Fertilust (2025)

11/08/2023

The commercial surrogacy industry is experiencing a global boom expected to reach $129 billion by 2032, according to Global Market Insights and as reported by

In recent years we have seen a new route to parenthood, emerged in the world of celebrities who help to shed light on the intimate and often misunderstood topic:
surrogacy.

The process of surrogacy—when a woman carries and gives birth to a child for someone else, most often for those who have suffered from infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss or who are in same s*x relationships.

Surrogacy has increased in popularity due to the advancements in medical technology and changes in social attitudes towards non-traditional families, according to research provider IMARC**, and the industry has really grown in recent years.

However, it's important to recognize that while surrogacy offers a pathway to parenthood, it's not an option that is financially feasible for everyone.

The New York Department of Health says it can cost between $60,000 and $150,000 to employ a surrogate in the United States after legal fees. This exacerbates existing inequalities in access to fertility treatments and family-building options.

Note - The American surrogacy industry is closely regulated, and gestational surrogacy contracts are still illegal in some states, including Nebraska, Louisiana and Michigan. New York just legalized the practice in 2021. In Canada and the U.K., surrogacy is only allowed if the carrier is a volunteer—paid surrogacy is illegal.

In the ever-evolving landscape of our society, the journey to parenthood has transcended traditional norms - so however that journey looks to you, whatever way in which you choose to become a parent - the choice is personal and what is right for you and your family.

Why aren’t we talking more about surrogacy? I would love to hear about it in the comments!

11/08/2023

The commercial surrogacy industry is experiencing a global boom expected to reach $129 billion by 2032, according to Global Market Insights and as reported by

In recent years we have seen a new route to parenthood, emerged in the world of celebrities who help to shed light on the intimate and often misunderstood topic:
surrogacy.

The process of surrogacy—when a woman carries and gives birth to a child for someone else, most often for those who have suffered from infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss or who are in same s*x relationships.

Surrogacy has increased in popularity due to the advancements in medical technology and changes in social attitudes towards non-traditional families, according to research provider IMARC**, and the industry has really grown in recent years.

However, it's important to recognize that while surrogacy offers a pathway to parenthood, it's not an option that is financially feasible for everyone.

The New York Department of Health says it can cost between $60,000 and $150,000 to employ a surrogate in the United States after legal fees. This exacerbates existing inequalities in access to fertility treatments and family-building options.

Note - The American surrogacy industry is closely regulated, and gestational surrogacy contracts are still illegal in some states, including Nebraska, Louisiana and Michigan. New York just legalized the practice in 2021. In Canada and the U.K., surrogacy is only allowed if the carrier is a volunteer—paid surrogacy is illegal.

In the ever-evolving landscape of our society, the journey to parenthood has transcended traditional norms - so however that journey looks to you, whatever way in which you choose to become a parent - the choice is personal and what is right for you and your family.

Why aren’t we talking more about surrogacy? I would love to hear about it in the comments!

10/08/2023

Let’s talk about period health. 🩸

Did you know that there are four phases of a menstrual cycle and supporting your body during each can help your physical and mental health?✨

Navigating your cycle…

1. Menstruation - release and renew. 🩸
Day one of your cycle, (first day of bleed not spotting), and release of tissue from the uterus, along with blood and mucus. Key s*x hormones (estrogen, progesterone and testosterone) are at their lowest.

2. Follicular Phase - energized. ✨
The pituitary gland releases FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) which stimulates the “follies” (which contain your eggs) in which mature in the ovaries. Estrogen and testosterone increase along with energy and can even improve mood as your body gears up for ovulation.

3. Ovulation- Radiate Confidence!✨
An egg gets released from its follicle in your o***y and will survive for only 12-24(!) hours. Estrogen and testosterone rise to peak levels and you may feel that you look better, feel more confident and communicate better. S*x drive will be at its highest. Not shocking that this is the most fertile phase!

4. Luteal Phase - cultivate self care. 💕
Estrogen and testosterone decline and the body starts creating progesterone which is an anti-anxiety hormone. The second half of this phase, however, is notoriously difficult for many because of PMS style symptoms like craving carb-heavy comfort foods, bloating, headaches, anxiety and moodiness.

Understanding the phases of your cycle empowers you to sync with your body and make mindful choices that boost your life and fertility journey. 💞

Don't forget to swipe➡️ to see the carousel for more tips to support your body during each phase of your cycle!

