Brave & Curious with Dr Lora Shahine

Dr. Lora Shahine
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  • MEDICINE
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Fertility, reproductive health, and wellness are deeply personal—and sometimes, deeply challenging. Brave & Curious is a space for open, honest conversations about the science, emotions, and decisions that shape our reproductive journeys. Hosted by Dr. Lora Shahine, a double board certified OBGYN and reproductive endocrinologist, author, and advocate, this podcast blends evidence-based medicine with empathy and curiosity. Whether you're navigating infertility, exploring reproductive health, or simply seeking knowledge, this show will equip you with insights, expert interviews, and real stories to support your journey. New episodes drop weekly—subscribe and join the conversation. Until next time, stay brave and curious.

  1. Ep 158 How a C-section May Impact Your Future Fertility: What the Evidence Shows

    2D AGO

    Ep 158 How a C-section May Impact Your Future Fertility: What the Evidence Shows

    Have you had a C-section and now you're wondering if it could affect future conception? Are you planning one and feeling unsure how it may influence your reproductive health?  In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine goes beyond headlines and reviews a landmark study to better understand how C-sections may impact future fertility, miscarriage rates, and pregnancy complications.  This episode will arm you with three essential questions to ask your provider and help you make informed decisions and have empowered conversations, all grounded in clarity, not fear. In this episode you'll hear: [0:50] Overview of C-section impact study [1:08] Fertility after C-section [7:59] Pregnancy risks after C-section [18:36] Benefits of a C-Section [19:45] FAQ [21:14] Advocating for your care [22:51] Final thoughts Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

    24 min
  2. Ep 157 Why Sleep Is the Most Powerful Health Habit You Can't Ignore with Dr. Meredith Broderick

    JAN 6

    Ep 157 Why Sleep Is the Most Powerful Health Habit You Can't Ignore with Dr. Meredith Broderick

    Are you exhausted but still can't sleep through the night? Do you wake up feeling unrefreshed, foggy, or wired-tired no matter how early you go to bed? Could your sleep habits—or an undiagnosed sleep disorder—be quietly impacting your hormones, mental health, fertility, and long-term wellbeing?  In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine and her guest, Dr. Meredith Broderick, invite you to rethink everything you've been told about sleep and why "pushing through" exhaustion is not a badge of honor.  Dr. Broderick shares how her own experience with sleep deprivation led her into sleep medicine, why sleep disorders are vastly underdiagnosed in women, and how poor sleep is linked to conditions like depression, migraines, cardiovascular disease, metabolic dysfunction, and infertility.  Together, they explain the difference between true sleep and sedation, why sleeping pills and alcohol disrupt restorative sleep, and how sleep apnea and chronic insomnia show up differently in women. You'll learn when to ask for a sleep study, common red flags you shouldn't ignore (like morning headaches and daytime fatigue), and practical, evidence-based steps to start improving your sleep—without shame, perfection, or fear. In this episode you'll hear: [1:23] Sleep is a non-negotiable pillar of health [5:10] Recognizing sleep disorders [12:59] The science behind sleep [14:19] Sleep & reproductive health [19:04] Practical sleep solutions [27:52] Understanding mid-night awakenings [29:21] Cultural variations in sleep patterns [31:23] Sleep trackers [33:20] Key reasons to consider a sleep study [36:50] Conclusion & final thoughts Resources mentioned:  soundsleepguru.com @sleepdoctormer on Instagram Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

    38 min
  3. Ep 156 The Fertility Reset: How You Can Eat, Exercise, and Maximize Your Reproductive Health for the New Year

    12/30/2025

    Ep 156 The Fertility Reset: How You Can Eat, Exercise, and Maximize Your Reproductive Health for the New Year

    How can you give yourself the best chance of conceiving in the year ahead? Which habits truly influence fertility? And when is it appropriate to seek additional support or consult a specialist? In this New Year episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine shares a practical and compassionate Fertility Reset—a clear roadmap for anyone preparing to conceive or looking for guidance after months of trying. She reviews the foundations of cycle tracking and timed intercourse, strategies for reducing harmful exposures, and lifestyle and nutrition changes that can support reproductive health. Dr. Shahine also explains how stopping birth control varies by method, why understanding ovulation is essential, and how to decide whether at-home testing or a medical evaluation is the next right step. This episode offers an evidence-based guide to enhancing fertility, improving overall wellness, and approaching the year ahead with clarity and confidence. In this episode you'll hear: [0:32] Kicking off a fertility reset [1:27] Get your health in check [2:59] Stopping birth control [5:08] Cycle tracking [7:19] Timing intercourse [9:25] Lifestyle changes: what to stop and what to start [20:31] Prenatal vitamins [21:55] When to see a fertility specialist   Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

    25 min
  4. Ep 155 Miscarriage and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: Is IVF the right step for you?

