OVA IT is a bold new take on fertility. Hosted by Dr. Jennifer Surjana, Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Dr. Tarita Pakrashi, Reproductive Endocrinologist, we blend the soul of Eastern medicine with the precision of Western science. This is for the woman who’s done everything “right” and still feels lost. For the one craving truth, depth, and real answers. From hormones to hope, IVF to intuition - this is the conversation you’ve been waiting for.
What About Him? Why Male Fertility Deserves More Attention
Summary
In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Surjana and Dr. Tarita Pakrashi discuss the often-overlooked topic of male fertility. They emphasize the importance of understanding male factors in infertility, the significance of semen analysis, and the impact of age and lifestyle on sperm health. The conversation also touches on the emotional aspects of male fertility and the need for men to be active participants in the fertility journey. The episode concludes with practical advice for improving sperm health and the importance of early testing.
Keywords
male fertility, semen analysis, reproductive health, sperm health, infertility, oxidative stress, DNA fragmentation, lifestyle changes, holistic fertility, emotional health
Takeaways
Male fertility is often overlooked in discussions about infertility.
Sperm health is declining rapidly due to various environmental factors.
A semen analysis is crucial for understanding male fertility.
Male factor infertility contributes to 20-40% of infertility cases.
Oxidative stress can damage sperm and affect fertility.
DNA fragmentation in sperm can lead to implantation issues.
Varicocele can significantly impact sperm quality.
Men experience age-related fertility decline similar to women.
Sperm reflects a man's overall health and vitality.
Early testing and lifestyle changes are essential for improving fertility.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Male Fertility
05:43 The Importance of Semen Analysis
09:49 Factors Affecting Sperm Quality
14:47 Improving Male Fertility
16:27 The Shared Responsibility of Fertility
Connect with us!
Find Dr. Pakrashi at CNY Fertility (https://www.cnyfertility.com/location/norfolk/) in Norfolk, VA
Find Dr. Surjana at SOURCE Fertility (https://www.sourceintegrativehealth.com/) in Norfolk, VA, or work with her virtually through Infinite Fertility (https://www.infinitefertility.net/). Follow her on Instagram @drsurjana (https://www.instagram.com/drsurjana/)
3 Jul 2025
Inside IVF: What No One Tells You
In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Surjana and Dr. Tarita Pakrashi delve into the complexities of in vitro fertilization (IVF), discussing its processes, who it is for, and the emotional aspects involved. They aim to demystify IVF, providing clarity on what patients can expect and emphasizing the importance of holistic care throughout the journey.
Keywords
IVF, in vitro fertilization, fertility, reproductive health, egg retrieval, embryo transfer, fertility treatment, reproductive endocrinology, women's health, emotional support
Takeaways
IVF involves stimulating the ovaries, retrieving eggs, and transferring embryos.
The process includes multiple appointments and hormone injections.
IVF is not just a procedure; it's a comprehensive process.
Candidates for IVF include those with specific infertility factors and those who have tried less invasive options.
Emotional and physical health are crucial during the IVF process.
IVF success rates can be influenced by age, embryo quality, and lab efficiency.
Patients should be prepared for the possibility that IVF may not work on the first attempt.
Support for the whole person can enhance IVF outcomes.
Understanding one's body and cycles is important before jumping into IVF.
IVF is a tool, not a fix; emotional well-being matters.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding IVF: The Basics
03:31 Who Needs IVF? Exploring Candidates
06:33 The IVF Process: Step by Step
10:15 The Lab Phase: Behind the Scenes of IVF
13:00 Factors Influencing IVF Success
15:49 Emotional Aspects of IVF: What Patients Should Know
Connect with us!
Find Dr. Pakrashi at CNY Fertility (https://www.cnyfertility.com/location/norfolk/) in Norfolk, VA
Find Dr. Surjana at SOURCE Fertility (https://www.sourceintegrativehealth.com/) in Norfolk, VA, or work with her virtually through Infinite Fertility (https://www.infinitefertility.net/). Follow her on Instagram @drsurjana (https://www.instagram.com/drsurjana/)
26 Jun 2025
Understanding the Spectrum: From Natural Cycles to IUI and Beyond
Not every fertility journey begins - or ends - with IVF. In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Surjana (holistic fertility specialist) and Dr. Tarita Pakrashi (reproductive endocrinologist) walk you through the full range of supported fertility cycles: from natural and medicated cycles to IUI.
Together, they explore:
• What each type of cycle involves• Who it’s best suited for• How to make informed, strategic decisions• Why supporting the whole body makes all the difference
You’ll also hear why IVF isn’t the automatic next step - and what to consider before you go there. (Spoiler: a full IVF episode is coming soon!)
Whether you’re just starting or feeling stuck, this conversation will help you understand your options and feel more confident in your care plan.
Keywords
fertility, conception, ovulation, IUI, IVF, women's health, natural cycles, emotional support, reproductive health, holistic care
Takeaways
Women often feel uncertain about their fertility options.
There are many steps between trying naturally and advanced treatments.
Tracking ovulation is essential for understanding fertility.
Stress and depletion can hinder conception despite perfect charts.
Natural approaches can lead to better outcomes in fertility.
IUI is not a simple step; it requires preparation.
IVF can be a daunting option that needs careful consideration.
Emotional support is crucial during the fertility journey.
More intervention doesn't always equate to better results.
Restoring health is key to achieving conception.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Fertility Options
02:53 Natural Approaches to Conception
05:25 Ovulation Induction Explained
08:17 Demystifying IUI
10:55 Navigating IVF and Emotional Considerations
Connect with us!