09/08/2023

Spoiler alert… don’t keep reading if you haven’t seen and/or plan to see the Barbie movie.

Here’s why… the end of the movie highlights a very important reminder about women’s health.

Barbie went to the gynecologist to solidify the understanding that reproductive health is an integral part of overall health.

Not sure if it was intended but hoping that the takeaway is is that anyone with female reproductive organs should seek regular preventive care to address and advocate for their reproductive health. But…

🩸 Want to know what is normal? To lose 2-3 tbsps of blood during a period.
🩸 Want to know what isn’t? A painful period.

If you’re experiencing heavy periods, have debilitating cramps and other symptoms like irregular cycles or painful s*x, something is off hormonally.

Consider reading up on and asking your doctor about testing associated with PCOS, endometriosis or fibroids; all of which *can* have in common excessively heavy and painful periods.

👉 The most important thing. If something doesn’t feel right it probably isn’t. YOU know your body better than anyone.

👉 If you aren’t getting the answers you’re looking for or you’re being placated with responses that your excessive pain is “normal” without further support/testing, it’s a red flag. Educate yourself, seek a second opinion, additional specialized support or possibly even a new healthcare team.

One thing I loved about the Barbie movie was the empowering cue of how she found and used her voice… particularly the unexpected message of supporting women’s reproductive healthcare.

🎀 Did you see the Barbie movie? What most surprised you? Would love to hear your thoughts in comments please. 💭👇

03/08/2023

Rainbow babies are those born after there has been loss...

One clinic is hoping to support families in getting closer to their rainbows...

Enter Mount Sinai's Rainbow Clinic which launched last year to provide enhanced prenatal care to patients who have experienced maternal complications and loss.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), around 1 in 175 American births result in stillbirth each year, with black women 2x as likely to experience a stillbirth than white women.

The data also shows those who have previously experienced a stillbirth are 5x as likely to experience another stillbirth or severe maternal health complications.

And pregnancy loss isn’t just a maternal health crisis; it’s a mental health crisis too.

Understandably, many women struggle to cope emotionally after losing a baby and will struggle with anxiety around a new pregnancy, consumed with worry that it might happen again.

That's where the Mount Sinai’s Rainbow Clinic, the first-ever Rainbow Clinic in the US hopes to bridge the gap.

The solution to these issues is multi-pronged personalized approach. Studies have found that more than 25% of stillbirths in the US (particularly with recurrences), can be preventable with greater awareness, support, and high-quality care.

Based in New York City, the Rainbow clinic was created n partnership with nonprofit PUSH Empowered Pregnancy and was modeled after Tommy’s Research Centre’s Rainbow Clinic at St Mary’s Hospital in Manchester, England.

Who else is (happily) floored that this amazing source of support for loss parents has arrived?!

Have a friend who is a loss parent in need of support and resources?

Please share this post with them!💓

31/07/2023

One in four pregnancies may end in miscarriage… it’s a scary stat. 🧡

Infertility and miscarriage can feel incredibly isolating. The weight of unfulfilled dreams can bring up shame, guilt and other emotions we haven’t necessarily been equipped to handle because of societal conditioning to present a certain way. At times it can feel too heavy to bear alone…

When celebrities share their fertility struggles, their stories remind us that infertility and miscarriage do not discriminate.

Infertility can impact anyone - women (and men), regardless of fame, wealth, or success. 🧡

I wanted to talk about Tiffany Haddish's story today, to celebrate those who use their platforms that ultimately supports others in feeling less alone.

With each story shared, they are transforming the narrative surrounding women's health, fostering empathy, and advocating for better support and understanding.

But I also wanted to remind that there is no 'right way' to grieve.

Dealing with miscarriage and pregnancy loss can take on many forms- and whatever brings you the most comfort, is the 'right' way for you.

Outside of sharing her story, Tiffany shared how she stays open to motherhood. Last year she took parenting classes and is considering adoption or possibly not pursuing having a child because of her career.

Everyone has a unique path to motherhood and it looks different for everyone. The story here is that as individual as the journey, we can respond and share about our personal journey, however WE individually choose.

👉 Curious, do you share your about your experiences of adversity out loud or keep them quiet?

Let us know in the comments. 💭

25/07/2023

Today, I want to share a piece of my heart with you. I get the overwhelming emotional rollercoaster of struggling with infertility and the courage it takes to try again after an unsuccessful IVF cycle...
I did four IVF treatment cycles and "started over" three times.

