Black History Month is a time to recognize the achievements of Black communities and reflect on areas where disparities still exist. Health and wellness, particularly in fertility, pregnancy, and maternal care, are areas where outcomes and experiences can differ across populations.

Research shows that gaps in access, diagnosis, and treatment for Black patients persist today and can influence care experiences and outcomes. Understanding these differences can help you make informed choices and prepare for conversations with your care team.

Access, representation, and outcomes 

In fertility and reproductive health, clear communication and careful follow-up are important for safe, effective care. Research has shown that many Black patients experience delays in diagnosis, differences in treatment, and higher rates of pregnancy-related complications. 

Black doctors remain underrepresented in obstetrics, reproductive medicine, and related specialties. While representation alone does not change outcomes, many patients feel more comfortable and supported with providers who communicate clearly and understand how bias can affect care.  

Earlier studies suggested that having a doctor of the same race might improve certain outcomes. More recent research, including a 2024 review, found that these results were largely explained by medical and clinical factors — not by the doctor’s race alone. This means that outcomes may depend more on how symptoms are checked, how treatment is explained, and how follow-up care is managed. 

Navigating care and treatment decisions 

Bias, both implicit and structural, can affect how symptoms are interpreted and how treatment decisions are made. This is particularly relevant in fertility and pregnancy care, where treatment plans often evolve over time. 

Understanding your diagnosis, preparing questions, and knowing what to expect from appointments can help support clear communication and ensure your care team has the information they need to provide appropriate treatment. 

Practicing comprehensive health 

Overall health supports every step of your fertility and maternal care journey. Physical activity, nutrition, sleep, and stress management can influence hormone balance, energy, and emotional well-being — all of which may affect fertility, pregnancy, and recovery. 

Focusing on consistent habits over time can help you feel more prepared for appointments, treatment cycles, and the changes your body experiences. For example: 

• Nutrition: Balanced meals can support reproductive health and energy during treatment. 

• Movement: Regular activity can improve circulation, mood, and overall stamina. 

• Sleep: Rest is linked to hormone regulation and emotional resilience. 

• Stress management: Mindfulness, therapy, or support groups can help you cope with uncertainty and decision-making. 

Paying attention to these factors doesn’t replace medical care, but it can complement your treatments and help you stay well physically and emotionally throughout your care journey. 

Resources for reproductive and overall health 

Nutrition and exercise 

• Nutrition, exercise, self-care: when does it matter for your fertility 

• Black women’s health imperative 

• How to improve your sperm health 

Pregnancy and fertility  

• Top 10 tips for a healthy pregnancy 

• Eggs over easy film: advocacy and change for fertility in the Black community

• Infertility in the black community: understanding your health conditions and finding the right doctor

• Fertility 101: stress and fertility

• 3 ways to support your fertility wellness

• Understanding uterine fibroids and polyps

Relationships and emotional wellbeing  

• Top tips for finding a therapist

• Caring for your relationships and yourself during fertility treatment

• Supporting your partner during a fertility journey

These resources are designed to help you stay informed and supported as you manage both the physical and emotional aspects of your care. Using them alongside guidance from your medical team can help you feel more prepared, confident, and balanced throughout your journey.

Additional resources

Support needs vary. Some people prefer peer groups, counseling, or educational organizations, while others use self-guided resources. The following organizations provide information and support on family building, maternal health, and mental health:

• Every Mother Counts

• The Broken Brown Egg

• National Alliance on Mental Illness: Identity & Cultural Dimensions

This information is intended to help you understand how care experiences can vary in fertility and maternal health. Decisions about treatment should always be guided by your medical history, clinical guidance, and personal preferences.

Progyny is here for you, too. Please contact your Progyny Care Advocate for support.

Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance.

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What does it really mean to own your fertility? In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Jaime Knopman from CCRM Fertility of New York and author of Own Your Fertility, for a candid conversation about egg freezing, fertility preservation, and grief. Dr. Knopman shares what inspired her to write the book, who it’s for, and why fertility preservation can be one of the first acts of agency in reproductive health. We unpack common misconceptions about egg freezing.

The conversation also turns to a topic often left unspoken: fertility-related grief. Dr. Knopman reflects on how grief shows up when timelines shift and how patients can hold both hope and loss at the same time. This episode is for anyone navigating fertility decisions, questioning timing, or seeking clarity and compassion along the journey. Own Your Fertility is now available on Amazon!

