Not Broken: An Approachable Guide to Miscarriage and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

Kindle Edition
154
English
N/A
N/A
22 Mar
Not Broken is a comprehensive, evidence-based but easy-to-read guide for anyone who wants to understand all aspects of miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss. Whether you are a patient struggling with miscarriages or a medical provider caring for patients with recurrent pregnancy loss, you will learn something from this resource. Dr. Shahine explains not only a typical Western medicine approach to evaluation and treatment for miscarriage but also includes Eastern approaches to care, lifestyle factors that will decrease your risk of miscarriage, and the emotional impact of recurrent pregnancy loss. You will finish this book feeling more empowered to be an advocate for your care and more hopeful than ever to continue towards your family goals.
“I have one word to describe this fabulous book: FINALLY. Women with recurrent pregnancy loss have been needing this book for years.” – Dr. Alice Domar, associate professor of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive biology at Harvard Medical School and author of Conquering Infertility and Finding Calm for the Expectant Mom

Reviews (78)

A caring and thoughtful book to help educate and support both doctors and patients who are navigating the journey of miscarriage

As a mother who has lost 5 babies during pregnancy I found myself shedding tears, highlighting lines in agreement and giving silent cheers as I read this book! What a beautiful book that helps give doctors insight into the journey of pregnancy loss for their patients, helping them understand how it affects their patients both physically AND emotionally. I love this book for it's encouragement to grieving moms and dads who might feel hopeless after many miscarriages. Dr Shahine writes in a way that is direct and gives all the medical sides of miscarriage and yet, provides this great space of comfort for these parents to know that their is hope for them to be able to get pregnant again and carry a baby full term. "It's all about changing the mindset from feeling broken to feeling confident and cared for moving forward." Thank you Dr Shahine for advocating and caring for more than just your own patients, but for all of us around the world who experience the loss of our babies during pregnancy.

Straightforward, clear, empathetic book on RPL.

This book was a great place to start when trying to decide what to do about repeat pregnancy loss. It's clearer than many websites, more authoritative than discussion boards, and combines many considerations - what are the tests, what are the intervention options, what lifestyle changes could help - into one place. While it may be less helpful for someone who has spent a lot of time with specialists, it's still a nice collection of relevant information, and various chapters can be referred to throughout the RPL journey for guidance, clarification and support. Highly recommend.

Also great for anyone with IVF anxiety!

I probably seem pretty crazy to be reading about miscarriage and RPL, when I’ve never seen a positive pregnancy test. However, this book helped to calm me down pre FET. I see many people posting different protocols for transfer, and there’s always that thought of “should I do that too?” But this book addresses many of the different protocols and explains both the benefits and risks with each. It’s helping me to be more confident in my Dr’s protocol as I prep for transfer, and also realize that if it doesn’t work with a PGS embryo that in most cases it’s NOT my fault. I’ve learned more about male factor and miscarriage, balanced translations, and different aspects of the immune system argument in regards to infertility. If you’ve had to suffer through RPL, had failed transfers, or are stressed about your upcoming FET (like me) it gives a very balanced perspective that may bring some peace as well as how to proceed going forward if this wasn’t the round that results in a live birth.

If you have recurrent miscarriages read this book!

After our second miscarriage I was in a really hard place with what to think. What test should I be getting? This doesn’t seem like bad luck- is something really wrong? Dr. Shahine uses facts and statistics to explain the possible causes of RPL and treatments. She uses a also an empathic approach throughout the entire book, I felt like she wrote the book for ME. It’s organized well and quick to read. The most important lesson I learned was that even if something is “wrong” studies show that I don’t need to jump to IVF at this time. I don’t have my rainbow yet, but this book has made me look at this situation logically and with hope for the future.

good review but lacks intuition

The author thoroughly reviewed research in the same way a medical student would. I found it far too generic and lacking specifics on women's unique situations. For example, at what point can you conclude your RPL is not genetic? like if you get pregnant first cycle easily 10 times? if you are in your twenties? she recommends not testing for certain clotting disorders except under certain conditions, but which ones? what if you do test positive for two of the more controversial clotting disorders? is the treament unnecessary? is there no hope? most good doctors at some point have to go with their gut and the way she presents data leaves little room…or hope… for those of us with complex cases.

Thank you for writing this book, Dr. Shahine!