IVF was meant to be my little secret that no one would ever know about because I'd just get pregnant and no one would be any the wiser. However, as I know all too well, it doesn't usually work out that way...

The aftermath of an unsuccessful IVF cycle can be an emotional rollercoaster, riddled with unanswered questions, heartache and sadly a large side of shame. In those moments, it's essential to acknowledge the validity of our feelings and the weight of the grief we carry. There's no one-size-fits-all approach to healing from this experience. Each person's journey is uniquely their own, and that includes the path to resilience.

Some may find solace in taking a break, allowing their minds and bodies to reset before embarking on another cycle. Others may wish to try again immediately, holding on to hope. And then, there are those who may decide to explore alternative paths, whether through egg donor, surrogacy, adoption, other paths of parenthood or putting their energy into a different type of "baby" by fostering a community, a business, and, and, and...

The decision of when and if to try again is deeply personal and should never be influenced by societal expectations or external pressures. There is no shame in taking your time to heal, and despite the rush we often feel, a few months in most cases will not impact the outcome negatively. Self-compassion is not a luxury but a necessity and that needs to be the priority.

The heartache of an unsuccessful IVF cycle is one chapter in the story of your life... Your worth and identity extend far beyond two pink lines on a stick. Be gentle with yourself, honor your feelings, and know that you are not alone.

Speaking of not being alone... please give a shout out to an infertility community or mental wellness supporter that has been there for you. Let this be a resource guide for others who are in it.

With love and solidarity,
Your friend Nathalie x

18/07/2023

Reminder //

You are resilient and even though it doesn’t feel like it at times, and it will shape your future outlook, you will survive the heartbreak.

And you don’t have to go at it alone.

If you're feeling overwhelmed or need guidance, please reach out to me. I'm here to listen, provide support, and offer mental health expert resources and tools that can help you find some comfort on the rollercoaster of infertility.

Please know that it's okay to grieve the loss of what might have been. It's okay to feel the heavy weight of disappointment.⁣⁣⁣

It's okay that you want to kick, scream, throw yourself a pity party or few.

I’ve been there.

You need to feel into all the feels to allow your soul to process the magnitude of losing the future you had already begun to plan.

Know that amidst the hardships, there is an important vulnerability which will allow you to unlock the strength you need… it comes from opening the closeted traumas that can fester and allow you to face them head on.

There is also a community of (worst club with the best members) who understand the complexities of the challenges you face.

Whether you choose to share your journey publicly or not.

Always know that you are not alone on this journey.⁣⁣⁣ ✨

Have a resource or account that has helped you that you’d like to share with the community?

Please drop a note in the comments!💬

17/07/2023

“When are you going to have kids” sounds cringey even as I write it… like nails against chalkboard. ⚡️

This question needs to be added to Emily Post’s book of etiquette as a big no-no.

It's time to shift the narrative… the unnecessary pressure society places on women about their plans for motherhood.

The truth is, asking women when they're having kids is intrusive and insensitive. Every woman's journey is unique, and there are countless factors that come into play when it comes to starting a family.

As much as we welcome open discussions about things like miscarriage and infertility, and as much as we need to normalize these conversations - there's a line.

We need to respect that fertility is an intensely personal thing.

At best, asking someone when they're having kids is inappropriate—at worst, it’s hurtful enough to ruin someone’s whole day. Because the person asked is left with the unwanted gift of a the hamster wheel of thoughts spinning in their head.

I can’t tell you how many times I was asked “when are you having kids?” at work and also while going through fertility treatments. And how weird that I validated the inappropriate questions with responses like: “I’m focused on my career” or “we’re not-not trying”. I’m mortified looking back… 😱

Have you ever been asked “when you’re having kids”? Hoping that your responses were much better than mine!

Let's talk about it in the comments 💬

14/07/2023

Naomi Campbell recently announced that "it's never too late to become a mother," after welcoming her second child at 53 ... and I want to talk about it.

On the one hand, I’d like to celebrate that IVF and options (egg freezing, donor s***m, and surrogacy, as in Naomi’s case) for expanding families are becoming mainstream discussions.

It’s also important to acknowledge that it can feel frustrating that a celebrity can seemingly easily have a child at any age.

For some that may create hope. For others, a gentle reminder that we never know the full story, and most people don’t have unlimited financial resources either.

For many couples, the pursuit of starting or expanding a family can be an emotional rollercoaster. It’s important to reiterate that 1 out of every 6 people worldwide will experience infertility in their lifetime.