Guest:
Dr. Jaime Knopman, Board-Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist and Director of Fertility Preservation for CCRM Fertility of New York

Hosts:
Dr. Janet Choi, Chief Medical Officer, Progyny
Lissa Kline, LCSW, SVP, Provider and Member Services, Progyny

This show does not constitute medical advice.

The DocTalk series, where we discuss current events on the full spectrum of women’s health and family building and what they might mean for you. From news, research studies, pop culture, and everything in-between, we’re going to break it all down and sift through the noise with the help of our expert Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Janet Choi and host, Lissa Kline, LCSW.

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The two-week wait between an embryo transfer and a pregnancy test can feel like an emotional roller coaster. For many couples, it’s one of the most stressful parts of the fertility journey — full of hope, worry, and the kind of overthinking that feels impossible to shut off. While you can’t control the outcome, you can help make this stretch a little gentler for your partner.

1. Communicate gently and consistently

Check in with your partner, but keep it low-pressure. Some days they may want to talk everything out; other days they may just want quiet company. Follow their cues and focus on listening rather than trying to fix their feelings.

2. Help slow the symptom-spotting spiral

The wait can turn anyone into an internet detective. Instead of brushing off their worries, acknowledge how normal it is to analyze every twinge. You can then gently redirect with something grounding like a short walk, a rerun of their favorite show, or a mini distraction you both enjoy.

3. Create a calmer day-to-day rhythm

Taking a few things off their plate, such as meals, chores, and logistics, can reduce the mental load. Lean into simple comforts like warm drinks, early nights in, or anything that helps the week feel softer and less overwhelming.

4. Guard their emotional space

If you can, buffer them from stressful situations or conversations, especially ones that might hit harder right now (like surprise pregnancy announcements or nosy questions). Protecting their energy during this period can go a long way.

5. Add small moments of care

Thoughtful gestures matter more than ever during the wait. A kind note, a favorite snack, or a low-key plan for the evening are the little things that remind your partner they’re not in this alone.

6. Support your own emotional wellbeing, too

You’re part of this wait as well. Keeping yourself grounded helps you show up in the steady way your partner needs. Try reaching out to a friend, taking breaks for things that refill your energy, or setting realistic expectations for your week so you’re not stretched too thin.

The wait can feel long and uncertain, but showing up as a team makes a real difference. With gentle communication, small acts of care, and a shared sense of “we’ve got this,” you can help your partner feel safer and more supported.

Progyny is here to help. Please contact your Progyny Care Advocate for support.

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After an embryo transfer or intrauterine insemination, you’ll wait about 2 weeks before you return to the clinic for a pregnancy test. This stretch of time is known as the two-week wait.  

This time can be filled with hope and uncertainty, and it’s normal if your emotions feel intense or unpredictable. Your routines may look different too, and you may need extra support. Here are some practical ways to prepare and manage the wait.  

Before the wait 

Let your loved ones know what you need. You might ask for more space, fewer check-ins, or a pause on questions until you feel ready to share. Clear communication helps people show up in a way that feels good to you. This can happen before or during the 2 weeks. 

During the wait 

• Take charge of your schedule: Make flexible plans you can cancel if you’re not up for them, or keep your calendar open. It’s OK to miss events or adjust commitments so you can focus on yourself. 

• Stay tuned in to your needs: Your emotions may shift day to day. Some days you may want quiet and rest; other days you may want company. Listen to your body and mind and follow what feels best. 

• Limit internet searches: Searching for answers online can quickly become stressful, especially when information is conflicting. If you have concerns or a specific question, reach out to your healthcare provider. 

• Remember: Symptoms don’t predict results: You may notice changes — or nothing at all. These experiences aren’t reliable indicators of pregnancy. 

• Commit to self-care: Choose provider-approved ways to manage stress or anxiety and let yourself enjoy them. Even small moments of care can make a difference. 

• Honor whatever feelings come up: This process is largely out of your control. Any emotion you have — worry, frustration, hope, or anything in between — is valid. You are not to blame for how things go. 

• Avoid planning too far ahead: It’s natural to think about next steps, but looking too far into the future can add stress. Try to stay grounded in what you need today. 

Adjusting your usual routines 

It’s normal if your daily habits look different during this time. Your doctor may recommend modifying certain activities. Here are a few ways to adapt your routine while staying connected and cared for. 

Socializing with friends 

Spending time with friends who don’t understand your experience — or who are pregnant or parenting — can feel draining right now. What you can try instead: 

• Make plans with people who understand your situation or bring you comfort. 

• Look for a support group in your area or online. 

• Consider talking with a therapist who has experience supporting people on a fertility journey. 

