The Egg Factor

In this episode of The Egg Factor , Dr. David Barad explores the CHR's Second Opinion Program and how it helps patients gain a fresh perspective on their fertility care. Learn what the program includes, who can benefit from a second opinion, and how expert review of your medical history and treatment plan may uncover new options and opportunities. Brought to you by the Center for Human Reprod...

In this episode of The Egg Factor , Dr. Norbert Gleicher explores the complex and relationship between autoimmunity and implantation failure. Drawing on decades of clinical experience and research, Dr. Gleicher discusses how autoimmune conditions may influence endometrial receptivity, embryo implantation, and pregnancy outcomes. He examines the latest scientific evidence, addresses common misconce...

In this episode of The Egg Factor , Dr. David Barad explains how fertility specialists tailor IVF protocols for patients with diminished ovarian reserve, discussing ovarian response, medication strategies, egg quality versus egg quantity, and what patients can realistically expect. Tune in for an evidence-based conversation that helps demystify one of the most common and challenging fertility diag...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, our very own Dr. Norbert Gleicher and Dr. David Barad are joined by Lab Director Emanuela Molinari to discuss IVM and Early Retrieval. Tune into this episode to learn how retrieving immature eggs earlier in the cycle and maturing them in the lab can offer an alternative to traditional IVF, with potential benefits for certain patients.  Brought to you by the Cente...

Planning summer travel while undergoing IVF? In this video, Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente explores how travel can impact IVF treatment, including medication schedules, monitoring appointments, stress levels, and overall treatment success. Learn practical tips for traveling safely during IVF and how to coordinate your plans with your fertility clinic. Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente is joined by Lab Director Emanuela Molinari to discuss why fertility professionals should attend the Foundation for Reproductive Medicine Conference (FRMC) 2026. FRMC 2026 is a premier international gathering focused on independent, patient-centered research and innovation in reproductive medicine, taking place on December 4-6 at the Met...

Embryo selection is often viewed as one of the most important factors in IVF success, but is it getting too much credit? In this video, Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente takes a closer look at the science behind embryo selection, its limitations, and other critical factors that influence treatment outcomes. Discover why embryo quality is only part of the fertility equation and how a broader perspective ma...

In this episode of The Egg Factor , Dr. Norbert Gleicher explores the limitations of conventional fertility workups and discusses the hidden factors that may be overlooked during diagnosis. Drawing on decades of clinical experience, Dr. Gleicher shares insights into complex fertility cases, emerging research, and why a deeper, more individualized approach can make a difference for patients seeking...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. David Barad explores the relationship between egg quality and PCOS. He discusses how hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and metabolic factors associated with PCOS may affect egg development and overall fertility. The conversation covers how patients can better understand their reproductive health and treatment options. Brought to you by the Center for Human R...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Norbert Gleicher is joined by Dr. Angie Beltsos to discuss the role of growth hormone in fertility treatment. They explore the science behind adding growth hormone to IVF and other fertility protocols, who may benefit from this approach, current research findings, and key considerations for patients seeking to optimize their chances of success. Tune in for a...

In this special Pride Month episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. David Barad discusses the many family-building options available to LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples. From donor sperm and egg donation to gestational surrogacy and fertility preservation, Dr. Barad breaks down the pathways to parenthood. The episode highlights the importance of inclusive care and empowering every person to build the famil...

Join us on this enlightening episode of The Egg Factor as Dr. Norbert Gleicher and Dr. Pasquale Patrizio explore the often overlooked topic of Male Factor Infertility. In this episode, Dr. Gleicher and Dr. Patrizio break down the common causes of male infertility, how it’s diagnosed, available treatments, and the importance of education around men’s reproductive health. Brought to you by the Cente...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Norbert Gleicher discusses why fertility treatment should not be one-size-fits-all. From age and ovarian reserve to underlying health and reproductive history, he explains how individualized IVF approaches can improve outcomes and better support each patient’s unique fertility journey. Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper Eas...

Why don't normal embryos always lead to pregnancy? In this episode, Dr. Norbert Gleicher explores the complex factors behind embryo implantation failure, from uterine environment and immune factors to embryo biology beyond genetics. Tune in for a discussion on why “normal” embryos can still face challenges and what it means for IVF patients and treatment outcomes. Brought to you by the Center...

Studies show that single women busy with their professional or other personal life projects often delay fertility conversations or even may feel more stress around starting those conversations. In this video, Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente talks about breaking this pattern. She talks about how women don't need a partner to start tackling their fertility goals.  Brought to you by the Center for Hum...

In this episode, Dr. Norbert Gleicher talks about the two most important issues in IVF that clinics often overlook: the timing of egg retrieval and embryo transfer. He explains how even small differences in timing can significantly impact outcomes, and why a more personalized approach is essential. Drawing on decades of clinical experience and research, Dr. Gleicher challenges conventional protoco...

We’re pleased to introduce Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente, who has officially joined the team at the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR). Dr. Gayete-Lafuente brings a strong background in both clinical care and academic research, with training and affiliations from leading institutions in Europe and the United States. In this episode, she talks about her educational and research background, as well as...

In recognition of National Infertility Awareness Week, Dr. Norbert Gleicher explores a question in reproductive medicine: what is “unexplained infertility” Drawing on decades of clinical experience and research at the CHR, he challenges the conventional diagnosis, arguing that infertility always has an underlying cause if we look closely enough. This episode dives into why CHR rejects the label of...

The Center for Human Reproduction recently launched five new 2026 Clinical Trials, powered by the not-for-profit arm, the Foundation for Reproductive Medicine. These new trials reflect an ongoing mission of always bringing the most advanced science directly to patients and integrating the most innovative approaches in research into our treatments here.  Every study presented is already IRB-approve...

In this episode of The Egg Factor , Dr. Norbert Gleicher breaks down chemical pregnancies. He discusses what they are, why they happen, and what they may reveal about your fertility and reproductive health. Learn the science behind early pregnancy loss and gain expert insight to better understand this common but often overlooked experience. Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR)...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Norbert Gleicher unpacks the complex and often overlooked role of the immune system in pregnancy. From implantation to early development, the immune system is very important in achieving pregnancy. Dr. Gleicher explains how immune-related issues can impact fertility and reproductive health, and why understanding these issues is key to more effective and perso...

Since March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, it’s a good time to shine light on a condition that affects millions of people but is still widely misunderstood. Despite how common endometriosis is, there’s a surprising amount of misinformation surrounding it, not only among the public, but even among many individuals living with it. In this video, Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente breaks down everything yo...

As we continue to celebrate International Women's Month this March, Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente talks about a powerful and often overlooked aspect of motherhood: lactation without pregnancy.  For many women and families, the ability to breastfeed represents far more than nutrition. It’s about bonding, connection, and participation in a deeply meaningful part of early parenthood. The good news?...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. David Barad explores the complex topic of recurrent pregnancy loss. He explains what exactly defines recurrent pregnancy loss and discusses the common causes. Throughout the episode, Dr. Barad breaks down the common causes including genetic abnormalities, uterine structural issues, and hormonal imbalances.  He also shares insight into different treatment opti...

As the month of March comes along, we observe International Women’s Day and celebrate International Women’s History Month. At the Center for Human Reproduction, this time of year is especially meaningful. We have always been committed to empowering women through education, science, and personalized reproductive care.  Today, more women are taking autonomy over their family building timelines, and...