Dr. John Gordon

We're Changing Our Name to Rejoice Fertility!

2024 will bring a lot of change.

A Walking Tour of the New Site

Southeastern Fertility's new building is really coming along!

Guys, Listen to the Nudge!

Women often take the lead in fertility treatment. Don't make it a burden for her!

Nothing to Fear

Don't let a podcast -or anything else- scare you: at Southeastern Fertility, you have nothing to fear when it comes to retrievals!

On the Front Lines

Our friendly, attentive front desk team makes a huge difference.

Sometimes You Have to Go for It!

A fertility lesson from some runaway sunglasses.

Don't Suffer in Silence

Hope, Faith, & Infertility podcast July 2023 episode

Our Declaration of Independence

We're one of the few fertility clinics staying local & independent.

No Such Thing as a Bad Question

When it comes to fertility treatment, you should feel free to ask away!

Mind Blown!

One woman had no idea about the different IVF options we offer at Southeastern Fertility; options most other clinics simply don't offer.

Have the Conversation!

Some conversations at a conference last week led Southeastern Fertility Medical Director Dr. John David Gordon to emphasize anew something important when it comes to fertility treatment.

Why Dr. Gordon Wears a Suit to Work

He makes the case that there's still value in 'suiting up.'

The Beauty of Creation

Comparing some amazing artistry Dr. G recently witnessed overseas to the wonder of creation we see all the time when tiny embryos grow into children.

It's About Time

Don't let the element of time complicate your fertility treatment.

Full of Himself? Not This Doc!

If Southeastern Fertility Medical Director Dr. John David Gordon’s every tempted to get the proverbial “big head” some physicians are known for, he has a reminder right in his office to help prevent that from happening!

Personal Care Makes the Difference

One aspect of care that we take seriously here at Southeastern Fertility is this: You’ll actually see your doctor! That’s important not just for your own confidence and peace of mind, but it’s how our physicians prefer it. Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Coordinator Lynda McCollum explain why.

IUI & Trigger Shots: Better Together?

IUIs and trigger shots: Do they go together? Well, it depends.

Meet Medical Assistant Susan Lake

Susan Lake is one of the newest team members at Southeastern Fertility. As a registered medical assistant, she helps serve both our general clinic and National Embryo Donation Center (NEDC) families. This is your chance to get to know her better!

Failure: A Valuable Teacher

When it comes to IVF, failure isn’t necessarily final. Something valuable can always be learned.

Right Tool. Right Use. Right Result.

Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon spins a yarn about an ultrasound machine, a pesky house key, and a fix that would make MacGyver proud.

She Administers the “Thriller” Dose

Some of our procedures, such as egg retrievals, are done under sedation. It’s Stephanie Smith’s job to administer the anesthetic in order for patients to remain relaxed and comfortable during their procedures.

No Shortcuts

Southeastern Fertility in Knoxville, TN explains why taking shortcuts in fertility treatment is a bad idea.

By the Numbers

One thing that makes Southeastern Fertility a different type of medical practice is that we work to be very transparent about pricing. Toward that end, Co-Director Dr. John Gordon has some adjustments in the numbers to talk about, with more than a dash of sci-fi time-telling thrown in!

Feeling Distressed? De-stress!

Life is stressful for most of us these days. Add infertility to the mix, and some of our load-bearing capacities are getting pushed to the limit. Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon & IVF Coordinator Lynda McCollum have a reminder (and some tips) to de-stress!

About That Channel 10 Report’

Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon is offering a little friendly pushback to a media appearance he made on Wednesday, July 6, 2022. Bottom line: Despite so much of the media’s seeming determination to press the storyline, we believe fertility patients have nothing to fear from post-Roe v. Wade trigger laws.

No, Overturning Roe Doesn't Endanger IVF

Don’t worry that the overturning of Roe v. Wade is going to wipe out fertility treatment, no matter what you’ve heard from the media. Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon is setting things straight in this video, complete with evidence from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM).

