IVF Uncovered

"You need to stop and fully serve, fully love, and fully energize yourself. Stop taking the blame and giving, giving, giving. Redirect and focus that energy back onto yourself." - Episode 16 (28:30 - 28:53)Tasha Blasi The IVF Uncovered Podcast The actions, thoughts, and strategies that are actually holding you back from conception. This was the topic for my latest episode of the FU Project podcast. You can listen here. Back before my two perfect children, I was so desperate to conceive that I disregarded many bright red flags flapping violently in my face. What was I thinking? What are you thinking? In hope of saving you some drama, I've listed the red flags that I consistently see women bypass in their fertility journey. They are the deal breakers often cleverly disguised as the best options for moving you forward, but could quite possibly be holding you back from motherhood. "Work like a crazy person but do everything possible for energy restoration. The best of the best." - Episode 16 (38:50 -39:00) Here are 11 red flags to be on the lookout for so you can maintain enough energy to safely reach your final destination. "Free" advice. I know what it's like to be scrambling for answers. But please please please don't just ask anyone for advice. It'll cost you more than your wallet can spend and your mental sanity can handle. "I don't know… I was thinking of trying this." Whenever you hear that from a doctor, RUN! Your fertility journey shouldn't be a guessing game of what step to take next. The "Vegas" baby. Some doctors actually wait for a procedure to fail before they order simple tests. It's crucial for you to be wary of the bets you place so to not gamble your money away. Protect and ensure your investment by looking into everything beforehand Misery loves company. What's so wrong with wanting some support from others on their fertility journey? Only that bitching over why IVF sucks isn't exactly helpful. Stay attentive to your own journey and not someone else's. Then you can preserve your limited amount of resources to continue on in pride and confidence. "He's just not that into me." You may think your partner doesn't love you enough to help navigate the sticky patches of your fertility journey. But the truth is they just don't know how. Cut your partner some slack and work with a real expert to keep yourself moving. Comparing apples to kumquats. Your body is unique with a particular set of needs and fertility issues. Why try and compare your journey to someone else's? There's absolutely no point. Please stop slapping yourself in the face. If you're not getting anywhere, then what you're doing isn't working. Get out of your own way and surrender your fertility journey to someone who can actually help. Addicted to fears. At this point, failure might be all you know. You may have grown so acquainted with it that you expect it at every turn. Fear has become your default emotional response. Take control to disrupt the pattern and redirect your thoughts and actions to positive possibilities. The blame game. A miscarriage. Low egg reserve. This may be your current reality. But none of it is your fault. Yes, there is so much within your control but even more outside of it. You still absolutely 100% deserve to be a mother. There is no gas in the car. For any woman close to 40 thinking "Why me?"- it's biology. You need to restore your energy with clean nutrition, self-care practices, and mindset work. It's possible to reverse your biological age. The working girl. I can't stand it when I hear a potential client say, "I don't have time to do x, y, and z to get pregnant because of my job." If you're using this as an excuse, then something bigger is going on. I challenge you to put you, your needs, and your family first. "You have to love yourself fully before you should bring in another being, another relationship, into your life. Especially a child." - Episode 16 (26:48 - 27:02) You can't possibly make the journey into motherhood if you're completely sucked dry. You need a sufficient amount of emotional, physical, and financial energy. This week evaluate the areas of your life where you may be wasting your limited amount of resources. Look for any bright red flags flapping violently in your face and heed their warning. Remove any toxins such as discouraging support groups, unhelpful doctors, or negative thoughts. Overcome whatever is inhibiting you from fully loving yourself to move as swiftly as possible along your fertility journey towards motherhood. With thanks & love, Tasha READY FOR SOLUTIONS TO YOUR IVF ISSUES? ►Sign up for a strategy session WITH TASHA HERSELF!►Get a FREE Personalized Guide for Your Next IVF Protocol NEED SUPPLEMENTS? Click here for education and discounts on medical grade supplements (don't take supplements unless they are medical grade- it could hurt more than help!) WANT TO WATCH THIS PODCAST ON VIDEO? ► [The Tasha Blasi] ADD US ON: ► YouTube ► Instagram ► Facebook For more informati

"If you are going to join a coach and their program with a very specific process that shows you how to get pregnant, then you really have to trust them." - Episode 15 (18:26 - 18:41) Tasha Blasi The IVF Uncovered Podcast A fertility coach can be a time saver or time waster for you. This was the topic for my latest episode of the FU Project podcast. You can listen here. Are you thinking about hiring a fertility coach? Well, brace yourself! What I'm about to say may come as a shock. Coaching isn't for everyone. The truth is you have a limited amount of precious resources including time, money, and energy. It is important to create protective boundaries and choose wisely in how you spend them. Evaluate your current situation to decide whether hiring and utilizing a fertility coach could be a time saver or a time waster on your journey to motherhood. "A coach is a strategy to get the inside scoop, the upper hand, the fast track to success." - Episode 15 (2:55 - 3:02) People today use coaches for many different reasons. The most common is to swiftly and efficiently fulfill an intended goal. In the case of all you Fertilitites, that goal is pregnancy! Here are three situations where I would suggest you immediately hire a fertility coach. You anticipate, or are currently feeling drained. The energy that it takes for you to learn something new either equates to time wasted or well used. Is it that important and worth the cost to figure it all out on your own? Preserve your precious resources by hiring a professional with experience. You're anxious to not mess up because of how important it is to you. Let's be honest, reading self-help books on fertility can only get you so far! You want the exact answer for your exact situation. A coach can provide strategies for immediate improvement. Guaranteed, or your money back! You understand starting wrong and re-starting again is ten times more costly than starting right. Yes, I know hiring a coach is expensive. But it won't be as expensive as starting and restarting again because you failed to invest in expert guidance from the beginning. If any of the above isn't resonating with you then hiring a fertility coach would be a time waster and not a time saver. You must be able to fully trust, let go of your ideas on how your journey should look, and agree to follow a structured plan to successfully utilize a fertility coach. Are you willing to surrender? It's okay if you're not. But if you are, then you can begin to look for the right fertility coach. A good place to start would be asking for referrals. However, remember that even the most promising referrals don't always pan out. Don't give up! Continue to research your many options. Listen to your feelings when reading through a fertility coach's online content. Everything should vibe. Your intuition should be screaming, "Hell yes! I like this person!" But most importantly you should feel confident in your ability to trust them. "There are plenty of people out there that are able to help you. You just need to find somebody that you can trust." - Episode 15 (17:45 - 17:57) Are you still not clear on whether you need a fertility coach? Complete a quick list of pros and cons! As you read over it, take out any reasons that may hinder you from successfully getting pregnant. Then in your mind's eye fast forward a year from now to the worst case scenario. If you're sickened by the thought of still not being pregnant, then it's pretty clear you shouldn't invest in a fertility coach. But if the thought doesn't bother you, even when considering the worst, then I'd say go for it! Only you can weigh the cost and determine if a fertility coach would be worth your precious resources. Choose that which will save you time and not waste it to hold your baby as soon as possible! With thanks & love, Tasha READY FOR SOLUTIONS TO YOUR IVF ISSUES? ►Sign up for a strategy session WITH TASHA HERSELF!►Get a FREE Personalized Guide for Your Next IVF Protocol NEED SUPPLEMENTS? Click here for education and discounts on medical grade supplements (don't take supplements unless they are medical grade- it could hurt more than help!) WANT TO WATCH THIS PODCAST ON VIDEO? ► [The Tasha Blasi] ADD US ON: ► YouTube ► Instagram ► Facebook For more information, email us at [email protected] About the Host: Tasha Blasi is an IVF consultant and Founder of IVF Uncovered (formerly the FU Project). Using her background in the sciences, and personally going through ten rounds of IVF for her two children, she has created a life mission to help patients doing IVF know as much as their doctor so they can ask better questions and get better treatment...all while bringing an unfiltered, humorous tone to this often heartbreaking subject. Topics: Fertility Consultant, IVF Consultant, Fertility Coach, IVF Coach, IVF Success, Getting Pregnant, Staying Pregnant, Egg Retrievals, Egg Quality, Embryo Transfers, Holistic Health, Women's Health

