Brave & Curious with Dr Lora Shahine

Latest Episodes:

Ep 123 Surrogacy Journey Step by Step Guide with Mollie Huyck May 13, 2025

Show notes

Are you curious about what surrogacy really involves—and whether it might be right for you or someone you love? Have you ever wondered if surrogacy is only an option for the wealthy or famous? Do you know the difference between traditional surrogacy and a gestational carrier?

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine has an eye-opening conversation with Mollie Huyck to explore the often complex and deeply personal world of surrogacy. Mollie is Director of Gestational Surrogacy Program at PNWF. Mollie's experience in the reproductive health field is deeply intertwined with a personal journey of unexplained infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss, which spanned a decade of medical treatments including use of gestational surrogacy.

Dr. Shahine and Mollie discuss the step by step process of finding and partnering with a gestational carrier (including warning signs and red flags you don't want to miss along the way).

In this episode you'll hear:

[2:54] Surrogacy vs. gestational carriers

[5:39] Mollie's personal journey & professional insights

[10:07] Finding the right gestational carrier

[12:32] Legal representation is important

[17:31] Mental health & counseling during surrogacy

[22:01] Navigating surrogacy agencies

[32:45] Understanding the timeline & the cost

[37:50] Final thoughts

Resources mentioned:

pnwfertility.com

roaringadventures.org

navieapp.com

Connect on Instagram @pnwfertility | @roaringadventures_ | @naviehealth

Ep 96 Protecting Yourself from Surrogacy Scams with Dr. Brian Levine

Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

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Ep 122 Top Tips to Recover Fast from Your Egg Retrieval May 06, 2025

Show notes

Your egg retrieval is scheduled, and you've done what you can to prepare, but what about after? How many eggs is "normal" to retrieve—or what happens if it's less than expected? What's a typical recovery, what are signs of a complication, and when should you call the clinic?

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine shares five essential things to know both before and after an egg retrieval. She's covering egg count, how to manage post-procedure discomfort, and recognizing signs of possible complications like ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, constipation, and a heavy period.

If you want to know what to expect for your egg retrieval, this episode is for you!

In this episode you'll hear:

[1:30] Setting expectations for egg retrieval

[4:12] Managing after-procedure pain

[6:12] OHSS: what it is & what do do

[10:43 Constipation

[12:12] Your next period

[13:55] Recap and final thoughts

Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Ep 121 Tips for Pelvic Floor Health with Alicia Jeffrey-Thomas Apr 29, 2025

Show notes

Are you curious about what pelvic floor therapy actually involves? Have you ever wondered whether issues like bladder leaks, painful sex, or postpartum discomfort are just "normal" things you have to live with? Do men experience pelvic floor dysfunction? (hint: yes, men also have pelvic floors).

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine is joined by Dr. Alicia Jeffrey-Thomas, a licensed pelvic floor physical therapist. Together, they're taking the mystery out of pelvic health and explaining why it matters for everyone—not just postpartum women.

Listeners will learn about the wide range of conditions pelvic PT can help with—from incontinence and prolapse to pain during sex and more. Dr. Jeffrey-Thomas and Dr. Shahine walk through what a pelvic PT appointment looks like, tackle myths about Kegels, discuss insurance coverage, and highlight the importance of proper toilet posture.

You'll walk away with a deeper understanding of overall pelvic health and feel empowered to take charge of your well-being—because pelvic pain and dysfunction are never "just part of life."

In this episode you'll hear:

[0:16] Meet Dr. Alicia Jeffrey-Thomas, PT, DPT, PRPC

[1:57] Pelvic floor functions

[3:58] What is pelvic floor therapy?

