TARA, your fertility coach

WORDS : TARA BRANDNER

We just started trying to conceive. How can you help us?

This is a great time to reach out! When you connect with me, I can help you assess if there may be a potential issue and if you have signs or symptoms of diseases that may make conception difficult. Acne, irregular cycles and painful cycles, for example, may be symptoms of another issue. We also help you look for signs of ovulation and set up a custom plan.

We have been trying for a while (6-12 months). What should we do?

You don’t need to wait 6–12 months to reach out to me. If you feel like something is off reach out. I will work alongside your healthcare provider, order further tests, make an assessment, and create a plan for you.

We have been trying but we are hesitant to seek treatment. How can you help us?

I understand that treatment can be overwhelming to consider, especially the ones everyone jumps to. I first start with doing more tests and assessments, checking to see if something was missed initially. Then I will go over each treatment opportunity, step by step. I will make sure you are comfortable and in control of your plan. I may also give you additional treatment options than you hadn’t already considered.

We have been trying for over a year and treatments seem to be failing. Can you help?

Yes! I can help by coaching you through the process and by bringing in a larger team around you. Our team offers both traditional and holistic treatment options. We help you create a custom plan that serves you, including mental health, acupuncture, pelvic floor physical therapy, chiropractic work and so much more.

We have miscarried 2 or more times. What should we do next?

I can help, and I have helped many women in your situation. There may have been something missed by your healthcare provider. I will order further tests if needed, make assessments, and help you with your plan.

Can you help?

We can all have these emotions, especially after loss and a long period of trying to conceive. We will support you emotionally and help you even at this stage of pregnancy.

Tara, when can we talk?

With telemedicine I can connect with you at your best available time. Enjoy the comfort of your own home and skip the cold doctor’s office. I am available to meet during the evenings, on weekends or even during your lunch hour. Visit tarabrandner.com and reach out!

Tara, why are you so passionate about being a fertility coach?

I am passionate because I was diagnosed with unexplained infertility, and as a medical provider it really made my head spin! I experienced a miscarriage, and I knew there was more going on with my body that was being overlooked. We endured three failed intrauterine insemination (IUI) procedures and it wasn't until I had failed three rounds of IUI that I opened up about our diagnosis and treatment. We decided it was time to take a break to heal and regroup. We then scheduled a consultation with a new doctor and began down the in vitro fertilization (IVF) path. During this, I experienced what is called a canceled transfer. I was not prepared for the emotions that play into a canceled transfer. We transferred two beautiful embryos on May 1, 2017. I would soon be devastated to find out that we miscarried one embryo yet filled with joy that I was finally pregnant. There is a grieving process that takes place with the loss of an embryo and so many emotions that follow with pregnancy after infertility. At 39 weeks, Hayden surprised us and was born via emergency c-section. He is a happy and healthy toddler who gives me the courage and strength to keep fighting for others in the wait.