#33: We survive infertility because we have to
plus cute little photo frames for your embryo scans
Hi friends — Kayti here.
It’s Friday. I’m sitting in a coffee shop trying to survive the “cold” in LA (which is 50 degrees and windy, for anyone keeping score). It still amazes me that I grew up in the mountains, where winter meant single-digit temps, then went to grad school in what might be the greyest city on earth (London)… and now 50 degrees feels borderline unbearable.
It’s made me think a lot about adaptability — how we adjust to wherever we are, and whatever we’re moving through. I think that’s part of how so many of us survive years of infertility and IVF. It becomes the only climate we know, so we learn how to exist inside it. Not because it’s easy or painless, but because we have to. And then, maybe one day, when we finally reach the other side, we realize just how heavy it all actually was. Maybe this is a terrible analogy, but it’s been sitting with me lately as I relearn how to exist as a new mom and as someone now navigating life after IVF.
A few updates from our end:
• Amy shared some stories on Instagram about insurance issues she’s dealing with during her current IVF cycle. If you’ve been through something similar, send us a DM or comment — we’d love to crowdsource advice and experiences.
• Today’s episode was our season 2 finale (episode 49!). We’re taking a short winter break, but we’ll still be around on social and in your inbox. Season 3 drops in April, and we cannot wait.
• We are THREE reviews away from hitting 100 on Apple Podcasts. If you haven’t left one yet, we’d be so grateful. (Leave a review here.)
• One of our listeners sent us a video of her eggs being fertilized and gave us permission to share it. It’s so incredible and makes us emotional!
Sending you all so much love this weekend 🤍
Kayti (and Amy)
🎧 new on the pod:
Today, we’re joined by Dr. Sarah Oreck, founder of Mavida Health and a reproductive psychologist specializing in infertility, IVF, pregnancy, and postpartum mental health. We talk about the emotional impact of infertility and fertility treatments, why mental health care is such a critical — and often missing — part of reproductive healthcare, and how therapy and emotional support can improve the fertility journey.
💜 small “j” joys:
The search for the greatest eye patches continues, and we just got our hands on these ones / are giving them 4 out of 5 stars
I just swapped my beige phone case for a bright yellow one, and I think it’s helping my mental health. (also I am not losing it as often 😂) - Kayti
This Citizenry organic duvet cover dupe that I just bought - cozy vibes!!! - Kayti
These cute little picture frames that we want to use to frame our embryo scans
weekend mood (credit)