Find Dr. Pakrashi at CNY Fertility (https://www.cnyfertility.com/location/norfolk/) in Norfolk, VA
Find Dr. Surjana at SOURCE Fertility (https://www.sourceintegrativehealth.com/) in Norfolk, VA, or work with her virtually through Infinite Fertility (https://www.infinitefertility.net/). Follow her on Instagram @drsurjana (https://www.instagram.com/drsurjana/)
19 Jun 2025
The New Fertility Standard: Where Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Science
In this episode of Ova-It, Dr. Jennifer Surjana and Dr. Tarita Pakrashi discuss the integration of traditional Chinese medicine and modern science in fertility care. They emphasize the importance of a holistic approach that considers the whole body and individual needs, rather than a one-size-fits-all solution. Through real-life success stories, they illustrate how personalized care can lead to positive outcomes in fertility treatments. The conversation highlights the need for a collaborative approach in fertility care, empowering individuals to make informed choices without having to choose between different treatment modalities.
Keywords
fertility, holistic health, traditional Chinese medicine, integrative medicine, reproductive health, IVF, women's health, emotional well-being, personalized care, fertility success stories
Takeaways
Women often feel burnt out after exhausting standard care options.
Fertility care should consider the whole system, not just reproductive organs.
What works for one individual may not work for another.
Integrative medicine combines TCM diagnostics with modern clinical data.
Restoring the body's rhythm is crucial for fertility.
Traditional Chinese medicine has wisdom that aligns with modern science.
Real-life success stories demonstrate the effectiveness of holistic approaches.
Patients need care that treats them as whole individuals.
The new fertility standard emphasizes true integration of care.
Empowering patients to make informed choices is essential.
Chapters
00:00 Redefining Fertility Care
02:32 Integrating Ancient Wisdom with Modern Science
05:07 The Importance of Holistic Approaches
07:54 Real-Life Success Stories
10:11 The New Fertility Standard
Connect with us!
Find Dr. Pakrashi at CNY Fertility (https://www.cnyfertility.com/location/norfolk/) in Norfolk, VA
Find Dr. Surjana at SOURCE Fertility (https://www.sourceintegrativehealth.com/) in Norfolk, VA, or work with her virtually through Infinite Fertility (https://www.infinitefertility.net/). Follow her on Instagram @drsurjana (https://www.instagram.com/drsurjana/)
12 Jun 2025
Understanding the Menstrual Cycle: What’s Normal and What’s Not
In this episode of Ova-It, Dr. Jennifer Surjana and Dr. Tarita Pakrashi delve into the intricacies of the menstrual cycle, emphasizing its significance as a vital sign of health. They discuss what constitutes a normal cycle, the importance of recognizing irregularities, and the need for awareness and tracking to better understand one's body. The conversation aims to empower listeners to take charge of their reproductive health and seek support when needed.
Takeaways:
Your cycle is a vital sign that reflects your health.
Painful periods are not normal and should be addressed.
Awareness of your cycle is the first step to better care.
Tracking your cycle can provide valuable insights into your health.
Discomfort during your period is not your destiny.
Your menstrual cycle is a powerful diagnostic tool.
Everyone's normal is different; don't compare yourself to others.
Your body communicates; learn to listen to it.
Support and solutions are available for menstrual issues.
Your cycle deserves understanding, not silence.
Chapters:
00:00 Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle
03:02 Myth Busting Menstrual Health
05:35 Recognizing Irregularities and Symptoms
08:38 Empowerment Through Awareness and Support
CONNECT WITH US!
Find Dr. Pakrashi at CNY Fertility (https://www.cnyfertility.com/location/norfolk/) in Norfolk, VA
Find Dr. Surjana at SOURCE Fertility (https://www.sourceintegrativehealth.com/) in Norfolk, VA, or work with her virtually through Infinite Fertility (https://www.infinitefertility.net/). Follow her on Instagram @drsurjana (https://www.instagram.com/drsurjana/)
5 Jun 2025
Before the Protocols: How to Optimize Fertility from the Inside Out
In our very first episode, we’re diving into one of the most common (and most Googled) questions: How can I improve my fertility naturally?
Dr. Jennifer Surjana (TCM) and Dr. Tarita Pakrashi (REI) unpack what actually supports your fertility, without the fluff or false promises. From tracking your cycle to choosing the right foods, regulating stress, and knowing when to seek help, this conversation bridges clinical precision and holistic wisdom.
Real talk. Real tools. And real hope for your TTC journey.
Keywords
fertility, holistic health, nutrition, menstrual cycle, lifestyle choices, stress management, integrative care, reproductive health, wellness, fertility support
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Fertility Conversations
02:11 Understanding Natural Fertility Boosters
04:38 The Menstrual Cycle and Fertility
06:20 Aligning Eastern and Western Perspectives on Fertility
06:21 The Role of Food in Fertility
09:10 Dietary Choices and Fertility Treatments
11:41 Lifestyle Factors Impacting Fertility
14:13 Stress and Its Effects on Fertility
17:09 Seeking Help and Preparing for Conception
19:47 Integrative Approaches to Fertility Care
CONNECT WITH US!
Find Dr. Pakrashi at CNY Fertility (https://www.cnyfertility.com/location/norfolk/) in Norfolk, VA
Find Dr. Surjana at SOURCE Fertility (https://www.sourceintegrativehealth.com/) in Norfolk, VA, or work with her virtually through Infinite Fertility (https://www.infinitefertility.net/). Follow her on Instagram @drsurjana (https://www.instagram.com/drsurjana/)
Podcast Authority Score: 38 / 100
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