Conception 101

In the realm of conception, there are many paths to parenthood. For some, the journey is a straightforward one. But for others, the road may have unexpected turns. Home insemination has emerged as an empowering option for those seeking to build their families.  This article provides a step-by-step guide to...

Written by Elanza Wellness Endometriosis: Is Your Period More Than Cramps? Periods can be uncomfortable, but for some, the pain is more than just a mild inconvenience. If you're experiencing intense discomfort, it could be a sign of a condition like endometriosis. Recognizing the symptoms early is crucial for managing...

Written by Maureen Brown Medically Reviewed by Bob Smithing, MSN, FNP, FAANP   The journey to parenthood is unique for every couple. While some envision a traditional path of conception, others face challenges that require creative solutions. Unconsummated marriage, where sexual intercourse hasn't occurred, is one such situation. This can be due...

The whisper of a tiny heartbeat fluttering to life, the warmth of a small hand wrapped around yours, the joy of those first gummy smiles – it's no wonder the idea of pregnancy sparks such excitement and anticipation. This journey can be a whirlwind of emotions, filled with hope, wonder,...

We know baby-making is on your mind, and with good reason! It's an exciting time, but it can also feel a little overwhelming. One of the most common questions we hear is, "When should I use an ovulation test?" In this post, we’ll answer that question. But before we jump...

Lisa Schuman, LCSW, has spent more than two decades working with families who have opted for donor conception. Here are the things she's witnessed donor-conceived kids typically care most about.  Parents of donor-conceived children can have strong feelings about the way they built their families. Often, feelings of loss, joy,...

How does syringe size affect my conception chances? When families are researching options for home insemination, they understandably have questions about those options: “How does this compare to other ways I’ve tried to get pregnant?”“How will this option work for me and my body?”“I’m tall. Could my height negatively impact...

For half of all couples who struggle to get pregnant, sperm quantity or quality is at least part of the cause. Despite how common it is, sperm health can be a tough subject to navigate for yourself or with a partner. Because of stigma and a lack of awareness, it’s...

The fertility space has grown a lot over the last few years. If you’re looking forward to starting a family, you finally have a good number of options — both in and out of the doctor’s office — to help you try to conceive. But when you start considering fertility...

When you’re ready to get pregnant, you may want it to happen right away. But the reality is most people don’t conceive on the first try (even if it seems like they do). So, how many cycles does it typically take? How does your age factor in? And how long...

Struggling to conceive is heartbreaking — even if you already have a child. You’re so grateful for the baby you have, but your family doesn’t feel complete, and it’s confusing to understand what’s changed. You might even feel like family, friends, and even your doctors are dismissing your concerns. What...

The holidays are the perfect opportunity to show support for your friends or loved ones on their fertility journey. Acknowledging this time of life — the joy and the struggle — by surprising them with a fertility-friendly gift can be a meaningful way to show how much you care. You...