This is the book I've been waiting for. I have struggled with recurrent miscarriage and during this time I've had so many questions about fertility treatments, supplements, lifestyle changes etc. Like lots of women, I've turned to "Dr. Google" far too often and mostly just ended up confused by too much information that came from less than reliable sources. This book gives me a place to find clear, helpful answers written by an actual doctor! She writes with such clarity and compassion; you feel like you're reading something from a friend who just happens to be a super smart fertility specialist. Dr. Shahine clearly cares about helping people achieve their family goals and it really shows. I would recommend this book to any person dealing with fertility issues or anyone wanting to support a friend during their reproductive journey.

This is an amazing resource for women who are struggling with recurrent pregnancy ...

This is an amazing resource for women who are struggling with recurrent pregnancy loss and medical providers who are caring for these patients. As a women's health nurse practitioner, I found this book extremely helpful in understanding all aspects of miscarriage. Dr. Shahine really focuses on the holistic approach of caring for women with RPL and addresses not only scientific medical treatments but the emotional impact as well. I found the “Key Points” section of each chapter to be very helpful. These sections make it easy to go back through the book and scan for a particular area of interest. I encourage anyone who maybe struggling with miscarriage or medical providers caring for these women to read this book!

Excellent book, but has little info about ectopic pregnancy / hydrosalpinx

I am a 32yo woman that has been TTC for 1.5 years. In that time I have had three losses in the first trimester: 1 chemical, 1 ectopic, and a missed miscarriage due to trisomy 16. This book was tremendously helpful as a resource for explaining medical terminology related to infertility. In a time when it feels like I have little control, this book was a useful resource in helping me learn about infertility testing, how certain factors are diagnosed, and possible treatments. It is nice to have a book in your hands as a way to stop compulsively googling and reading infertility forums. For women and their partners that find themselves in the shitty position of MPL, I would recommend reading this book before your first visit to reproductive endocrinologist. My few critiques of the book are: - It does not include an index, which makes it impossible to look up specific terms. - There is very little information that applies women that have had ectopic pregnancies and are at increased risk for future ectopics. For example, after my HSG I learned I have something called "hydrosalpinx". I re-read the book looking for a mention of this condition, but it wasn't there.

Wonderful book for anyone who has experienced a loss

Bought this book after experiencing repeated miscarriages. It’s an excellent book for emotional healing as well as providing information on miscarriage, fertility, and loss from a medical standpoint. I recommend for anyone who is struggling after a loss.

Perfect Title - Very Approachable

I read a lot of women's health books given I host a women's health podcast, Fempower Health. It is incredibly approachable and thorough. Dr Shahine, who I also interviewed, shares the information doctors agree on, disagree on, and why. She suggests the types of things you should talk to your doctor about. She outlines causes of miscarriage, testing, etc. Reading this book would be so helpful for those who want to learn more and be proactive. I think it can save a lot of heartache because you can be proactive. You will also feel heard.

A caring and thoughtful book to help educate and support both doctors and patients who are navigating the journey of miscarriage

As a mother who has lost 5 babies during pregnancy I found myself shedding tears, highlighting lines in agreement and giving silent cheers as I read this book! What a beautiful book that helps give doctors insight into the journey of pregnancy loss for their patients, helping them understand how it affects their patients both physically AND emotionally. I love this book for it's encouragement to grieving moms and dads who might feel hopeless after many miscarriages. Dr Shahine writes in a way that is direct and gives all the medical sides of miscarriage and yet, provides this great space of comfort for these parents to know that their is hope for them to be able to get pregnant again and carry a baby full term. "It's all about changing the mindset from feeling broken to feeling confident and cared for moving forward." Thank you Dr Shahine for advocating and caring for more than just your own patients, but for all of us around the world who experience the loss of our babies during pregnancy.

Straightforward, clear, empathetic book on RPL.

This book was a great place to start when trying to decide what to do about repeat pregnancy loss. It's clearer than many websites, more authoritative than discussion boards, and combines many considerations - what are the tests, what are the intervention options, what lifestyle changes could help - into one place. While it may be less helpful for someone who has spent a lot of time with specialists, it's still a nice collection of relevant information, and various chapters can be referred to throughout the RPL journey for guidance, clarification and support. Highly recommend.

Also great for anyone with IVF anxiety!

