The Egg Factor

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Norbert Gleicher explores the growing body of research on reproductive immunology and discusses why immune function deserves greater attention in fertility care.

Join Dr. Gleicher as he explains how the immune system can influence reproductive outcomes, why this area of medicine remains controversial, and what emerging evidence may mean for patients experiencing infertility. Whether you're navigating fertility challenges or simply interested in the latest developments in reproductive medicine, this episode offers valuable insights into a topic that is often overlooked.

Brought to you by the Center for...

On this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Norbert Gleicher explores whether younger women should consider freezing their eggs. He discusses how age, egg quality, ovarian reserve, and future fertility goals can factor into the decision and why egg freezing isn’t necessarily the right choice for everyone.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR has been at the forefront of fertility care since the beginning. 

Our founder, Dr. Norbert Gleicher, reported the...

Can genetics help explain repeated pregnancy loss? While many pregnancy losses are caused by chromosomal abnormalities, not all cases have a clear explanation. In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Norbert Gleicher explores the complex relationship between genetics and recurrent pregnancy loss.

Whether you've experienced recurrent pregnancy loss or want to learn more about the latest advances in reproductive genetics, this episode offers an informative and compassionate look at an important topic.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Norbert Gleicher explores the science behind non-invasive embryo testing and what it could mean for the future of IVF. Learn how these methods compare to traditional genetic testing, and where the research stands today.

Join us as we discuss the potential benefits, current limitations, and what patients should know when considering the latest advances in embryo selection during fertility treatment.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history...

What do Diminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR), Premature Ovarian Aging (POA), and Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) really mean—and how are they different?

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente breaks down these often-confused diagnoses, explaining how they're identified, what they mean for fertility, and the treatment options available. Whether you're navigating your own fertility journey or simply looking to better understand ovarian health, this conversation offers clear, evidence-based insights to help you make informed decisions.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New Yo...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Norbert Gleicher takes a closer look at recurrent implantation failure — a complex and often frustrating challenge for patients undergoing fertility treatment. He discusses what defines recurrent implantation failure, the many factors that may contribute to unsuccessful implantation, and how a thorough evaluation can help identify potential underlying causes.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR has been at the forefront of fertility care since the beginning. 

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Norbert Gleicher and Dr. David Barad sit down to discuss the topic of Natural Cycle IVF vs Stimulated Cycles. Learn how each approach works, who may benefit from each option, and the key factors to consider when choosing a treatment path. Whether you're beginning your fertility journey or looking to better understand your options, this episode offers clear, expert insights to help you make informed decisions.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of...

In this episode, Dr. Norbert Gleicher discusses what has been learned from transferring embryos identified as chromosomally abnormal during IVF treatment. He explores how these cases have challenged assumptions about embryo selection, implantation potential, and the role of genetic testing in fertility care, providing important insights for patients and clinicians navigating IVF decisions.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR has been at the forefront of fertility care since the beginning. 

Our f...

In this video, Dr. Norbert Gleicher discusses how low testosterone can affect ovarian function, egg development, and reproductive health in women. He explains why balanced hormone levels are important for fertility and how testosterone may be considered as part of an individualized approach to fertility care in selected patients. 

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR has been at the forefront of fertility care since the beginning. 

Our founder, Dr. Norbert Gleicher, re...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Norbert Gleicher explores the science of ovarian aging and what it means for fertility. He discusses why ovarian reserve declines, how age affects egg quality, and emerging research that could change the way we understand reproductive aging.

Whether you're trying to conceive, considering fertility preservation, or simply interested in the latest advances in reproductive medicine, this episode offers practical insights into one of fertility's most important topics.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. David Barad explores the CHR's Second Opinion Program and how it helps patients gain a fresh perspective on their fertility care. Learn what the program includes, who can benefit from a second opinion, and how expert review of your medical history and treatment plan may uncover new options and opportunities.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR has been at the forefront of fertility care since...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Norbert Gleicher explores the complex and relationship between autoimmunity and implantation failure.

Drawing on decades of clinical experience and research, Dr. Gleicher discusses how autoimmune conditions may influence endometrial receptivity, embryo implantation, and pregnancy outcomes. He examines the latest scientific evidence, addresses common misconceptions, and shares his perspective on which patients may benefit from immune-related testing and treatment.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. David Barad explains how fertility specialists tailor IVF protocols for patients with diminished ovarian reserve, discussing ovarian response, medication strategies, egg quality versus egg quantity, and what patients can realistically expect. Tune in for an evidence-based conversation that helps demystify one of the most common and challenging fertility diagnoses.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR has been at the forefront of fertility care since the...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, our very own Dr. Norbert Gleicher and Dr. David Barad are joined by Lab Director Emanuela Molinari to discuss IVM and Early Retrieval. Tune into this episode to learn how retrieving immature eggs earlier in the cycle and maturing them in the lab can offer an alternative to traditional IVF, with potential benefits for certain patients. 

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR has been at the f...