"If you're willing to love your child unconditionally, then you are in a great space to accept the potential need for an egg donor one day." - Episode 14 (15:52 - 16:04)Tasha Blasi The IVF Uncovered Podcast The mindset and steps involved in the selection process. This was the topic for my latest episode of the FU Project podcast. You can listen here. No woman wants to hear a doctor recommend she use another woman's eggs for pregnancy! It can feel defeating. However, the procedure is just one of the many opportunities available for you to have the family of your dreams! Open yourself to this as one possibility and change your mindset to determine whether you are ready to take the appropriate steps in choosing and using an egg donor. "Children are an energy with accessories." -Episode 14 (4:53 - 4:58) Each and every child should be perceived as an energy that will someday transform into a physical body. Regardless of whether they are naturally conceived or not, their outward appearance, specific characteristics, and time of birth are beyond your control. Thankfully, you are able to control the amount of love you give whenever and however they do show up! You must be willing to love your child unconditionally in spite of this. Without a mindset of unconditional love, you will be unable to move forward as a successful parent, period! With this mindset, you can healthily continue your journey into motherhood and accept the possibility of using an egg donor. There are four steps you should take when choosing. As always, clinic first! Check how good your clinic is on sart.org. Remember, donor eggs should be plentiful from young twenty-something-year-olds. Ensure that both the number of cases per year and the stat on "Thawed Embryos with Donor Eggs" is high to indicate the best quality. Understand the medical aspect. You need to know that there won't be any issues with your blood, your husband's blood or sperm in relation to the egg donor. Triple check the compatibility before going ahead. Have a decluttered body and mind and feel the right fit. Push aside the physical looks of a donor and carefully read their profile. Listen to what you feel over what you see. Heed any obstacles as warning signs. If you experience any issues or delays with a donor, then move on. Don't force it or you will regret it later. "I want you to remember you are a mom. You are going to be a mom." - Episode 14 (3:06 - 3:14) At the end of the day, what your doctor says is not always absolute. It's your call. If you do decide to use an egg donor, then be ready to share a magnificent story with your children of the search to grow a very special seed in Mommy's belly. Stress how thankful you are they chose to show up and sprout at the exact time and way that they did. Let them know your love is unconditional. Regardless of the option you choose, your perfect child will come at the perfect time. Have faith and get ready to love them as they manifest into their spectacular uniqueness. With thanks & love, Tasha READY FOR SOLUTIONS TO YOUR IVF ISSUES? ►Sign up for a strategy session WITH TASHA HERSELF!►Get a FREE Personalized Guide for Your Next IVF Protocol NEED SUPPLEMENTS? Click here for education and discounts on medical grade supplements (don't take supplements unless they are medical grade- it could hurt more than help!) WANT TO WATCH THIS PODCAST ON VIDEO? ► [The Tasha Blasi] ADD US ON: ► YouTube ► Instagram ► Facebook For more information, email us at [email protected] About the Host: Tasha Blasi is an IVF consultant and Founder of IVF Uncovered (formerly the FU Project). Using her background in the sciences, and personally going through ten rounds of IVF for her two children, she has created a life mission to help patients doing IVF know as much as their doctor so they can ask better questions and get better treatment...all while bringing an unfiltered, humorous tone to this often heartbreaking subject. Topics: Fertility Consultant, IVF Consultant, Fertility Coach, IVF Coach, IVF Success, Getting Pregnant, Staying Pregnant, Egg Retrievals, Egg Quality, Embryo Transfers, Holistic Health, Women's Health

"You must pick the best lab before you ever consider Egg Preservation." - Episode 14 (4:17 - 4:27)Tasha Blasi The IVF Uncovered Podcast The facts you need to know about Egg Preservation. This was the topic for my latest episode of the FU Project podcast. You can listen here. Recently, on two separate occasions, I was approached by a middle-aged woman asking whether it was a good idea for her to freeze their eggs. I wasn't surprised. The race to preserve unfertilized eggs is a growing trend amongst women protective over their shot at motherhood. However, there is much to consider before you invest thousands of dollars in Egg Preservation. Learn the facts to determine whether this is a good idea for you! "In the Egg Preservation process, you don't just need your eggs taken out and frozen. You need those eggs then thawed, fertilized, grown, and potentially frozen and thawed again. That's a lot of manipulation. You can't just go to any lab using any embryologist to do that! You have to go to the best of the best." - Episode 13 (3:10 - 3:38)I know you fear that the window to motherhood is closing! But slow down and gather all the information before you freeze your eggs. Understand the facts of Egg Preservation to assess whether it would be best for you to try or skip. Do it… if you have access to a great lab and a positive snapshot of your ability to produce eggs from Day 3 Testing. Day 3 Testing can help you gain a clear understanding of your current baseline and where you fall in relation to your age group. I'll admit it's not an exact measurement of your resting follicle count and hormone levels. But it's the best option we currently have. Begin testing every 6 months, then drop to once a year if nothing has changed. Skip it… if you can't easily afford it or have a male partner. You wouldn't believe how many people tell me their husbands and boyfriends refuse to do a sperm analysis! While I understand the embarrassing nature of it, the possibility of pregnancy should outweigh the cost. Ask why, if your male partner isn't willing to do whatever it physically or emotionally takes to have a child. Have an open conversation to set clear parenting expectations. Bottom Line… aside from the needs listed above, there is only one aspect you really need to consider Egg Preservation. You need the right clinic! There are so many steps of manipulation involved that need special care and attention. Be sure to invest in the best of the best or you will be highly disappointed in your waste of precious time and energy on useless eggs. "One of the cons to egg preservation is you don't really get a look at your ability to make embryos. You just get a look at your ability to make eggs." - Episode 13 (12:56 - 13:15) Egg Preservation is a great option for just about every woman, even those with cancer. If you're about to undergo intensive treatment, then I'd highly suggest checking out the Chick Mission. They are a non-profit organization that helps cancer patients ensure their fertility future. Otherwise, I can't stress enough how important it is for you to have the right clinic for Egg Preservation. The only con is the procedure itself doesn't tell you more than your ability to produce eggs. Listen back to my last edition of "Do It or Skip It" on Episode 9 to review a list of options available. As long as you educate yourself on all your options, and understand all the facts, you have the power to choose the best path to motherhood. With thanks & love, Tasha READY FOR SOLUTIONS TO YOUR IVF ISSUES? ►Sign up for a strategy session WITH TASHA HERSELF!►Get a FREE Personalized Guide for Your Next IVF Protocol NEED SUPPLEMENTS? Click here for education and discounts on medical grade supplements (don't take supplements unless they are medical grade- it could hurt more than help!) WANT TO WATCH THIS PODCAST ON VIDEO? ► [The Tasha Blasi] ADD US ON: ► YouTube ► Instagram ► Facebook For more information, email us at [email protected] About the Host: Tasha Blasi is an IVF consultant and Founder of IVF Uncovered (formerly the FU Project). Using her background in the sciences, and personally going through ten rounds of IVF for her two children, she has created a life mission to help patients doing IVF know as much as their doctor so they can ask better questions and get better treatment...all while bringing an unfiltered, humorous tone to this often heartbreaking subject. Topics: Fertility Consultant, IVF Consultant, Fertility Coach, IVF Coach, IVF Success, Getting Pregnant, Staying Pregnant, Egg Retrievals, Egg Quality, Embryo Transfers, Holistic Health, Women's Health