I probably seem pretty crazy to be reading about miscarriage and RPL, when I’ve never seen a positive pregnancy test. However, this book helped to calm me down pre FET. I see many people posting different protocols for transfer, and there’s always that thought of “should I do that too?” But this book addresses many of the different protocols and explains both the benefits and risks with each. It’s helping me to be more confident in my Dr’s protocol as I prep for transfer, and also realize that if it doesn’t work with a PGS embryo that in most cases it’s NOT my fault. I’ve learned more about male factor and miscarriage, balanced translations, and different aspects of the immune system argument in regards to infertility. If you’ve had to suffer through RPL, had failed transfers, or are stressed about your upcoming FET (like me) it gives a very balanced perspective that may bring some peace as well as how to proceed going forward if this wasn’t the round that results in a live birth.

If you have recurrent miscarriages read this book!

After our second miscarriage I was in a really hard place with what to think. What test should I be getting? This doesn’t seem like bad luck- is something really wrong? Dr. Shahine uses facts and statistics to explain the possible causes of RPL and treatments. She uses a also an empathic approach throughout the entire book, I felt like she wrote the book for ME. It’s organized well and quick to read. The most important lesson I learned was that even if something is “wrong” studies show that I don’t need to jump to IVF at this time. I don’t have my rainbow yet, but this book has made me look at this situation logically and with hope for the future.

good review but lacks intuition

The author thoroughly reviewed research in the same way a medical student would. I found it far too generic and lacking specifics on women's unique situations. For example, at what point can you conclude your RPL is not genetic? like if you get pregnant first cycle easily 10 times? if you are in your twenties? she recommends not testing for certain clotting disorders except under certain conditions, but which ones? what if you do test positive for two of the more controversial clotting disorders? is the treament unnecessary? is there no hope? most good doctors at some point have to go with their gut and the way she presents data leaves little room…or hope… for those of us with complex cases.

Thank you for writing this book, Dr. Shahine!

This is the book I've been waiting for. I have struggled with recurrent miscarriage and during this time I've had so many questions about fertility treatments, supplements, lifestyle changes etc. Like lots of women, I've turned to "Dr. Google" far too often and mostly just ended up confused by too much information that came from less than reliable sources. This book gives me a place to find clear, helpful answers written by an actual doctor! She writes with such clarity and compassion; you feel like you're reading something from a friend who just happens to be a super smart fertility specialist. Dr. Shahine clearly cares about helping people achieve their family goals and it really shows. I would recommend this book to any person dealing with fertility issues or anyone wanting to support a friend during their reproductive journey.

This is an amazing resource for women who are struggling with recurrent pregnancy ...

This is an amazing resource for women who are struggling with recurrent pregnancy loss and medical providers who are caring for these patients. As a women's health nurse practitioner, I found this book extremely helpful in understanding all aspects of miscarriage. Dr. Shahine really focuses on the holistic approach of caring for women with RPL and addresses not only scientific medical treatments but the emotional impact as well. I found the “Key Points” section of each chapter to be very helpful. These sections make it easy to go back through the book and scan for a particular area of interest. I encourage anyone who maybe struggling with miscarriage or medical providers caring for these women to read this book!

Excellent book, but has little info about ectopic pregnancy / hydrosalpinx

I am a 32yo woman that has been TTC for 1.5 years. In that time I have had three losses in the first trimester: 1 chemical, 1 ectopic, and a missed miscarriage due to trisomy 16. This book was tremendously helpful as a resource for explaining medical terminology related to infertility. In a time when it feels like I have little control, this book was a useful resource in helping me learn about infertility testing, how certain factors are diagnosed, and possible treatments. It is nice to have a book in your hands as a way to stop compulsively googling and reading infertility forums. For women and their partners that find themselves in the shitty position of MPL, I would recommend reading this book before your first visit to reproductive endocrinologist. My few critiques of the book are: - It does not include an index, which makes it impossible to look up specific terms. - There is very little information that applies women that have had ectopic pregnancies and are at increased risk for future ectopics. For example, after my HSG I learned I have something called "hydrosalpinx". I re-read the book looking for a mention of this condition, but it wasn't there.

Wonderful book for anyone who has experienced a loss

Bought this book after experiencing repeated miscarriages. It’s an excellent book for emotional healing as well as providing information on miscarriage, fertility, and loss from a medical standpoint. I recommend for anyone who is struggling after a loss.

