The IVF Journey with Dr Michael Chapman

Epizode

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  561. Recurring Miscarriage,Egg Freezing, and the IVF Cliff 03.08.2026 7min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman tackles one of the most heartbreaking questions in fertility, why miscarriages keep happening. Responding to a listener who has faced four losses across natural and IVF conceptions, he walks through the biggest culprit, genetic abnormalities in the embryo, and explains why age and egg quality sit at the centre of it all. He unpacks the other hidden causes worth investigating, from chromosome translocations carried by healthy parents to fibroids, scar tissue, and abnormalities in the shape of the womb. Along the way he covers the surprising fertility effects of COVID, the global decline in birth rates, and why more women in their early 30s are choosing to freeze their eggs while quality is still on their side. Practical, honest, and deeply reassuring for anyone navigating the road to a baby. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  560. Egg Quality, Chromosomes, and the Race Against Time 31.07.2026 6min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman unpacks what specialists actually mean when they talk about egg quality. He explains that quality comes down to an egg’s competency to fertilise and produce an embryo with the right number of chromosomes, and why that process becomes less reliable as women age. He describes the tiny energy-producing structures called mitochondria, the batteries inside every egg, and how their decline disrupts the delicate work of lining up chromosomes at the right moment. He also walks through the spindle, the internal structure his own team studies using polarised light at Life Fertility, and how checking it before fertilisation helps predict whether a pregnancy is likely. It is an honest, reassuring look at the uphill odds women over 40 face, why most early miscarriages trace back to the egg rather than the parents, and what the science can and cannot tell us. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  559. The Egg Countdown: Why Age is Fertility’s Biggest Factor 28.07.2026 4min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman explains one of fertility’s biggest puzzles: why a woman’s biological clock runs down so much faster than the rest of her body. Drawing on decades of experience and more than three and a half thousand babies, he walks through the remarkable journey of your eggs, from the millions laid down before you were even born, to the half a million you had at birth, to the slow decline that ends in menopause. He unpacks why older women get fewer eggs from IVF, what the AMH test can and can’t tell you, and the crucial difference between egg quantity and egg quality. A clear, honest look at the science every woman deserves to understand. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  558. PCOS Is Now PMOS. Here’s What Changed 23.07.2026 4min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman and fertility nurse Natalie tackle one of the most-asked questions on the YouTube channel: the recent renaming of PCOS to PMOS. Prof Chapman explains how the change came out of a roomful of specialists, each with their own stake in the name, and why he sees it as a positive move, not least because so many patients hear “cysts on the ovary” and immediately worry about cancer. He unpacks what the new name signals about the hormonal and metabolic sides of the condition, while making clear that the condition itself hasn’t changed at all. And above everything else, he keeps the focus where it matters most for the women he sees: getting pregnant. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  557. Over 40 and Repeating IVF Cycles: Get a Second Opinion First 20.07.2026 6min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman is joined by fertility nurse Natalie to answer one of the most common questions from listeners: what should you do when you’re in your 40s and cycle after cycle isn’t working? Natalie explains why going back to basics matters — reviewing your initial workup, checking whether tests like AMH and antral follicle counts need repeating, and looking at inflammatory markers that may be overlooked. She walks through what a thorough second opinion involves, from treatment protocols and medication dosages to egg numbers, insemination methods and blastocyst outcomes, and why genetic testing (PGT-A) is often never discussed despite being valuable. If you’re wondering whether to push on or pause and reassess, this episode is for you. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  556. IVF Breakthrough: What’s Actually Coming Next 18.07.2026 5min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman answers a listener question about the future of IVF, covering what innovations are genuinely exciting and whether treatment will become more accessible and affordable. He reflects on how success rates have climbed from 10% to around 40% per embryo transfer over three decades, and gives his honest take on the current “flavours of the month”: AI in embryo selection, non-invasive genetic testing, and research into environmental toxins. With a fertility nurse adding the patient perspective on accessibility and public sector options, this is a candid look at where fertility science is really heading, and why steady 1% gains may matter more than headline breakthroughs. