The Fertility Podcast

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  What to expect when you listen to The Fertility Podcast 15.07.2026 3นาที
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  One full round: What teaching through IVF Takes 03.06.2026 45นาที

  This is the final episode of the series and it is one that I originally recorded for the F Word at Work podcast, but I am so glad it is finding its home here. As we head into summer and those of you in education start to think about fitting treatment around the school calendar, I wanted to make sure this conversation reached you.I am joined by Caroline Biddle and Devon-Louise Oakley-Hogg, both teachers, both with their own lived experience of fertility treatment, and both co-founders of One Full Round: a campaign to bring fair, funded fertility leave to schools across the UK. Together they have developed a free model policy that any school can adopt, which has already been taken on by the Avanti Schools Trust, making it the first multi-academy trust in the country to offer full paid fertility treatment leave.Devon's story is particularly raw and honest. She stopped treatment two years ago at the age of 30, having spent £25,000 and gone through three rounds of egg collection without success. She talks about what it felt like to get devastating embryology phone calls at break time and then walk straight back into a Year 11 classroom. Caroline's story ended with a successful outcome, but the decade it took to get there, including having her pay docked when appointment letters started saying 'fertility' instead of 'gynae', shaped everything that One Full Round is now trying to change.Content note: This episode includes discussion of male factor infertility, azoospermia, failed IVF cycles, embryo loss and the decision to stop treatment.What we discuss in this episode:Caroline's experience of having her pay cut mid-treatment when appointment letters changed from 'gynaecological' to 'fertility' and the headteacher's response when she raised itWhy the line manager relationship in schools works differently: it is the headteacher, not the line manager, who has the final sayDevon's fertility journey: her husband's azoospermia diagnosis, three rounds of egg collection, £25,000 spent, and the decision to stop treatment at 30The phone calls from the embryologist at break time, and having to walk into a Year 11 class immediately afterWhy Devon says she does not yet feel ready to consider parenthood because she has not yet got back to who she was before treatmentThe guilt that comes from being a teacher going through fertility treatment: letting down your classes, taking sick leave, going in ill after egg collectionWhat Caroline's 2022 survey of more than 120 teachers found: guilt was one of the most recurring themes in over 3,200 words of open commentsWhy a written fertility policy matters even in schools that 'already let everyone go to appointments'What the One Full Round model policy actually covers: one full round of treatment from investigations to embryo transfer, paid leave, partner leave, and provisions for a cancelled cycleHow Avanti Schools Trust became the first trust in the country to adopt the policy, offering six weeks of full paid fertility leaveWhy some schools resist the policy and why they are short-sighted to do soThe recruitment and retention crisis in teaching and why 9,000 women left between the ages of 30 and 39 in a single yearGen Z teachers checking for fertility and wellbeing policies before accepting jobsOne Full Round's ambassador programme: free training, resources and templates for teachers who want to take the policy to their schoolDevon's PhD in student misogyny towards teachers and how it connects to the wider pictureThe Keeping Women in Teaching conference and the issues it set out to address: menstruation, misogyny, menopause and infertilityCaroline's PhD research into line managers and the support they offer women going through fertility treatmentFertility Matters at Work and why the workplace fertility conversation has shifted significantly in the last decadeAlso mentioned in this episodeFollow One Full Round @onefullround Fertility Matters at Work: fertilitymattersatwork.comAm I Overreacting? Podcast with Annabel Gurnett and Amber: @amioverreactingpod on InstagramAlice McDonald's Fertility Pledge: fertilitypledge.co.ukDr Krista Wilkinson's research on fertility treatment in the workplace: Dr Krista Wilkinson on LinkedInSupport and resourcesThe Fertility Podcast is the official podcast for Fertility Action, a charity providing free peer support groups, education and campaigning for fairer access to fertility treatment. Groups run every week with no sign-up or commitment needed.Thank you to our series sponsor Wild Nutrition. As a listener of The Fertility Podcast, you can get:50% off Wild Nutrition supplements for 3 monthsA free personal consultation with an expert nutritional therapistVisit wildnutrition.com/fertilitypodcast to get started. Terms and conditions apply.Support the Three Peaks ChallengeBy the time you hear this, I will have done it. Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in 24 hours for Fertility Action. If you would like to donate, it is still not too late and every penny goes directly to a grassroots, all-volunteer charity.Here's how you can donateStay connectedFollow me on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyFollow Fertility Matters at Work: @fertilitymattersatworkEmail: [email protected] do subscribe so the next series lands directly in your feed. And if you have a story about fertility treatment and work to share, I would love to hear from you.Thank you, as always, for your ear holes. Until next time
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  How Nature Holds Us When We Grieve with Ellen Mary Webster 27.05.2026 40นาที

