Fertility in Focus by Fertility Matters Canada Carolynn Dubé

In this informative episode of Fertility in Focus, we speak with Dr. Marjorie Dixon as we delve deep into the world of third-party reproduction in Canada, covering essential topics for anyone considering or involved in gamete donation or gestational surrogacy. We start by explaining what third-party reproduction entails, including the roles and processes associated with sperm and ova donation, as well as using a gestational surrogate.
Our discussion unpacks the legal landscape governed by the Assisted Human Reproductive Act, clarifying what is permitted and prohibited under Canadian law. Dr. Dixon, a renowned expert in the field, provides an insider's view on the medical and procedural aspects involved. We discuss how egg donors are selected and assessed, including the importance of genetic testing and other health considerations. We cover the steps to obtaining legal counsel, typically facilitated by reproductive programs, and discuss the broader legal implications participants may face.
Finally, we address the existing barriers to accessing third-party reproductive services in Canada and discuss ongoing efforts to make these vital services more inclusive and accessible to all potential users. Join us for a comprehensive guide to understanding and navigating the complex, yet hopeful, world of third-party reproduction.


More About our Guest Speaker

Dr. Dixon is a graduate of McGill University’s School of Medicine. She completed her postgraduate training at the University of Toronto in Obstetrics and Gynecology and then went on to complete a 3-year sub-specialty with The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Vermont to obtain an Accredited Fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. Today she is a member of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center and is also Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto.
Dr. Dixon is the Founder, CEO and Medical Director of Anova Fertility & Reproductive Health which opened in 2016 as Canada’s newest full-service fertility and IVF centre. It is home to the first next-generation embryology laboratory in Canada and is a leader in innovation, education, and communication for high-quality humanized fertility and reproductive care.
Dr. Dixon was recognized by the Canadian Fertility and Andrology Society with the Mathias Gysler Award in 2022 for her leadership in improving reproductive care in underserved communities. She was also featured in the Globe & Mail’s Quantum Shift Class of 2019 as one of Canada’s Top Entrepreneurs. In 2018 she won the RBC Canadian Women of Influence Momentum Award and in 2017 was recognized as the YMCA Woman of Distinction. As a recognized expert in her field, Dr. Dixon is a coveted speaker at both national and international conferences. She is often asked to comment on newsworthy topics related to women’s health in the media and appears monthly on Cityline as a part of their trusted group of experts often speaking to her responsibility and championing of women’s health and reproductive well-being. 
For more information about Dr. Dixon, or about 3rd Party Reproduction in Canada, check out the Anova Fertility & Reproductive Health website at https://anovafertility.com/. 

In this enlightening episode of Fertility in Focus, we sit down with Lana de Bastiani, a remarkable voice in the world of fertility advocacy, who shares her compelling journey navigating the complex terrain of fertility care from Yellowknife, over 1500 kilometres away from the nearest fertility clinic in Edmonton, Alberta. Lana's fertility journey was complicated by her diagnosis of insulin-resistant PCOS and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) after nearly two decades on hormonal birth control.
She gives a candid look into the intricate process of interviewing clinics, the detailed conversations that guided her treatment choices, and the meticulous planning that went into her decision to undergo IVF.
Beyond the medical procedures, Lana delves into the significant financial and emotional tolls of her journey. From coverage gaps in the Northwest Territories' healthcare system to the additional expenses of travelling for treatment, Lana sheds light on the indirect financial barriers that impact those in remote areas seeking fertility care in Canada. She also shares the self-care rituals and practices that provided comfort and support through her treatments.
Join us as Lana de Bastiani offers a deeply personal look at the challenges of accessing fertility care from remote locations, the additional hurdles faced along the way, and her ongoing efforts to advocate for change. Her story is a call to action for more accessible and equitable fertility and reproductive healthcare across Canada.