    12/23/2025

    Ep 155 Miscarriage and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: Is IVF the right step for you?

    Is IVF the answer for recurrent pregnancy loss? Why would IVF with genetic testing of embryo be helpful for people that are 'getting' pregnant but can 'stay' pregnant?  In this educational episode, Dr. Lora Shahine explains the complex relationship between IVF, genetics, and recurrent pregnancy loss. She reviews the science behind why chromosomal imbalances are one of the most common causes of first-trimester miscarriage and discusses how preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) may help select embryos with the highest chance of success for some patients. Through real patient examples and evidence-based guidance, this episode explores the nuances of testing, timing, emotional well-being, and the ethical and financial considerations that shape decision-making. Listeners will walk away informed, empowered, and reminded that no matter their fertility path, they are not alone. In this episode you'll hear: [2:03] Why consider IVF for recurrent pregnancy loss? [4:10] IVF process & genetic testing [11:02] Real world counseling & patient scenarios [16:12] Pros & cons of IVF for recurrent pregnancy loss [24:58] Key considerations for IVF [28:15] Patient examples and recommendations [31:12] Final thoughts Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

    33 min
  5. Ep 154 Folic Acid vs. Folate: Why the Controversy? with Dr. Prati Sharma

    12/16/2025

    Ep 154 Folic Acid vs. Folate: Why the Controversy? with Dr. Prati Sharma

    Are you confused about prenatal vitamins? Wondering whether folic acid or folate is best? And what about those MTHFR conversations on the internet? Should you be worried?  In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine is asking the questions so many people have but rarely get clear answers to. Her guest is fertility expert Dr. Prati Sharma who is here to address the fear, the science, and the nuance behind one of the most debated supplements in pregnancy health. Folate and folic acid may sound interchangeable, but as Dr. Shahine and Dr. Sharma explain, the topic gets complicated fast — especially once genetics, supplements, and internet opinions enter the chat.  Together they explain the definitions, evidence-based guidelines, genetic polymorphisms like MTHFR, and how the supplement market (and sometimes fear-based messaging) can mislead patients.  Listeners will hear balanced, thoughtful insight rooted in reproductive endocrinology, science-backed recommendations, and compassionate care, not panic or overwhelm. And most importantly, you'll leave feeling calmer, more empowered, and equipped with the right questions instead of fear. In this episode you'll hear: [1:25] Why is folate vs. folic acid such a heated topic? [3:37] What is folate? [4:067 What is folic acid? [5:35] MTHFR gene variant explained [6:40] The history & science behind the recommendations [9:58] How much folic acid do you actually need? [12:56] What newer studies show [20:23] How to choose a prenatal [28:06] Final takeaways and connecting with Dr. Sharma   Resources mentioned:  @drpratiaharma on IG createivf.com/about/prati-sharma-fertility-doctor birdandbe.com ABOG Folic Acid Recommendations Review from Integrative Medicine Journal Review by Jen Gunter, MD   Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