"It's not black and white. It's not you can only have a baby through IVF or naturally. It's not that you work from home or become a stay at home mom...you can design whatever life you want, even if you've never heard of it before." - Episode 12 (2:36 - 2:51)Tasha Blasi The IVF Uncovered Podcast The power is in your hands. This was the topic for my latest episode of the FU Project podcast. You can listen here. Imagine what it would feel like to spring out of bed in excitement for the day ahead. What would life look like? The exciting news is you actually have the power to manifest your dreams into reality! You are the architect, should you accept the amazing responsibility to design the blueprint of your life. If you don't believe me, just ask Janelle Lara, founder of the Part-Time CEO. Janelle is a full-time mom and part-time business strategist/coach who knows you can have it all. Her belief is that all women, new moms, soon-to-be moms, and YOU have the power to build a life in alignment with the heart's true desires. I know this is a bit different than our usual topic of discussion here on the FU Project! But it is crucial for every woman wherever they are at on their fertility journey to understand the power within their hands. A power that you can embrace as an architect who listens, surrenders, trusts, and stands firm as you design the life of your dreams. "When your options are limited, sometimes you end up creating something that is a lot more creative than you ever would've done before." - Episode 12 (10:55 - 11:03) Even if you haven't allowed yourself to dream beyond the comforts of your reality, let's wipe any mud off the windshield to see clearly ahead. Begin to draw the blueprint for the life of your dreams in four steps. Listen to what is happening around you. The second your life takes an alarming turn and things don't go according to plan, hold back from immediately thinking it's all "wrong." Naturally, you'll want to complain, be pissed and cast blame. But these are the moments you should embrace and not dismiss! Life is not meant to be a linear path. The lows provide opportunities for growth and creativity that lead you to the next high. If you're attentive enough, you may even catch hidden clues for a better life blueprint. Surrender to the universe. In between that rock and a hard place, God, the universe, your angels...they're all trying to tell you something. Your options in moving forward are limited, and for good reason. The universe has something better in store. So where do you go now? Great question! First, stop and breathe. It's okay if you don't have the answers right now. While you may not know the final destination, you have clues. Shine a light and expose them to open yourself to the possibilities. Trust your instincts. Did you know you have a secret superpower? All women do! It's a psychic knowing called the female intuition. Whether you believe in it or not, it's that gut feeling that gives you a sense of the true underlying nature of anything or anyone. That's your intuition giving you clues of which direction to head in. Listen to those emotional and physical signals and act accordingly. Set up and keep firm boundaries. I hate to break it to you, but as much as you may try to be Super Woman or Super Mom, you can't be. I'm not saying you can't get close! But where exactly are you choosing to spend your limited amount of time and energy? Is that even where you really want to focus your attention? As you begin to recognize the direction you should head in, engage in the activities that will nurture a forward momentum. Set firm boundaries that protect your time and energy. Don't let others step over or violate what you have in place. Stick to your guns! You're not meant to be a people pleaser. You're on a mission to find and fulfill your greater purpose. "The sooner that you can listen to the signs, surrender to them, and know that this is the down that will propel you up so you can see more clearly, the sooner you can reach the life of your dreams." - Episode 12 (37:07 - 37:24) You can design the life of your dreams. If you're really unsure, then consider all your options! There is not one way and one way alone to conception. There is not one career choice best suited for a mother. You can pick and choose according to what's best for you and your family. The sky's the limit and the universe wants to help. So stay on the lookout for any clues along the way that will guide you in the right direction. When the path seems overwhelming, impossible, or outrageous, have faith. Especially when your gut says yes. Focus your eyes ahead and stay selective and protective of where you spend your limited time and energy. The more you open yourself to possibility the more conscious you become of what you can actually achieve. But don't take my word for it! It's time for you to take hold of your power. Become the architect of your life today and design the life of your dreams! With thanks &

"If you want a baby, then let yourself want it. Want it with all your heart and be fearless about it. Desire moves us towards what we want." - Episode 11 (25:13-25:31)Tasha Blasi The IVF Uncovered Podcast Your body is always working for you. This was the topic for my latest episode of the FU Project podcast. You can listen here. Often women who are trying to get pregnant feel shame about their body and believe that it's broken and working against them. In reality, your body is trying to do everything right. You just need to get out of the way and let it do what it was created to do. Chris Axelrad runs the Axelrad Clinics in Houston. He is an extremely talented acupuncturist and herbalist for those trying to conceive. He's written the book, Awakening the Seed, which is a compilation of the knowledge and wisdom he has acquired over the years from treating fertility issues, not just on a physical level, but on an emotional and spiritual level as well. In his work with thousands of women with fertility issues, Chris started looking for ways to simplify the process so that his clients could do the focus on the most important things that would lead to the most optimal egg quality in the shortest amount of time. "Your body will always feel okay with you getting pregnant as long as it knows it has the surplus energy to support a pregnancy." - EP11 (15:23-15:36)We often wonder why younger women get pregnant who don't have the same level of self-care as those who are older and trying to get pregnant. When a person reaches their late twenties and early thirties, their level of surplus energy starts to naturally decrease. It takes longer to restore their energy than when they were younger. Getting enough rest, sleep, and the right nutrients is essential to the regenerative and restorative process. Fertility is just a surplus energy equation, that's it. It's mostly about slowing down and calming down. Slowing down and calming down is far easier said than done. The fertility struggle triggers deep primal fears that you're going to die if you don't have a baby. After all, babies are how the human race survives. But, when you're constantly discharging energy with the high-intensity emotion that comes from this fear, the energy won't be able to go to the eggs. Finding meditations, like some that can be found in Chris' book, can help to calm your nervous system so it isn't discharging so much energy. Fear is a high-powered, negative and repelling force. Desire, on the other hand, is an attracting force that generates love, positivity, gratitude, and abundance that moves us toward what we want. Love and the Fertility Journey Wanting a baby is a beautiful thing, because what one actually wants when they want a baby is to experience unconditional love. We remember the unconditional love from when we were babies and we want that again. You don't have to wait to have a child to experience unconditional love. You can start giving it to yourself now. Instead of saying, "When I have the baby, then …" say, "I love myself right now. I care for myself. I'm kind to myself. I'm merciful with myself. I forgive myself. I feel grateful that I'm here and there are no conditions on that. Even though I'm not pregnant yet, even though, even though, even though … I love myself just like I would love my baby." When your mind and heart are filled with unconditional love for you first, it has a positive effect on your eggs. The most powerful fertility "drug" is self-directed loving kindness which transforms your energy into something that is actually medicinal for your eggs. It's even more powerful than any drug, because your body's own innate native chemistry is the most powerful drug there is. There are things you can do to help speed up the fertility process, such as supplements, IVF, medications, and dietary and lifestyle changes. But if you only do this one thing - care deeply about yourself, nurture yourself, love yourself, and be kind to yourself - everything else will fall into place. One of the best things you can do on this journey, is to find someone to walk alongside you to offer support and guidance. In my work with women, I have grown even more confident in the knowledge that women can get pregnant more quickly, and have successful pregnancies more often when they are not trying to figure it all out alone. "This fertility thing is not something you have to learn how to do. The wisdom is already encoded within you. The only thing that I do is help people express that wisdom in less time than they probably would if they were doing it all by themselves." - EP11 (38:09-38:29) In the last part of Chris' book, he provides a self-assessment to help you understand the dominant areas of your body that are having trouble finishing the work that they want to do. The book also contains information about just a few supplements to focus on. With this information, between 60-70% of his clients are getting pregnant. This stuff really works. You can f

