My Husband: What IVF Really Looks Like from the Partner's Side 28.05.2026 1h 11m

  Dr. Sasha Hakman is finally joined by her husband, Dr. Eryk Hakman. In this honest, funny, and surprisingly emotional episode, Sasha and Eryk sit down together for the first time to share the full story: how they met on labor and delivery, why Eryk almost didn't commit, and what it has really been like to navigate three rounds of IVF as a couple, including a failed embryo transfer that hit them both harder than either expected. Eryk opens up about feeling powerless in a process driven by his wife's expertise, what grief looked like from the partner's side, and what finally convinced him to say yes to baby number three. They wrap it all up with a fertility quiz that is equal parts educational and hilarious. In This Episode, You'll Learn: How Sasha and Eryk met during residency, why Eryk ghosted her, and the ultimatum that changed everything Why Sasha froze embryos early in their relationship and how it led to their first son, Remy What IVF felt like from Eryk's perspective as the non-REI doctor in the relationship The male side of fertility treatment: the semen collection experience, lifestyle changes, and feeling like a passenger How they conceived Rocky naturally after Sasha ovulated on her own for the first time post-IVF Why Eryk initially said they were done after two kids and what changed his mind Their decision to pursue gender selection for family balancing and what that process looked like The emotional weight of their failed embryo transfer: the biochemical pregnancy, the grief, and the delayed reaction Why Sasha chose a programmed cycle with progesterone in oil for the second transfer despite the pain and the disagreement it caused How two doctors with completely different approaches to data and uncertainty navigate fertility decisions together Eryk's fertility quiz results and the one lie Sasha told him about his own sperm Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsors: Go to aquatrue.com and use code DRSASHA for 20% off Go to bioptimizers.com and use code DRSASHA for 15% off Go to oneskin.co and use code DRSASHA for 15% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  The Protocol That Got Me Pregnant: A Fertility Doctor's Honest Account of Her Own IVF Journey 20.05.2026 47m

  Dr. Sasha Hakman goes solo to finally answer the question her community has been asking for weeks: what exactly did she do differently for her second embryo transfer, the one that worked? Now 14 weeks pregnant, Dr. Sasha walks through her full protocol in detail, from the switch to a programmed FET to every medication, supplement, and lifestyle change she made. She also opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of a failed transfer, a terrifying bleed at seven weeks, and what it's like to be a fertility doctor going through fertility treatment herself. This episode is one of the most personal and detailed she's ever shared, and it's been a long time coming. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why Dr. Sasha switched from a modified natural cycle to a programmed FET, and what that actually means Her exact medication protocol: estrace, progesterone in oil, Prometrium suppositories, Ganirelix, and prednisone , with doses and timing What the antihistamine protocol is (prednisone + Pepcid + Claritin) and why she added it despite limited evidence How acupuncture became a non-negotiable addition to her second cycle Why she took a full week off work after transfer and what she did instead Her supplement stack, pescatarian diet, and why she stopped being so strict about sugar this time The emotional experience of home testing, a lighter line, spiraling, and what snapped her out of it Her beta number progression and what she was watching for The scary seven-week bleed, the subchorionic hematoma diagnosis, and how her colleague met her at the clinic at 8pm How she emotionally survived a failed transfer and built her "plan A through G" for what came next How she manages non-classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NCAH) and why it influenced every protocol decision Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks.If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Thank you to our sponsor Ogee Beauty. Go to ogee.com/DRSASHA and use code DRSASHA for 20% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  Acupuncture, Fertility & Chinese Medicine: What Every TTC Woman Needs to Know with Dr. Felice Chan 13.05.2026 51m