Planning summer travel while undergoing IVF? In this video, Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente explores how travel can impact IVF treatment, including medication schedules, monitoring appointments, stress levels, and overall treatment success. Learn practical tips for traveling safely during IVF and how to coordinate your plans with your fertility clinic.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR has been at the forefront of fertility care since the beginning. 

Our founder, Dr. Norbert Gleicher, reported t...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente is joined by Lab Director Emanuela Molinari to discuss why fertility professionals should attend the Foundation for Reproductive Medicine Conference (FRMC) 2026. FRMC 2026 is a premier international gathering focused on independent, patient-centered research and innovation in reproductive medicine, taking place on December 4-6 at the Metropolitan Club in New York. Organized by the Foundation for Reproductive Medicine, it brings together physicians, scientists, and allied professionals to critically reassess fertility care and explore emerging evidence.

If you're interested in purchasing tickets, please visit the link here: https://whova.com/p...

Embryo selection is often viewed as one of the most important factors in IVF success, but is it getting too much credit? In this video, Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente takes a closer look at the science behind embryo selection, its limitations, and other critical factors that influence treatment outcomes. Discover why embryo quality is only part of the fertility equation and how a broader perspective may help patients better understand their IVF journey.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Norbert Gleicher explores the limitations of conventional fertility workups and discusses the hidden factors that may be overlooked during diagnosis. Drawing on decades of clinical experience, Dr. Gleicher shares insights into complex fertility cases, emerging research, and why a deeper, more individualized approach can make a difference for patients seeking answers.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR has been at the forefront of fertility care...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. David Barad explores the relationship between egg quality and PCOS. He discusses how hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and metabolic factors associated with PCOS may affect egg development and overall fertility. The conversation covers how patients can better understand their reproductive health and treatment options.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR has been at the forefront of fertility care since the beginning. 

Our founder, Dr. N...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Norbert Gleicher is joined by Dr. Angie Beltsos to discuss the role of growth hormone in fertility treatment. They explore the science behind adding growth hormone to IVF and other fertility protocols, who may benefit from this approach, current research findings, and key considerations for patients seeking to optimize their chances of success. Tune in for a discussion on this evolving area of reproductive medicine.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience...

In this special Pride Month episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. David Barad discusses the many family-building options available to LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples. From donor sperm and egg donation to gestational surrogacy and fertility preservation, Dr. Barad breaks down the pathways to parenthood. The episode highlights the importance of inclusive care and empowering every person to build the family they want. 

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR has been at the forefront o...

Join us on this enlightening episode of The Egg Factor as Dr. Norbert Gleicher and Dr. Pasquale Patrizio explore the often overlooked topic of Male Factor Infertility. In this episode, Dr. Gleicher and Dr. Patrizio break down the common causes of male infertility, how it’s diagnosed, available treatments, and the importance of education around men’s reproductive health.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR has been at the forefront of fertility care sinc...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Norbert Gleicher discusses why fertility treatment should not be one-size-fits-all. From age and ovarian reserve to underlying health and reproductive history, he explains how individualized IVF approaches can improve outcomes and better support each patient’s unique fertility journey.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR has been at the forefront of fertility care since the beginning. 

Our founder, Dr. Norbert Gleicher, reported the fir...

Why don't normal embryos always lead to pregnancy? In this episode, Dr. Norbert Gleicher explores the complex factors behind embryo implantation failure, from uterine environment and immune factors to embryo biology beyond genetics. Tune in for a discussion on why “normal” embryos can still face challenges and what it means for IVF patients and treatment outcomes.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR has been at the forefront of fertility care since the beginning. 

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Studies show that single women busy with their professional or other personal life projects often delay fertility conversations or even may feel more stress around starting those conversations. In this video, Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente talks about breaking this pattern. She talks about how women don't need a partner to start tackling their fertility goals. 

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR has been at the forefront of fertility care since the beginning. 

Ou...

In this episode, Dr. Norbert Gleicher talks about the two most important issues in IVF that clinics often overlook: the timing of egg retrieval and embryo transfer. He explains how even small differences in timing can significantly impact outcomes, and why a more personalized approach is essential. Drawing on decades of clinical experience and research, Dr. Gleicher challenges conventional protocols and highlights how optimizing timing can improve success rates and better support patients on their fertility journey.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With...

We’re pleased to introduce Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente, who has officially joined the team at the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR). Dr. Gayete-Lafuente brings a strong background in both clinical care and academic research, with training and affiliations from leading institutions in Europe and the United States. In this episode, she talks about her educational and research background, as well as what drew her to the field of reproductive medicine. 

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of...

In recognition of National Infertility Awareness Week, Dr. Norbert Gleicher explores a question in reproductive medicine: what is “unexplained infertility” Drawing on decades of clinical experience and research at the CHR, he challenges the conventional diagnosis, arguing that infertility always has an underlying cause if we look closely enough. This episode dives into why CHR rejects the label of “unexplained" and what it means for individuals still searching for answers on their fertility journey.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experi...

