A little bit of hope

Why do you want to share your story?

To give a little bit of hope to those families who might be on their own journey towards becoming parents.

What led you to Fertility Centers of Illinois?

I had an awful experience with another fertility clinic that was closer to home. I was referred by a friend who had nothing but wonderful things to share about her FCI experience. I am so glad I made the switch!

How would you describe your experience with your physician?

From the moment I saw her sparkly motorcycle t-shirt, I knew Dr. Hirshfeld-Cytron was going to be a great fit. She was warm and compassionate, yet straightforward. A very delicate balance that she naturally possesses. The nursing staff was so helpful, communicated so easily and talked me off the ledge on rough days and shared my excitement on happy days.

What helped you get through treatment?

Ice cream and wine. Kidding, sort of. Honestly, the support of family and friends. Being open that some days I would want to talk, other days I didn’t. But no matter how I was feeling it was okay. It’s always okay to feel. Oh, and fun bandaids for those PIO shots helped, too.

Do you have any words of hope for others?

The emotional weight is the hardest part but you are meant to do hard things. Go one day at a time and allow yourself to feel. It’s a challenging journey that not many can understand and it can feel lonely and isolating but staying hopeful and cautiously optimistic will help.

Tell us about your little miracle!

Our sweet baby girl, Maeve Cecilia, was born July 19th, 2020. She is just over a year old and 100% has my spunky personality and looks just like her daddy. We have enjoyed every single moment and are eternally grateful to Dr. Hirshfeld-Cytron and the FCI team for making our dreams come true.

Need-to-know fertility resources and guidance

Diagnosis and treatment

We understand you may have questions about infertility and how it’s treated. Gain answers from the diagnosis and treatments shared in this story.
Endometriosis
In vitro fertilization (IVF)

Receiving care

Assemble your fertility care team close to home. Explore our different locations and physicians who will provide guidance along your journey.
Dr. Jennifer Hirshfeld-Cytron
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