[5:57] Conditions that are treated with pelvic floor therapy

[12:21] Pelvis floor dysfunction symptoms

[16:04] A pelvic PT appointment

[22:24] Insurance info

[24:18] Myths about pelvic health

[34:20] Normalizing post-partum issues

[36:57] Common misunderstandings about painful sex

[39:06] Treatment options for incontinence

[40:33] Men's pelvic floor

[42:25] Feeling empowered

Resources mentioned:

thepelvicdancefloor.com

@thepelvicedancefloor on Instagram and TikTok

Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Ep 120 Top Tips to Prepare for Your Egg Retrieval Apr 22, 2025

Show notes

Are you preparing for an egg retrieval and feeling unsure about what to expect? Curious about what you should—and shouldn't—do on the day of your procedure?

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine walks through everything you need to know to feel confident and prepared for your egg retrieval. She's covering the logistics, physical and emotional readiness, and what matters most before, during, and after the procedure.

All this information will help reduce anxiety and ensure a comfortable and more informed experience. This is a must-listen for those at the beginning of IVF or those simply looking to understand the egg retrieval process better.

In this episode you'll hear:

[0:16] Understanding the process

[1:42] Preparing for the "day of"

[4:05] During the procedure

[12:52] Post-retrieval care

[15:09] Next steps

[17:08] Final thoughts & some encouragement

Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Ep 119 Fertility Preservation: Should You Freeze Eggs or Embryos? Apr 15, 2025

Show notes

Are you wondering whether freezing eggs or embryos is the better choice for fertility preservation? How has freezing technology changed and advanced? What are the ethical, financial, and emotional factors behind this important decision?

In this episode of Brave and Curious, host Dr. Lora Shahine takes a deep dive into the complex and personal decision of egg vs. embryo freezing. With a thoughtful look at the evolution of fertility preservation, she compares past practices with today's cutting-edge technologies, helping listeners understand how far the field has come and what options are now available.

You'll gain a better understanding of the pros and cons of freezing eggs versus embryos, including important medical, ethical, and legal factors. Dr. Shahine also explores possible future challenges—like legal disputes over embryo use—and breaks down the financial costs and access issues involved.

You may be surprised by some of the tips and will finish the episode better informed about your choices.

In this episode you'll hear:

[0:16] Eggs vs. Embryos

[1:11] Advancements in freezing technology

[4:33] Egg freezing: pros & cons

[9:08] Embryo freezing: pros & cons

[11:19] Final thoughts

Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Ep 118 Choosing the Right Prenatal Vitamin for You Apr 08, 2025

Show notes

What role do prenatal vitamins play in fertility and pregnancy? When should you start taking them to support a healthy pregnancy? And how do you choose the best prenatal vitamin with the right nutrients?

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Shahine explores the essential role of prenatal vitamins in supporting both fertility and pregnancy. She explains the importance of these supplements, when to start taking them, the difference between folic acid and folate, and what key nutrients to look for. She also discusses recommended daily intakes and how different vitamins—like folic acid, iron, calcium, and DHA—contribute to the health of both mother and baby.

Listeners will learn how to evaluate the quality of prenatal supplements and ensure they meet expert guidelines, including recommendations from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Whether you're trying to conceive or already pregnant, this episode is full of the knowledge to make informed choices about prenatal nutrition.

In this episode you'll hear:

[1:09] Why prenatal vitamins are essential

[2:43] When should you start taking a prenatal vitamin?

[3:32] Key nutrients in prenatal vitamins

Folic acid vs folate
Iron
Calcium
Vitamin D
Others

[15:21] Choosing the right prenatal vitamin brand

[15:55] Making an informed choice

Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Ep 117 Semen Analysis Explained: What Your Results Really Mean Apr 01, 2025

Show notes

Have you ever wondered what a semen analysis actually measures? What do the numbers mean, and how do you know if the results are normal? If something is off, what are the possible causes, and what can be done about it?

