Dr. Eve Feinberg on Fertility and the Path to Parenthood

In recognition of National Infertility Awareness Week, we spoke with Dr. Eve Feinberg, a leading fertility specialist and Medical Director at Northwestern Fertility and Reproductive Medicine. In this Q&A, she shares her expertise, personal journey, and the important work being done to make fertility care more accessible for all.

Tell us about yourself.

I’m a Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Specialist and the Medical Director at Northwestern Fertility and Reproductive Medicine. I’ve dedicated my career to helping people build families, and I’m especially passionate about increasing access to fertility care for all. I completed my residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Northwestern University and my fellowship at the National Institutes of Health, and I’ve been fortunate to serve in leadership roles nationally, including as Past President of the Society for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility and as a current Director-At-Large for the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. I’m also one of the founders of the Kevin J. Lederer Life Foundation, now known as the Chicago Coalition for Family Building. On a personal note, I’m the proud mom of three amazing kids—conceived with lots of love and help from fertility treatments—and I know firsthand the challenges and the rewards of this journey.

Can you share more about the Chicago Coalition for Family Building and how you support families struggling with infertility? What’s next for this organization?

The Chicago Coalition for Family Building was founded to help ease the financial burden for individuals and couples facing infertility. Through grants, education, and advocacy, we support those trying to build families by improving access to care. As we look to the future, our vision is a world where the Coalition no longer needs to exist—because everyone who needs fertility care can access it. Until then, we remain committed to expanding our reach, breaking down barriers to fertility treatment, and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to pursue parenthood regardless of their financial situation.

For those struggling with infertility, what are some key resources they can start with to begin their journey? 

Webinars: The Chicago Coalition for Family Building hosts educational webinars that provide an excellent starting point for learning more about fertility and treatment options. Past webinars can be viewed on our YouTube channel. American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM): ASRM offers a wealth of information for patients, including resources to help understand fertility challenges, available treatments, and how to find qualified specialists.

Tell us about your work as the Director-At-Large for the American Society for Reproductive Medicine.

ASRM is the leading and largest professional society in reproductive medicine. I’ve been honored to serve on its board since 2022 and will be completing my final year this year. The organization plays a pivotal role in every aspect of the field of reproductive medicine—from training future physicians to publishing cutting-edge research and setting ethical and clinical guidelines. As Director-At-Large, my work has spanned all these areas, and I’m grateful to serve in this role, elected by my peers, and contribute to such an important mission alongside my colleagues.

What’s your vision for the future of fertility treatment and supporting families?

My vision is one where fertility care is accessible to all, and where financial barriers no longer prevent people from pursuing treatment. When someone is diagnosed with cancer, they can focus on healing without the added burden of wondering how to pay for chemotherapy. I hope that one day, the same will be true for those diagnosed with infertility—that they can focus on treatment and building their families without the added stress of financial strain.

With National Infertility Week upon us, what do you want people to know about when facing fertility issues?

It’s essential to seek out a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist who specializes in fertility care. Having an expert guide you through the process can make all the difference in treatment success and it is crucial to feel supported every step of the way.

What advice do you have for those hopeful to become pregnant?

People who want to become parents will become parents. There is always a way to build a family. Whether it’s through fertility treatments, surrogacy, or adoption, hope and possibility are always within reach.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with us that you haven’t shared above?

Infertility can be lonely. Surround yourself with friends and family who make you feel good during this time. 

Fertility challenges can feel isolating, but support and resources are out there. We’re grateful to Dr. Feinberg for sharing her insight and hope this conversation offers encouragement to anyone on the path to parenthood.