Perfect Title - Very Approachable

I read a lot of women's health books given I host a women's health podcast, Fempower Health. It is incredibly approachable and thorough. Dr Shahine, who I also interviewed, shares the information doctors agree on, disagree on, and why. She suggests the types of things you should talk to your doctor about. She outlines causes of miscarriage, testing, etc. Reading this book would be so helpful for those who want to learn more and be proactive. I think it can save a lot of heartache because you can be proactive. You will also feel heard.

but actually the majority of this book was useful scientific review

My condolences to you if you've suffered a loss. I was half-expecting a lot of emotional affirmations, but actually the majority of this book was useful scientific review. I received different opinions and treatment plans from various doctors including ob-gyns, reproductive endocrinologists, and hematologists, and this book helped explain why. Read this book before your first visit for recurrent miscarriage. It will arm you with information and help make better use of your time with your doctor.

As a provider I have seen how important nutrition and lifestyle are for my patients and I frequently recommend Not Broken

As a registered dietitian nutritionist working in the field of fertility and reproductive health I was really grateful Dr. Shahine wrote a book for all those who have suffered losses. Her book explains recurrent pregnancy loss and helps provides options for men and women during one of the most difficult times in their lives. It also gives them a deeper understanding when they have conversations with their healthcare team in making decisions for the future. As a provider I have seen how important nutrition and lifestyle are for my patients and I frequently recommend Not Broken, Thank you Lora!

Best book on RPL by far

I have had two miscarriages and am currently going through a lot of the testing described in this book. I have read so many books on fertility, miscarriage, and egg quality. This book takes the cake when it comes to RPL. Dr. Shahine breaks it down into easy to understand chapters, and cites studies while also saying how she treats something in a certain situation and why she does it that way. This book has made me feel educated on the subject, so I can understand why my doctor is ordering a test/medication/etc. It has also empowered me so I feel comfortable advocating for myself and asking for certain tests or procedures to be done. Some books I have read become extremely overwhelming with too much data or really extreme lifestyle changes that have sent me into a tail spin of anxiety. This book did exactly the opposite! Overall I would HIGHLY recommend.

Validating and empowering read

Dr. Shashine has written a very educational book that speaks to the emotional impact and devastation of recurrent pregnancy loss while simultaneously and compassionately outlining considerations for care. She provides evidence-based research about depression, anxiety and symptoms of PTSD related to miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss. Additionally she provides recommendations and wellness resources for miscarriage and infertility. Dr. Shashine is an expert advocate for patients, and I'm referring as many as I can to her medical care and to this incredible resource she's provided for the community.

Wonderful Title for a Great Expose on Loss and How to Overcome it.

What a wonderful resource for those going through an awful time. Gives ample knowledge for both medical providers and patients going through it. More than a message of hope, the title says it all that this is not a matter of blame and that miscarriage is more common than we think and also surmountable with both new tools and good old fashioned persistence.

Helping women make informed decisions

Not Broken is a wonderful resource for my clients! As a fertility counselor, I see many women who are emotionally struggling after their first miscarriage. Miscarriage is emotionally traumatic and confusing and many women are looking for answers. Dr. Shahine's book has helped many of my clients make informed decisions about their fertility treatment, including the decision to see a specialist sooner or switch to a new doctor who is more willing to listen to their needs.

Worth the read!!

Well written. Incredibly helpful. Easy to understand. As someone with several recurrent losses, this book gave me so many insights to miscarriages. Looking forward to having my appointment with Dr. Shahine, I've heard wonderful things about her too.

Evidence based resource

This book is an amazing resource! Dr Shahine presents the facts on recurrent pregnancy loss and thoroughly explains the different treatment approaches reproductive endocrinologists take, and why. I found it incredibly helpful going through my losses and subsequent testing. There is no need for Dr Google with this book.

Great Resource for Patients

This is a very compassionate, easy to read guide that will answer so many questions that my patients who have experienced miscarriages still have even after meeting with their doctors. Sadly, patients who have had recurrent miscarriages don't get much support from their OB/GYNs when they experience a pregnancy loss and they are left with more questions than answers. This book fills that gap with explanations about diagnoses, labs and potential procedures. This book has been a great resource for my patients. I have Not Broken in my waiting room and I am so happy to be able to recommend this book to my patients.

Very informative!

Such a helpful guide for any woman struggling to weed through the internet for information about recurrent loss.

Great information!

After suffering through several miscarriages, I was looking for a book that would present the evidence clearly. This was great for that purpose.

