It's April, that means we are approaching National Infertility Awareness Week 2026! For the month of April, we are bringing you guests to highlight the complex experiences surrounding infertility. 

On this episode of What No Mom Told You, we're joined by Dr. Shara Brofman, a licensed psychologist specializing in reproductive mental health based in Westchester County, NY, for an honest conversation about third-party reproduction — egg, sperm, and embryo donation, and surrogacy. From the sheer number of decisions involved- to feelings of loss, grief, and unmet expectations, Dr. Brofman unpacks the emotional and logistical realities that often go unspoken. 

We cover donor anonymity myths, ethical and legal challenges, talking to your children about their origins, and finding community along the way. Whether you're navigating infertility, considering your options, growing your family with a third party, or simply curious about how families are built today — this one's for you. 

And there's so much more to explore: stay tuned for future conversations and check out the links for resources.

About Dr. Brofman

Dr. Shara Brofman is a licensed psychologist in private practice in Westchester County, New York, and virtually in New York state, specializing in reproductive mental health. In addition to her clinical work, she teaches educational workshops and provides advisory and consultation services.

Dr. Brofman has taught continuing education workshops on family building via third-party reproduction for Helping Hands Psychotherapy and is planning another course with us for January, 2027.

She has taught a master’s level perinatal mental health course as an adjunct professor and has also served as faculty and an advisory board member for the annual Jones Foundation Infertility Counseling Conference in Philadelphia.  

Resources:

Resolve- The National Infertility Association

https://resolve.org/

Donor Conceived Community

https://www.donorconceivedcommunity.org/

(People can also be professional members)

US Donor Conceived Council

https://www.usdcc.org/