Knoxville TN

The Little Embryo That Could

February 2024 episode of Hope, Faith, & Infertility podcast

We're Changing Our Name to Rejoice Fertility!

2024 will bring a lot of change.

Christmas Wishes

Southeastern Fertility is all decked out for the holidays!

Parenting Hopes After a Spinal Cord Injury

Hope, Faith, & Infertility podcast November 2023 episode

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!

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.

Dazed & Confused

Infertility can leave you dazed (as in, clinically depressed), and some scheduling changes for upcoming Southeastern Fertility cycles have some of our patients confused.

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.

A Prayer to Close Out a Rough Week

Not every week can be a good week and this one, unfortunately, had a lot of sadness in the halls of Southeastern Fertility. Will you join us in this prayer for our families?

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!

“It Took Infertility to Draw Me Closer to the Lord”

Dominique & Tim didn’t know it was possible to have a child, then experience infertility. But that’s exactly what happened to them. In this episode of our “Hope, Faith, & Infertility” podcast, Dominique explains how secondary infertility challenged (and ultimately strengthened) her faith, how Mini-Stim IVF proved to be her family’s answer, and how she managed to go through it all while simultaneously pursuing advanced education.

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!

A Slippery Slope

There are good reasons Southeastern Fertility doesn’t get involved in procedures like PGT. As a couple recent lawsuits illustrate, it’s a very slippery slope that can potentially lead to embryos being viewed as products.

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!

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.

Will Eating Pineapples & Fries Help Your Embryo Implant?

Could eating pineapple really help your embryo implant? What about wolfing down some french fries from Mickey D’s? We’re looking into those fertility-related superstitions (and many more).

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!

Counting the Cost of Fertility Treatment

When you’re going through fertility treatment, counting the financial cost is crucial. In this video, Southeastern Fertility’s Mark Mellinger & Lynda McCollum are joined by Christa Carter (from our nonprofit partners at the National Embryo Donation Center) to discuss some common fees that may be involved in your process, but could escape your attention on the front end.

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.

A Prayer for the Brokenhearted

At Southeastern Fertility, we believe in the power of prayer. Families going through trials are on our hearts constantly, and we’re genuinely praying for them regularly. In this video, you’re invited to pray with us and learn how we pray for our families.

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?

A New Face, An Abundance of Donuts

We have a new member of the Southeastern Fertility team! Meet IVF Nurse Brooke Huguenard.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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).

These People Refreshed Us!

Frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle weeks are busy times at Southeastern Fertility & The National Embryo Donation Center (NEDC). We’re incredibly grateful to the generous folks at Christ Presbyterian Church Knoxville, one of the NEDC’s church partners, for taking a week each quarter to provide the team and some of our families with lunch every day. As St. Paul wrote to Philemon, they are bringing much joy & encouragement and refreshing our hearts by serving in this way.

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.

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 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.

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!

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.

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.”