"I promise you, you don't want anyone else's fertility journey." - Episode 10 (3:27 - 3:30)Tasha Blasi The IVF Uncovered Podcast You are blessed and will be blessed with many gifts. This was the topic for my latest episode of the FU Project podcast. You can listen here. Have you ever felt extremely jealous of another friend's fertility journey? You're not alone. Just about every one of my clients has too. In fact, the majority of my time is spent encouraging women to not focus on what they don't have and give thanks for what they do have. This is no easy feat. Life doesn't always seem so abundant especially if you're waiting on the edge of that pregnancy seat. Envy darkens attention and clouds honest discernment. The truth is, you are blessed. To overcome fertility envy, it is important to recognize and give thanks for the many gifts you currently have and will receive. You have a choice to remain miserable in your envy, or to be empowered with the joy found in gratitude. "Those that have big wins in life tend to have a much harder time with the struggles that come later on. And they always come later on." - Episode 10 (2:37 - 2:39) Choose an attitude of gratitude. Life is filled with turbulence guaranteed to toss us around. It's just how it is. Persevere anyway and strive to keep your eyes open. If you're too focused on what other women have, then you'll lose sight and miss out on what you currently have. Here are three reasons to celebrate your fertility journey and not be green with envy.1. Another woman's baby is not your gift. That baby was meant for that woman and not you. Just you wait. When the time is right, your perfect baby will come! Your kids will be way cuter. Is an explanation really necessary? I didn't think so. Your partner is smoking hot. If you were on someone else's fertility journey, then you would have an entirely different partner. I don't know about you, but I'm not willing to switch my foxy husband for someone else's to have a baby. No thank you! As I proceeded through an ultimate low of 10 rounds of IVF, I reflected on these three reasons while I envisioned holding my baby in my arms. I never wanted to trade my fertility journey with anyone else. I never wanted to forfeit the gifts in my possession and the gifts in my future. You have gifts written with your name on them. Can you see them? Or is envy blocking you? "Unfortunately some people cannot think clearly with all of the clutter that has built up from their past and current fertility journey to see all the beautiful gifts that they have right in front of them." - Episode 10 (4:45 - 5:00) A snap of the fingers won't do the trick. If you've been in this green funk for a while, then you really need to sit down and begin decluttering your mind to open your eyes. Try the "Who Am I" exercise. Write down a list of 50 (yes 50!) gifts you're extremely proud of. They could include physical feats, past achievements or acts of service you provided that encouraged others. Eventually, you'll reach the aha! moment of "Oh my gosh, I'm really awesome! Who knew?" I knew! As do your loved ones and friends. Ask them to participate and write out their own list of 50 gifts they celebrate in and with you. Take these lists to bed with you and read them before you sleep. Allow your subconscious to repeat, "Yes, I'm awesome!" over and over again to encourage an optimistic attitude. Then just before you close your eyes and drift away, give thanks to the source of your many gifts and the gifts yet to come. Your guardian angels will continue to guide you forward through the highs and lows and lead you to exactly what you want and where you need to be. Don't make their job any harder by steaming green and pushing for someone else's path! Stay the course. Your perfect baby is down the way. With thanks & love, Tasha READY FOR SOLUTIONS TO YOUR IVF ISSUES? ►Sign up for a strategy session WITH TASHA HERSELF!►Get a FREE Personalized Guide for Your Next IVF Protocol NEED SUPPLEMENTS? Click here for education and discounts on medical grade supplements (don't take supplements unless they are medical grade- it could hurt more than help!) WANT TO WATCH THIS PODCAST ON VIDEO? ► [The Tasha Blasi] ADD US ON: ► YouTube ► Instagram ► Facebook For more information, email us at [email protected] About the Host: Tasha Blasi is an IVF consultant and Founder of IVF Uncovered (formerly the FU Project). Using her background in the sciences, and personally going through ten rounds of IVF for her two children, she has created a life mission to help patients doing IVF know as much as their doctor so they can ask better questions and get better treatment...all while bringing an unfiltered, humorous tone to this often heartbreaking subject. Topics: Fertility Consultant, IVF Consultant, Fertility Coach, IVF Coach, IVF Success, Getting Pregnant, Staying Pregnant, Egg Retrievals, Egg Quality, Embryo Transfers, Holistic Health, Women's Health

"There are so many variables that go into a fertility journey and into creating a direct path to parenthood." - Episode 9 (21:11 - 21:22)Tasha Blasi The IVF Uncovered Podcast The facts you need to know about IUI, TTC Naturally, and Genetic Testing. This was the topic for my latest episode of the FU Project podcast. You can listen here. As infertility rates grow, women are provided false information and pushed towards the "one right way" to get pregnant. However, there are so many options available for you on your fertility journey! Learn the facts of three common but different methods for conception before bombarding yourself with appointments and exhausting your time and energy. In sifting through each of their pros and cons, you can begin to build the best path for you and your partner towards parenthood. "If there is a possibility for you to get pregnant another way and you have options, we're going to create a journey where those options are included within your timeline of when you want to get pregnant." - Episode 9 (9:43 - 9:56) I know you're anxious to get pregnant! But slow down and gather all the information before you jump right in. Understand the facts to assess whether it would be best for you to try or skip IUI, TTC Naturally, or Genetic Testing. Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) Do it...if you or your partner have no known fertility issues and you've been trying to conceive naturally for 6 months. Also, if you have no known fertility issues and you are without a partner, or with a partner of the same sex, then this may be a good option for you! In some cases, it may even be possible and appropriate to convert an IVF to an IUI. Consult your doctor on whether you are eligible to switch over, especially if you are in the middle of an IVF round and are not seeing many eggs. Skip it…if you don't fit any of the criteria above! IUI requires time, money, and energy to spend. If you don't have an unlimited amount of any of those right now, I recommend heading straight to IVF instead. Bottom Line… IUI has an 8% to 35% success rate IF you complete 3 rounds. After those 3 rounds though, your chances for success actually start to decrease. While IUI is not my favorite, if your insurance covers it, requires you to try IUI first before IVF, or doesn't cut into your fertility fund, then I say go for it! No matter what, give it at least 3 rounds to increase your chance for conception. Trying to Conceive Naturally (TTC Naturally) Do it…actually do it, before trying anything else! I never recommend heading straight to fertility treatments unless it is an absolute must. If there is any possibility for you to conceive naturally then you should at least try. Skip it…only if you are without a partner or with a partner of the same sex. In other words, only skip it if it's just not physically possible! I always encourage my clients to try to conceive naturally first by using all the tips, tricks, and information available. Bottom Line...if there is a possibility for you to conceive naturally, create a journey to explore your options within an appropriate timeline. There are so many diagnostic tests to run and natural remedies able to balance your hormones, prepare your body, and build a positive mindset. Explore your options naturally before attempting anything else. Genetic Testing Do it…if you can easily afford it and have access to an exceptional clinic. A clinic that is reputable with consistent results is key to your success. Before you take out any loans, research to find the best of the best. Clients that live in the States can gain more insight on clinics nearby at www.sart.org. However, if you have limited funds, I highly recommend using your money for egg retrieval instead of Genetic Testing. Skip it…if you're not making a lot of embryos and can't get to day 5. Similarly, skip it if you do get to day 5 but the embryos are tested as genetically abnormal. Granted, this is assuming you're following the right drug protocol and you're at an amazing clinic. But if you're not making it to day 5 with an abundance of embryos or the opposite, genetically abnormal embryos, I don't believe you are to blame. Don't take those results as an absolute and skip ahead to explore your other options. Bottom Line...there is a risk in everything. With a 20% chance of error, these tests are far from perfect. Even at the top clinics, there is always a chance for an unsuccessful implant, or a successful implant to turn into a miscarry, or to conceive a genetically unhealthy baby. I see it all the time. I challenge you to examine and weigh the risk. Genetic testing is a rigorous process for the embryos to undergo. Consider not putting them through this manipulation when they may very well be healthy now. "The way to know if you should try to conceive naturally or move on to fertility treatments is to first have ALL of the information." - Episode 9 (11:03 - 11:15) I can't stress enough to not take what I say as black and white. These are

