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- 2 jalapeños, seeded for less heat
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 medium white onion, finely chopped
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the jalapeños, garlic, onion, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
- Add the black beans, scallions, lime juice, and olive oil, and toss to combine.
- Gently fold in the avocado and cilantro.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Clinic: Kindbody Rogers
Treatments: IVF, Employee Member
My IVF Journey: From Hope to Holding My Son
Going through IVF was one of the most emotionally and physically intense experiences of my life — a journey defined by uncertainty, resilience, and ultimately, joy. A single round of IVF might sound straightforward, but it's anything but simple.
The Demands and the Emotions
From the very beginning, you're immersed in a world of hormone injections, ultrasounds, early morning appointments, and a strict timeline that seems to take over your entire schedule. The medications played with my body and emotions in ways I didn’t expect. There were days I felt hopeful and strong — and others when I felt drained, anxious, and deeply vulnerable.
The Waiting
The hardest part wasn’t just the shots or the procedures. It was the waiting. Waiting to see how many eggs would mature. Waiting to hear how many embryos developed. Waiting for transfer day, and then for the longest two weeks of your life — the wait to find out if it worked.
The Moment Everything Changed
Despite all the challenges, one major achievement stands out: we made it through. Our embryos developed. Our transfer went ahead. And then… the call came. I was pregnant.
Holding My Son
After everything, we had reached the moment we had dreamed of. Every milestone in pregnancy brought a mix of joy and cautious optimism. And now, today, I hold in my arms the most perfect reminder of why we endured it all: my healthy, happy, adorable 3.5-month-old son. Every smile, every tiny coo, every middle-of-the-night snuggle makes the entire experience worth it a thousand times over.
What IVF Taught Me
IVF taught me more about patience, strength, and hope than I ever thought possible. To anyone currently in the thick of it: I see you. Your journey is valid, your feelings are real, and your story is still being written.
Advice for Others
Take it one step at a time. Try not to look too far ahead — it can get overwhelming. Focus on the next appointment, the next blood test, the next decision. Celebrate each little win. You’re allowed to hope. Hope isn’t naive — it’s courageous. Even on the hardest days, allow yourself to hold on to the possibility that good things can still happen. The outcome may not be linear, but your story is still unfolding. There are twists and turns. Delays. Heartbreaks. But also, there can be incredible joy. You may end up where you hoped — or somewhere entirely unexpected but just as meaningful.
Gratitude for the Care Team
From the first appointment to the last the Rogers Arkansas team made us feel safe, seen and heard!
" ["post_title"]=> string(15) "Jeniffer Florek" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(268) "After everything, we had reached the moment we had dreamed of. Every milestone in pregnancy brought a mix of joy and cautious optimism. And now, today, I hold in my arms the most perfect reminder of why we endured it all: my healthy, happy, adorable 3.5-month-old son." ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(15) "jeniffer-florek" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2025-12-19 10:46:55" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2025-12-19 15:46:55" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(29) "https://kindbody.com/?p=11750" ["menu_order"]=> int(0) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [2]=> object(WP_Post)#16647 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(11748) ["post_author"]=> string(1) "1" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2025-12-12 09:12:00" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2025-12-12 14:12:00" ["post_content"]=> string(2769) "At Kindbody, we know that nutrition plays an important role in supporting reproductive health. Thoughtful food choices can help promote healthy hormonal function, circulation, and overall fertility for people at every stage of their journey.
This Salmon Scallopini with Almond Orzo is a simple, nourishing meal that brings those principles to the table. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are proven to help regulate blood flow to the reproductive organs. Almonds are an excellent source of vitamin E, a nutrient associated with supporting uterine lining thickness as well as sperm health and motility.
Ingredients
- Orzo
- Butter
- Sliced almonds
- 1 (7-ounce) salmon fillet, cut into 1/4-inch-wide slices
- Lemon juice
- Drained capers
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook 1/2 cup orzo according to package directions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid.
- Melt 1 teaspoon butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons sliced almonds and cook until lightly browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Season the salmon with salt and pepper. Sauté in the same skillet, cooking on both sides until just cooked through.
- Divide the cooked orzo and salmon evenly between two plates.
- Add the reserved orzo liquid to the skillet along with 2 tablespoons lemon juice and 1 tablespoon capers. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in 3 teaspoons butter and the toasted almonds.
- Spoon the sauce over the salmon and orzo, and serve immediately.