Rescue Me

This video is all about rescue missions. When it comes to frozen embryos, we do them all the time here at Southeastern Fertility!

Dad is Dad, However it Happens

Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and the crew are looking ahead to Father’s Day -and marveling at technology like ICSI that makes fatherhood possible for a lot of dads- in this video!

Tools of the Trade

We’re introducing you to a cool tool that’s actually meant to serve the auto industry, but it can help us retrieve some pretty important stuff in the IVF/embryology lab!

A Three-Strike Approach

Baseball isn’t the only realm in which you get three strikes. Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon unpacks why he thinks it’s wise to take a “three-strike approach” to fertility treatment.

What Are You Learning?

As with anything, knowledge is power when it comes to reproductive medicine. So, what are you learning on your journey?

When Is It Time To Move On?

When is it time to move on? That’s always a hard question, but especially when you’ve been going through a particular course of fertility treatment without the hoped-for results. In this video, Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Coordinator Lynda McCollum are helping you think this topic through.

Putting Our Fertility Journey in God's Hands

Alyssa and Jonathan’s infertility journey was far from easy. Yet it ultimately grew their faith and reaffirmed they could entrust themselves to God’s loving care. IUI ended up being their affordable answer.

We did Embryo Adoption. We're Back for More!

Embryo adoption parents Zach and Heather Mulling are joining Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Coordinator Lynda McCollum to share how their journey led them to our nonprofit partners at the National Embryo Donation Center. Now they’re coming back for a sibling!

Checking Out The New Digs

We’re expanding to serve you better! Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Coordinator Lynda McCollum are taking you on a tour of what’s completed so far.

Why We Can't Always Be Doing Transfers

Wouldn’t it be nice if it was always “go time” and we could be doing frozen embryo transfers all month long? Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon & IVF Coordinator Lynda McCollum are explaining why we can’t. It’s actually to your benefit that we don’t!

The Fight of His Life, While Awaiting New Life

Bryce received a devastating diagnosis as his wife Genevieve carried their Southeastern Fertility twins. Let their story of courage, faith and prayer work its way into your soul during this episode of our Hope, Faith & Infertility podcast.

Check In With Us After Graduation

Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Coordinator Lynda McCollum are talking about why we need to hear from you after you “graduate” from our care.

We Love Seeing Our Patients!

We love seeing our patients and their babies! So much so that it actually contributed to our missing the weekly social media video post last week. Not too fear- Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Coordinator Lynda McCollum are back, talking about drop-in visits!

I Feared Multiples Deeply. Then Came the Triplets.

Erin used to dream she had triplets and woke up considering those dreams to be nightmares. She didn’t think there was any way she could parent so many kids at once. It took actually having triplets for her to realize she was wrong.

Mind-Boggling Cold, Awe-Inspiring Work

Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Coordinator Lynda McCollum are in a small room with about 4000 precious souls, taking a step back in awe of what (actually, who) is all around them!

We Let You Go at Your Own Pace

Starting fertility treatment can be sort of like learning to snow ski. Most people will naturally bring a fear of the unknown to the experience, so it’s important to go at your own pace. Here at Southeastern Fertility, we make sure to walk with you at whichever pace best suits your situation.

Where The Embryos Are

Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Coordinator Lynda McCollum are talking about why people from all over the country (and even some foreign countries!) are willing to come all the way to Knoxville to build their families. It boils down to this: This is where the embryos, and treatment tailored to you, are!

Pray More, Worry Less

Control: It’s something we all want, but in actuality none of us totally has, especially when it comes to battling infertility. But at Southeastern Fertility, you always have a prayer! It is our medical team’s high privilege to pray with and for you during your infertility treatment if you so desire.

The Waiting Game

Tom Petty was right. The waiting is the hardest part! Here are some reasons why waiting can be necessary and wise when battling infertility.