  Dr. Sasha Hakman sits down with Dr. Felice Chan, a Chinese medicine practitioner and licensed acupuncturist based in Los Angeles, to explore how traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can support women's health and fertility. What starts as a curiosity from a fertility doctor who regularly refers patients for acupuncture quickly turns into one of the most eye-opening conversations yet covering everything from reading the tongue to treating endometriosis, PCOS, and preparing for IVF. Dr. Felice shares her unexpected journey from a pre-med neuroscience track to becoming a Chinese medicine practitioner, and breaks down the four pillars of TCM: acupuncture, herbal medicine, food as medicine, and nervous system-focused lifestyle practices. Together, they bridge the gap between Eastern and Western approaches (they're more compatible than you might think). Follow Felice Chan Instagram: @drfelicechan @feliceacupuncture Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Resources Mentioned: Pericardium 6 acupressure point (for nausea relief) Ear seeds for at-home acupressure Erewhon Pinnacle Trail Mix (goji berries + walnuts — blood nourishing!) Chrysanthemum tea for stress and liver support Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every week. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  All Birth Control Methods Compared: Pill, IUD, Shot, Implant Pros and Cons 06.05.2026 53m

  Today, I’m breaking down one of the most misunderstood topics in women’s health: hormonal contraceptives. With so much misinformation online, it’s easy to feel confused or even scared about your options. As a reproductive endocrinologist, I want to give you the science-based facts so you can make informed decisions about your body and your future fertility. I walk you through the different types of hormonal birth control, including the pill, patch, ring, IUD, Depo shot, and implant. I explain how they actually work in your body, the real risks versus exaggerated claims you might see online, and the benefits that often get overlooked. We also dive into some of the biggest questions I get from patients and my community: Does birth control cause infertility? What happens when you stop the pill? Is there a link to cancer or blood clots? Can it affect your mood, gut health, or brain? Which option is best if you plan to conceive in the future? I also share my personal experience with birth control, how different formulations can affect you differently, and why there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Whether you’re currently on birth control, considering starting it, or planning to stop soon to try to conceive, this episode will give you clarity and confidence in your choices. Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to your reproductive health. Follow Dr Sasha!TikTok: @sashahakmanmdInstagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepodYouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  Male Factor Infertility: Why Men Need to Get Tested at 20 (Not When It's Too Late) 29.04.2026 35m

  What happens when you're the picture of health, crushing it in your career, and then find out you can't get your partner pregnant? In this episode, I sit down with Brian Mazza, entrepreneur, founder of High Performance Lifestyle Training, and one of the few men openly talking about male infertility. Brian shares his deeply personal journey from receiving devastating test results to navigating IVF, relationship strain, and ultimately becoming a father to two boys through ICSI. We talk about the moment he found out about his low sperm count, motility, and morphology, and how that diagnosis made him feel like a failure despite being in incredible shape. Brian opens up about the shame, the embarrassment, and the defensiveness that came with being told he was the reason they couldn't conceive naturally. He also shares how it nearly broke his marriage, the moment he offered his wife a divorce so she could have kids with someone else, and the turning point that brought them back together. This conversation goes beyond the medical side of infertility. We dive into the emotional toll on men, the lack of conversation around male factor infertility, and why so many guys suffer in silence. Brian explains why he decided to go public with his story, how he raised over $80,000 by running 50 miles from Cornell to his home, and why he believes every man should get tested early and often. We also talk about fatherhood, what it means to show up for your kids every single day, and why Brian has made a personal pledge to never let his sons see him tired or drink alcohol. His approach to parenting is rooted in presence, discipline, and leading by example, and it's clear that his infertility journey shaped the father he is today. If you're a man navigating infertility, a woman supporting a partner through it, or anyone who wants to understand the male perspective on fertility struggles, this episode will give you insight, hope, and a reminder that infertility does not define your masculinity or your ability to be an incredible parent. Brian's story is proof that with the right medical care, emotional resilience, and a strong partnership, you can get through this and come out the other side with everything you've been hoping for. _____ Follow Brian Mazza on Instagram: @brianmazzaHigh Performance Lifestyle Training: @hpltraining Follow Dr Sasha!TikTok: @sashahakmanmdInstagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepodYouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more!If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks.If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  Unexplained Infertility? The Truth About Endometriosis Doctors Don’t Always Tell You 22.04.2026 49m