Fertility support at its finest! Answers to your questions that you never thought to ask!

Highly recommended! It definitely taught me stuff I never knew. Now on the pathway to solving my fertility issues with a fertility specialist! Great book, great read and a great hand off to a friend in need. Definitely check out her documentary video on amazon

Highly Recommend!

Insightful! I didn't know what to expect. This book has helped answer so many questions. It was informative and compassionate. It is not like every other book I've read about infertility. I found answers in here I have wondered about for years. Informative, Enlightening and compassionate

Highly recommended

Dr. Shahine speaks to the reader with warmth and understanding while thoroughly explaining every aspect of miscarriage. This book is not only for those who have experienced miscarriage, but also for anyone who would like to better understand how to support a loved one who has had one or more miscarriages.

Amazing Resource For Mamas Seeking Their Rainbow Baby

Dr. Shahine's care & thoughtfulness in putting this book together for women shines through. If you are about to consult with your doctor over your recent or recurrent pregnancy losses, this book will fill you with knowledge and help you decide which important questions to ask. If you are working with a doctor who dismisses your worries, seek out a professional who will listen to your concerns. Sending you lots of love if you are searching for rainbow baby resources.

Guidance & Real Answers

Both informative and beautifully written, this book has helped me push through unresolved pain and hopeless loss. So much hope and solutions inside... I am forever grateful.

Wonderful, thorough read.

After having my 5th miscarriage I needed this book. It was educational and encouraging. I highly recommend it to those who are going through recurrent pregnancy loss. This book helped me feel more confident in our decisions we are currently making for our future.

Ayuda a seguir en carrera 💪

Me ayudó mucho a subir el animo y a entender varios temas de perdidas recurrentes en el primer trimestre.

Excellent resource for my patients

Excellent resource for my patients! Well-written, evidence-based, and addresses the critical emotional component of recurrent loss. So glad I now have this book to help my patients understand and cope with recurrent loss. Thank you, Dr. Shahine!

Good read

Dumbs down medical terms.

A guide to understanding miscarriage

This book is easy to read, gives extensive information on why miscarriages occur and which paths women with recurrent miscarriages can take. It felt good to read this book during my recurrent miscarriage process.

Not very informative if you are already being followed by a reproductive endocrinologist

This book is an easy read and full of informative information. However, as someone who is already in the IVF process, I did not learn much. This book would peobably be good for someone if they have not already started Fertility treatment.

A well-researched, thorough and indespensible guide to miscarriage

What a wonderful resource for couples struggling with recurrent miscarriage. With a warm and reassuring tone, Dr Shahine guides readers through the confusion of miscarriage terms, diagnostic tests and treatments, acknowledging that the science is far from settled. I will wholeheartedly recommend this book to my patients.

Highly recommended read for anyone looking to understand the challenges in fertility and pregnancy

This book explains very complex content around pregnancy in an approachable and direct manner, which is incredibly helpful and refreshing. But on top of that, Dr. Shahine brings a lot of personality and candor, and in some cases I was laughing out loud at her humor, which is really hard to accomplish in such a heavy and emotional topic. A really great read not only for those who are on a reproduction journey, but for their friends and families, and even for those of us who are now past it but want to understand better.

Excellent read for anyone suffering with RPL

Very informative and helpful for anyone suffering from infertility

Hugely informative and helpful

Amazing book

A must read for my patients and learners

Comprehensive, concise and reflective of my views. This book epitomizes how the consultation should go.. Congrats to Dr shahine on the book

Easy to read and had very good information

Easy to read and had very good information. I’ve had 4 losses and this has given me hope and know what to ask next time I go in if I get pregnant again.

Helpful if you’re just getting started with infertility

This has some helpful information for beginners in the infertility process. However, I felt the focus is mostly on first trimester miscarriage, and that second trimester miscarriages were not adqueately addressed.

Finally a helpful book for Women suffering from Recurring Pregnancy Loss

As a mother of two IVF girls and also as a women have gone Through A stillbirth of a baby girl at 39 weeks and a consecutive miscarriage at 7 weeks after that , I completely recommend this book for anyone suffering from recurrent miscarriages or have gone through stillbirth. Dr. Shahine approach is kind, and gives us empowerment and hope , two tools that in my opinion are a big part of the grieving and healing process after loss. This book is a true help towards learning again how to take care of ourselves after such a painful event and take steps to grow through its pain and not giving up on continuing building a family.

