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Fertility in Focus by Fertility Matters Canada

The journey to parenthood is one filled with hope, heartache, and unexpected twists and turns - and for those experiencing fertility struggles, the road can be an emotional rollercoaster. Fertility Matters Canada is proud to present a new podcast that explores the complex and often emotional journey of fertility. Hosted by Carolynn Dubé, Executive Director of Fertility Matters Canada, our show features informative interviews with leading fertility specialists and heartfelt stories from real people who have experienced the highs and lows of trying to conceive. Whether you're facing fertility challenges yourself or simply interested in learning more about this important and often misunderstood aspect of reproductive health, Fertility in Focus provides a safe and supportive space for listeners to engage, reflect, and be inspired. Join us as we bring Fertility in Focus.

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Fertility in Focus by Fertility Matters Canada

Managing Relationships & Intimacy Through a Fertility Journey

February 13, 2025 • Carolynn Dubé • Season 2 • Episode 4

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Join us on Fertility in Focus as we explore the intricate emotional and relational challenges that arise during the fertility journey. Explore the emotional nuances of the fertility journey with insights from Dr. Bev Young, a distinguished psychiatrist specializing in women's mental health. Learn how effective communication can transform differing emotional responses into a source of balance and strength for couples facing the challenges of trying to conceive. We spotlight the often-overlooked emotional experiences of male partners, emphasizing the need for inclusive support that addresses the feelings of all involved.

Our discussion uncovers practical ways to strengthen relationships amidst the stress of fertility treatments. From sharing responsibilities like maintaining a joint calendar to embracing couples therapy, we offer guidance for navigating relationship stress and keeping connection alive. We share personal reflections and professional advice on how intimacy can shift under the pressure of conception efforts, transforming into a task rather than a source of pleasure, and provide tips to maintain a loving bond through it all.

Rekindle the romance and maintain mental well-being despite external pressures from family and social gatherings. We propose fostering affection and appreciation through activities that transcend the mechanical aspects of conception, such as dates and shared humor. The importance of regular check-ins, understanding love languages, and seeking mental health support when needed is also highlighted, ensuring that partners can turn these challenging times into opportunities for deeper connection. Join us as we equip you with strategies to protect and nurture your relationship through every stage of the fertility journey.

About Our Guest Speaker:

Dr. Bev Young is the co-founder of BRIA, a one-stop shop for women’s mental healthcare. She is a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience, specializing in women’s mental health issues across the reproductive life cycle. Her career has focused specifically on mood and anxiety disorders relating to pregnancy, infertility, perinatal loss and postpartum adjustment. Before co-founding BRIA, Dr. Bev developed and lead two of the largest perinatal psychiatry programs in Ontario and has been using virtual care to treat patients across Ontario since 2014. As a leader in her field, she is relentlessly dedicated to improving access to high-quality reproductive psychiatric care. With her new virtual clinic, BRIA, she hopes to provide access to mental health services to women+ across Canada.

Follow the BRIA team at @bria.health on Instagram.

If you or your organization would like to sponsor educational episodes just like this, please contact us at podcast@fertilitymatters.ca.

Follow Fertility Matters Canada at @fertility_canada on Instagram and TikTok.