  I see this all the time. You’re doing everything right, your tests look “normal,” and yet… you’re still not getting pregnant. What if something is being missed? In this episode, I’m breaking down one of the most underdiagnosed and misunderstood conditions in fertility: endometriosis. I walk you through what endometriosis actually is, how it impacts your body, and more importantly, how it can affect your ability to conceive. From inflammation and egg quality to blocked tubes and implantation issues, this condition can interfere with fertility in ways most people don’t even realize. We also talk about why symptoms don’t always match severity. Some women have severe pain and no fertility issues, while others have zero symptoms and struggle to conceive. This is what makes endometriosis so difficult to diagnose and why so many cases go unnoticed. I dive into how we evaluate for endometriosis today, including updated guidelines that no longer require surgery for diagnosis, as well as newer testing options and imaging limitations. Then we get into the big questions: When should you suspect endometriosis? Should you consider surgery or avoid it? Does removing endometriosis actually improve fertility? When is it time to move to IUI or IVF? I also break down real clinical scenarios so you can understand how treatment decisions are made based on age, symptoms, ovarian reserve, and fertility goals. If you’ve been told you have “unexplained infertility,” or you suspect something deeper is going on, this episode will give you clarity on what might be happening and what your next steps could look like. Endometriosis is complex, but understanding it can completely change your fertility journey. _____ Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  8 Embryo Transfers, 6 Years of Infertility, and the IVF Story That Finally Worked | ft. Abbe Feder 15.04.2026 1h

  Can you really get pregnant after seven failed embryo transfers? What does it take to keep going when nothing seems to work? In this episode, I sit down with Abbe Feder to talk about one of the most intense fertility journeys I’ve ever heard. After 6 years of trying to conceive, 8 embryo transfers, a miscarriage, an ectopic pregnancy, and multiple failed IVF cycles, Abby finally got her miracle… twins. But this conversation goes far beyond just the outcome. We break down what unexplained infertility actually means, why IVF doesn’t always work even when everything looks “perfect,” and the emotional toll that no one prepares you for. Abbe shares the mindset shifts that helped her keep going, the financial realities of fertility treatment, and the truth about resilience during infertility. We also talk about the hardest moments along the way, including pregnancy loss, the waiting, the uncertainty, and the constant cycle of hope and disappointment. Abbe now helps women navigate infertility through coaching, and her ability to put feelings into words will make you feel seen in a way that’s hard to explain. If you’re going through infertility, considering IVF, or supporting someone who is, this episode will change how you think about the journey. And if nothing else, I hope it reminds you that you’re not alone. Abbe Feder is a fertility coach and founder of Encircle Fertility. After experiencing 6 years of unexplained infertility, multiple IVF cycles, pregnancy loss, and ultimately having twins, Abbe now helps women navigate the emotional and mental challenges of infertility. Her work focuses on normalizing the experience and supporting women through one of the most difficult journeys of their lives.Follow Abbe Instagram: @abbefeder @encirclefertilityWebsite: https://www.incirclefertility.com_____Follow Dr Sasha!TikTok: @sashahakmanmdInstagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepodYouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks.If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  The Best Fertility Supplements for Egg Quality, PCOS, and Pregnancy Prep From an OBGYN 08.04.2026 40m

  Are you wasting money on fertility supplements that don’t actually help you get pregnant? In this solo episode, I break down the truth about fertility supplements, what is worth taking when you are trying to conceive, and what may be overhyped or unnecessary. There is so much conflicting information online, especially around prenatal vitamins, folic acid, and trending supplements, so I wanted to walk through this in a clear and evidence-based way. I share what I recommend starting with before pregnancy, including prenatal vitamins and key nutrients that support fertility and early fetal development. I also explain the controversy around folic acid vs methylfolate and MTHFR, and why this topic is often misunderstood. From there, I get into the most popular fertility supplements for egg quality and sperm quality, including CoQ10, omega-3s, vitamin D, melatonin, and antioxidants. I also talk through how age impacts egg quality, when supplements may actually make a difference, and why they should always be used alongside proper medical care and lifestyle support. I also touch on PCOS and why inositol can be a helpful supplement for improving insulin resistance and supporting ovulation in certain cases. If you are trying to conceive, preparing for pregnancy, navigating infertility, or doing IVF, this episode will help you better understand which fertility supplements may actually support your goals and which ones may not be worth your time or money. Follow along for more conversations on fertility, TTC, egg quality, PCOS, hormone health, prenatal nutrition, and pregnancy preparation. _____Follow Dr Sasha!TikTok: @sashahakmanmdInstagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepodYouTube: @tryingtoconceivepodWant to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more!If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks.If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  Fertility Doctor Explains Egg Freezing, AMH, and the Truth About Your Biological Clock | Dr. Jessica Ryniec 01.04.2026 54m