The Times They Are A-Changin'

The tour of our ever-changing center continues as we dive head on into an expansion to serve you better, plus an idea from Dr. Gordon if you’re doing a Christmas gift exchange!

Here We Grow Again!

We’re expanding in 2022! Here’s a sneak peek of our new space. Plus, can you spot the photoshopped team member on our Christmas card?

Troubleshooting by the Christmas Tree

Sometimes when combating infertility, troubleshooting gives you the answer you need. And sometimes, the answers come via another route. Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Coordinator Lynda McCollum gather ’round the Christmas tree to illustrate with a vivid analogy!

Thankfulness, and the Strain of Waiting

Waiting for a long held dream to come true is so hard, especially during the holidays. Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Nurse Lynda McCollum are expressing thankfulness for dreams that finally came true this year, and counsel for those of you still waiting on that dream.

Bravely, Prayerfully Pursuing Parenthood

Kendra and Eric knew Eric’s spinal cord injury, which left him a paraplegic, could make having children difficult. In this episode of our podcast Hope, Faith & Infertility, hear the story of how this couple is bravely and prayerfully pursuing parenthood, including driving several hours from home to find a fertility clinic that aligns with their values. You’ll also learn about Hannah’s Heart, a radio show Kendra has begun to help those struggling with infertility or grieving miscarriages.

Family Building Blocks

Southeastern Fertility parents, our awesome keepsake baby blocks can be yours IF you are willing to help us out a little!

The Alphabet Soup of Male Infertility

Do terms like PESA and TESA mean anything to you? Perhaps not. But if you’re experiencing male infertility, they could be vital for you to know. They could even be the key to seeing long-held dreams of parenthood become reality. Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Coordinator Lynda McCollum explain these sperm retrieval methods.

A Flexible Approach

There are times in life when we all fail to plan adequately, and it leaves us in a bind. That can certainly happen when battling infertility. Fortunately, Southeastern Fertility offers a flexible approach in some key areas that gives you options going forward, which means you’ll hopefully avoid getting caught in a jam. Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Coordinator Lynda McCollum explain, with an illustration from Dr. G’s real life shaggy dog story.

Experience Matters!

Experience matters! Especially when addressing infertility. Take it from Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon (between him and Dr. Keenan, they’ve piled up close to 60 years of experience!) and longtime phlebotomist Sherry Schoolfield in this video.

Ingrid's Story: A Natural Cycle FET Christmas Gift

Ingrid traveled hundreds of miles to Southeastern Fertility to have the physician she trusted perform her Natural Cycle Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET). Now she’s expecting the best Christmas gift possible. Be inspired by her story of infertility and faith.

Dr. G's Current Thinking on the COVID Vaccine

A lot of our pregnant patients have been asking if it’s wise and safe to get the COVID vaccine. Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon is always studying the latest available medical evidence, and he spells out his current thinking in this video.

Redeeming Your Infertility Struggle

Would you be willing to help others by sharing your story on our new podcast? Let us know by emailing [email protected]. Southeastern Fertility Marketing Director Mark Mellinger has more in this video, including a recommendation on a great new book that could reshape how you see God in a really helpful way!

A Stinky Story

If anyone can turn a skunk story into a little COVID vaccine advice, it’s Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon. He’s putting that Ivy League education to good use in this video!

Should You Get the COVID Vaccine if You're Trying to Get Pregnant?

In this video, Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Coordinator Lynda McCollum are talking about whether you should take the COVID vaccine when you’re pregnant or trying to become pregnant.

How IVF Follicles Can Be Like Olympic Swimmers

Unlike Olympian Katie Ledecky, there are times in IVF when swimming ahead of the competition isn’t a good thing! For instance, when it comes to baseline ultrasounds for Mini-Stim IVF or Stimulated Cycle IVF (in which multiple eggs is the goal), it’s not good to see one follicle “swimming ahead” of the others. Those other … Continue reading How IVF Follicles Can Be Like Olympic Swimmers

Why Your Cycle Might Get Canceled or Delayed

Life has its share of setbacks and disappointments. Unfortunately, cancellations or delays of embryo transfer cycles during fertility treatment can sometimes be among those unpleasant hiccups.