Exercise 

Your provider may ask you to reduce or modify your exercise routine. What you can try instead: 

• Light movement is often allowed, like a walk or a gentle bike ride. 

• Yoga can be supportive — just let the instructor know you need modifications. 

• Focus on self-care activities like meditation or acupuncture, which may help reduce stress. 

Sex 

Your provider may ask you to avoid sexual activity during and right after your treatment cycle. What you can try instead: 

• Plan a date night at home or go out for a movie or show. 

• Try activities you can do together, like cooking or a DIY project, to build closeness in a different way. 

Result day 

Plan your day in a way that feels comforting and supportive to you.  

Progyny is here for you. If you have any questions, please contact your Progyny Care Advocate for support. 

Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance. 

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Balancing fertility treatment with work can feel overwhelming. Medical appointments, hormone side effects, and the emotional ups and downs of infertility don’t stop for the workday. But you can take steps to protect your well-being and stay focused on your job while navigating this journey. 

Decide what to share 

You don’t have to disclose your fertility journey at work. Some people choose to share limited details with a manager or HR to explain schedule flexibility, while others keep work and personal life completely separate. Either choice is valid. If you do share, focus on what you need, like time for appointments, without going into personal details. 

Know your benefits 

Check your sick leave, flexible scheduling, remote work options, and mental health resources. While infertility isn’t always covered specifically, existing policies can help you manage appointments and recovery time. Knowing your options ahead of time can reduce stress and make planning easier. 

Plan your workload 

Treatment and emotional stress can affect energy and focus. Schedule demanding tasks during your peak energy times when possible. If you need temporary adjustments, frame requests around productivity and workflow rather than personal circumstances. 

Manage emotional triggers 

Workplace celebrations, pregnancy announcements, or casual questions about family plans can be difficult. It’s okay to step away for a short break if you need to. Simple grounding techniques — like deep breathing, walking, or jotting down thoughts — can help you reset and stay focused. 

Seek support 

Support outside work is essential. Therapy, support groups, or trusted friends can provide space to process feelings and reduce isolation. Having this outlet can make it easier to maintain focus and boundaries at work. 

Be kind to yourself 

Infertility can affect performance, focus, and confidence. If you’re not operating at your usual level, that’s normal. Recognizing that this is a challenging season and treating yourself with compassion can help you manage both work and treatment more effectively. 

You don’t have to handle infertility perfectly or alone. Small adjustments, clear boundaries, and self-care can make work more manageable during this difficult time. 

Progyny is here for you, too. If you have any questions, please contact your Progyny Care Advocate for support. 

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A healthy pregnancy supports a healthy baby. Here are 10 simple ways to take care of yourself during pregnancy. 

1. Take a prenatal vitamin 

Take a prenatal vitamin with at least 400 micrograms of folic acid every day. Prenatal vitamins also provide key nutrients like iron, vitamin D, and calcium.  

It’s best to start taking it at least one month before getting pregnant and continue through the first 12 weeks to support the early development of your baby. Most doctors recommend taking prenatal vitamins throughout pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Confirm with your doctor before you begin since needs vary. 

2. Focus on a balanced diet 

Aim for a mix of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, dairy, and a variety of protein sources. 

• Wash produce before eating it. 

• Make sure all meat is fully cooked. 

• Eat 8–12 ounces (about two to three servings) per week of fish that are lower in mercury, such as salmon, sardines, or cod. Avoid high-mercury fish like swordfish or king mackerel. 

• Choose dairy products made from pasteurized milk. 

If you follow a restricted diet, such as vegan or gluten-free, talk with your doctor or a registered dietitian to be sure you’re getting the nutrients you need. 

3. Keep moving 

Regular exercise is good for you during pregnancy. Aim for about 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, or 20–30 minutes on most days. If you’re not active now, you can start with light movement. 

Avoid activities with a high risk of falling or injury, such as downhill skiing, horseback riding, or road biking in traffic. Walking, jogging, swimming, spinning, yoga, light weights, and Pilates are common options during pregnancy. If you have pregnancy complications or new symptoms, ask your doctor before starting or continuing an exercise program. 

4. Make healthy choices 

Avoid alcohol and nicotine during pregnancy. If you need support quitting, your doctor can help you find resources. 

5. Limit caffeine 

Keep caffeine under about 200 milligrams per day. That’s roughly two 8-ounce cups of coffee. 

6. Keep having sex if you want to 

Sex is safe in an uncomplicated pregnancy. If you have bleeding, pain, or other new symptoms, check with your doctor. 