The hard truth is, fertility avenues can be both costly and mentally draining, pushing us to our limits.

It's a journey filled with countless doctor's visits, medications, procedures, surprise hiccups, waiting and let’s face it… putting our lives on hold for hope. Sadly, fertility also declines as we age.

And even harder, it's important to acknowledge that this path doesn't always result in the guarantee of a baby.

A reminder that our worth as a person is NOT defined by the presence or absence of a baby.

What did Naomi’s surprise birth announcement bring up for you?

Let’s talk about it in the comments👇

13/07/2023

Imagine a society where tv shows, movies, books, and artwork openly depict the emotional complexities, the resilience, and the immense love that envelopes families touched by profound loss.🤍

Recently confirmed by the creators, the children's television show Bluey, did exactly that.

In an episode that touches on miscarriage, they managed to foster an environment where these stories are not just whispered in the shadows, but openly shared and embraced, creating a platform for healing and connection.🌱

Through carefully crafted narratives, pop culture moments like this one can instill empathy and open up the conversation around difficult topics with our families and children.

This sows the seeds of compassion and support, ensuring that no one feels alone or misunderstood.

Why is it important?👇🏼

By shining a spotlight on the difficulties of miscarriage and pregnancy loss in pop culture moments, we empower future generations with the emotional intelligence to navigate life's most challenging moments.

1 out of every for pregnancies currently ends in miscarriage, so we need to be having this conversation.🧡

So join me on this journey as we raise awareness, cultivate empathy, and build a world where every voice is heard and understood.

Together, we can transform the narrative around miscarriage and pregnancy loss, so the next generation feels empowered to handle it without shame, the stigma or the whispers.✨

If you are open to sharing here; is loss a topic that you have openly had in your household?

12/07/2023

Hey lovelies, I wanted to come on today and talk about something important that has been on my mind since shared post about society often shaming response to talking about pregnancy loss and stillbirth.
In my view the response is perhaps a projection of society's discomfort about talking about death and grief.

You don't need permission from anyone to share about or include your heavenly baby (however far along you were), in your family's number, if that feels right for you. Every experience is different and it is not the Pain Olympics. The love and connection you have for your child transcends physical presence and will always be a cherished member of your family. They have a place in your family story, and it's a beautiful one.

Sharing about your heavenly baby or including them in your family number is a personal choice, and there is no right or wrong answer. It's about honoring your unique journey and finding what brings you comfort.

For some, it might mean displaying their name or photo or sonogram image in a special place, or speaking their name and keeping them alive in conversation. Each family's approach is as unique and individual as the love they hold.

Remember, the people that love you and really matter will show up for you and honor your decision on how you share about your little one gone too soon. Societal expectations can create pressure to grieve a certain way or for a certain length of time, or not at all based on how far along... as a result, bottling that up can create stress which could manifest in many ways including making our bodies more prone to illness.

Your family is what you define it to be, and your love extends beyond the boundaries that society tries to put in place to make itself more comfortable.

So, even if your child can't be seen, embrace sharing what brings you peace, joy, and a sense of wholeness. By including your loss when you talk about your children you honor them and might also be creating light and a bridge for those who also may be craving to be seen. 🌟

Who's with me on tackling the taboo of loss and letting go of society's notion that there are guardrails for loss grief?!

05/07/2023

(Re)introducing your advocate for women's health and fertility!

Hey there, lovely souls! 💕 I'm Nathalie and I am here to help shatter the stigma and transform the conversation around women's health.✨

🌸Why Women's Health?
It's about honoring our bodies, embracing our unique experiences, and reclaiming our voices. Together, we can break down the barriers that hinder open dialogue, and cultivate a safe space for shared experiences and support.

🌻 Changing the Conversation
Gone are the days when women's health topics were whispered behind closed doors. It's time to usher in a new era of openness and empowerment! Through my discussions, I want to dismantle taboos, challenge misconceptions, and normalize conversations about fertility and infertility, period health, hormonal wellness and everything in between. Let's transform the narrative, one conversation at a time! 🗣️

🌼 Empowering Women
Every woman has the right to make informed decisions about her body and reproductive journey. I'm dedicated to equipping you with knowledge, resources, and guidance that empower you to confidently navigate your unique path.