"Having sex to have a baby when you have fertility issues is the worst and least sexy sex there is." - Episode 8 (0:14 - 0:22)Tasha Blasi The IVF Uncovered Podcast Fertility issues can rob the pleasure and excitement of sex. This was the topic for my latest episode of the FU Project podcast. You can listen here. Those of us with fertility issues understand that babymaking turns sex into a whole new beast. I'm not talking about the playful, frisky under the sheets sex while Marvin Gaye whines "Let's Get It On!". I'm talking about the "Hey honey, hurry up I'm ovulating today!" sex with Hanson snapping MMMBop. Super romantic, right? No way! I would know. I've had a truly horrific "worst sex of my life" experience. Thankfully, I survived and am here to share my story with you. "We had to have sex in a cardboard box with his parents and sister in the next room making coffee." - Episode 8 (1:51 - 1:58) Back when I was still trying to naturally conceive, my husband and I rented a beach house with his family. The idea sounded pleasant enough. That is, until we pulled up to a cardboard-looking box of a house. Nevertheless, we piled in and situated ourselves in our respective rooms. Our room happened to be right next to the kitchen. You could imagine my excitement when I could hear the crispness of breakfast being made traveling through the thin walls on the morning of ovulation day. We had already been trying for nine months. That morning I told my husband it was now or never. Slowly we climbed onto the rickety bed as we started "getting ready" for our day. The springs screamed back and threatened to expose us with our every move. Perhaps the shower could help cover the noise? My husband disappeared into the bathroom and quickly returned. Regrettably, no luck. First strike. We rolled onto the floor. But the hardwood was, well, too hard. Second strike. Our last resort was to stand. There was only one little problem here. My husband is 6'6" and I'm 5'5". I would have to hold onto something to manage. As we shuffled our way to the bathroom sink, we were greeted by a blanket of hot steam from my husband's previously brilliant idea. I felt like I couldn't breathe. Enough was enough. This was taking far too long for anyone to casually "get ready." In fear of losing our chance, stifling my husband's performance and revealing my true feelings of this hellish situation, I called upon a shameful but necessary approach to getting the job done."I was embarrassed and worried and self-conscious that his mom knew we were trying to 'do it' in the bathroom ." - Episode 8 (6:56 - 7:04) I faked face. Now before you point the finger, know that I didn't fake the "big-o." I have way too much respect for myself! I didn't fake the big-o, but I faked my "enjoyment" of this hellish nightmare of an experience. My husband finished and surprise, we didn't get pregnant that month. I share this story with you because I really want to help bring some comfort in your own fertility issues and sexcapades in babymaking. Thankfully we discovered IVF soon after. While what I just shared would've been way more interesting and horrifyingly awkward as the story of my children's conception, I sort of like the truth better. Mommy and Daddy sat in two separate rooms of a lab while MMMBop played in the background. At least then I got pregnant! So it's sexy enough for me! With thanks & love, Tasha READY FOR SOLUTIONS TO YOUR IVF ISSUES? ►Sign up for a strategy session WITH TASHA HERSELF!►Get a FREE Personalized Guide for Your Next IVF Protocol NEED SUPPLEMENTS? Click here for education and discounts on medical grade supplements (don't take supplements unless they are medical grade- it could hurt more than help!) WANT TO WATCH THIS PODCAST ON VIDEO? ► [The Tasha Blasi] ADD US ON: ► YouTube ► Instagram ► Facebook For more information, email us at [email protected] About the Host: Tasha Blasi is an IVF consultant and Founder of IVF Uncovered (formerly the FU Project). Using her background in the sciences, and personally going through ten rounds of IVF for her two children, she has created a life mission to help patients doing IVF know as much as their doctor so they can ask better questions and get better treatment...all while bringing an unfiltered, humorous tone to this often heartbreaking subject. Topics: Fertility Consultant, IVF Consultant, Fertility Coach, IVF Coach, IVF Success, Getting Pregnant, Staying Pregnant, Egg Retrievals, Egg Quality, Embryo Transfers, Holistic Health, Women's Health

"IVF is not an imprisonment, but a choice we get to make to help our family dreams come true." - Episode 7 (2:36)Tasha Blasi The IVF Uncovered Podcast IVF and its requirements can feel really restrictive. Fix your mindset to let yourself off the hook. This was the topic for my latest episode of the FU Project podcast. It's amazing how much IVF has in common with a prison sentence - at least on paper. The fact is, far too many women who are on a tough fertility journey think of their IVF treatments, and the lifestyle they require, as a stint behind bars. Before we go any further I want to let you know. It's not. Not even a little bit. "It's not foundational work to help balance your hormones. It's about being a better problem-solver." - Episode 7 (15:37)But if you're feeling trapped in IVF jail, there are three simple keys for opening up the door and getting free: That jail cell is not your worst nightmare. It's what's going to make your dreams come true. Too often, I hear women talk about how they "have" to do IVF and all that accompanies the process. Good news! You don't have to do IVF. You get to do IVF. If you're feeling imprisoned, stop feeling sorry for yourself and be thankful these treatments exist, and that you can access them. There are plenty of women in the world who can't do so. Yes, IVF takes a lot of T.I.M.E. - that's Time, Investment, Mental Health, and Energy - but the benefit far outweighs the cost. Understanding that you're not a prisoner of your lifestyle means figuring out how your lifestyle can support your happiness and your efforts to be a great mom - before your baby shows up.There's no lock on the door. Nothing is keeping you in your jail cell. You don't have to get rid of the food, drinks, and activities you love for the length of your fertility journey. All you really need to do is rein it in a little for the few weeks leading up to an egg retrieval and the same before a transfer. That's it. Beyond that, it's all about targeted de-cluttering. If a habit isn't directly interfering with your efforts to get pregnant or your well-being, go for it. Live your life like a responsible adult, and indulge on special occasions. You can start with quick wins to make you feel like yourself - like a glass of wine or a cup of coffee - and then do the foundational mindset work to be a better problem-solver before baby arrives. "The past is the heaviest clutter to carry around. True freedom comes from seeing every mistake as a lesson." - Episode 7 (24:10) Look at your past as an expensive, valuable education that made you wiser today. Anyone who hasn't done training aimed at mindset work or decluttering typically gets caught up on two different questions. Why did I allow that, when I know better, and why do things like this keep happening to me? The healthiest way of looking at your past starts with the understanding that there are no mistakes, unless you're stuck in those decisions and unable to move forward. Think of those "mistakes" as lessons instead. As with every education, there is a cost, but the higher the cost, the better the education. Everyone does the best they can with the education and consciousness they have at the time. You should never blame yourself for making a decision in the past based on what you knew then. You are in a new season of life, armed with new knowledge, to make new decisions. You're in control of your life as you go through IVF, and freeing yourself from the fertility fail cell is as simple as opening the door, and remembering that true freedom comes from seeing your past as a lesson. With thanks & love, Tasha READY FOR SOLUTIONS TO YOUR IVF ISSUES? ►Sign up for a strategy session WITH TASHA HERSELF!►Get a FREE Personalized Guide for Your Next IVF Protocol NEED SUPPLEMENTS? Click here for education and discounts on medical grade supplements (don't take supplements unless they are medical grade- it could hurt more than help!) WANT TO WATCH THIS PODCAST ON VIDEO? ► [The Tasha Blasi] ADD US ON: ► YouTube ► Instagram ► Facebook For more information, email us at [email protected] About the Host: Tasha Blasi is an IVF consultant and Founder of IVF Uncovered (formerly the FU Project). Using her background in the sciences, and personally going through ten rounds of IVF for her two children, she has created a life mission to help patients doing IVF know as much as their doctor so they can ask better questions and get better treatment...all while bringing an unfiltered, humorous tone to this often heartbreaking subject. Topics: Fertility Consultant, IVF Consultant, Fertility Coach, IVF Coach, IVF Success, Getting Pregnant, Staying Pregnant, Egg Retrievals, Egg Quality, Embryo Transfers, Holistic Health, Women's Health