  Should you freeze your eggs? And if you do, how many do you actually need to feel confident about your future fertility? In this episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman sits down with Dr. Jessica Ryniec, a reproductive endocrinologist based in Boston, to break down everything you need to know about fertility preservation. From egg freezing to embryo banking, this conversation covers the science, the process, the myths, and the practical decisions that come with preserving your fertility. Dr. Ryniec explains why fertility preservation has become so popular, who should consider it, and how the process actually works from evaluation to egg retrieval. You'll learn what ovarian reserve testing really tells you, why AMH matters even if it doesn't predict pregnancy, and how age impacts both egg quality and quantity. They discuss the reality that egg quality declines over time due to DNA repair breakdown, and why waiting too long can significantly reduce your chances of success. This episode dives into the technical side of egg freezing, including how vitrification revolutionized the field, what happens in the lab once your eggs are retrieved. Dr. Ryniec shares her approach to counseling patients on how many eggs to freeze based on age and family goals, and why 70% chance of one live birth is often a comfortable target for many patients. They also tackle the debate between freezing eggs versus embryos in a committed relationship, and why most fertility doctors have done fertility preservation themselves. Dr. Ryniec discusses the role of AI in egg selection, the limitations of current technology, and why fertility preservation is better thought of as a head start rather than insurance. You'll also learn about priming protocols, how birth control pills and IUDs can temporarily suppress ovarian response, and why lifestyle factors like sleep, hydration, and movement matter more than extreme dietary restrictions. Dr. Ryniec shares her thoughts on when it's too old to freeze eggs, how to optimize egg health in the 90 days before a cycle, and why smoking and daily fast food are bigger concerns than occasional gluten or dairy. This episode is essential listening for anyone considering egg freezing, wondering if they should wait to optimize their health first, or trying to decide between eggs and embryos. Whether you're single, in a relationship, or simply want to understand your options, this conversation will give you the knowledge and confidence to make the right decision for your future family. _____ Follow Dr. Jessica Ryniec on Instagram and TikTok: @jessicaryniecmd Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  What Actually Happens in an IVF Lab (And Why No One Talks About It) | Shaun Reed 25.03.2026 51m

  What really happens to your eggs once they leave the operating room? And how much does the embryology lab actually impact IVF success? In this episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman sits down with Shaun Reed, an experienced embryologist from Utah Fertility Center, to break down one of the most misunderstood parts of the fertility journey: the IVF lab. From egg retrieval to embryo transfer, Shaun walks through what happens behind the scenes, why it matters, and what patients should actually care about. You’ll learn what a day in the life of an embryologist looks like, how labs protect eggs and embryos through strict quality control, and why temperature and pH are critical at every step. Shaun explains how eggs are identified and handled, and the debate around when to strip eggs during the IVF process. We also dive into conventional insemination vs ICSI, why most clinics now use ICSI, and how embryologists manually select sperm under a microscope. Shaun shares insights on sperm processing technologies like Zymot, incubation methods including time lapse systems, and what truly impacts embryo development. A major focus of this episode is embryo grading. Shaun explains why grades like AA vs BB are more subjective than patients think, and why even lower graded embryos can still lead to successful pregnancies. We also discuss zero PN embryos and why many still result in normal, healthy outcomes. Finally, we explore the future of IVF, including AI in embryo selection, PGT biopsy, and popular lab add ons. Shaun shares what is worth it, what is not, and why the embryology lab may be one of the most important factors in IVF success. This episode is essential for anyone going through IVF, considering egg freezing, or wanting a deeper understanding of what happens to their eggs and embryos behind the scenes. _____ Follow Shaun Reed on Instagram: @shaun.ology Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  I Thought I Had PCOS (But I Was Wrong): Understanding Testing, Treatment & Fertility 18.03.2026 54m