More About our Guest Speaker

Lana de Bastiani is a pioneering fertility doula in Yellowknife, NWT, and stands out as the only doula specializing in fertility in Northern Canada. Her path to becoming a doula was shaped by her personal battles with infertility, infusing her practice with empathy and understanding. With a rich background in psychology, special education, adult education, and sexual health, Lana offers a holistic and personalized approach to fertility support. Her services are a beacon for Northern Canadians, addressing the significant barriers they face in accessing fertility care. Lana's culturally sensitive methodology is particularly attuned to the needs of Indigenous communities. Through her advocacy and the establishment of a virtual support group, Lana is a vocal proponent for equitable fertility support across Canada, aiming to empower her clients and bridge the urban-rural divide in reproductive healthcare. 
To connect with Lana, you can follow her on Instagram @SolsticeFertilityDoula  or her website: https://www.solsticefertilitydoula.com/. 

In honour of Endometriosis Awareness Month, we sit down with Dr. Sony Sierra, a renowned reproductive endocrinologist at TRIO Fertility in Toronto and a past president of the Canadian Fertility and Endocrinology Society. Dr. Sierra takes us deep into endometriosis, shedding light on this misunderstood condition.


She begins by explaining what endometriosis is, delving into its symptoms, signs, and the challenges surrounding its diagnosis, including the various stages involved. Dr. Sierra discusses how commonly the symptoms and pain associated with menstruation are disregarded, emphasizing the importance of understanding and recognizing these signs.


Dr. Sierra discusses the intricate relationship between endometriosis and fertility, outlining the three primary ways it impacts one's ability to conceive. She provides invaluable insights into what patients can expect if they suspect they have endometriosis, including the medical approaches to diagnosis and treatment.


For those navigating their fertility journey, Dr. Sierra offers guidance on the best treatment options, whether they are actively trying to conceive or in the pre-planning phase. She also addresses how endometriosis affects everyday living. This episode equips listeners with the knowledge and tools to navigate endometriosis with confidence and empowerment. Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of endometriosis and join the movement toward greater awareness and transparency in reproductive health.



More About our Guest SpeakerDr. Sony Sierra, MD, FRCSC, REI (She/Her), serves as a distinguished Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility Specialist (REI) and Deputy Medical Director and Partner at TRIO. With nearly two decades of experience, she specializes in reproductive health, recurrent pregnancy loss, and early Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL) programs. As the Medical Director at EVOLVE Egg Freezing Clinic and an Associate Physician at Women’s College Hospital, she contributes significantly to advancing reproductive medicine. Dr. Sierra's research interests include infertility, implantation failure, and PCOS, reflected in her publications and conference presentations. Passionate about patient care, she approaches her practice with compassion and dedication, guided by her belief in excellence and empathy. Dr. Sierra's commitment to ongoing education and involvement in esteemed societies ensures her patients receive the most up-to-date care and expertise. She finds immense fulfillment in helping individuals and couples achieve their dreams of starting a family, making her a valued asset in the field of fertility medicine.
For more info about Dr. Sierra, you can check out the TRIO Fertility Website: https://triofertility.com/team-member/sony-sierra/ or you can follow her on Instagram @drsonysierra. 



Afynia Laboratories, a Canadian biotechnology company, is pleased to announce the availability of EndomiR, the first validated diagnostic blood test for endometriosis. Afynia is currently offering EndomiR to Canadian fertility clinics for patients with unexplained infertility and/or symptoms suggestive of endometriosis. EndomiR shortens the diagnostic pathway by providing physicians with actionable data to inform safe and effective treatment options. 

In this exciting episode of Fertility in Focus, we are joined by Marissa Thompson, a naturopathic doctor and the managing director and owner of the Canadian Fertility Show. With seven years of dedication, Marissa's journey from volunteer to director unfolds, showcasing her commitment to supporting patients and families on their fertility journey.
The Fertility Show will be held on April 20th at the International Center in Mississauga, specifically in the Conference Center portion, from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Marissa highlights the unique opportunities for one-on-one conversations at the tradeshow, connecting with vendors and fellow community members.
Marissa shares details about the diverse offerings at the show, from booths with essential products to expert advice. She shares how to prepare for this event and gain a sneak peek into the exciting lineup of lectures and guest speakers.
In this episode, Marissa provides a comprehensive guide on what to expect at the Canadian Fertility Show – from the types of booths and products available to the engaging lectures and workshops that await you. Be sure to secure your tickets for the event on the website: https://www.canadianfertilityshow.ca/. 