Practical advice and support for those suffering from pregnancy loss from an MD

As a fellow reproductive endocrinologist who takes care of many people who have suffered pregnancy loss, I thoroughly enjoyed Dr Shahine's warm, caring and empathetic approach to delivering a tremendous amount of data-supported yet very practical and accessible advice. I hope that every person, male or female who has lost a desired pregnancy will read this book. It's easy to read and will give you hope and advice that you will be able to use to improve your health, and to help you get the care you need to significantly improve your chances for a successful pregnancy after miscarriage. Highly recommended for patients and health care providers!

Uplifting and Informative

I experienced two miscarriages and felt lost and confused. Typically, the information you find on the internet, even doctors will say miscarriages are very common. Well then, why isn't there more awareness on this topic? Fortunately, I came across this book in my search, and I was happy I did because it gave me what I needed to know about miscarriages, what tests doctors may order to understand your body and losses, and what studies are valid without overwhelming or confusing you. The author, Dr. Shahine is honest and caring; a true doctor we need more of because doctors who assist in unexplained infertility, miscarriages, etc. should not force patients to set aside their emotions during difficult loss/experience. We are emotional, but we also need to be heard, and Dr. Shahine reminds us to see a doctor who will listen to us. FYI - She is also on Instagram; follow her! Overall, I appreciate this guide to overcome my losses, and it has encouraged me to keep going on my journey to conceive.

Great for medical professionals and patients alike!

As a fertility nurse who works with patients struggling with recurrent pregnancy loss, I love this book. Dr. Shahine does a fantastic job of thoroughly presenting all aspects of testing, genetics, and treatment options for patients at any stage throughout this journey. Dr. Shahine leaves no stone unturned. She presents information in a non biased manner (I learned a lot!) and is empathetic when discussing the emotional toll that pregnancy loss has on everyone involved. I found her lifestyle modification tips, general wellness tips, and emotional support resources extremely beneficial - even for someone not trying to conceive. Anyone could benefit from reading this book- including incorporating tips for avoiding environmental toxins, weight management, sleep hygiene, and much more. Dr. Shahine is humble in acknowledging the limitations of testing and science, and she is open to incorporating Eastern medicine for a holistic approach. I highly recommend Not Broken to medical professionals and patients alike!

THE Book To Read If You're Just Starting Your Journey

Dr. Shahine provides an incredibly valuable perspective as an expert RE and a doctor who embraces fertility and health from all angles. Not Broken not only discusses typical recommendations for achieving and maintaining pregnancy (like avoiding smoking and testing ovarian reserve), but Eastern medicine like acupuncture, and details like unplugging from stress and keeping teeth clean. The book has a powerful message in its title, that a woman is not broken when she can't conceive or carry a pregnancy to term. It's an important and timely message. Not Broken is delightfully easy to read, conveying sometimes complicated medical information in a very easy to understand format. Each chapter even has check boxes with recommendations for your journey to conceive. For some women who don't have access to an experienced RE, this book is an incredible resource and tool for advocating for better treatment. This is truly a treasure of a book in the infertility and pregnancy loss community, and I'm excited to see what Dr. Shahine writes next!

The Title is Misleading

I feel like this book was informative from a doctors point of view, but not helpful to a woman who recently had a miscarriage. I was instantly annoyed with the explanation of the use of the word “abortion”. If medical professionals had any clue of the emotional issues associated with miscarriage, they would be looking for a different word. Justifying it and saying it is ok because it means “to end” immediately turned me off from the book. The medical community really needs to find a different word. I was trying to find hope along with facts, that is not the case with this book.

Must Read!

Not Broken by Dr. Lora Shahine is a must read! This book is an approachable guide to miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss. It translates the medical “jargon” of fertility treatment while busting myths and providing education and encouragement. It offers expert explanations in an easy to understand format. She discusses what to expect before during and after treatment and what advice to follow to give yourself the best outcomes. Highly recommend for anyone that’s thinking about fertility treatment to those that are in the midst of it. Not Broken Illustrated is a gorgeous and healing companion booklet. It also discusses the important topic of the emotional impact of miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss. The prefect gift for a loved one who is going through these challenges.

