Fertility Blog

Fertility Blog by Illume Fertility

Everything you need to know about reproductive health, fertility testing, fertility treatment (like IUI and IVF) and how to navigate fertility challenges.

Brigitte Alicea, RN

Brigitte Alicea is an accredited IVF nurse who joined the team at Illume Fertility in 2009. She has previously served as Illume's Assistant Director of Nursing and as the Manager of Surgical Services. Brigitte’s passion is providing high-quality care to each patient going through infertility, while offering emotional support along the way.

Donor Conception | Fertility Treatment | Single Mom By Choice | Sperm Donor

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Single Mother By Choice (SMBC)

By: Brigitte Alicea, RN
February 13th, 2025

Thinking about becoming a single mom by choice? This comprehensive guide offers a step-by-step explanation of the fertility treatment process, information about donor conception, and helpful resources and support for those pursuing this unique path to motherhood.

Fertility Treatment | IVF | Egg Retrieval | Embryo Transfer | Fertility Surgeries

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Side Effects at Each Stage

By: Brigitte Alicea, RN
June 28th, 2023

Fertility treatments are considered very safe, but all medical procedures carry some risk of potential side effects. With in vitro fertilization (IVF), each stage of the process can bring on a unique set of symptoms. Here's what IVF side effects you can expect throughout your journey.