More About our Guest Speaker

Marissa Thompson ND is a dedicated Naturopathic Doctor and Owner/Director of the Canadian Fertility Show. With eight years of post-secondary experience, Marissa has delved into various industries, from sales and research to health and wellness. Her journey reflects a diverse background, including landscape design, maintenance, and mentoring in youth sports programs. Currently, she directs the Canadian Fertility Show.  She is dedicated to the growth and success of fertility awareness as well as providing resources and education for those embarking on their fertility and family planning journey.  For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Canadian Fertility Show website at https://www.canadianfertilityshow.ca/. Follow their Instagram @canadian_fertility_show for updates.

Join us for an interesting episode of Fertility in Focus where we sit with Sabrina Souto, a registered acupuncturist,  and delve into the crucial aspects of patient-care provider relationships. She emphasizes why it's important for care providers to truly understand who their patients are. Souto passionately advocates for patient education, offering valuable insights into what individuals should look for in their healthcare providers.
This episode focuses on the profound impact of the connection and understanding between patients and care providers. Sabrina discusses the concept of self-advocacy and guides listeners on how to assess whether their practitioner is genuinely in their corner. She explores the art of building rapport and relationships with practitioners in subsequent meetings. Drawing from her experience, Souto shares specific examples of supporting patients through discomfort and offers advice for practitioners and fertility professionals. 
Tune in for an engaging conversation that not only enlightens patients on navigating their healthcare journey but also provides invaluable guidance for practitioners aiming to create a supportive and comforting space for those they serve.


More About our Guest SpeakerSabrina Souto, R.Ac, TCM, is a Doctor of Acupuncture, Hypnotherapist, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. As the founder of Fertile Way and Co-Creator of FAWN - Fertility As A Way Network, Sabrina specializes in Reproductive Immunology and Family Health. Her journey began in 2003, mentored by Dr. David Chu for six transformative years. Sabrina's passion for bringing new life into the world deepened after attending her first birth. Despite later facing secondary infertility and a miscarriage, she persevered, fostering a unique approach that led to countless births within Canada, including her own children. 
For more information check out https://www.fertileway.com/ a collective and education platform for fertility patients and professionals. You can also follow her work on Instagram @fertile.way and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/fertileway/. 

Join us for an informative episode of Fertility in Focus as we sit with Zane Colt, the 2023 Fertility Matters Canada Advocacy Award Winner from Toronto. Zane, a former political professional turned government relations consultant for healthcare organizations, shares his family’s path to parenthood as intended parents using surrogacy and how that journey bolstered their experience into a thriving online community. Zane played a pivotal role in advocating for parental leave inclusion for adoptive and intended parents in Canadian legislation under Bill C-318. Discover how Zane and his wife are driving inclusivity in government, engaging listeners in political discussions, and addressing fertility care barriers at both the provincial and federal levels. Don't miss the insightful discussion to learn how you, too, can lean into advocacy and help to foster change! 



More About our Guest SpeakerZane Colt is a passionate relationship-builder deeply immersed in political outreach and fertility advocacy. Currently, Zane holds a significant role in government relations for one of Canada's largest healthcare organizations, leveraging his extensive background from years spent at Queen's Park. In 2021, Zane, alongside his wife Baden, initiated the blog "Not My Tummy (But I'm Still Mummy!)" to document their journey in building a family through gestational surrogacy.
Zane's commitment to fertility advocacy extends to his role as a board member of Conceivable Dreams, Ontario's prominent voice for fertility care. With a bachelor's degree from Carleton University's Arthur Kroeger College of Public Affairs and a master's in Global Diplomacy from the School of Oriental and African Studies in the UK, Zane brings a wealth of knowledge to his advocacy work.
Residing in Toronto with his wife, daughter Scottie, and their dog Dodi, Zane invites you to connect and follow their journey on Instagram @notmytummy. Join the conversation as Zane continues championing fertility support and navigating the intricate intersections of politics and family-building.