Decoding Fertility: Inside the Mind of a Reproductive Endocrinologist
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Episode Notes
In this episode, Becky sits down with Dr. Lucy X. Chen, a double board-certified Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility specialist — and one of the few fellowship-trained REI geneticists in the U.S. Dr. Chen brings clarity and compassion to some of the most confusing and emotionally charged parts of the fertility journey, including when to seek help (and why not to follow the standard guidelines!), how genetics influences fertility and miscarriage, and what options patients actually have when navigating infertility.
She explains the diagnostic process, the real meaning of “genetic testing,” why expanded carrier screening matters, and how age, ovulation disorders, structural issues, and male-factor infertility contribute to conception challenges. Dr. Chen also shares her personal experience with secondary infertility, her hope for greater accessibility in the field, and the emotional realities physicians face as they walk alongside patients through uncertainty, loss, and complex decision-making.
Topics Discussed
What a Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility (REI) specialist does
When someone should seek fertility support — and why waiting too long can delay outcomes
Key causes of infertility: age, ovulation disorders, tubal issues, male-factor infertility
The difference between reacting vs. responding in fertility care
Dr. Chen’s training as both an REI and geneticist — and why genetics matters
What “genetic testing” really means: expanded carrier screening, PGT, whole exome sequencing
Understanding miscarriage through the lens of genetics
Fertility preservation for medical and elective reasons
How unexplained infertility differs from other diagnoses
The emotional and psychological toll of fertility treatment
IVF explained simply: retrieval, embryology lab, transfer, and the two-week wait
Coping strategies, support needs, and why mental health care is essential
Ethical considerations and guidelines in fertility care
Dr. Chen’s personal journey with infertility and becoming a working mother
Her hopes for the future of reproductive medicine: access, equity, and education
“Understanding your genetics isn’t about fear — it’s about options. You are not to blame, and so much of this is outside your control.”
Guest information
Dr. Lucy X. Chen is a double board-certified reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI) specialist and serves as the Medical Director at CCRM Fertility of Virginia Beach. As one of only a select few fellowship-trained REI geneticists in the United States, Dr. Chen brings an exceptional level of expertise, precision, and innovation to her practice. Her unique background allows her to bridge the fields of reproductive medicine and genetics, offering patients highly personalized care grounded in the latest scientific advancements.
Dr. Chen is deeply committed to advancing the role of genetics in fertility treatment. She is particularly passionate about providing expanded genetic testing options—including whole exome sequencing and comprehensive preimplantation genetic testing (PGT)—to help patients better understand their reproductive health and optimize their chances of building healthy families. Through her compassionate approach and dedication to cutting-edge research, Dr. Chen continues to empower individuals and couples with knowledge, clarity, and hope on their fertility journeys.