    31 min
  6. Ep 153 Holiday Shopping Guide Ideas from Dr. Lora Shahine

    12/09/2025

    Ep 153 Holiday Shopping Guide Ideas from Dr. Lora Shahine

    Have you ever wondered what meaningful, supportive gifts look like when someone you love is navigating infertility or a fertility journey? How can you shop with intention, without the toxins, overwhelm, or "one-size-fits-all" gifting? Ready to treat someone special (especially yourself)?  In this episode of Brave and Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine invites you into holiday joy with courage, compassion, and thoughtful connection, all through the lens of reproductive health and emotional well-being.  She is sharing a curated list of gift ideas specifically designed with the fertility community in mind. Gift-giving isn't just about objects. It's about connection, acknowledgment, and gentle encouragement during a deeply personal chapter.  Treat someone you love… and don't forget to include yourself! In this episode you'll hear: [1:43] Gift guide overview [2:12] Idea #1: SheCanter [3:43] Idea #2: Infertile Tees [5:41] Idea #3: Fertility socks [6:44] Idea #4: Candle (toxin-free!) [9:27] Idea #5: Self-care/beauty products Resources mentioned:  shecanter.com Roxhill Candle Company  infertiletees.com [discount code HOPE15 through 12/31/25] ivfeet.com [discount code BRAVE10 through 12/31/25] doctorrogers.com [discount code DRSHAHINE all year long] LINNÉbotanicals.com [discount code DRSHAHINE15 all year long] shopshorrette.com [discount code DRSHAHINE15 all year long]   Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

    15 min
  7. Ep 152 The Brains and Uterus Behind Shecanter: Erica Loring's Bold Take on Women's Health and Humor

    12/02/2025

    Ep 152 The Brains and Uterus Behind Shecanter: Erica Loring's Bold Take on Women's Health and Humor

    What happens when chronic endometriosis meets fierce advocacy and a wicked sense of humor? What if your most painful experiences become the catalyst for empowering others? And how does a uterus-shaped wine decanter become a national conversation piece for women's reproductive health?  In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine chats with Erica Loring, the self-declared "brains and uterus behind Shecanter," to talk about turning pain into purpose and stigma into laughter. Erica shares her deeply personal health journey, from fainting spells through high-school to finally being heard, diagnosed, and validated after years of dismissal. Her story shines a light on endometriosis, PCOS, women's healthcare funding inequality, reproductive rights advocacy, and the power of representation through design.  Her viral product line, including uterus decanters, mugs, and more, has become both a feminist cultural symbol and a fundraising tool fueling research and resources for women with reproductive health conditions. Listeners will learn how Erica transformed a frustrating medical experience into a thriving brand, using humor as activism and novelty products as conversation starters.  In this episode you'll hear: [2:37] Erica's endometriosis journey [4:14] Medical dismissal [4:58] Diagnosis barriers [7:18] Women's health funding [11:40] Novelty feminist products [15:26] Patient self-advocacy [17:22] Reproductive health organizations [19:07] Product design process [23:21] Empowering healthcare advocacy [28:08] Finding and purchasing the products   Resources mentioned:  shecanter.com @the_shecanter on IG endometriosisassn.org pcoschallenge.org plannedparenthood.org   Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

    31 min
  8. Ep 151 Surviving the Holidays While Dealing with Infertility and Miscarriage

    11/25/2025

    Ep 151 Surviving the Holidays While Dealing with Infertility and Miscarriage

    What if you could walk into every holiday gathering feeling grounded instead of guarded? How would it feel to have a plan when the nosy fertility questions inevitably come your way? And what if you could protect your emotional well-being while enjoying the holidays full of joy and with boundaries intact?  In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine tackles the complicated reality of holiday conversations, fertility questions, and family-building pressure.  Listeners will learn practical, empowering tools for navigating holiday gatherings with confidence: how to identify an ally for support, and how to use communication strategies that range from soft deflection to strong boundary-setting.  In this episode you'll hear: [1:08] Tip #1 Don't Go [2:47] Tip #2 Find Your Ally [4:55] Tip #3 Plan Your Answers to Awkward Fertility Conversations [6:20] Tip #4 Plan an Exit Strategy [6:50] Tip #5 Plan Self Care and Recharge   Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

    9 min
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4.9
out of 5
139 Ratings

About

Fertility, reproductive health, and wellness are deeply personal—and sometimes, deeply challenging. Brave & Curious is a space for open, honest conversations about the science, emotions, and decisions that shape our reproductive journeys. Hosted by Dr. Lora Shahine, a double board certified OBGYN and reproductive endocrinologist, author, and advocate, this podcast blends evidence-based medicine with empathy and curiosity. Whether you're navigating infertility, exploring reproductive health, or simply seeking knowledge, this show will equip you with insights, expert interviews, and real stories to support your journey. New episodes drop weekly—subscribe and join the conversation. Until next time, stay brave and curious.

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