In this episode, Erin and Ashley discuss the complexities of fertility treatment in Canada with special guest Carolynn Dubé, the executive director of Fertility Matters Canada. They explore the emotional and financial challenges faced by individuals seeking fertility treatment, the advocacy efforts for equitable access to care, and the varying funding models across provinces. Carolynn shares her personal fertility journey and the importance of community support and awareness in navigating these challenges.

The conversation highlights the need for systemic changes to improve access to fertility treatments and the ongoing efforts to advocate for better funding and support for those affected by infertility. In this conversation, Carolynn Dubé discusses the current landscape of fertility care in Canada, highlighting advancements in IVF funding, the barriers faced by individuals seeking treatment, and the advocacy efforts being made to improve access to care. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community support and individual advocacy in navigating the fertility journey, as well as the need for a national strategy to address declining birth rates and support diverse family-building options. Key Takeaways:

Fertility treatment can be overwhelming and emotional. Advocacy is crucial for equitable access to fertility care. Funding for fertility treatments varies widely across provinces. Many provinces lack adequate funding for fertility treatments. The average cost of IVF in Canada is around $20,000. Quebec has one of the most robust fertility funding programs. Ontario is increasing funding to triple access to care. Alberta currently has no fertility funding program. Community support is vital for those facing infertility. Personal stories can drive advocacy and change in fertility care. Infertility is now recognized as a medical diagnosis. Only a small percentage of those needing fertility care actually access it. Geographical barriers significantly impact access to fertility clinics. Advocacy is crucial for improving fertility care policies. Government engagement is essential for funding and support. Community support can greatly enhance the fertility journey. Traveling for treatment adds layers of stress and complexity. Fertility care should be viewed as a health issue, not a lifestyle choice. Individuals can play a role in advocating for better fertility benefits. Support systems outside of partners are vital for emotional well-being. Find Fertility Matters Canada on https://www.fertilitymatters.ca/

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In this episode of Fertility Village Live, hosts Joy and Marissa welcome Dara Roth-Edney MSW/RSW, a reproductive counselor and psychotherapist, who shares her personal journey through infertility and surrogacy. Dara discusses the emotional challenges faced during her fertility journey, the complexities of finding the right surrogate, and the importance of trust and meaningful relationships in surrogacy. The conversation highlights the often-overlooked emotional scars of infertility and the need for support and understanding in the surrogacy community.

In this conversation, Dara addresses the emotional challenges faced during fertility treatments and offers practical advice for navigating these experiences. The discussion highlights the significance of having a supportive network, managing expectations, and maintaining a positive mindset throughout the journey. We end with her top 10 mindset tools that will provide hope and strength on your fertility journey.

TAKEAWAYS:

• Dara emphasizes the loneliness of the infertility journey.
• She shares her personal experience with IVF and surrogacy.
• The emotional toll of infertility can be overwhelming.
• Surrogacy can bring hope but also grief for intended parents.
• Trust and connection with a surrogate are crucial.
• Infertility doesn't just disappear with a successful pregnancy.
• The importance of recognizing the surrogate's motivations.
• Surrogacy relationships can be complex and require adjustment.
• Dara reflects on the long-term impact of infertility.
• It's essential to honor the emotional scars left by infertility. Altruism in surrogacy is essential but often imbalanced.
• Trust in your medical team is crucial during fertility treatments.
• Open communication between surrogates and intended parents is key.
• Expectations should be managed to avoid shock during treatments.
• Creating a supportive environment can ease the emotional burden.
• Visualizing small successes can help maintain motivation.
• Surround yourself with understanding and empathetic people.
• Practicing self-compassion is vital during challenging times.
• Distress does not impact the success of treatments but can affect well-being.
• Honoring your emotions is important for mental health.

Find Dara at https://informedfertility.ca/

Follow Fertility Village on Instagram⁠ @fertility__village⁠

Find out more about Oasis FSN at ⁠@oasisfsn⁠ or ⁠https://oasisfsn.com/⁠

Don't forget to tune in LIVE every Wednesday night from 8-9pm EST for another great episode;

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In this kick-off episode of Fertility Village Live, we introduce a diverse group of co-hosts who share their personal fertility journeys, emphasizing the importance of community support and education in navigating infertility.

The hosts discuss the mission of Oasis Fertility Support Network and Fertility Village, the upcoming themes for future episodes, and the significance of sharing unique stories and experiences.

The conversation is filled with humor and camaraderie, highlighting the challenges and triumphs faced by those on the fertility journey. The conversation dives into various aspects of fertility support, including the importance of sharing embarrassing stories, creating a safe space for laughter and support, navigating fertility clinics, and the significance of endometriosis awareness. They also outline upcoming monthly themes and encourage community engagement, emphasizing the Oasis Fertility Support Network's mission to provide a supportive environment for individuals facing fertility challenges.

TAKEAWAYS:

Follow Fertility Village on Instagram @fertility__village

Find out more about Oasis FSN at @oasisfsn or https://oasisfsn.com/

Don't forget to tune in LIVE every Wednesday night from 8-9pm EST for another great episode;

Link to YouTube

Link to Facebook

Link to Instagram