Faith Rocks: AKA I'm Just a Nurse in Search of a Verse

Infertility is a journey of faith. Next time you’re at Southeastern Fertility, make sure to take a faith rock at the checkout window to remind you where your hope is ultimately found. Co-Director Dr. John Gordon has more to say about faith rocks, all while playing a special game of Name That Tune with the staff, in this video!

Unbelievable!

Co-Director Dr. John Gordon has now been at Southeastern Fertility for almost two years. So he’s taking some time to reflect on a few things he finds unbelievable (in a good way) now that he’s had time to settle in. Plus, he’s pointing out a few things patients have told him they find unbelievable about Southeastern Fertility (again, in a good way).

Meet Andrologist Julia Rowinski

Meet our new andrologist, Julia Rowinski (and find out what the heck an andrologist does), and learn how she’ll help us serve you better in the video below! To schedule your free 15-minute telemedicine consult with Co-Director Dr. John Gordon, call 865-777-0088 or click here. To learn more about Southeastern Fertility, including our mission, values and … Continue reading Meet Andrologist Julia Rowinski

Can I Do Natural Cycle IVF?

Natural Cycle IVF can be a preferable option for many infertility patients. It uses no fertility medications and results in a single egg and embryo. In this video, Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon responds to a patient who’s wondering if Natural Cycle IVF might be right for her.

Infertility True or False

You might be surprised just how common fertility problems are among couples of child-bearing age in the U.S. If you’re having fertility struggles, there’s no need to feel alone, because you’re definitely not. Here’s a little “Infertility True or False” from Southeastern Fertility to put a bow on National Infertility Awareness Week 2021.

When is ICSI the Right Call?

When is ICSI, short for intracytoplasmic sperm injection, the right call for those battling infertility? Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Coordinator Lynda McCollum have some advice, and a fun demonstration of sorts.

Don't Let Dr. Google Freak You Out!

It’s easy to become unnecessarily alarmed when you read about fertility treatment online. But Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Coordinator Lynda McCollum urge you to not just let “Dr. Google” determine your course of treatment.

Making the Call: When is it Urgent?

When is it time to call Southeastern Fertility right away, and when can something wait a bit? Also, what are the best ways to get in touch? These are important questions if you’re a patient going through fertility treatment. Here are some quick answers to each.

Lost & Found

No one enjoys the feeling of being lost. Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Coordinator Lynda McCollum unpack why infertility can make you feel that way, and how we can help to move you to “found”, in this edition of our Internet show “Talk Fertility.”

Endometrial Scratching: Why We Do It & When

When you’re struggling to have a baby, research suggests purposely disrupting the lining of the uterus could improve your chances of achieving pregnancy in some cases. Endometrial scratching, or endometrial biopsy, is a common fertility procedure used toward this end by Southeastern Fertility. The procedure is very safe and may be followed by mild, short-term cramping or bleeding.

One Last Shot: Jon & Kristie's Southeastern Story

Sometimes one last shot at a dream is all you have. And sometimes that’s enough. Jon and Kristie Weaver are living proof. Here’s how they had their twins through IVF at Southeastern Fertility.

Hollywood & Battling Infertility

Real life isn’t like the movies very often, and it’s important to make peace with that when pursuing fertility treatment. How will you respond if the hoped-for Hollywood ending doesn’t work out?

Southeastern Fertility Earns Coveted Gold Seal from The Joint Commission for Patient Safety, Quality of Care

Southeastern Fertility has earned a coveted distinction recognizing its strong commitment to patient safety and quality medical care, becoming Knoxville’s only fertility practice with an IVF Laboratory accredited by The Joint Commission.