"There is not one pillar more important than the others...they are all equally 25% to make it 100% possible for you to hold your baby so much sooner." -Episode 6 (19:38 - 20:04)Tasha Blasi The IVF Uncovered Podcast The four pillars of a successful pregnancy. Wherever you are in your fertility journey, do not lose hope. Successful conception is possible. My two children are living beautiful proof after many failed treatments and let downs. Most doctors and mothers-to-be tend to place all of their hope in the science of fertility and become frustrated when it lets them down time after time. The truth is, there are four potential factors that are inhibiting you from getting or staying pregnant: science, environment, mindset, and support. Each pillar holds equal weight and bringing them all into alignment, and tearing down any red flag that stands in the way, is the most effective way for you to get to that goal - finally holding that precious baby in your arms. "Doctors are human. They don't know everything and have been educated in different ways. It's not okay if you feel there is something else to be done and they're just saying, "Just try again."- Episode 6 (6:06 - 6:22) Science. There are so many variables that lie within this pillar. The doctor, embryologist, lab, and drug protocols all play a part in helping you get and stay pregnant. While undergoing IVF, and looking for red flags in this pillar, it is so important to assess the results of your second egg retrieval. For example, if you experience no success in your first egg retrieval procedure, then return for a second attempt where the results are worse than before, you are not to blame. In most cases, the second round should be better than the first. Three tries are too many even if the lab is the "best of the best." If this is the case for you it may be time to change clinics. Every medical facility has a set of rules and a standard protocol to follow. However, there is always a possibility that these promised and proven methods can be mishandled or flawed. When examining the factors that may be keeping you from getting or staying pregnant, it is important to consider whether or not your doctor and the lab live up to their reputation. To determine the effectiveness of your doctor, calculate the difference between how many eggs were retrieved versus how many were mature. To determine the effectiveness of the lab, calculate the difference between the mature eggs and the number of eggs that were fertilized. If either of these figures shows an alarming contrast, this is a blazing red flag. Another variable in the science pillar is the drug protocol implemented for the transfer. When nothing is sticking, and you're experiencing multiple miscarriages, consider your doctor's reaction. If they aren't making new recommendations, it's time to speak up! Be your own advocate and refuse to just "try again" if you feel there is something more or different to explore. Proper Environment. The second pillar to successful conception is a proper environment. Consider how you feel in the middle of your workday at three o'clock in the afternoon. Do you feel happy and energized to complete the rest of your tasks? Alternatively, do you feel tired and ready to take a nap? If you gravitate towards the latter, you may need to revise and transform your daily habits to create a more wholesome environment. Our environment is comprised of both emotional and physical wellbeing. When either of these is filled with clutter, our hormones can be dramatically affected. Symptoms of emotional clutter include detrimental bouts of anger, anxiety, stress, or feeling less than. Symptoms of physical clutter include lack of sleep, dips in energy, and irritable bowel movements. Inflammation and the inability to lose weight also indicate that something is getting in your way. Thankfully all of these are controllable factors. Even those with low egg reserve should take comfort in the fact that making small changes can make a difference. Forget the misconception that a woman needs three months to alter her results of egg retrieval. Start to take tangible steps now to declutter and ignite change. Mindset. Mindset is the most important and third pillar to successful conception. The advice to "just relax" is highly overrated. Plenty of crazy women get pregnant regularly! Your stress, anxiety, or career-focused mindset is not to blame for your inability to get pregnant. However, it is imperative to learn how to problem solve and deal with stress now before your baby arrives. If you think things feel crazy and out of control now, wait until you are holding that crying baby at 2 am. It would be best if you have a firm handle on yourself, emotions, and environment. Prioritize this pillar above all others. Gain control over the mindset to naturally balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and dictate your feelings. "The women that just don't think about it and jump in are the ones that soar." - Episode 6

"All these procedures, drugs, doctor's appointments… we can always find things to be in love with about the IVF process and to be super thankful for." - Episode 5 (16:04)Tasha Blasi The IVF Uncovered Podcast IVF and "natural" conception are incredibly similar processes. Comparing the two is a step towards falling in love with this part of your journey. One of the major misconceptions - and frequent objections - hanging over women who conceive through IVF is the idea that it's "not natural." This is wrong, obviously, but many people who believe it simply don't know how natural IVF is. The best way to dispel the confusion is to hold it right up next to "natural" conception and note the similarities. The Parts: Egg, sperm, uterus. All the stuff you learned about in high school biology. All are necessary for both IVF and natural conception. Of course, what about the drugs involved in IVF? Drugs or no drugs, no matter the size of your reserve, almost all of the time you'll find yourself with only one or two super healthy-looking embryos. Why? Because that's how it's supposed to be, naturally. Fertilization: This is where the biggest difference lies. The egg and sperm are put together in a Petri dish, but only the egg and sperm that are right for each other will grow - the same as they would if they were inside you. All we've done is introduced them a little differently. Embryo Insertion: Although a doctor places the embryo inside you, absolutely nothing will happen if the environment isn't right. The IVF process can't force your body to hold onto an embryo. Nature kicks in where science leaves off. Unless you have a bone to pick with an instrument being used to insert the embryo, this part is all you. "It's not enough to just get pregnant via IVF treatments. You have to have the foundational stuff, the support, the emotional and physical de-cluttering, and the mindset work." - Episode 5 (13:01)The natural conclusion to the argument that IVF babies are "unnatural" is that the resulting child is different and that you or your baby are somehow inferior. In fact, there often is a difference, but the difference is in the parents, which goes on to affect the children. Parents of IVF babies worked and sacrificed and persevered for their child. There's nothing mundane about these pregnancies, and so every baby born this way is treated like a miracle. Their lives are forever changed, and their parenting is affected in the most beautiful way. There's no shame or stigma in fertility treatments - embrace them for the amazing opportunity they are.All the challenges of the IVF process make it so necessary for mothers using this method to have a solid foundation built on the pillars of science, environment, mindset, and support, as well as strategies for problem-solving as they go along their fertility journey. "It is a miracle that any of us have been created normally. And I think it's really important for all of us going through fertility treatments." - Episode 5 (3:12) The final complaint in the argument that IVF is "unnatural" has to do with the drugs you're given during transfer if drugs are utilized. Natural transfers are frequently an option. Sure, you could definitely call those drugs an interference to the natural process of conceiving. But you know what else you could call them? A miracle. You should look at those drugs as a way to help you get past whatever fertility roadblocks you may have to deal with. Difficulty conceiving is just a medical condition. Would you feel ashamed of taking medication for your allergies? There will always be those people. The ones who don't fully understand the process, and think IVF is unnatural. When you run across them and they look unfavorably on your fertility situation, extend them compassion for doing the best they can with the knowledge they have. Above all, send love to your situation. You are not unnatural, and neither is your baby-to-be. READY FOR SOLUTIONS TO YOUR IVF ISSUES? ►Sign up for a strategy session WITH TASHA HERSELF!►Get a FREE Personalized Guide for Your Next IVF Protocol NEED SUPPLEMENTS? Click here for education and discounts on medical grade supplements (don't take supplements unless they are medical grade- it could hurt more than help!) WANT TO WATCH THIS PODCAST ON VIDEO? ► [The Tasha Blasi] ADD US ON: ► YouTube ► Instagram ► Facebook For more information, email us at [email protected] About the Host: Tasha Blasi is an IVF consultant and Founder of IVF Uncovered (formerly the FU Project). Using her background in the sciences, and personally going through ten rounds of IVF for her two children, she has created a life mission to help patients doing IVF know as much as their doctor so they can ask better questions and get better treatment...all while bringing an unfiltered, humorous tone to this often heartbreaking subject. Topics: Fertility Consultant, IVF Consultant, Fertility Coach, IVF Coach, IVF Success, Getting Pregnant, Staying Pregnant, Egg Retrieva

