Ep 33: Navigating Genetic Complications, Fragile X, BRCA, IVF and Marken’s Story

19/09/2025 1h 18min

Listen "Ep 33: Navigating Genetic Complications, Fragile X, BRCA, IVF and Marken’s Story"

Episode Synopsis

Amy sits down with her longtime friend Marken Greenwood Bellows to share her journey through an unexpected diagnosis of a Fragile X premutation and primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) at just 36. Together, they unpack the emotional rollercoaster of infertility and IVF, how the FMR1 gene premutation impacts fertility and risk for POI, and the reality of navigating the financial and insurance barriers so many face when pursuing treatment. They also dive into experimental options like ovarian PRP, the gaps in women’s healthcare, and why early fertility testing matters.Marken also shares about her resilience, self-advocacy and the message she wants others to hear: the sooner you have information, the more choices you have when it comes to family-building.🔗 Resources:⁠⁠⁠⁠About the Fragile X Premutation⁠⁠About the Fragile X Premutation⁠⁠ and FXPOI⁠⁠Fragile X Syndrome Genetic Testing⁠⁠Journal of Ovarian Research Study⁠⁠ ⭐️ If the pod has helped you feel seen, please follow and rate us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. It helps others in the infertility community find us!💌 Subscribe to our ⁠⁠weekly newsletter⁠⁠ for honest talk, episode updates, and thoughtful recs from the TTC frontlines.🎶 Intro music by ⁠⁠Fog Chaser⁠⁠🎥 Production by ⁠⁠20Twenty Productions⁠⁠Disclaimer: This episode is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized care.

More episodes of the podcast FriedEggs Podcast