Mini-Stim IVF, NC IVF: Factors to Weigh

Stimulated Cycle IVF seems to dominate the list of potential options when couples are undergoing fertility treatment. Certainly that can be a good and fruitful option for many, and we’re happy to offer it at Southeastern Fertility. But it’s not the only IVF option out there. Southeastern Fertility also offers the choices of Natural Cycle IVF and Mini-Stim IVF. So why might these be more attractive options for some patients? Here are four possible reasons.

Dr. G & Lynda for the “Block”

Don’t be alarmed if you get a call from us seeking info on your baby! It’s legit, and may even come with a free memento.

Oooh, That Smell’

Sometimes, when it comes to your pursuit of parenthood, things just stink! We’re here to listen, and help you potentially find an answer.

Everybody Has a Story

Everybody’s story matters! That’s why it’s so important to talk to your children, whether they were conceived using fertility treatment or not, about how they entered this world.

What to do When the Lab Result, Phone Call or Email Hasn't Come

What should you do when you haven’t gotten a call about lab results, or you’re waiting on an email response about your fertility treatment? Southeastern Fertility’s Dr. John Gordon says to start by trusting the process.

Know When to Fold 'Em

When it comes to a scheduled embryo transfer cycle, sometimes you’ve got to know when to fold ‘em. Heartbreaking and frustrating as it can be, there are sometimes good reasons to put the brakes on a cycle. Doing so does not mean all hope is lost. It likely just means the timing isn’t right at a particular juncture, and your hopes of achieving pregnancy have a better chance of becoming realized down the road during a rescheduled cycle.

Dr. Gordon's Thanksgiving List

What does a leading fertility expert have to be thankful for as we approach the Thanksgiving holiday?

Musical Embryo Transfers

Believe it or not, this is one musical reference that gives you a little keen insight into science and medicine!

Farragut Press Touts Role of Southeastern Fertility, Dr. John Gordon in Historic Birth

Our hometown newspaper, the Farragut Press, recently reported on the role of Southeastern Fertility in the historic 1,000th embryo adoption birth facilitated by our nonprofit partners at the National Embryo Donation Center. The NEDC is the first embryo adoption program in the world to surpass the 1,000-birth milestone.

What's Your Backup Plan?

Once you’ve decided upon a particular fertility treatment, you naturally envision everything going according to plan. Of course, life just doesn’t work that way. Here are some examples of backup plans to consider while going through fertility treatment.

What if I pee on the doc? (And other fertility fears.)

What if I pee on the doctor during my embryo transfer? What if, after struggling for so long to get pregnant, I become too pregnant? These are some of the more common fears among fertility patients.

Should You Worry About Cramping & Spotting After an Embryo Transfer?

It’s not uncommon for women to experience a variety of physical symptoms in the days following an IVF embryo transfer. These symptoms can include cramping, spotting and more. So when is it time to worry, and which are probably no big deal?

Is it Too Late for my Ultrasound?

You’re doing Natural Cycle IVF. Is Day 5 too late to call in to schedule your baseline ultrasound?

The More You Know’

When combating infertility, as with any medical treatment, educating yourself is a big key to success. There are all kinds of resources through which you can do that.

In Fertility Treatment, U-turns are Allowed

Once you’ve decided upon a particular course for fertility treatment, is it okay to change your mind and change direction?

Egg-Freezing Q and A

Egg-freezing is an increasingly popular fertility preservation option. So what are the possible pros and cons? Who might be a good candidate?

About Sibling Embryo Transfers’

How does it work when you come back to Southeastern Fertility for a sibling embryo transfer?

Possible Side Effects of Fertility Medication

Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John David Gordon and IVF Nurse Lynda McCollum address possible side effects of some of the most common fertility medications below in this edition of our Internet show “Talk Fertility.”

Just Reach Out’

Discover some of the easy ways you can connect with Southeastern Fertility.

Is Stimulated Cycle IVF the Right Choice for you? Factors to Consider.