Recipe adapted from Health.com
" ["post_title"]=> string(74) "Salmon Scallopini With Almond Orzo: Crafted To Promote Reproductive Health" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(241) "At Kindbody, we know that nutrition plays an important role in supporting reproductive health. Thoughtful food choices can help promote healthy hormonal function, circulation, and overall fertility for people at every stage of their journey." ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(73) "salmon-scallopini-with-almond-orzo-crafted-to-promote-reproductive-health" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2025-12-19 10:38:07" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2025-12-19 15:38:07" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(29) "https://kindbody.com/?p=11748" ["menu_order"]=> int(0) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [3]=> object(WP_Post)#16646 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(11743) ["post_author"]=> string(1) "1" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2025-12-08 10:04:09" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2025-12-08 15:04:09" ["post_content"]=> string(3635) "At Kindbody, we recognize that nutrition is one of many factors that can support reproductive health. Meals built around whole, nutrient-dense ingredients can help promote healthy hormonal function, protect reproductive cells, and support overall fertility.
This vibrant spinach salad is packed with ingredients chosen for both flavor and function. Dark leafy greens like spinach are high in folate, a B vitamin that has been shown to support ovulation. Berries are rich in antioxidants, which help protect eggs from oxidative damage. Together, spinach and berries are also known to naturally support libido.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Raspberry Vinaigrette
- 2 1/2 tablespoons raspberry vinegar
- 6 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons finely minced shallots, from one shallot
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Salad
- 1 (6 to 7-ounce) bag or carton baby spinach, about 6 to 7 cups
- 2 cups stemmed and sliced strawberries, about 1 pint
- 1 cup blueberries, about 1/2 pint
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled (if currently pregnant, exclude from recipe)
Instructions
- To make the dressing, combine the raspberry vinegar, vegetable oil, honey, Dijon mustard, minced shallots, salt, and pepper in a small sealable container. Shake vigorously until well blended, making sure the honey does not stick to the bottom. Alternatively, combine the vinegar, honey, mustard, shallots, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Whisking constantly, slowly drizzle in the oil until the dressing is emulsified.
- In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, strawberries, blueberries, and toasted pecans.
- Add the dressing gradually, tossing until the greens are well coated. You may have a small amount of dressing left over.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the salad just before serving.
Recipe adapted from Once Upon a Chef
" ["post_title"]=> string(86) "Spinach Salad With Fresh Berries: A Nourishing Recipe To Support Reproductive Wellness" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(257) "At Kindbody, we recognize that nutrition is one of many factors that can support reproductive health. Meals built around whole, nutrient-dense ingredients can help promote healthy hormonal function, protect reproductive cells, and support overall fertility." ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(85) "spinach-salad-with-fresh-berries-a-nourishing-recipe-to-support-reproductive-wellness" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2025-12-19 10:10:11" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2025-12-19 15:10:11" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(29) "https://kindbody.com/?p=11743" ["menu_order"]=> int(0) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [4]=> object(WP_Post)#16645 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(8744) ["post_author"]=> string(1) "1" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2025-11-25 12:12:00" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2025-11-25 17:12:00" ["post_content"]=> string(5428) "Clinic: Austin
Kindbody Doctor: Dr. Deborah Ikhena-Abel
Condition: Infertility, PCOS,
Treatments: IVF, Embryo Preimplantation Genetic Testing
Employee Member
The Start Of Our Story
"After trying to conceive for a year, I was diagnosed with PCOS. I was referred to a reproductive endocrinologist who suggested we try a medicated cycle and an IUI, both of which were unsuccessful. Thankfully we then qualified for an employer benefit at Kindbody. This was such a better experience from what we had at our previous fertility clinic. We met with Dr. Ikhena-Abel and she got things going right away for us to start IVF. All of the staff was great. The nurses, ultrasound techs, phlebotomists, embryologists- everyone treated us with patience and kindness as we went through the whole process. Our first embryo transfer was a success and we were blessed with our sweet, perfect baby.
Thoughts on Kindbody
"Everyone always treated me so kindly. I had so much anxiety throughout the whole IVF experience. I had a million questions and everyone was always so patient with me and made me feel safe."
Advice For Other Patients
"There’s a lot of information to take in, so many appointments. Ask as many questions as you need. There’s a lot of online support groups that are very helpful. Also, try to think of this as a marathon, not a sprint. Sometimes there are setbacks in your journey to conceive but it’s always worth the effort."
