Navigating reproductive health in Israel is no easy feat

• Published date: 30 March 2024
• Author: ATARA BECK
• Publication title: Jerusalem Post, The: Web Edition Articles (Israel)

"I always knew I wanted to work in healthcare," registered nurse Schamroth told the Magazine at the recent Navigating Reproductive Health in Israel conference in Jerusalem, "but it was not until after three years working as a nurse that I discovered my love for reproductive medicine."

After "working with critically ill patients, I knew I wanted to make a change in my mindset as a healthcare professional," she explained. Schamroth went on to work at some of the leading fertility clinics in New York City, such as the Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine (CCRM Fertility of New York).

"I wanted to help families grow, be supportive of couples and individuals in one of the most vulnerable times of their lives, and become a source of comfort.

"I created The Fertility RN as a way to educate my followers on social media about their reproductive health," she said.

"I became the go-to person for all questions related to egg freezing, cycle tracking, IVF, and pregnancy. What started off as a fun Instagram account has grown into a business, working with patients and fertility tech companies worldwide."

Schamroth, who made aliyah from the United States a year and a half ago, organized the evening conference, hosted at the Nefesh B'Nefesh center, aimed at olim [immigrants] who may not understand the healthcare system in Israel.

While the focus was on reproductive health, the well-attended event was also helpful to those interested in improving their physical and emotional well-being. Mainstream medical practitioners and holistic health experts contributed to the program.

How does it work?

The Fertility RN addresses the lacuna in reproductive services for those struggling with infertility, along with the lack of awareness regarding available resources.

"I work with individuals and couples privately as they navigate their fertility journey here in Israel. The most common struggle I hear about is the disconnect between the patient and the healthcare team," she told the Magazine.

"It is often hard to reach your fertility doctor, and the language creates a barrier as well. I am here to fill that gap for my clients and to educate them on the questions and concerns they have along their journey."

Asked how Israel compares with the US, she said that in the US, "you have everything in one centralized location: your fertility doctor, the nurses, your blood work, and ultrasound appointments, as well as a surgery center. In Israel, it may not feel as centralized." For instance, some...