The Trying Time

In 2023, The World Health Organization reported that 1 in 6 people are affected by infertility across the world, which is a staggering jump from the previous report of 1 in 8. Additionally, there has been a steady increase in the number of in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles that have been performed over the past ten years, and approximately 2% of babies born each year in the United States are conceived via IVF. Despite this increase, there are limited evidence-based, easily accessible resources available to those trying to conceive or facing infertility. In particular, there is limited focus on mental health awareness surrounding infertility, and those trying to conceive are often left feeling isolated while suffering in silence.
The lack of awareness surrounding IVF was further displayed in February 2024 when the Alabama Supreme Court ruled that embryos created through IVF are "unborn children" and have legal personhood rights. This controversial case has shaken the infertility community, leaving professionals and patients unsure of its future effects on IVF treatment.
The Trying Time: A Comprehensive Guide to Infertility, IVF, and Family Building will combat each of these obstacles. This all-in-one guide will be filled with evidence-based, up-to-date information voluntarily contributed by health care professionals.
Unlike any other IVF resource currently available, The Trying Time will combine evidence-based, professionally contributed information about IVF and infertility with a strong emphasis on mental health awareness. Further, it will incorporate personal anecdotes that readers can relate to. The goal is for this guide to resonate with each person who reads it, whether they are trying to conceive or supporting a loved one, or simply want to learn more about the process.

Jessica Manns, MS, is an embryologist and the creator of the Instagram account Explaining IVF. Throughout her career, she has assisted with multiple research studies and helped develop an improved method for thawing embryos. She is currently a traveling embryologist and assists with IVF procedures in fertility clinics across the United States. Jessica has shared her knowledge by appearing on multiple IVF podcasts, writing dozens of professional online articles, and leading a handful of personal and virtual educational sessions. She is a proud board member for two nonprofit organizations (the Maya's Wings Foundation and Connected Nest) that provide resources to those facing infertility and loss. Finally, she helps lead a local infertility support group and organized the first RESOLVE DIY Pittsburgh Walk of Hope to raise awareness about infertility in her local Pittsburgh community. Currently, Jessica resides in Pittsburgh with her husband, daughter, and dog, Daya.