Step closer to the family you've always envisioned.
Schedule your fertility consultation today!
" ["post_title"]=> string(19) "Adriana and Gerardo" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(688) "Meet Adriana and Gerardo: A story of triumph over infertility and PCOS, thanks to Dr. Deborah Ikhena-Abel and the compassionate team at Kindbody Austin. What sets their journey apart is their utilization of an invaluable employee benefit for fertility treatments. After a year of trying to conceive and unsuccessful treatments elsewhere, they found hope and expertise at Kindbody. Their first IVF cycle with Embryo Preimplantation Genetic Testing was a resounding success, culminating in the birth of their beautiful baby. Adriana says, 'The staff—nurses, ultrasound techs, embryologists—everyone made the experience humane and kind. Our baby is a testament to their exceptional care." ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(19) "adriana-and-gerardo" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2025-12-09 11:01:06" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2025-12-09 16:01:06" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(28) "https://kindbody.com/?p=8744" ["menu_order"]=> int(0) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [5]=> object(WP_Post)#16596 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(11679) ["post_author"]=> string(1) "1" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2025-11-24 10:32:55" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2025-11-24 15:32:55" ["post_content"]=> string(6885) "The holidays can be a time of warmth, celebration, and connection—but also a time when conversations and comparisons feel a little closer to the surface. For many, this season brings joy. For others, especially those hoping to grow their families or wondering what the next chapter looks like, it can bring up unexpected emotions.
If you’re not in a relationship right now, or if you’ve been thinking about what family-building might look like for you in the future, you’re not alone. The holidays can amplify questions about timing, relationships, and expectations—but with preparation, self-compassion, and boundaries, you can move through the season in a way that protects your peace and honors where you are today.
When Someone Asks, “Why Aren’t You Pregnant Yet?” or Says, “You’ll Be Next!”
Even when said with love, comments like these can sting. They can bring up feelings of sadness, frustration, or even shame—especially if you’re uncertain about your next steps, or if the journey hasn’t gone as planned.
Before heading into a gathering, it can help to prepare a few phrases that feel natural to you so you’re not caught off guard.
Try saying:
- “That’s something I’m still figuring out.”
- “I’m taking things one step at a time.”
- “If and when it’s right, I’ll be excited to share.”
Or gently redirect the conversation:
- “Ha, we’ll see! How’s your new job going?”
- “That’s a story for another day—what’s new with you?”
If a question feels too personal, it’s okay to say:
- “I’d rather not get into that.”
- “I know you mean well, but that’s something I like to keep private.”
Setting boundaries isn’t rude—it’s self-care. You don’t owe anyone an explanation about your body, your timeline, or your hopes for the future.
When People Assume It’s Easy
Comments like “You’ll meet someone any day now,” or “Once you relax, it’ll happen” are often meant to comfort, but they can feel minimizing when you’re navigating uncertainty. You might respond with:
- “Thanks for the encouragement—I’m focusing on what feels right for me right now.”
- “I know everyone’s story unfolds differently.”
Or keep it light:
- “Maybe! For now, I’m just enjoying the moment.”
You don’t have to correct or educate anyone unless you want to. Protecting your emotional energy is more important than helping someone else feel comfortable. If a conversation feels too heavy, take a break—step outside, grab a drink, or text a friend who understands.
How Friends and Family Can Support
If you’re a friend, sibling, or relative, you may wonder how to best support someone who’s not in a relationship right now, or who’s unsure about their path to parenthood. Your words matter.
Avoid saying:
- “Don’t worry, it’ll happen soon.”
- “You’re too picky.”
- “You have plenty of time.”
- “Why don’t you just freeze your eggs?”
Instead, try:
- “Thanks for sharing that with me. How are you feeling about everything?”
- “I can imagine that’s a lot to think about—what kind of support would feel best for you right now?”
- “I’m here for you, whether you want to talk about it or not.”
- “Whatever your path looks like, I’m proud of you.”
Sometimes the most healing thing you can offer is presence—listening without fixing, supporting without assumptions.
Protecting Your Energy This Season
You’re allowed to design your holiday experience in a way that feels right for you. That might mean skipping an event, spending time with friends who understand, or creating new traditions that reflect your life today.
A few ideas:
- Choose where you show up. Give yourself permission to say no.
- Create space for calm. Take walks, journal, meditate, or simply rest.