While many patients find the lower expense and fewer medications of Natural Cycle or Mini-Stim attractive, Stimulated Cycle IVF is still an option to consider; one that will prove to be the optimal choice for many couples.

Why You Need a Full Bladder for Your Embryo Transfer or Trial Transfer

Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Nurse Lynda McCollum explain why you need to have a full bladder when you come in for embryo transfers and trial transfers.

Mini-Stim IVF: What You Need to Know.

Because it costs about half the price of Stimulated Cycle IVF and also involves fewer medications, Mini-Stim IVF can be an attractive option for many couples experiencing infertility. Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John David Gordon and IVF Nurse Lynda McCollum go into details, plus do a little clowning around and encounter a surprise guest, in this edition of our Internet show “Talk Fertility.”

Turning the Corner in Your Fertility Journey

Helping you turn the corner in your fertility journey is what we’re all about. Here’s how we do that, and how you can lead the way!

Just Looking for Someone Who'll Listen?

Everyone wants to be listened to, especially during the trial of infertility. That’s exactly what you can expect at Southeastern Fertility in Knoxville, Tennessee.

What to Expect at a New Patient Visit

Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Nurse Lynda McCollum outline the main things to expect at a new patient visit.

How We Handle “Extra” Embryos

Learn why you will never have a dilemma about what to do with remaining embryos when you go with Southeastern Fertility.

Keith, Amanda, River and Emmaline: A Southeastern Story

Keith and Amanda half-jokingly sum up life as parents this way: “They both have stolen our hearts, and all of our time.” And they wouldn’t trade it for the world.

Freedom from the Frozen Embryo Dilemma

The experts from Southeastern Fertility discuss how to avoid the dilemma of having frozen embryos remaining after IVF.

Ordering Your Steps on the Infertility Treatment Escalator (or is it Escalaytah?)

Here are some tips for ordering your steps when it comes to infertility treatment.

Hope for Those Dealing with Male Factor Infertility

Dealing with male factor infertility? Think you’ve explored all the possible solutions? There may be some potential avenues of help you haven’t investigated.

Reasons to Choose Southeastern Fertility

Southeastern Fertility Co-Director Dr. John Gordon and IVF Nurse Lynda McCollum delve into some of the reasons Southeastern Fertility is a place of hope for those struggling with infertility.

Chet & Anita's Natural Cycle IVF Story: A Southeastern Fertility Interview

It costs way less than Standard Cycle IVF, and there’s no need for all the medications. Southeastern Fertility now offers the little-known option of Natural Cycle IVF. It worked for Chet and Anita.

T.J., Megan, & Baby Carter: A Southeastern Story

“Every hiccup was just part of God’s plan that led us to our daughter.”

Getting Started with Southeastern Fertility

ust about ready to get started on your treatment with Southeastern Fertility? In this edition of our Facebook Live show “Talk Fertility”, Dr. John Gordon and IVF Nurse Lynda McCollum venture to the great outdoors today to tell you what you need to know.

IVF Minus the Hassle of Fertility Medication? It's Possible, and We Offer it: Natural Cycle IVF.

Interested in conceiving, but without all the hassle of fertility medications? Natural Cycle IVF may be the choice for you! Learn more.

Deep Dive FAQ: Who needs ICSI, and how can I be certain that I need it?

Author: John David Gordon MD For those of you following Southeastern Fertility on Facebook, you may have seen the DrG and Lynda show last week during which Lynda educated me on the correct East Tennessee pronunciation of certain words like “fur” and “hollow.” In return, I “learned her how to Tawk Boston” by having her … Continue reading Deep Dive FAQ: Who needs ICSI, and how can I be certain that I need it?

Deep Dive FAQ: How many eggs should I fertilize?

Author: John David Gordon, MD From time to time I will take one of the FAQs from our new website and use this blog to discuss the question in more depth…this is one of those times…so here we go… Patients considering IVF often ask me how many eggs do I think that they will get … Continue reading Deep Dive FAQ: How many eggs should I fertilize?