Highly Recommend

This book is full of tremendous yet easy to comprehend medical knowledge to help readers better understand the evaluation and treatment for miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss. I love the fact this book discusses the various approaches in Eastern and Western medicine and how a combination of both may benefit anyone. Further, there is a chapter on “controversies in care” which discusses many of the topics infertility patients typically research on our own or with limited physician support – such as MTHFR diagnosis, thyroid disease, intralipid therapy, and the list goes on. Dr. Shahine also writes in detail on the importance of self-care and lifestyle modifications to optimize health, which can benefit anyone in life.

Clinical yet approachable...like your doctor is your best friend

I brought this on vacation and I am so glad I did. Dr. Shahine wrote a clinical yet approachable (as she says) guide to all things miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss. Only problem with it: I didn’t have my own copy years ago as we were trying to figure out what was going on with my body during our miscarriages. If recurrent pregnancy loss is part of your journey get yourself a copy. You will be so glad you did.

This book will change your view of miscarriage and pregnancy loss... there IS hope!

For all of us who spend hours searching Dr. Internet for answers on this tough topic, this book is all you need to replace that urge. Dr. Shahine was my doctor through many years of infertility and loss, and her approachability and wealth of knowledge that we came to know as her patients is captured perfectly in this book. Miscarriage and recurrent loss are very difficult topics because of how isolating they are. What's more, talking to doctors about it can be confusing as the differing opinions pile up. Not Broken does that work for you: It acknowledges the many different approaches and forms of research out there while providing a roadmap to lead you through it. The way Dr. Shahine breaks down where science and medicine are on this topic while also outlining options and how to navigate them is incredibly comforting and easy-to-understand. She addresses everything from how research has evolved, to where things really stand on some of the newer approaches. And she does so without judgment. The best part about this book is the thread of hope throughout: Dr. Shahine consistently reminds us through each chapter that recurrent pregnancy loss and miscarriage don't have to mean the end of your journey to build your family. In fact, she reminds us that it is quite possibly the opposite: a reminder that our bodies ARE working, and we truly are NOT broken. This book is a great way to educate yourself about miscarriage and pregnancy loss while also reinstating hope; two things that can be nearly impossible to find coexisting on Dr. Internet.

Not Broken Indeed

A brilliant, factual, clear, and honest book. And every bit as compassionate as the author's in-person practice. We were blessed to be able to work with Lora Shahine, and this book was a great summary of the research and guidance the best medical advice has to offer.

... consider myself "crunchy" I think this book does a good job of explaining how Eastern medicinal approaches work in ...

As someone who doesn't consider myself "crunchy" I think this book does a good job of explaining how Eastern medicinal approaches work in the fertility process. And then to balance it out, a lot of what she presents is backed by scientific evidence - which the medical training in me appreciates. I highly recommend this book not only to those struggling in their fertility journey but also to medical professionals in this field.

Empowering women with facts and action steps

Offers clear and easy to understand information surrounding an extremely important topic. Would be especially helpful for someone who wants all the answers AND possible solutions. Loved the broad spectrum of solutions offered, though skipping coffee is always hard advice to take. ;) A well rounded read.

A wonderful resource

Dr. Shahine's book will benefit anyone who has experienced miscarriage or pregnancy loss, helping them to understand the underlying issues, as well as learning information that can help prevent future miscarriage. It is packed with information, yet written in a very approachable way. The book includes the latest Western medical information, as well as information on complementary practices such as traditional Chinese medicine, and lifestyle practices such as yoga for fertility and nutrition to support fertility.

Excellent resource for patients having RPL

This book is an excellent resource to navigate patients and medical community understand recurring pregnancy loss and subsequent measures. Dr.Shahine has put together an easy to read and scientifically validated comprehensive guide that I recommend for everyone needing help with this topic. Pregnancy loss is emotionally very challenging for which Dr.Shahine has provided insightful and comforting resource to NOT feel BROKEN.

An awesome book for women with PCOS who have suffered loss!

This book gets it right! Miscarriage and repeat pregnancy loss is a common occurrence for many women with PCOS. Dr. Shahine understands loss is multifactoral and not only requires a deeper understanding of the emotional impact for women experiencing it but, for those whom treat it as well. Never has there been a book that so eloquently bridges the gap between patient and provider to ensure better health, wellness and well being! It is a book filled with practical approaches and the reasons why these are effective for anyine suffering from loss.. As the title says you are not broken.. and this book gives the tools to move forward, push past the pain and self blame and regain your emotional and physical strength!!

Absolute garbage.