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine breaks down everything you need to know about semen analysis and its role in fertility evaluations. She explains the key measurements, what's considered normal, and why male factor infertility is an important part of the conception journey.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of semen analysis results, learn how to prepare for the test, and discover what steps to take if results indicate potential concerns. Dr. Shahine also shares practical advice on treatment options and essential questions to ask your doctor, ensuring you feel informed and empowered in your fertility

In this episode you'll hear:

[0:55] Importance of semen analysis in fertility

[2:17] Understanding results

[5:48] Factors affecting sperm count

[12:00] Motility and morphology explained

[19:07] Next steps and treatment options

[21:41] Questions to ask your doctor

[22:44] Closing thoughts

Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Ep 116 Heavy Flow: What's Too Much & How to Help Mar 25, 2025

Show notes

Have you ever wondered if your menstrual bleeding is heavier than normal? What are the key signs that your flow might be excessive? How can you best prepare for a doctor's visit if you suspect something isn't right?

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine covers the topic of heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) and how to determine whether your bleeding is abnormal. She explains what constitutes a normal period, highlights seven clues that signal excessive bleeding, and explores the various potential causes of menorrhagia.

You'll learn practical strategies for tracking your cycle, why keeping a list of medications and supplements matters, and how small lifestyle adjustments can help manage symptoms while awaiting medical care.

In this episode you'll hear:

[1:20] What is 'normal' period bleeding?

[2:58] Seven clues for deciding if bleeding is abnormal

[4:34] Causes of heavy menstrual bleeding

[6:40] Preparing for a visit to your doctor

[7:51] Tips for managing heavy bleeding

[9:28] Final thoughts

Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Ep 115 Introducing Brave & Curious with Dr. Lora Shahine Mar 18, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to Brave & Curious with Dr. Lora Shahine: new name, same trusted information.

The mission behind Baby or Bust is not changing! It is still Dr. Shahine's passion to educate and teach about women's health and fertility. The new show, Brave & Curious, will continue to explore fertility and reproductive health.

AND it is also expanding to include broader wellness topics that impact individuals on their reproductive journeys and beyond. With this evolution, Dr. Shahine aims to foster a space where listeners can embrace both bravery and curiosity in navigating their personal health experiences.

In this episode, Dr. Shahine shares her vision for Brave & Curious and what listeners can expect from the new format. The podcast will feature insightful expert interviews, providing medical and holistic perspectives on reproductive health and wellness.

Additionally, she will highlight personal stories from patients and individuals who have faced fertility challenges, offering real-life experiences that inspire and inform.

Dr. Shahine strongly believes that women need a space like Brave & Curious.

Why?

So we can share knowledge and experiences to empower individuals navigating fertility and reproductive health. So we can highlight the roles bravery and curiosity play in advocating for our own wellness.

Brave & Curious is here to guide and empower you. Thanks for being here.

In this episode you'll hear:

[00:15] Why is Baby or Bust now Brave & Curious?

[00:51] Bravery and curiosity in fertility

[2:09] What should you expect from Brave & Curious?

[3:17] Let's build community

Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books

Ep 114 Signs of Early Pregnancy: How Soon Can You Know Mar 11, 2025

Show notes

Are you in the dreaded two-week wait and wondering what symptoms to look for? How can you tell the difference between early pregnancy signs and normal cycle symptoms? What are the most common mistakes people make when testing for pregnancy too early?

In this episode, Dr. Lora Shahine is easing your uncertainty around the two-week wait, explaining the early signs of pregnancy and how they relate to different phases of the menstrual cycle. She explains the role of progesterone, potential implantation symptoms, and what to expect during this time.

Dr. Shahine also shares the biggest misconceptions about detecting pregnancy early and provides expert advice on the best ways to test accurately. Listeners will walk away with a better understanding of their body, practical tips for symptom interpretation, and the reasons it's so important to consult a medical professional for guidance.

In this episode you'll hear:

[1:10] Understanding the menstrual cycle

[3:02] Recognizing early pregnancy signs

[6:00] Common mistakes

[9:13] Closing thoughts

Dr. Shahine's Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

Follow @drlorashahine Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok | Her Books