SART Fertility Experts

Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology

An educational project of the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, this series is designed to provide up to date information about a variety of topics related to fertility testing and treatment such as IVF. The "Experts" include accomplished professionals: reproductive endocrinologists, reproductive urologists, genetic counselors and mental health professionals who share their knowledge and advice in an informal interview. Are you ready to take the next step towards building your family? Start With SART!

  1. Aug 11

    SART Fertility Experts - Behind the Breakthroughs: Understanding Fertility Research

    In this episode of the SART Fertility Experts podcast, Dr. Joseph Findley speaks with Dr. Rachel Weinerman about how research shapes the field of reproductive endocrinology and infertility. They explain what medical research involves, from forming a hypothesis and designing a study to analyzing data, undergoing peer review, and publishing results. The conversation also explores why objectivity, scientific rigor, and awareness of bias are essential when evaluating new treatments. Dr. Weinerman highlights major areas of current fertility research, including embryo quality, uterine receptivity, egg and sperm biology, artificial intelligence, fertility preservation, and emerging technologies such as stem-cell-derived eggs and sperm. They also discuss the ethical and funding challenges unique to reproductive research and the importance of distinguishing exciting early findings from treatments supported by strong evidence. The episode encourages patients to ask whether recommended tests and therapies are evidence-based and emphasizes that fertility care continues to evolve as better research becomes available to guide safer, more effective patient care decisions. Find the #StartwithSART Fertility Experts series wherever you get your podcasts. Looking for advice on building a family? Ask the experts and #StartwithSART. For more information about the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, visit our website at https://www.sart.org Have a topic you'd like to hear? Tell Us!

  2. Jul 14

    SART Fertility Experts - The Strength to Speak: Men, Infertility, and the Weight of Silence

    Male infertility is common, but the emotional toll often remains hidden behind silence, stigma, and expectations about masculinity. In this episode of SART Fertility Experts, psychologist Dr. Bill Petok speaks with Dr. Brennan Peterson, professor, licensed marriage and family therapist, and leading researcher on the mental health impact of infertility in men. They explore how an infertility diagnosis can disrupt identity, relationships, sexuality, and a man's sense of purpose, while leaving many unsure where to seek support. Dr. Peterson discusses research showing that thoughtful openness with trusted people can reduce depressive symptoms, strengthen meaning, and lessen isolation. The conversation also examines why men may prefer written resources and anonymous online communities, how fertility treatment can leave male partners feeling peripheral or guilty, and the emotional complexities of donor conception. Listeners will come away with practical ways to find support, communicate more honestly, and redefine vulnerability not as weakness, but as a powerful and deeply human form of strength while navigating an uncertain path toward parenthood. Find the #StartwithSART Fertility Experts series wherever you get your podcasts. Looking for advice on building a family? Ask the experts and #StartwithSART. For more information about the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, visit our website at https://www.sart.org Have a topic you'd like to hear? Tell Us!

  3. Apr 14

    SART Fertility Experts - IVF Add-Ons Explained: Do They Improve Fertility Success or Just Add Cost?

    IVF add-ons have become a growing part of fertility treatment, but do they actually improve success rates? In this expert-led SART Fertility Experts podcast episode , reproductive specialists explore the evidence behind common IVF add-ons and whether they truly benefit patients. Procedures like the Endometrial Receptivity Assay (ERA), routine ICSI, assisted hatching, and time-lapse embryo imaging are often offered with promising theories. However, research shows many of these add-ons may not improve live birth rates and can increase costs, treatment time, and potential risks. The discussion highlights the importance of evidence-based medicine in a field that rapidly adopts new technology. Patients are encouraged to ask critical questions about effectiveness, risks, alternatives, and clinic-specific outcomes before choosing additional treatments. Ethical considerations and informed consent are central to making confident fertility decisions. Whether you are starting IVF or reviewing your options, understanding the role of add-ons can help you choose the best path forward. Find the #StartwithSART Fertility Experts series wherever you get your podcasts. Looking for advice on building a family? Ask the experts and #StartwithSART. For more information about the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, visit our website at https://www.sart.org Have a topic you'd like to hear? Tell Us!

Trailers

About

An educational project of the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, this series is designed to provide up to date information about a variety of topics related to fertility testing and treatment such as IVF. The "Experts" include accomplished professionals: reproductive endocrinologists, reproductive urologists, genetic counselors and mental health professionals who share their knowledge and advice in an informal interview. Are you ready to take the next step towards building your family? Start With SART!

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