Every day of every year, fertility clinic laboratories are monitoring, observing and essentially “babysitting” patients' embryos, sperm and eggs. Their security systems are always active to keep these precious materials safe and protocols are strictly followed with every movement.

After struggling to conceive on their own, Danielle and Rob began a path to parenthood that would lead them through ICSI and IVF to a huge surprise they never could have anticipated. Read about their journey through infertility, a complex and challenging pregnancy and their advice to fellow fertility warriors in this honest account of how they grew their family. Skip to a specific section: Meet Danielle & Rob The First Step: Seeking Out Help Uncovering Male Factor Fertility Issues Leaning on Their Care Team for Support The Challenges of the IVF Process Remaining Hopeful & Preparing for Transfer #2 The Shock of a Lifetime Becoming Parents x 2 Advice for Other Fertility Patients Staying Connected to the Fertility Community More Resources

When it comes to the language of fertility, we have to admit – a lot of the lingo tends to favor the ladies’ side of the equation. From AMH levels, to basal body temperature, to cycles, moms-to-be have a whole list of ABCs to learn as they go through treatment.

Sometimes the word “salad” is a turnoff. Some people see it as a “diet” food or what you’re forced to eat when you want to lose weight. People think "boring…leafy…unsatisfying." Who really eats salads for fun? You do! Well, maybe not yet… but by the end of this article, you’ll be ready to whip up one of these hearty, nutrient-rich, satisfying salads. Take that, “diet.” It’s time to be healthy because we want to be, not because we are forced to be. Preparing your body for the healthiest pregnancy possible can be a delicious pursuit too - and these seasonal salads are the perfect proof!

If you need to pursue fertility treatment, your next question is likely “How in the world am I going to pay for this?” Hopefully, your answer is your insurance provider! The first step is to figure out if your insurance policy includes fertility coverage and will help pay for the infertility treatments, tests, or other procedures your doctor may recommend. Learn how to explore your plan's coverage and get the most out of your insurance with our detailed guide below.

After four failed IVF cycles at another fertility clinic and almost ready to give up their hope of ever having children, Chris and Desiree decided to reach out to the team at Illume Fertility to see if they could help. This is their story. Want to jump to a specific section? Meet Chris and Desiree A New Start Navigating the Highs and Lows Finding Success After Failed IVF Reflections on Their Fertility Journey Advice to Other Fertility Patients Desiree's Top Tips Want to Share Your Story? More IVF Resources

Infertility and fertility treatment are often compared to either a roller coaster or a Ferris wheel, and for good reason. Throughout your journey, there are many twists and turns, ups and downs - and it often feels like the entire thing is out of your control. That got us wondering, “If all the pieces of fertility treatment were like rides at an amusement park, which ones would they be?”

In honor of Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month, we asked one of our patients to share her and her husband's journey through fertility struggles, multiple rounds of IUI, how they coped with the heartbreak of losing a pregnancy and where they are now. Note: This story includes mentions of pregnancy loss (miscarriage) that may be difficult for some to read. Please take care of yourself and skip this post if this topic is too tough to revisit right now.