Breaking the Silence: Addressing Fertility and Infertility with Bilge Gare and Valerie Kvita

Health Up

• 25 min

Play episode

What if your fertility journey started with a diagnosis you never expected? How can we better support open conversations around infertility? In this episode of the me&my health up podcast, host Anthony Hartcher is joined by fertility advocates and experts Valerie Kvita and Bilge Gare for a heartfelt and eye-opening discussion on fertility, infertility, and the emotional realities behind the statistics. Valerie shares her personal story of being diagnosed with premature ovarian insufficiency at 35 and her experience with egg freezing. Bilge opens up about her impactful TEDx talk, Coming Out of the Fertility Closet, which explores the isolation and silence many face on their fertility journey.  Together, they unpack the societal pressure placed on women, the urgent need for early fertility education, and why male involvement in the conversation is critical. Their collaborative book, I Am Magic, is a beacon of empowerment for anyone navigating their reproductive health.  🎧 Don’t miss this powerful conversation that breaks down stigma and builds up support for everyone on their path to parenthood.  Takeaways <ul> <li>Valerie's journey began at 35, leading to egg freezing.</li> <li>Bilge emphasises the emotional and financial burdens of infertility.</li> <li>Societal norms often place the burden of fertility on women.</li> <li>Education about fertility should start early in life.</li> <li>Men's involvement in fertility discussions is crucial.</li> <li>The book 'I Am Magic' aims to empower individuals.</li> <li>Understanding one's body is key to making informed decisions.</li> <li>Both men and women should be educated about fertility.</li> <li>Breaking the stigma around infertility is essential.</li> <li>Support and open communication are vital in fertility journeys.</li> </ul> About Bilge Gare and Valerie Kvita:  Bilge Gare and Valerie Kvita are dedicated advocates for fertility awareness and education. Bilge Gare is a fertility expert and speaker, known for her TEDx talk, "Coming Out of the Fertility Closet," where she addresses the emotional and societal challenges of infertility. With a background in technology, she brings a unique perspective to the conversation. Valerie Kvita is a communications professional passionate about women's health. Her personal fertility journey fuels her commitment to educating others about their reproductive choices. Together, they co-authored "I Am Magic," a practical guide that empowers individuals to understand their fertility and embrace self-love. Their mission is to break down stigma and foster open discussions around reproductive health.    Connect with Valerie and Bilge:  Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/the.tinypea/" rel="nofollow">https://www.instagram.com/the.tinypea/</a>  TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@the.tinypea" rel="nofollow">https://www.tiktok.com/@the.tinypea</a>  Website: <a href="https://thetinypea.com/" rel="nofollow">https://thetinypea.com/</a>  📘 Get the book: I Am Magic — available now on Amazon!  Here: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/3033107478/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaezIZaPKkhq8FneVYP3kh7WdWvvxfnCui9L3WXNo1xUiVOczT2XnWwUkwRkhA_aem_UQXx6WrLH-_Aafty0_OmdQ" rel="nofollow">https://www.amazon.com/dp/3033107478/</a>  About me&my health up & Anthony Hartcher        me&my health up seeks to enhance and enlighten the well-being of others. Host Anthony Hartcher is the CEO of me&my wellness which provides holistic health solutions using food as medicine, combined with a holistic, balanced, lifestyle approach. Anthony holds three bachelor's degrees in Complementary Medicine; Nutrition and Dietetic Medicine; and Chemical Engineering.     Chapters  00:00 Introduction and Welcome  01:28 Valerie's Fertility Journey  04:15 Bilge Gare's TEDx Talk  08:18 Societal Perceptions of Fertility  13:47 Changing the Conversation  17:55 Book Overview: ‘I Am Magic’  20:31 Closing and Resources