This other demonstrates a complete lack of understanding of modern science. Not only does she clearly not understand thyroid lab interpretation, she advocates for not eating deli meat so as not to disrupt your immune system but encourages you to get a flu shot. Total malarkey

Shahine takes an emotional and complicated subject and breaks it down into an easy to understand format with hopeful and empowering advice

Not broken is an essential read for any couple who has experienced a miscarriage. Dr. Shahine takes an emotional and complicated subject and breaks it down into an easy to understand format with hopeful and empowering advice. Dr. Shahine not only addresses the physical side of miscarriage but the psychological toll as well. She offers both Western and Eastern approaches to minimize a patients risk of miscarriage. This will be a recommended read for all my patients who have suffered the loss of pregnancy.

Great guide!

Miscarriages arent easy, but Dr. Shahine explains everything you need to know. In those difficult times, it is important to have a source you can trust for information and advice. While your doctor should be a go to, they cant possibly explain everything in a short visit, and neither are you ready to take it all in at once, so Not Broken allows you to digest it at your own pace. Highly recommended!

Empowering.

Wow. With so much of infertility and loss being out of our control, finally a resource to help empower women and couples to advocate for their care, inform them about causes and options in a complete, yet easy to understand way, and encourage them about the things they can do to help make a difference on their fertility journey. As a Fertility Support Coach, I highly recommend this book.

Wanting the science behind miscarriage? Check out this book and feel less alone

This is a beautifully written book but a talented physician. There is so much noise out there and it is great to have one, easy-to-read-yet-backed-in-science guide to recurring miscarriage. It was helpful to hear what is known, what isn't known and what tests and / or preventative measures would actually work. I highly recommend it.

A must-read for women who have been through pregnancy loss

This is an amazing book that harmoniously blends together scientific date (written jargon-free) with tips for emotional well-being. The first four chapter will of tremendous help for women who have been multiple pregnancy losses and are now seeking for other options. In other chapters, Dr. Shahine looks into the women's psychological mood after pregnancy loss so exquisitely that it almost made me cry. Thank you, Dr. Shahine for writing such a comprehensive guide that encompasses all aspects of pregnancy loss: medical data, emotions, controversial topics, last but not least, men.

Very useful for someone starting their fertility journey

Dr. Shahine, Thank you for writing this in simple language that everyone going through Recurrent Pregnancy Loss is able to understand the science, different options available and how to go about the next steps in their fertility journey and most importantly including the importance of mind and body connection. A must read for some one starting their fertility journey!

Incredible book for anyone struggling with pregnancy loss

This is an incredible book for anyone struggling with pregnancy loss. Dr. Shahine provides a detailed guide with key topics including; testing/evaluation, treatment options, lifestyle modifications, and emotional wellness in an easy to comprehend format. She highlights pros and cons for different approaches to testing and treatment that will empower women and men to be an active partners in their care. We need to change the conversation around pregnancy loss so that people are not suffering in silence - this book is that next step!

Shahine is an excellent physician, but she is also an exceptional teacher

This book takes an emotionally and medically complex subject and breaks it down in a way that is both sensitive and understandable. Dr. Shahine is an excellent physician, but she is also an exceptional teacher. If you are a women or partner of a women who has been through or is going through RPL, you'll find this an easy and informative read that will answer many questions for you and hopefully make you feel more prepared for this journey.

Excellent Resources for Anyone Trying to Concieve

Great resource for women struggling with reoccurring pregnancy loss and miscarriages. Dr. Lora Shahine provides expert advice and medical support from the most understanding way. In this book there are many examples to provide emotional healing as well as providing information on miscarriage, fertility, and loss from a medical standpoint. A quick read that far out ways the support of what Dr. Google advice can provide.

A must read!

A compassionate, accessible guide to a topic that should no longer be taboo. This is a book everyone should read and pass along to friends and loved ones in an effort to expand knowledge as well as eschew the silence surrounding this all too common topic.

Reassuring

The title is perfect--after 6 losses I absolutely did feel broken and hopeless. This book gave me information I needed to feel able to try again.

I love how Dr

I love how Dr. Shahine examines recurrent pregnancy loss with her expert knowledge and incorporates all aspects of care in a thoughtful and compassionate manner. I appreciate how Dr. Shahine thoroughly describes testing and treatment, including the controversies, with key points after every chapter. This is must read not only for those trying to find answers but also for those providing care to patients with recurrent pregnancy loss.

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