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  555.Beyond the Cycle: The Support IVF Patients Are Missing 16.07.2026 5min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman sits down with fertility nurse Natalie to talk about the moments IVF patients often face alone — the late-night bleeding scare, the anxious wait after a positive test, the questions that come up between appointments. They discuss why a positive pregnancy test isn’t the finish line, the reassurance of regular early-pregnancy monitoring through to 10 weeks, and how fertility care is shifting towards truly patient-centred support, where feeling informed, heard and supported matters just as much as clinical outcomes. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  544. The Failed Cycle Conversation Every IVF Patient Needs 13.07.2026 4min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman is joined by a fertility nurse to unpack what should happen after a failed IVF cycle — and why so many patients are left without answers. They explore the emotional fallout of a negative pregnancy test, the delays patients face in getting support from busy clinics, and the value of having someone who can genuinely listen between appointments. Prof Chapman also shares his frustration with clinics that simply repeat the same protocol after a failed cycle, explaining why a detailed review of drug dosages, egg numbers, and fertilisation outcomes is essential before planning the next attempt — plus when it might be time to seek a second opinion. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  553. Your First IVF Injection: Who Do You Call When You’re Not Sure 10.07.2026 5min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman is joined by a fertility support nurse to explore the gaps in patient care during IVF treatment. They discuss the most common concerns women face — from needle phobia and administering that first injection, to post-egg-collection bleeding and knowing when symptoms warrant escalation. Prof Chapman offers a frank comparison of Australia’s premium versus low-cost IVF clinics, and why patients often absorb only a fraction of what they’re told in consultations — leaving many too embarrassed to ring their clinic with “silly” questions that deserve real answers. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  522. This is Why 60% of IVF Patients Fail on Their First Cycle 03.07.2026 8min

  Prof. Chapman introduces Natalie from Australia IVF Concierge, highlighting the emotional and practical support gap patients face at home during fertility treatment. Focus: the psychological burden of IVF (60% first-cycle failure rate), medication management, injection anxiety, and waiting uncertainty. Natalie explains how nurse-led home visits provide reassurance, education, and holistic support beyond clinic appointments—positioning aftercare as essential to the patient journey. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  551. The Truth About Ovarian Tissue Freezing and IVF Pregnancy Monitoring 18.06.2026 4min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman explains ovarian tissue cryopreservation, including who it is genuinely suitable for, why it remains largely an experimental fertility preservation technique, and its role for women facing urgent cancer treatment. He also answers a detailed question from a patient who has received a strong positive beta hCG result following embryo transfer. Prof Chapman discusses whether repeat blood tests are necessary, what healthy hCG progression should look like, the importance of early viability scans, and how pregnancy milestones at 7, 10, and 12 weeks help predict the likelihood of a successful outcome. A reassuring discussion for anyone navigating the anxious early days of pregnancy after IVF. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  550. Can a Different IVF Protocol Improve Your Chances of Success 16.06.2026 4min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman explains how he approaches patients who have already spent tens of thousands of dollars on unsuccessful IVF treatment and are seeking a second opinion. He discusses the importance of reviewing previous cycles in detail, identifying anything that may have been missed, and tailoring a new treatment strategy to improve outcomes. Prof Chapman also highlights the often-overlooked role of the male partner in IVF success, including practical advice on sperm health, abstinence timing, and how partners can provide meaningful support throughout the fertility journey. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  549. Beyond Success Rates: How to Find a High-Quality IVF Clinic 10.06.2026 8min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman answers a listener’s question about the success rates of IUI and IVF for a 37-year-old woman, explaining when IUI may be worth trying, why success rates drop after a few cycles, and how IVF can offer significantly higher cumulative pregnancy rates. He also shares practical advice on choosing the right fertility clinic, including what to look for in specialists, laboratory standards, clinic size, patient care, and nursing support—beyond simply comparing published success rates. This episode provides valuable guidance for anyone weighing their fertility treatment options or searching for a clinic they can trust. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  548. IVF Ethics: What Really Worries Fertility Experts Today 08.06.2026 4min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman explores how ethical concerns around IVF have evolved over the past four decades. He reflects on the early fears surrounding IVF, including concerns about interfering with nature and the long-term health of IVF-conceived children, and explains how decades of research have helped address many of those worries. Prof Chapman also shares his views on topics such as gender selection, genetic testing, and the likelihood of so-called “designer babies.” While he believes current fertility technologies are largely ethically sound, he highlights one growing concern: the increasing use of IVF in cases where less invasive fertility treatments may be more appropriate. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  547. Frozen Embryos and PGT: Understanding the Risks and Benefits 03.06.2026 5min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman answers a listener’s question about whether frozen embryos should be thawed, genetically tested, and refrozen for PGT. He explains the small risk of embryo loss associated with the process, how PGT can significantly improve the chances of selecting a genetically normal embryo, and why the decision often depends on age, embryo numbers, and individual fertility goals. Prof Chapman also discusses the differences between testing day-one and day-five embryos, the impact of maternal age on embryo genetics, and how PGT can reduce the emotional, financial, and physical burden of multiple unsuccessful embryo transfers. This practical discussion offers valuable guidance for anyone considering genetic testing as part of their IVF journey. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  546. The Truth About Fertility Expectations Nobody Talks About 27.05.2026 9min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman explains why human fertility is far less predictable than most people expect — and why even healthy couples may need up to 12 months to conceive naturally. He breaks down the real monthly chances of pregnancy, why IVF isn’t always the first answer, and the importance of patience when trying for a baby. Prof Chapman also shares a serious warning about anabolic steroids and gym supplements, revealing how they can dramatically reduce sperm production and sometimes cause long-term fertility problems in men. This episode is packed with practical advice for couples starting their fertility journey and highlights the key checks every couple should consider before moving to IVF. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  545. How Fertility Specialists Decide Between IUI and IVF 25.05.2026 7min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman explains how fertility specialists help couples decide between continuing to try naturally, moving to IUI, or starting IVF — without losing valuable time. He breaks down how age, fertility history, success rates, costs, and previous pelvic surgeries all influence treatment decisions. The discussion also covers IVF after endometriosis surgery, ectopic pregnancy, fibroids, and why fertility care must always be individualized. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  544.The Hidden Role of Mitochondria in IVF and Egg Competence 15.05.2026 7min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman explains the critical role mitochondrial health and energy metabolism play in egg competence and embryo development. He breaks down why egg quality declines with age, how chromosome errors happen, and the science behind popular fertility supplements like CoQ10, NADH, and DHEA. Prof Chapman also discusses emerging treatments such as PRP ovarian rejuvenation, why many therapies still lack strong clinical evidence, and what current research may hold for the future of fertility treatment. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.
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  543. What Fertility Specialist Look After a Failed IVF Attempt 11.05.2026 4min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman explains how he approaches patients seeking a second opinion after a disappointing IVF experience at another clinic. He discusses the emotional toll of failed fertility treatment, the importance of reviewing previous cycles in detail, and why individualized treatment strategies can sometimes make a difference. Prof Chapman also shares the realities of IVF success rates at different ages, offering honest, compassionate guidance to help patients understand their true chances moving forward.
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  542. IVF Strategy for Low Egg Count: Less Can Sometimes Be More 28.04.2026 5min

  In this episode, Prof Chapman answers a common and important question from patients with low ovarian response: is it worth doing two IVF stimulation cycles close together to improve results? He explains why current evidence doesn’t strongly support repeated or back-to-back stimulation as a way to boost egg numbers, and highlights the role of natural biological variation from cycle to cycle—especially for women in their late 30s and early 40s. Prof Chapman also explores alternative approaches like low-dose stimulation, the limitations of anecdotal success stories, and the practical considerations patients should be aware of when planning treatment. Explore the ‘Prof. Michael Chapman – The IVF Journey’ Facebook Page, your reliable destination for cutting-edge insights and guidance within the realm of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Don’t miss out on the IVF Journey podcast; stay informed with the latest episode updates. Tune in for expert discussions and valuable information on navigating the intricate path of IVF.