- Celebrate connection. Spend time with those who bring out your peace, not your pressure.
- Practice self-compassion. You’re not behind. You’re just on your timeline.
The holidays can magnify the contrast between what we hoped life would look like and where we find ourselves now. But they can also be a time to pause, reconnect with what truly matters, and remind ourselves that there’s no single “right” way to build a life or a family.
If this season feels complicated, be gentle with yourself. You don’t need to have it all figured out—you just need to keep taking care of yourself, one day at a time. At Kindbody, we believe your path—whatever it looks like—is valid, worthy, and full of possibility. You’re allowed to protect your heart, set boundaries, and define what this season means for you.
" ["post_title"]=> string(70) "Navigating the Holidays When You’re Not Where You Thought You’d Be" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(332) "The holidays can be a time of warmth, celebration, and connection—but also a time when conversations and comparisons feel a little closer to the surface. For many, this season brings joy. For others, especially those hoping to grow their families or wondering what the next chapter looks like, it can bring up unexpected emotions." ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(64) "navigating-the-holidays-when-youre-not-where-you-thought-youd-be" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2025-11-24 10:32:56" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2025-11-24 15:32:56" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(29) "https://kindbody.com/?p=11679" ["menu_order"]=> int(0) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } } ["post_count"]=> int(6) ["current_post"]=> int(-1) ["before_loop"]=> bool(true) ["in_the_loop"]=> bool(false) ["post"]=> object(WP_Post)#5347 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(11749) ["post_author"]=> string(1) "1" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2025-12-18 09:20:00" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2025-12-18 14:20:00" ["post_content"]=> string(2494) "Nourishing meals can be a form of self-care, bringing comfort, joy, and support for reproductive health. At Kindbody, we celebrate food that’s as delicious as it is beneficial.
This fresh and flavorful salsa highlights avocados, a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins, minerals, essential fats, fiber, and plant-based protein. Avocados are an excellent source of vitamin E, a nutrient that research suggests may support uterine lining health and play a role in embryo implantation. Black beans add fiber and plant-based protein, making this dish both nourishing and filling.
Ingredients
- 2 jalapeños, seeded for less heat
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 medium white onion, finely chopped
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the jalapeños, garlic, onion, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
- Add the black beans, scallions, lime juice, and olive oil, and toss to combine.
- Gently fold in the avocado and cilantro.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Black Bean and Avocado Salsa: A Fresh, Fertility-Friendly Recipe
Nourishing meals can be a form of self-care, bringing comfort, joy, and support for reproductive health. At Kindbody, we celebrate food that’s as delicious as it is beneficial.
Jeniffer Florek
After everything, we had reached the moment we had dreamed of. Every milestone in pregnancy brought a mix of joy and cautious optimism. And now, today, I hold in my arms the most perfect reminder of why we endured it all: my healthy, happy, adorable 3.5-month-old son.
Salmon Scallopini With Almond Orzo: Crafted To Promote Reproductive Health
At Kindbody, we know that nutrition plays an important role in supporting reproductive health. Thoughtful food choices can help promote healthy hormonal function, circulation, and overall fertility for people at every stage of their journey.
Spinach Salad With Fresh Berries: A Nourishing Recipe To Support Reproductive Wellness
At Kindbody, we recognize that nutrition is one of many factors that can support reproductive health. Meals built around whole, nutrient-dense ingredients can help promote healthy hormonal function, protect reproductive cells, and support overall fertility.
Adriana and Gerardo
Meet Adriana and Gerardo: A story of triumph over infertility and PCOS, thanks to Dr. Deborah Ikhena-Abel and the compassionate team at Kindbody Austin. What sets their journey apart is their utilization of an invaluable employee benefit for fertility treatments. After a year of trying to conceive and unsuccessful treatments elsewhere, they found hope and expertise at Kindbody. Their first IVF cycle with Embryo Preimplantation Genetic Testing was a resounding success, culminating in the birth of their beautiful baby. Adriana says, ‘The staff—nurses, ultrasound techs, embryologists—everyone made the experience humane and kind. Our baby is a testament to their exceptional care.
Navigating the Holidays When You’re Not Where You Thought You’d Be
The holidays can be a time of warmth, celebration, and connection—but also a time when conversations and comparisons feel a little closer to the surface. For many, this season brings joy. For others, especially those hoping to grow their families or wondering what the next chapter looks like, it can bring up unexpected emotions.
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