🌸 Sparking Conversations
I'm on a mission to discuss off-stream, often taboo topics to educate and inspire to create positive change. Join me in candid conversation on my new podcast, "All Over Again" where I chat with inspiring public figures, who boldly share their real life stories of adversity, its impact and what they did next, and if they would do it all over again!

🌻 Join the Movement!
Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey with me? Let's stand together as a supportive community of women, educators, and advocates for change! Hit the follow button to join me on this incredible adventure of self-discovery, education, and empowerment.

🌼 Share Your Story
I'd love to hear your experiences, questions, and suggestions! Together, we can amplify voices that have been silenced for far too long. Let's create a virtual space that radiates strength, support, and sisterhood! ❤️

Remember, your voice matters, and your health deserves to be a priority.

With love and solidarity,
Nathalie

21/06/2023

"Ughh, I wasted my time with him… I should have frozen my eggs", "I should have started ttc earlier"... Any of these sound familiar?  We are raised to believe that female bodies are ticking time bombs. 💣   Any relationship that doesn't “work out” – which by societal standards means, doesn't result in a child – brings women closer to their supposed expiration date. At the stroke of midnight, our eggs turn into pumpkins!  Conversation about biological clocks always seems to suggest that infertility is exclusively a female concern; ignoring the statistics that 40-50% of fertility problems are male factor and that roughly 1 in 6 adults worldwide will experience infertility.   So how do you combat the worry of that echoing biological clock? 💣  1️⃣Nurture a proactive fertility plan. Don't put all of your eggs in one basket (pun intended) If you want to wait to start trying; don't let society push you. But if you want to be proactive by getting a handle on any potential fertility speed bumps, buckle up and keep reading.  2️⃣Get a clearer picture. Get a better understanding of your fertility health by tracking your cycle, finding out about family history if possible and through testing. Start with an endocrinologist and get a full blood panel and hormone workup - including full thyroid and cortisol. Once you have this information and you are ready to proceed, then go see a REI/fertility specialist to action any potential next steps.  3️⃣Join a community. Connecting with other women who share your concerns and are on the same path can be reassuring. You'll find women who have explored fertility treatments including egg freezing, IVF, had babies over 35/40, surrogacy, adoption, or who experienced infertility and found motherhood in other ways. ART is amazing but isn’t a guarantee.  👉 Sign up to our brand NEW email newsletter, that will honestly cover everything you wish you had learned in s*x ed, plus resources, along and ways to connect with others to help you to feel less alone on the rollercoaster and even once you get off of it. Hit the link in bio to sign up🔗

21/06/2023

"Ughh, I wasted years with him", "I should have frozen my eggs", "I should have started trying to conceive earlier"... Any of these sound familiar?

We are raised to believe that female bodies are ticking time bombs. 💣

Any relationship that doesn't “work out” – which by society standards simply means, doesn't result in a child,; seemingly brings women closer to their implied expiration date. At the stroke of midnight, our eggs turn into pumpkins!

Conversation about our biological clocks always seems to suggest that infertility is an exclusively female concern; ignoring the statistics that 40-50% of fertility problems are male factor and that roughly 1 in 6 adults worldwide will experience infertility.

So how do you combat the the echo of a ticking biological clock? 💣

1️⃣Nurture a healthy headspace. Don't put all of your eggs in one basket (pun intended). Don't let society push you but if you choose/need to wait, have a fertility plan. If you want to learn more about how, keep reading.

2️⃣Get a clearer picture. Track your cycle and talk to female family members; it may give you more clarity beyond assuming your fertility based on your age alone. Get a better understanding of your fertility health with blood tests from your doctor so you can get informed too. Start with an endocrinologist and get a full blood panel and hormone workup - including full thyroid and cortisol. Then go see a REI/fertility doctor to action potential options including egg freezing/IVF.

3️⃣Join a community. Connecting with others who share your concerns and are on the same path can be reassuring. You'll find others who have explored fertility treatments including egg freezing, IVF, conceived in their 40s, surrogacy, adoption, or who have experienced infertility and have found motherhood in non-traditional ways. ART is amazing but it’s not a guarantee.

👉 Sign up for our NEW email newsletter, that will cover everything you wish you had learned in s*x ed, including resources + ways to feel less alone on the rollercoaster. Hit the link in bio to sign up🔗

Fertilust

11/08/2023

11/08/2023

10/08/2023

09/08/2023

03/08/2023

31/07/2023

25/07/2023

18/07/2023

17/07/2023

14/07/2023

13/07/2023

12/07/2023

05/07/2023

21/06/2023

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