"Every journey that leads to the creation of something amazing is going to be tough and filled with many lessons.." Tasha Blasi IVF Uncovered Your baby is not a magic cure for everything wrong in your life. If you're a mother-to-be on a long fertility journey, I want you to try an exercise. Describe yourself as a mother - or a mother of two, if you already have a little one. How do you act towards yourself, your children, and your partner? How would you describe your energy? What one word would you use to describe yourself? Look in a mirror and make the expression on your face that describes that word. Now compare the woman you are today to the woman you just described. How is she different? Do you look different, act differently, express your energy differently? If those two women are similar, it's possible that you are in a position where you could honestly say that you love your life and yourself as you are today. If they're very different, I have good news disguised as bad news. The arrival of your baby is not going to make you into the woman you imagined yourself to be. Your baby will not make you happy, nor will she fix your self-esteem or your relationships. In fact, the birth of your child will make whatever it is you're experiencing that you think will go away once you have a baby, much worse. "I didn't have any systems in place, so my anxiety got so much worse. If you think you have fears not getting pregnant, wait until that perfect little baby arrives." - Tasha Blasi (5:34) I'm a perfect example. Before my children were born, when I thought of myself as a mother, I could not imagine that woman without a smile on my face. I would be happy, joyous, and beaming with love. I knew I'd be so proud and happy. Finally. There would be no anxiety and no stress. In reality, nothing was how imagined it. I certainly looked happy and confident to those around me, but that was because I didn't want to show any weakness. I was convinced that I could handle everything on my own. I'm here to tell you that the "guarded do-it-yourself" mentality is stupid, and it comes with costs. I had chronic stress that I didn't recognize until my fertility journey. The journey itself didn't give me anxiety, it just dramatically increased the already present anxiety to a tipping point. I had anxiety attacks for the first time during IVF. But I was okay with that because when baby arrived, I would be joyful and peaceful and perfectly happy. Right? Of course, when baby did arrive, I wasn't perfectly happy because I didn't have any systems in place for dealing with fears and problems. My anxiety multiplied. Constant worrying isn't good for you or anyone else. Put up safeguards to protect yourself.See, once your baby is born, now you actually have something to fear. Your mind will jump to the worst-case scenarios over nothing. I used to lay awake and think about my daughter going off to college and dying of alcohol poisoning. In 18 years. This is not a healthy way to live. But it is common. Women on fertility journeys typically think that pregnancy is an answer to their problems, when in fact it may be the issue. Although my work does help women get pregnant, the bigger result for my clients is cultivating total love and pride in self. We work on problem-solving so that these women have a system in place when their fears inevitably arrive. I help my future moms de-clutter all the unnecessary junk from their past and begin to love themselves. This transformation of self-love and worthiness is the most important part of my program, and it is so much easier to do before the baby arrives than after. Once baby gets here, if you don't have systems, your anxiety will only get worse. So, what do I mean by 'systems?' I help my clients create strategies for dealing with fears, anxieties, and self-esteem issues. Different situations require different tools, so I introduce clients to my ASS - Anti-Anxiety Self Soothers. My ASS is designed based on what's happening around you, and your response. It is not okay that you have anxiety about your fertility journey, and it is possible to hear about other people's babies and not feel bad about yourself. In fact, becoming aware that you don't have systems in place is the first step in the process. "The most important part of the program is this transformation of true self-worth, confidence, and problem-solving capabilities." - Tasha Blasi (8:33) If you're looking for a place to start, here are a few ideas: Consider planning your day so that you use your energy wisely. You have limited energy, and if you're constantly depleting it with no way to restore it, you're far more prone to sickness, stress, and all things unhealthy. Be sure you intentionally schedule time throughout the day to hydrate, breathe and relax, and move. Make a list of things that positively shift your energy, and make them available when you need them. Think of things that make you laugh and smile. Finally, look back at that list you

"Once you have clarity and guidance, all of the questions and comments are not as triggering." Episode 3 (11:37)Tasha Blasi The IVF Uncovered Podcast If you are undergoing fertility treatments, chances are you're going to be asked some rude, invasive, ignorant questions. The best way to handle it is to be prepared. Everyone's an expert, particularly when they find out you're undergoing IVF treatments. A lot of women on their own fertility journey know what it's like to have a well-meaning but misguided individual ask, "Well, have you considered adoption or surrogacy?" "When you get triggered by insensitive comments, allow yourself to feel compassion and understanding. Give love back to that person for wanting to help you." - Episode 3 (9:30)In the face of those inappropriate questions, you have the challenge to respond in an appropriate way. There are a lot of methods at your disposal. But first, a note to you if you are that well-meaning person. The best thing you can do for a mom-to-be on a tough fertility journey is shut up. Unless you have been through exactly what they're going through - not just IVF, not a failed transfer, but the exact same thing - do not offer advice unless explicitly asked for it. If you must say something, tell the mom-to-be how incredibly brave she is, what a hard journey she is on, and how lucky her future baby is to have a mom who loves and wants him/her so much. I guarantee, she knows all the alternatives. She has chosen IVF. Now, if you are a woman on a fertility journey who is facing this question before you answer, there are two questions to consider. First, why did the person ask you that? Ultimately, that person is doing the best they can with the knowledge and consciousness they are working with right then. It is not your job to educate them or elevate their consciousness. The best you can do is be compassionate. Know that they mean well and want to help, and give love to those intentions. Second, why is the question of alternatives so triggering? Easy. It echoes the shame, self-doubt, and questions of worthiness that come with a difficult fertility journey. Even more than that, it reflects the lack of clarity you may already be experiencing. Clarity is a godsend when dealing with this issue. When you have clarity on your journey, it will boost your confidence and allow you to move forward without getting triggered as often. Having a clear, confident mindset about your fertility journey will help you to respond with wisdom and grace - or just have some fun with it.So, what can you say to ignorant people who really shouldn't be giving fertility advice? You have a range of options. The Graceful - You can simply say, "Thank you, your concern means a lot. We are considering all options." This lets the other person know that you appreciate their intentions, but you've got it handled. The Educational - Something like, "There are a lot of things I can't control on this journey. Timing is one of them, but I'm good with that." You're at peace with your journey, and using this approach lets people know that it's ultimately an issue of timing, not your ability to conceive. The Game - Rude questions about a woman's fertility come up far too often. Instead of dreading it, make it into a game. If you're going to a party or family gathering where you know you'll be confronted, place bets with a friend or your partner as to how long it'll take someone to ask a dumb question or how many times it happens and then set a prize. Now you might even look forward to a conversation that was formerly awkward and hurtful. Taking the pressure off of you and shifting negative energy to positive is so important on your journey. The Sassy - Sometimes enough is just enough, and you're ready to flip the script on the next person who asks you about adopting/surrogacy. If you've got the brass to do it, use one of the following, "Gee, I thought about those options, but I might rather do it the old-fashioned way. Maybe you could give me some advice! What position did you use to conceive your kid?" Or, "I would love to adopt, but I've been to prison. You knew that, right?" You get the picture. Get creative with it. They're being invasive, and two can play at that game. Bonus points - answer the dumb questions with, "Thank you for the advice. How's your marriage?" "If you tell people, 'This is ugly and frustrating. But it's mine, and I accept it, and I'm going to get through it,' they will understand." - Episode 3 (15:00) No matter what approach you choose, the important thing to remember is that your fertility journey is your own. All you really need to do is focus on you and your future baby. READY FOR SOLUTIONS TO YOUR IVF ISSUES? ►Sign up for a strategy session WITH TASHA HERSELF!►Get a FREE Personalized Guide for Your Next IVF Protocol NEED SUPPLEMENTS? Click here for education and discounts on medical grade supplements (don't take supplements unless they are medical grade- it could hurt more than help!)

"I know that immediately, I might lose my client, but I must tell people when I feel that their resources are going to be wasted." Tasha Blasi (3:05) Tasha Blasi The IVF Uncovered Podcast Choosing the right clinic is vital for the success of your IVF treatments - even if it means leaving the one you like. Loyalty is an excellent quality until it's not. When women are on their fertility journey, the idea of changing doctors or clinics can be scary and uncomfortable. I hate to hear clients say, "But I love my doctor!" It is my responsibility to research the doctor in question to be sure that they have the stats and the skill to get clients pregnant - and when they don't, that means a very difficult conversation is in order. There are a lot of factors that go into which fertility clinic a mom-to-be chooses, not the least of which is emotional comfort, familiarity, and the hassles that could come with going elsewhere. "When people think all doctors and labs are the same, that is a huge misconception." - Tasha Blasi (8:18)That said, I ask a couple of questions to clients who choose to stay with their current, less-than-ideal clinic: First, is there anything I myself can fix? This usually means protocols to recommend. Second, is the client willing, emotionally and financially, to commit to 3 more egg retrievals at the clinic? In my view, each new clinic gets 2 rounds of IVF before judgment. However, if the results of the second round do not exceed those of the first, it's time to cut ties. If it hasn't happened at this point, it's not going to happen. As my clients wrestle with these questions, they are given an exercise that lends a little clarity to the decision at hand. The point of this exercise is to get out of your own way where changing labs is concerned. Women and their partners can do this by recognizing what stands in the way of a successful round of IVF. If you're struggling with the decision to change clinics, put the problem on paper.Writing out a list of pros and cons related to each possible clinic is a fabulous start. As you go, it helps to cross off every item that has nothing to do with successful IVF. These are often things like the convenience of the current clinic, the timing, good feelings at the current place versus the next, etc. After all the extra has been crossed off, does one clinic stand out above the other? Is there a clear winner? The other question at hand, for those who have already bought a bundle of retrievals and transfers is this, if you canceled right now, how much of your money would you get back? The typical answer is half. If you got half of your money back, look at it as an investment in the right choice of clinics for your fertility journey. Finally, my clients must also consider the question of results. If you stay where you are now and get the same results, or worse, would you leave after the next time? If so, you need to be done at that clinic. "I don't charge more the longer you're in my program. I charge based on a result. When you have your baby is when my job is done." - Tasha Blasi (20:00) I make clinic recommendations based on a bundle of factors to ensure that each hopeful mother gets exactly the care her situation calls for. Not only that, but my efforts are driven by the desire to see my clients' fertility journey end happily, not by any sort of revenue incentive. The FU Project only succeeds once you hold your baby in your arms. READY FOR SOLUTIONS TO YOUR IVF ISSUES? ►Sign up for a strategy session WITH TASHA HERSELF!►Get a FREE Personalized Guide for Your Next IVF Protocol NEED SUPPLEMENTS? Click here for education and discounts on medical grade supplements (don't take supplements unless they are medical grade- it could hurt more than help!) WANT TO WATCH THIS PODCAST ON VIDEO? ► [The Tasha Blasi] ADD US ON: ► YouTube ► Instagram ► Facebook For more information, email us at [email protected] About the Host: Tasha Blasi is an IVF consultant and Founder of IVF Uncovered (formerly the FU Project). Using her background in the sciences, and personally going through ten rounds of IVF for her two children, she has created a life mission to help patients doing IVF know as much as their doctor so they can ask better questions and get better treatment...all while bringing an unfiltered, humorous tone to this often heartbreaking subject. Topics: Fertility Consultant, IVF Consultant, Fertility Coach, IVF Coach, IVF Success, Getting Pregnant, Staying Pregnant, Egg Retrievals, Egg Quality, Embryo Transfers, Holistic Health, Women's Health