  Could your PCOS diagnosis actually be something else? In this episode of the Trying to Conceive Podcast, Dr. Sasha Hakman breaks down polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), one of the most common and misunderstood hormonal conditions affecting fertility. She also shares her personal experience of believing she had PCOS for years before discovering through expanded genetic testing that she actually had non-classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NCCAH), a condition that can closely mimic PCOS but requires different treatment. Dr. Hakman explains what PCOS really is, why it has nothing to do with ovarian cysts, and how it is properly diagnosed using the Rotterdam criteria. She also walks through the essential lab work needed to rule out other hormonal conditions, including thyroid disorders, elevated prolactin, adrenal disorders, and testosterone producing tumors. You will also learn why testing 17-hydroxyprogesterone is a critical step that is often missed. The episode explores how insulin resistance and elevated androgens drive many PCOS symptoms such as irregular periods, infertility, acne, and unwanted hair growth. Dr. Hakman also discusses the long term health risks associated with PCOS, including type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and endometrial cancer. Finally, she covers evidence based treatment strategies, from lifestyle changes like nutrition and resistance training to medications and fertility treatments such as Letrozole. Whether you have been diagnosed with PCOS, suspect you might have it, or want to better understand hormonal and metabolic health, this episode provides a clear and practical guide to navigating this complex condition. _____ Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  How to Choose a Safe Prenatal: Manufacturing, Ingredients & Avoiding False Claims with Sam Diamond 11.03.2026 53m

  How do you know if the prenatal vitamin you're taking actually contains what it claims? And why do some supplements promise everything but deliver almost nothing? In this episode, Dr. Sasha Hakman sits down with Sam Diamond, co-founder of Bird & Be to pull back the curtain on the supplement industry. From sourcing ingredients to third party testing, manufacturing challenges, and regulatory differences between the US and Canada, this conversation reveals what most brands don't want you to know. Sam Diamond shares her personal journey navigating PCOS and pregnancy loss, and how working with fertility naturopaths opened her eyes to the power of integrative care. That experience led her to co-create a line of supplements built on evidence, transparency, and real clinical input from reproductive endocrinologists and naturopathic doctors. We discuss why not all prenatals are created equal, the truth about folic acid versus methylated folate, how to spot misleading labels like proprietary blends, and why elemental dosing matters more than you think. Sam also explains the science behind inositol for PCOS and insulin resistance, the 40 to 1 ratio that actually works, and why combining it with medications like Metformin or Letrozole may improve outcomes. You'll learn what third party testing really means, how heavy metals end up in supplements, why some ingredients like choline are nearly impossible to dose correctly in a capsule, and what certifications like Clean Label and NSF actually verify. We also talk about why Canada's pre-market licensing system offers stronger consumer protection than the FDA's supplement regulations, and how that impacts product quality and safety. If you've ever wondered whether your prenatal is safe, effective, or worth the money, this episode will give you the tools to evaluate any supplement with confidence. Sam breaks down what to look for on a label, what red flags to avoid, and why the best prenatal is always the one you'll actually take. This is essential listening for anyone trying to conceive, currently pregnant, or simply wanting to make informed decisions about reproductive health. _____ Follow Bird & Be Co at https://birdandbe.com/ and on Instagram @birdbeco Follow Dr Sasha! TikTok: @sashahakmanmd Instagram: @sashahakmanmd @tryingtoconceivepod YouTube: @tryingtoconceivepod Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at sashahakmanmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, answers to Q&A and more! If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every 2 weeks. If you're interested in becoming a patient go to sashahakmanmd.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices