Lipstick on the Rim
Episode: Fertility Myths vs Facts: Egg Freezing, IVF, & What Every Woman Should Know
Host: Molly Sims & Emese Gormley
Guest: Dr. Lucky Sekhon
Date: March 3, 2026

Episode Overview

In this episode, Molly and Emese welcome Dr. Lucky Sekhon, a renowned reproductive endocrinologist, fertility specialist, and author of The Lucky Egg. Together, they dive deep into modern fertility: dispelling prevalent myths, clarifying confusing headlines, exploring egg freezing and IVF, and providing evidence-backed advice to help women understand, plan, and take charge of their fertility with less fear and more empowerment. Drawing on both scientific expertise and lived experience, Dr. Sekhon provides real talk about fertility’s emotional realities, medical advances, and what every woman should know when considering family planning in a rapidly changing world.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Why the Fertility Conversation Has Exploded

• IVF success rates have soared from the single digits in the 1970s to 60-70% per transfer with good embryos today.
• Treatments are far safer and more accessible, with insurance coverage more common.
• Social shifts: More women are delaying family building for careers, education, or financial reasons, making fertility preservation (egg freezing, embryo banking) a mainstream topic.
• Quote: “It is just becoming much more mainstream and something that people are comfortable taking that leap of faith toward.” — Dr. Sekhon (08:08)

Is Infertility More Common Now?

• Infertility rates haven’t necessarily increased, but cultural openness has; people talk more and seek help.
• Biggest factor: Age. Later family building is a major contributor, not food, environment, or medication alone.
• Half of infertility cases involve a male factor, yet women often carry the blame.

“50% of couples will have some sort of sperm quality [issue]. It’s not the woman.”
— Dr. Lucky Sekhon (09:15)

The Emotional Impact & Realities

• Dr. Sekhon shares her dual role as both fertility doctor and patient.
• Emotional turbulence, fear, and loss of control are universal for women navigating fertility.
• Planning is complex because biology isn’t always responsive to hard work or perfect planning.
• Quote: “It’s one thing to intellectualize and think you know everything… and it’s another to actually be the patient and have feelings.” (05:38)

When and Why to Consider Egg Freezing

• Best age: Mid-to-late 20s to early 30s—where emotional readiness and reproductive potential ideally align.
• It’s not a guarantee of a future baby, but an option that preserves potential.
• The process takes about two weeks (not months); it's manageable for most working women.
• Quote: “If the conversation ends with, ‘I’ve learned about egg freezing and I’ve decided it’s not the step I want to take’—fine. But at least you’ve made a thoughtful decision.” — Dr. Sekhon (14:29)

Debunking Myths

IVF Causes Breast Cancer (15:15)

• False. Multiple long-term studies (e.g., Denmark registries) show no increased risk, even after many IVF rounds.
• Short-term hormone exposure is not equivalent to chronic, long-term exposure.

Low AMH Means You Can’t Get Pregnant (21:48)

• False. AMH reflects egg quantity, not quality, and doesn’t predict natural conception.
• Quote: “There are many studies… their AMH does not predict their ability to have a baby.” (22:17)

Birth Control Causes Infertility (35:11)

• False. Birth control does not deplete egg supply or cause infertility.

Only Women Have a Biological Clock (34:24)

• False. Sperm quality declines with age; advanced paternal age carries risks for children (e.g., neurodevelopmental concerns).

Stress Causes Infertility (35:44)

• False. Daily stress does not cause infertility or miscarriage.
• “Being stressed about being stressed is not going to be helpful.” — Dr. Sekhon (36:46)

All IVF Leads to Twins/Multiples (07:10)

• Outdated: Modern IVF typically transfers a single embryo to reduce such risks.

Understanding Testing & Numbers

Ovarian Reserve / AMH

• AMH and follicle counts help forecast how a woman will respond to IVF/egg retrieval but are not indicators of natural fertility.
• “There is no test for egg quality. That’s the biggest thing to really get out there.” — Dr. Sekhon (23:06)

Importance of the Fertility Clinic Lab

• Success rates largely depend on the lab's skill in cultivating embryos.
• Consider lab quality and volume, not just the doctor or clinic atmosphere.

Family History

• Early menopause, endometriosis, PCOS, and fibroids often have a genetic component—know and share family history with your doctor.
• “First-degree relatives who went into menopause before 40: that’s a red flag.” (26:21)

Genetic Testing

• Two major categories: carrier screening for parents/donors (identifies risks like cystic fibrosis, BRCA, etc.) and embryo testing during IVF (PGT).
• Can prevent passing on serious hereditary diseases.

Supplements & Acupuncture

• Must-use: Prenatal vitamins with folic acid, starting three months before conception.
• Coenzyme Q10 shows the most promise among fertility supplements (600mg/day), with some evidence for improved outcomes.
• Most other supplements lack rigorous scientific backing; be wary of side effects and drug interactions.
• Acupuncture: Evidence for stress reduction; some patients report positive effects, but no proven increase in IVF success. No known harm.

IVF: What It Does and Doesn’t Promise (41:39)

• IVF increases control and efficiency ("like playing the slots with more coins"), especially for those facing diminished fertility or known challenges.
• No guarantee, but enables embryo testing (PGT) and embryo/egg freezing for future use.
• IVF reduces miscarriage risk via embryo selection, but can’t promise 100% success.

“Nothing will promise you anything, right? But IVF can give you more control.” — Dr. Sekhon (41:39)

The Mental Health Aspect

• Acknowledges unique emotional burdens at every phase—whether it’s secondary infertility, multiple failed cycles, pregnancy loss, or surrogacy.
• Advocates for mental flexibility and grace: “You’re not a statistic. You’re an individual with your own situation.” (50:51)
• Rejects blame/shame culture surrounding fertility.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “You’re going to have your baby. It might not look the way you think in your mind, but if you want to have a family, you will… Start to try to calm down, get your checklist.” — Molly Sims (10:56)
• “I see miracles happen all the time… There’s so much in this that’s not in your control, and that doesn’t have to be a negative message.” — Dr. Lucky Sekhon (50:51)
• “If you have an open mind, there are so many different ways this could work in your favor.” — Dr. Lucky Sekhon (51:24)
• “What surprised you the most about IVF as a patient?”
  “The lack of control... even as a doctor, you tell yourself you’ll handle it but nothing prepares you emotionally for those outcomes.” — (39:28)

Timestamps for Key Segments

• [03:18] Introduction—Why Fertility Conversations Matter
• [05:38] Dr. Sekhon on Being Both Doctor and Patient
• [08:32] Are Infertility Rates Higher Now?
• [11:38] Roadmap for Women in Their 20s and 30s
• [13:15] Best Age/Considerations for Egg Freezing
• [15:04] IVF and Cancer Myths
• [20:22] AMH, Ovarian Reserve, and Testing
• [23:36] Egg Quality vs. Quantity
• [25:15] The Importance of Clinic Lab Quality
• [26:09] Family History & Genetic Considerations
• [27:02] Role of Genetic Testing
• [32:09] Rapid-Fire Myths: Male Fertility, AMH, Birth Control, Stress
• [36:58] Step-by-Step: Advising a 30-year-old Patient
• [39:28] IVF from the Patient’s Perspective
• [41:39] IVF: What It Can and Can’t Do
• [46:03] Supplements, Acupuncture—What Actually Works?
• [50:35] The Power of Positivity & Mindset
• [52:29] Dr. Sekhon’s Advice to Her Younger Self

Takeaways for Listeners

• Fertility is nuanced, deeply individual, and rapidly evolving.
• Age is the primary factor affecting fertility—not stress, not birth control.
• Egg freezing is empowerment, not a guarantee; early education and planning matter.
• Myths abound, but data dispels many fears: IVF does not cause cancer, low AMH isn’t a fertility death sentence, and men’s reproductive age matters too.
• Labs matter—ask about their success rates and volume.
• Supplements are only marginally helpful beyond a solid prenatal vitamin and coenzyme Q10.
• Mental flexibility, grace, and education are as crucial as any prescription.
• “You are not a statistic.” There are many paths to family, and none are linear.

Resources Mentioned

• The Lucky Egg by Dr. Lucky Sekhon (Available on Amazon, January 2025)
• Dr. Lucky’s Instagram: @lucky.sek

Closing Remark

Dr. Sekhon brings science, compassion, and honesty—reminding listeners that fertility is both deeply personal and wonderfully unpredictable. If you’re seeking clarity, comfort, and practical advice for your fertility journey, this episode is a must-listen (or a must-read, right here).