The Center for Human Reproduction recently launched five new 2026 Clinical Trials, powered by the not-for-profit arm, the Foundation for Reproductive Medicine. These new trials reflect an ongoing mission of always bringing the most advanced science directly to patients and integrating the most innovative approaches in research into our treatments here. 

Every study presented is already IRB-approved, fully registered, based on the latest advances in the field, and ready to be delivered in real-world care, so that patients have direct access to some of the most promising fertility treatments available anywhere. In this episode, Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente walks t...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Norbert Gleicher breaks down chemical pregnancies. He discusses what they are, why they happen, and what they may reveal about your fertility and reproductive health. Learn the science behind early pregnancy loss and gain expert insight to better understand this common but often overlooked experience.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR has been at the forefront of fertility care since the beginning. 

Our f...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. Norbert Gleicher unpacks the complex and often overlooked role of the immune system in pregnancy. From implantation to early development, the immune system is very important in achieving pregnancy. Dr. Gleicher explains how immune-related issues can impact fertility and reproductive health, and why understanding these issues is key to more effective and personalized treatments. 

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR has been at the forefront o...

Since March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, it’s a good time to shine light on a condition that affects millions of people but is still widely misunderstood. Despite how common endometriosis is, there’s a surprising amount of misinformation surrounding it, not only among the public, but even among many individuals living with it. In this video, Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente breaks down everything you need to know about endometriosis. She also shares expert insights on managing pain, improving quality of life, and when to seek medical help.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on t...

As we continue to celebrate International Women's Month this March, Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente talks about a powerful and often overlooked aspect of motherhood: lactation without pregnancy. 

For many women and families, the ability to breastfeed represents far more than nutrition. It’s about bonding, connection, and participation in a deeply meaningful part of early parenthood. The good news? Even if you didn’t carry the pregnancy, breastfeeding may still be possible. 

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a...

In this episode of The Egg Factor, Dr. David Barad explores the complex topic of recurrent pregnancy loss. He explains what exactly defines recurrent pregnancy loss and discusses the common causes. Throughout the episode, Dr. Barad breaks down the common causes including genetic abnormalities, uterine structural issues, and hormonal imbalances. 

He also shares insight into different treatment options that may be available for these conditions. By combining medical expertise with compassionate guidance, he helps listeners better understand the challenges of recurrent pregnancy loss and the steps that can be taken toward a successful pregnancy.

Brought t...

As the month of March comes along, we observe International Women’s Day and celebrate International Women’s History Month. At the Center for Human Reproduction, this time of year is especially meaningful. We have always been committed to empowering women through education, science, and personalized reproductive care. 

Today, more women are taking autonomy over their family building timelines, and they are pursuing higher education, building careers, traveling the world, or waiting for the right partner. In this episode, Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente talks about how fertility preservation can be used as a tool for women to protect their...

In this episode, Dr. David Barad discusses the key differences between egg quality and egg quantity, specifically for women trying to conceive in their 40s. He breaks down how egg quantity refers to the number of eggs remaining in the ovaries, while egg quality relates to the genetic health of those eggs. 

Dr. Barad also discusses how these changes can affect fertility, miscarriage risk, and IVF treatment protocols. This episode provides a clear, science-backed explanation to help women better understand their reproductive health.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the U...

This is the second part of our interview, which dives deeper into the topic of PGT-A on Trial with Dr. Norbert Gleicher and Allison Freeman, the lead attorney behind a wave of groundbreaking class-action lawsuits targeting the PGT-A industry. From the misleading marketing claims to the emotional fallout experienced by hundreds of patients, this candid conversation continues to peel back the layers of an industry under fire.

This episode is perfect for anyone undergoing or considering IVF, as well as clinicians, advocates, and journalists following the future of reproductive medicine. After years of treatments, including IVF, Allison...

In this episode, Dr. Norbert Gleicher dives into the topic of egg donation specifically providing insight into the key differences between using frozen vs fresh donor eggs. With expert clinical experience and an extensive background in research, Dr. Gleicher explains how each option may impact success rates, treatment timing, and overall pregnancy outcomes. 

If you’re considering egg donation or want a better understanding of how donor egg choices can affect fertility treatment, this video offers medically grounded explanations to help you make informed decisions.

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on...

In this episode, Dr. Norbert Gleicher talks about the impact of advanced paternal age on sperm quality and quantity. He provides an overview for anyone interested in learning more about male reproductive health and discusses why paternal age can play a role in fertility. The video highlights that fertility is not only a woman’s issue and that male factors are also an important part of the conversation. 

Brought to you by the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR) on the Upper East Side of New York City. With over 40 years of experience and a history of innovation, CHR...

It has been more than 40 years since the first IVF baby was born and today, millions of babies are born using assisted reproductive technology. Throughout the years, new studies and research have been conducted which contributes to the advancement of reproductive medicine. One topic that has become popular is the process of how follicle development is monitored and how to determine the timing of the egg retrieval. 

HIER is based on the understanding that follicle maturity is a biological process, not just a measurement. Instead of treating all patients with the same protocol, the process of HIER t...