VICTORIA, BC, July 28, 2025 Times Colonist
We had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Alanna Smith, MD, FRCSC, the newest fertility specialist at Olive Fertility Victoria, to learn more about her medical background, the motivations behind her approach to fertility care and the advice she offers those starting their fertility journey and much more.
Where did you get your medical training?
Dr. Smith: Medical school and Obstetrics and Gynecology residency at the University of Alberta, Gynecologic Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility fellowship at Dalhousie University.
What made you decide to specialize in fertility care?
Dr. Smith: During medical school I quickly realized that the fertility field combined many of my academic interests. I had completed an undergraduate degree in molecular genetics and research projects in endocrinology. Once I saw the powerful impact of working in women’s health, I quickly realized that this is where I belonged.
What do you find the most gratifying about treating fertility?
Dr. Smith: Getting to know my patients and working with them through their unique fertility journey. I’m always amazed at how many people show such strength and resiliency during difficult times along the way.
Fertility medicine is a rapidly changing field so I am constantly learning about new treatments and technologies. I look forward to being a student for life!
Can you recall an experience treating a patient when you really felt you had chosen the right career?
Dr. Smith: The first time I followed someone from initial consultation right to their graduation pregnancy ultrasound was a special moment for me that I will always remember.
And still now, I still find even the small victories so rewarding because I love celebrating with my patients along their journey.
Olive Fertility is known for patient-centred whole person care. What does that mean to you?
Dr. Smith: Fertility care is not one size fits all and must be personalized each time. I try to get to know my patients and work with them to create a care plan that works for them.
It is a privilege to work at Olive Fertility Victoria, where we are providing full fertility services and treatments on the island. Removing the stress of last-minute travel has been a huge relief for my patients and I’m looking forward to the clinic growing over time.
What advice would you give a patient starting their fertility journey?
Dr. Smith: I want everyone to go easy on themselves. So many parts of this process are out of your control and you cannot change the past. There’s always options available to move forward and our team will support you along the way.
What is your favourite guilty pleasure?
Dr. Smith: Chocolate in all forms.
Name one thing about you that might surprise people.
Dr. Smith: I follow Formula 1 racing and have been to two races!
5 common fertility myths that might prevent you from getting pregnant
Myth: Infertility is uncommon
Fact: 1 in 6 and individuals trying to get pregnant will have trouble getting pregnant. That number increases to more than 50% if the woman is over the age of 39.
Myth: Fertility is only a woman’s issue
Fact: Studies show that 40% of infertility is caused by female factors, 40% by male factors and 20% by a combination of both.
Myth: A woman’s fertility doesn’t significantly decline until after age 40
Fact: A woman’s fertility peaks at age 25 and declines from there. There’s a sharp decline after age 35 and by 43 most women are unable to conceive naturally. As a result of this misinformation, some couples wait too long to start trying and miss their conception window.
Myth: You should try for a year before consulting a fertility specialist
Fact: For most women under the age of 35, we recommend trying for one-year of regular unprotected intercourse prior to having a fertility evaluation.
For women over 35, it is recommended that you should have a fertility evaluation after 6 months.
If you are over 40, or have any health issues like PCOS, irregular periods or endometriosis, or if your partner has a history of infection (e.g., mumps), injury or surgery on his testicles, you should ask for a referral to a fertility specialist as soon as possible.
Myth: In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is the only treatment for infertility
Fact: Many treatments used to help a couple conceive are fairly simple and involve minimal or no expense.
Often, medications or just counselling can help solve the problem. In some cases, the solution requires more advanced technology such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF).
For most couples who have difficulty conceiving, advances in medical treatment have made it possible for them to have a baby. In B.C., your consultations with a fertility specialist, as well as initial investigations for infertility, are covered by MSP.
Olive Fertility Centre is one of Canada’s leading IVF and prenatal diagnosis centres. They offer inclusive fertility care for those with primary or secondary infertility, LGBTQ2SIA+ persons and people needing donor sperm, donor eggs, egg freezing and beyond.
