In vitro fertilization (IVF) has gained widespread attention as a solution for couples facing infertility, but its ethical implications and the emotional challenges involved have sparked ongoing debates.
One organization working to offer an alternative approach is FEMM (Fertility Education and Medical Management).
They focus on addressing the root causes of reproductive health issues in women and provide a range of support options for those struggling with infertility.
FEMM’s Mission and History
Founded in 2012 by Anna Halpine, FEMM was created with the goal of expanding healthcare options for women.
The organization offers comprehensive health support, from puberty through menopause, with resources like telehealth services and an app to track menstrual cycles and symptoms.
A key part of FEMM’s mission is to support women facing infertility, offering them alternatives to the often costly and invasive IVF process.
The Ethical Dilemma of IVF
IVF, which involves combining sperm and eggs in a lab to create embryos before implanting them in the uterus, is opposed by the Catholic Church for ethical reasons.
The procedure often results in the creation of extra embryos, which are sometimes discarded if they are deemed unnecessary.
In the United States alone, it is estimated that over 600,000 frozen embryos are stored, and the numbers could be even higher.
The U.S. government recently signed an executive order to expand access to IVF, but this move has been met with resistance from the Catholic bishops, who advocate for restorative reproductive medicine as a more ethical alternative.
A More Holistic Approach at FEMM
FEMM provides an alternative to IVF by addressing women’s health from a holistic standpoint.
Halpine explains that while IVF can be a viable solution for some, it often doesn’t address the underlying health issues that might be causing infertility.
“We have a lot of patients who’ve struggled with fertility, and some have even failed multiple IVF attempts,” she says.
FEMM’s approach centers on diagnosing and treating the root causes of infertility, whether it’s undiagnosed conditions like endometriosis or polycystic ovarian syndrome, which can interfere with pregnancy.
Understanding and Restoring Health
At FEMM, the focus is not just on infertility but on restoring overall health.
Halpine emphasizes that infertility is not a condition in itself, but a symptom of underlying issues.
By diagnosing the root causes, FEMM provides tailored solutions for women who may have struggled for years with fertility challenges.
In many cases, even conditions like scarring or inflammation that impair pregnancy can be treated successfully, even later in life.
FEMM’s App: Empowering Women with Knowledge
One of FEMM’s most valuable tools is its free app, which helps women better understand their menstrual cycles and reproductive health.
The app allows users to track symptoms related to hormonal imbalances and connect with a network of doctors and educators for support.
This tool empowers women to take control of their health by providing information about their bodies, and offering solutions that are more than just temporary fixes.
Changing the Standard of Care for Women
Halpine and FEMM are pushing for a shift in how women’s healthcare is approached.
She points out that, despite the widespread conversation about women’s health, there is a lack of real solutions available.
By focusing on a holistic, science-based approach, FEMM is able to offer women the tools and knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health and fertility.
“We want to help women understand what’s normal and healthy for their bodies, so they have the freedom to choose the best options for themselves,” says Halpine.
This is part of a broader movement to change the standard of care for women, moving beyond simply treating symptoms and instead diagnosing and addressing the root causes of health issues.
Holistic Healthcare: The Key to Comprehensive Women’s Health
FEMM’s approach to healthcare is based on reproductive endocrinology, which focuses on understanding how hormones affect the entire body.
By recognizing the interconnectedness of all bodily systems, FEMM provides a comprehensive approach to health that looks beyond individual symptoms.
“Hormones are the conduit through our entire body, and understanding how they work helps us address a woman’s health needs in a more holistic way,” explains Halpine.
The Reproductive Health Research Institute (RHRI), FEMM’s research arm, is dedicated to developing medical protocols, training healthcare providers, and advancing the science of women’s health.
This research focuses on ovulation as a key indicator of overall health, aiming to help women maintain their reproductive and general health throughout their lives.
Moving Beyond Contraception
Another area where FEMM differentiates itself is in its approach to common reproductive issues like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), acne, and heavy menstrual bleeding.
Unlike the standard practice of prescribing contraceptives to manage these symptoms, FEMM works to address the root causes of these conditions.
“Contraception might provide temporary relief, but it doesn’t solve the underlying issues,” says Halpine. FEMM aims to restore health rather than just mask symptoms.
The Power of Natural Family Planning
In addition to supporting women with fertility issues, FEMM also works with couples interested in natural family planning (NFP).
This method involves tracking signs of fertility to help couples either achieve or avoid pregnancy.
FEMM provides guidelines and ongoing support for couples using NFP, helping them understand their fertility cycles and how to manage their reproductive health.
Halpine emphasizes that a healthy cycle is essential for a healthy pregnancy.
“Ensuring that a woman has a healthy cycle is the foundation for a healthy pregnancy and long-term well-being,” she explains.
By providing this support, FEMM helps women and couples navigate their reproductive health with greater confidence and success.
Kate Quiñones, a staff writer for Catholic News Agency, has a strong background in writing on topics related to Catholicism and women’s health.
She holds a degree from Hillsdale College and resides in Colorado with her husband.