"You are a mother. That is a choice you get to make, don't let anyone convince you otherwise, especially that a-hole living in your head."Tasha Blasi The IVF Uncovered Podcast Motherhood is an identity, and you have the power to choose your identity. In the babymaking journey, it's so common for women to get caught up in unrealistic expectations about the IVF process, or to fall prey to common myths. Let me tell you, I have heard it all. It can be easy to get discouraged when this process doesn't go as planned, and people are hitting you in the face with the BS they truly believe is fact. One of the best ways to combat this is to dispell the inaccuracies and be prepared with the truth. "When doctors say it's a numbers game, it's extremely beneficial to the doctor who can't figure it out. It's nature and science. If anyone tells you it's a numbers game, that just means they don't know what the f*** they are doing and they're just going to keep guessing with your money, time, and embryos." - Tasha Blasi (9:12 - 10:15) Let's take some time to talk through the most common myths that I have had the "pleasure" of hearing over the years: Myth - IVF works the first or second time. Truth - I wish this was always the case. If you were like me, I knew that I was going to do IVF one time and have an abundance of viable embryos that I could pop in every time I wanted a kid, until my house was full. As you probably know, I had to complete ten rounds. Ten. There are so many different variables that come into play when trying to get or stay pregnant. While it may happen for you the first or second time, so often this is not the case. Myth - All labs are created equal. Truth - We can be so quick to assume that a lab is a lab, and the lab techs are basically robots, but they aren't. There are so many variables in labs that can affect the viability of your embryo and the success of your pregnancy. Embryologists are humans. Fallible, finite humans. Saying that all embryologists are equal is like saying all doctors are equal. Also, it's important not to get sucked into the "fame" of certain clinics. There are clinics who have established a reputation, but have not stayed current with ever-advancing technology. They are no longer achieving the results, but they are still claiming their renown, and taking your money. Myth - It's a numbers game. Truth - If I had a dollar for every time a woman told me about a doctor that told them to, "just keep trying," I could cover your next round of IVF. Of course, they tell you to just keep trying, you are paying them! Myth - There's nothing you can do on your end to help an egg retrieval or transfer. Truth - When I ask women what their doctor has suggested they do to help with the retrieval process, 95% of them say, "nothing." Spoiler alert: There are so many factors, so. many. factors. that you can influence to increase your chances of getting and staying pregnant. Myth - You need an egg donor. Truth - As mentioned before, there are so many variables that affect this process. Just because one doctor can't figure it out, doesn't mean that your own eggs aren't viable. I wish doctors would just be honest when they aren't successful, and refer. Doctors will keep working with you as long as you are paying. When you move on to donor eggs, they get to start over with a new revenue source. Your eggs might not be the problem. Myth - My stress is keeping me from getting pregnant. Truth - Stress doesn't help us and it doesn't feel good, and we totally need to get rid of it. Yes, stress affects our mental and physical health. However, stress is not a major variable in the success or failure of IVF. "Figure out how stress is showing up physically and emotionally. Not so much to help you get pregnant, but to help you get through this process, through this pregnancy, and especially through motherhood with your sanity intact." (18:26 - 18:56) Myth - You should never do a fresh, day 3 transfer. Truth - Some women just can't get to day 5. If you have eliminated all other variables, and you are unable to get to day five, consider stopping at day 3. Myth - There is no evidence that you need to check for different tests. Truth - Your first transfer is very much trial and error. There are so many variables that could be in play. However, after that first transfer, I recommend asking your doctor which tests they would recommend after a third failed attempt. Often, in the first few rounds, doctors are comfortable with the numbers game and will discourage additional tests without evidence to suggest their necessity. However, it can be so helpful to rule out as many variables as possible, as soon as possible. I would rather understand the risks and have every variable moved out of the way before moving forward with that extremely precious embryo. "I want the doctors in the clinics to start treating those embryos as precious as they really are." - Tasha Blasi (24:21 - 24:44) Myth - Maybe you weren't meant to be a mom

IVF Uncovered by Tasha Blasi Welcome to the Fertilitites Unite Project (Also referred to as the FU Project. Yes, that was intentional). I'm Tasha Blasi, founder of the FU Project, mother of two very expensive children, and your fertility expert. I went through ten rounds of IVF, so that you'll never have to. Having children was one of the most challenging, and expensive, things I have ever done, but I believe my difficult path to parenthood was meant to help you. My goal is to help you do IVF easier, smarter, and cheaper than I did. "What is a fertilitite?" you may ask. A fertilitite is a brave and empowered person going through fertility treatments that takes control of the journey by arming herself with knowledge and support. I have spent years studying, teaching and doing an insane amount of research to discover the science and environmental factors behind a successful fertility journey, and I'm ready to share with you all that I have learned. Each week I will be unraveling your fertility mystery by sharing the best practices in my key pillars to a successful pregnancy - science, environment, mindset, and support. Fertility clinics are probably not telling you that these pillars are all equally important, and are all equally significant to a successful pregnancy. Using these pillars, and the knowledge I have gained, I will be sharing strategies that I have seen work for hundreds of women around the world who are now proud mothers of beautiful little humans. This process has worked for 100% of the women who have completed my program, and it can work for you. If you are trying to conceive, are currently in the midst of IVF, or are feeling worn down and frustrated from an eternity of trying to get or stay pregnant, this podcast is for you. You are not alone on this journey. Join the community, join the movement, join the ranks of motherhood. Join the FU Project. READY FOR SOLUTIONS TO YOUR IVF ISSUES? ►Sign up for a strategy session WITH TASHA HERSELF!►Get a FREE Personalized Guide for Your Next IVF Protocol NEED SUPPLEMENTS? Click here for education and discounts on medical grade supplements (don't take supplements unless they are medical grade- it could hurt more than help!) WANT TO WATCH THIS PODCAST ON VIDEO? ► [The Tasha Blasi] ADD US ON: ► YouTube ► Instagram ► Facebook For more information, email us at [email protected] About the Host: Tasha Blasi is an IVF consultant and Founder of IVF Uncovered (formerly the FU Project). Using her background in the sciences, and personally going through ten rounds of IVF for her two children, she has created a life mission to help patients doing IVF know as much as their doctor so they can ask better questions and get better treatment...all while bringing an unfiltered, humorous tone to this often heartbreaking subject. Topics: Fertility Consultant, IVF Consultant, Fertility Coach, IVF Coach, IVF Success, Getting Pregnant, Staying Pregnant, Egg Retrievals, Egg Quality, Embryo Transfers, Holistic Health, Women's Health