7. Travel with a plan 

You can travel during pregnancy. Before you go, check where you can get medical care if you need it. Most airlines allow travel until about 36 weeks in an uncomplicated pregnancy, but rules vary. Ask your doctor what’s safe for you based on your health and your destination. 

8. Prevent bug bites 

Use an EPA-registered insect repellent, including those with DEET, especially in areas where there’s a risk of illnesses like West Nile virus or Zika. 

9. Care for your teeth 

Keep up with routine dental cleaning and dental care. Preventive visits and necessary dental treatment are safe during pregnancy. 

10. Review your medicines 

Many commonly used medicines can be continued during pregnancy, but some are unsafe. If you take prescription or over-the-counter medicines daily, talk with your doctor before stopping or changing anything. For medicines you take as needed, your doctor can help you choose options that are considered safe during pregnancy. 

If you have questions, Progyny is here for you. Please contact your Progyny Care Advocate for support.  

Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance. 

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Facing challenges on your family-building journey can put strain on any relationship. The financial, emotional, and physical aspects of fertility treatment can affect how you connect with your partner, family, and friends. 

We spoke with Dr. Alice Domar, a health psychologist who specializes in fertility care. Dr. Domar answered some of the most frequently asked questions about relationships, boundaries, and strategies to check in on yourself and your partner.  

1. How can I set boundaries and build supportive communication with family and friends?

Setting boundaries is personal. Some people talk openly about every step of treatment. Others prefer to keep details private. Think about what you’re comfortable sharing and what you’d like to keep to yourself. 

It can help to prepare simple, repeatable responses to questions or comments that feel uncomfortable. Your response can be polite (“I’m not comfortable discussing this”), educational (“Infertility is common, and causes can come from either partner”), or direct (“I’m not sure why you’re asking that”). 

Family and friends may offer support, especially if they’ve had similar experiences, but they may also give unsolicited advice. Some people email loved ones to set expectations. For example: “When we have news to share, we’ll reach out. Please avoid asking if we’re pregnant.”

2. How can I support my partner?

Ask what they need. Often both partners are affected, even if only one has a medical diagnosis. One strategy: Each partner writes a list of 10 things the other can do on a difficult day. When the moment comes, you can choose something from the list — whether it’s giving space, offering comfort, or helping with small tasks.

3. How can I check in with myself?

It’s normal to have ups and downs throughout treatment. If you feel persistently sad, overwhelmed, or unlike yourself for more than a week or two, you may benefit from additional support. Options include support groups, talking with someone who has been through infertility, checking resources through the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, or asking your healthcare provider for guidance.

4. What helps couples maintain their relationship during treatment?

Talking regularly can help you stay connected. Many couples experience infertility differently, so avoid pressuring each other to feel the same way. Try setting aside a few minutes each day to check in. Outside of that time, it may help to keep fertility conversations from taking over the rest of your life together.

5. What if I’m experiencing secondary infertility and feel uncomfortable joining support groups?

Primary infertility is when a person has never been pregnant. Secondary infertility is when a person has had at least one prior pregnancy.

Secondary infertility can be just as distressing as primary infertility. Look for a group specifically for people with secondary infertility or choose one that includes more than one participant with similar experiences.

6. What if I’m scared to tell someone what I’m going through?

Sharing information about your diagnosis is your choice. No one is entitled to details you don’t want to share. Telling a manager or supervisor may feel especially stressful. Infertility is recognized as a disease by the World Health Organization, so you can frame the conversation around seeking support or treatment for a medical condition.

7. How can I put these suggestions into practice?

You might try: 

• Accepting that you and your partner may cope differently 
• Limiting fertility-related conversations to a set time each day 
• Avoiding social events that feel emotionally difficult 
• Encouraging your partner to read others’ stories to understand common reactions to infertility

8. If therapy isn’t an option, what other resources can help?

You can: 

• Join an online support group through your clinic  
• Talk with a friend or relative who understands the experience 
• Have a single session with a reproductive mental health professional for coping strategies

9. How can I manage expectations for my relationship after treatment?

There’s no guaranteed return to “normal,” regardless of the outcome. Research shows that couples who face infertility together often maintain strong relationships, and many report feeling closer after navigating challenges as a team. 

How you manage your relationships throughout treatment will look different from others, and that’s okay. The goal is to find what feels right for you and the people you care about. 

Progyny is here for you if you have any questions. Please contact your Progyny Care Advocate for support.  

Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance.

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For many people, family building includes fertility treatment. That process can feel overwhelming, disruptive, and stressful. You may be making high-stakes decisions, coping with grief and uncertainty, and managing impacts on your finances, relationships, work, and physical health. It is normal to need extra support during this time. 

