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In this enlightening episode of Fertility in Focus , we sit down with Lana de Bastiani, a remarkable voice in the world of fertility advocacy, who shares her compelling journey navigating the complex terrain of fertility care from Yellowknife, over 1500 kilometres away from the nearest fertility clinic in Edmonton, Alberta. Lana's fertility journey was complicated by her diagnosis of insulin-resistant PCOS and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) after nearly two decades on hormonal birth control.

She gives a candid look into the intricate process of interviewing clinics, the detailed conversations that guided her treatment choices, and the meticulous planning that went into her decision to undergo IVF.

Beyond the medical procedures, Lana delves into the significant financial and emotional tolls of her journey. From coverage gaps in the Northwest Territories' healthcare system to the additional expenses of travelling for treatment, Lana sheds light on the indirect financial barriers that impact those in remote areas seeking fertility care in Canada. She also shares the self-care rituals and practices that provided comfort and support through her treatments.

Join us as Lana de Bastiani offers a deeply personal look at the challenges of accessing fertility care from remote locations, the additional hurdles faced along the way, and her ongoing efforts to advocate for change. Her story is a call to action for more accessible and equitable fertility and reproductive healthcare across Canada.

More About our Guest Speaker

Lana de Bastiani is a pioneering fertility doula in Yellowknife, NWT, and stands out as the only doula specializing in fertility in Northern Canada. Her path to becoming a doula was shaped by her personal battles with infertility, infusing her practice with empathy and understanding. With a rich background in psychology, special education, adult education, and sexual health, Lana offers a holistic and personalized approach to fertility support. Her services are a beacon for Northern Canadians, addressing the significant barriers they face in accessing fertility care. Lana's culturally sensitive methodology is particularly attuned to the needs of Indigenous communities. Through her advocacy and the establishment of a virtual support group, Lana is a vocal proponent for equitable fertility support across Canada, aiming to empower her clients and bridge the urban-rural divide in reproductive healthcare.

To connect with Lana, you can follow her on Instagram @SolsticeFertilityDoula or her website: https://www.solsticefertilitydoula.com/.

First Response Canada

Afynia Laboratories, a Canadian biotechnology company, is pleased to announce the availability of EndomiR, the first validated diagnostic blood test for endometriosis. Afynia is currently offering EndomiR to Canadian fertility clinics for patients with unexplained infertility and/or symptoms suggestive of endometriosis. EndomiR shortens the diagnostic pathway by providing physicians with actionable data to inform safe and effective treatment options.

This episode is sponsored by First Response Canada.