If you are otherwise healthy, navigating the healthcare system and insurance — especially behavioral health — may be new. It can be a lot to manage, and it is OK to ask for help. Some clinics also require visits with a behavioral health specialist if your plan includes a donor or a gestational carrier. 

Below are practical ways to get started, plus questions to help you find the right fit. 

Three ways to start your search 

Check your resources
Review your insurance network and look for therapists who list fertility or infertility as a specialty. Directories such as Psychology Today let you filter by specialty, location, and insurance participation.  

Talk with your clinic and support network
Many clinics maintain referral lists for individual or couples counseling and for support groups. These lists are often curated to include fertility-experienced providers. 

LGBTQ+ community centers may also offer programs and resources tailored to family building. For example, The Center in New York City provides services designed to meet the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals and couples. 

Explore the fertility community
There is a strong fertility community with many support options. For example, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine has a mental health professional group and a directory of therapists who specialize in fertility. Social media can also be a way to find providers and peer support through clinic and therapist pages or moderated groups. 

Three questions to ask when choosing a therapist 

Do they specialize in fertility or infertility?
Look for expertise that matches your needs. You should not have to teach your therapist the basics of fertility treatment, such as the difference between IVF and IUI, or the considerations around known versus anonymous donors. 

Do you feel comfortable with them?
The relationship matters. While many therapists can work effectively with people from different backgrounds, you may feel most comfortable with someone who shares your culture, religion, primary language, or lived experience. It is OK to speak with a few therapists before deciding. This is your time and your journey, and you should feel respected and understood. 

Are they properly licensed?
Confirm that the therapist is a licensed mental health professional, such as a PhD, PsyD, LCSW or LMSW, or LMFT, and that they have relevant experience. Accredited centers, such as the Ackerman Institute for the Family in New York, can also be a starting point. 

Many people hesitate to seek therapy because of stigma around mental health care. Fertility challenges can be one of the most stressful experiences you face, and stigma can add to feelings of isolation. Talking with a therapist can help you navigate this complex journey with clarity and support. Asking for help is a meaningful step in caring for yourself. 

Contact your Progyny Care Advocate for help you with your search.  

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Fertility treatment can bring a mix of emotions, such as hope, stress, excitement, and uncertainty. Finding the right clinic is about more than success rates — it’s about feeling heard, supported, and confident in your care, too.  

When to consider a second opinion  

Trust your instincts. If you ever feel:  

• Your questions are left unanswered 

• Your concerns aren’t being validated  

• You’re uncomfortable with communication or care style  

• Your first treatment attempts haven’t gone as expected  

It may be time to seek a second opinion. Many people do this after one or two unsuccessful cycles or simply to confirm their treatment plan.  

Using the Progyny provider search tool  

This search tool helps you explore in-network clinics and compare details like:  

• Clinic performance rating 

• Practice size and specialties  

• Languages spoken  

• Services offered  

Getting help from your Progyny Care Advocate (PCA) 

You don’t have to make these decisions alone. If you’re unsure where to start, your PCA can help you find the right fit for your goals, preferences, and lifestyle. 

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Fertility treatment can feel overwhelming. The emotional ups and downs, physical demands, and financial stress can take a toll. You’re not alone — many people find this journey challenging. 

The good news? There are ways to make it easier and help you feel more in control. Here are some tips from Dr. Alice Domar, a health psychologist who specializes in fertility care: 

• Create your comfort list: Think about what helps you feel calm. Maybe it’s taking a walk, calling a friend, listening to music, or watching a favorite show. Write these down or make a note on your smartphone so you’ll have them ready when stress hits. 

• Practice relaxation early: Meditation, yoga, or mindfulness can help. Relaxation apps like Calm offer guided sessions to get you started. Try a few and see what feels right for you. 

• Talk with your partner: Open communication matters. One helpful method is “paired listening,” which means you take turns talking for a few minutes while the other listens, then switch. Keep distractions like phones and TVs away during these talks. 

• Have a backup plan: If a treatment cycle doesn’t go as hoped, knowing your next steps — like meeting your doctor or exploring other options — can bring peace of mind. 

• Choose who to share with: Tell only those who will support you and respect your privacy. Sharing widely can lead to overwhelming messages, so keep it simple. 

Stress may not disappear completely, but these tips can help you feel supported and more in control. Remember, you deserve care and compassion every step of the way. 

If you have questions, Progyny is here for you. Please contact your Progyny Care Advocate for support. 

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