  This episode is a gentle one. It is about grief, about the body, about what happens when the path you imagined does not unfold the way you hoped, and about where you can find peace when words are not enough.I am joined by Ellen Mary Webster, horticulturalist, floral designer, author and host of the award-winning Plant Based Podcast. Ellen navigated a decade-long fertility journey that included a near-fatal ruptured ectopic pregnancy, a diagnosis of severe endometriosis, three rounds of IVF and ultimately a hysterectomy in her early 30s. Throughout all of it, she turned to her garden. And in this conversation she explains why that was not just a coping mechanism but a genuine form of healing.Whether you have a large garden, a windowsill, a balcony or just a park nearby, this episode will make you want to go outside.Content note: This episode includes discussion of ectopic pregnancy, pregnancy loss, endometriosis, IVF, hysterectomy and involuntary childlessness.What we discuss in this episode:Ellen's decade-long fertility journey: from ectopic pregnancy to endometriosis diagnosis to IVF to hysterectomyThe ruptured ectopic pregnancy that nearly cost Ellen her life and the eight hours of dismissal that preceded emergency surgeryThe health anxiety that stayed long after the physical recoveryWhy gardening became Ellen's constant throughout all of it, from the very first loss to the weeks recovering from a hysterectomyWhat it means to garden for process rather than outcome and why that mindset maps directly onto a fertility journeyThe science behind soil: why getting your hands in the dirt genuinely affects your brain chemistryWhy just seeing a flower can momentarily shift your mental state even when you are in deep griefForest bathing: what it actually is, what the Japanese have known for centuries, and how 40 minutes among trees can reduce anxiety and increase natural killer cellsHow to do forest bathing on your own and why walking slowly with intention is where to startWhat Ellen did during the five weeks she could not garden after her hysterectomy and what sitting still in her garden taught herThe anger and the unfairness of watching friends fall pregnant and how Ellen processed that over timeWhy you do not need to be a gardener for nature to help you: one plant, a garden centre coffee and a short walk all countThe fertility journey and what it taught Ellen about the miracle of lifeEllen's wellness retreats, forest bathing sessions and what a day or weekend immersed in nature can offerEllen's invitation to anyone who feels like this will not work for themWe are not separate from nature. We are part of it. And we have just become so far detached from it that we have forgotten that going outside, even briefly, even reluctantly, is going to make you feel a little better. Start with one plant. Go to the garden centre. Get a coffee and a piece of cake. Buy the one plant you like and try to nurture it. That is enough.About Ellen Mary WebsterEllen Mary Webster is a horticulturalist, floral designer, author and wellness retreat host. She is the author of The Joy of Gardening and How to Grow a Garden, and the host of the award-winning Plant Based Podcast. She splits her time between Norfolk in the UK and the United States, lives a plant-based life and runs nature immersion and forest bathing wellness retreats.Follow Ellen Mary on Instagram: @ellenmaryGardeningThe Plant Based Podcast: theplantbasedpodcast.comA note on Fertility Network UKAt the start of this episode I shared some difficult news: Fertility Network UK, one of the longest-standing patient support charities in the UK, has announced a managed closure. As of 21 May they were no longer accepting new requests for direct support. This is a huge loss for the TTC community and I want to send so much love to everyone affected, both the patients who relied on their support and the brilliant people who built it.If you are looking for support, please know that Fertility Action is here and their free weekly groups are open to you.Support and resourcesThe Fertility Podcast is the official podcast for Fertility Action, a charity providing free peer support groups, education and campaigning for fairer access to fertility treatment. Groups run every week with no sign-up or commitment needed.Manchester walk and talk meetup: Sunday 31 May, approximately 3pm, Heaton Park, Manchester. I will be there! Check @fertilityaction on Instagram for final details.This episode is sponsored by Wild NutritionI know how overwhelming it can be knowing which supplements to buy when you are trying to conceive. That is exactly why I appreciate what Wild Nutrition offers: free one-to-one consultations with nutritional therapists so you get guidance genuinely tailored to your situation. Their supplements are formulated for optimal absorption, with 31 carefully selected nutrients including folate, zinc and B vitamins, and are trusted by over 50,000 couples.As a listener of The Fertility Podcast, you can get:50% off Wild Nutrition supplements for 3 monthsA free personal consultation with an expert nutritional therapistVisit wildnutrition.com/fertilitypodcast to get started. Terms and conditions apply.Support the Three Peaks ChallengeI am climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in 24 hours in June to raise funds for Fertility Action. I have already smashed my initial target of £2,000 thanks to the incredible generosity of so many of you. Thank you Nick, Emma, Charlene, Vic, Ali, Jo, Sarah Banks and Sophie Solaria. The fundraiser is still open and every donation, however small, makes a real difference to a grassroots charity that is all-volunteer and entirely community funded.Here's how you can donate Stay connectedFollow me on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyEmail: [email protected] you haven't already, please subscribe and leave a review. It really helps more people find the podcast.Thank you, as always, for your ear holes. Until next time 💛
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  From PCOS to PMOS: What the Name Change Means for You with Professor Helena Teede 20.05.2026 37นาที

  In this special episode of The Fertility Podcast, we've gone back into our archives for 2024 to share a conversation Kate Davies (former co-host and fertility nurse consultant) had with Professor Helena Teede all the way from Australia!Helena is one of the authors of the International PCOS Guidelines and is here to talk about the changes to the PCOS guidelines and the proposed PCOS name change, which has now happened.What is discussed:PCOS in general, chatting about the symptoms of PCOS, both the common ones and the not so commonWeight stigma and how the new guidelines move away from this and instead why we should be helping women to just be healthy to manage their PCOS proactivelyPotential risks around pregnancy and that it is not often identified, as well as the support for pregnant women with PCOS, or sadly the lack ofHow Helena supported two men with PCOS, and the steps she takes to help them manage their condition and optimise fertilityDiets and eating right as Helena explains that there is no one diet, or right way to eat when it comes to PCOS, and opinions on the supplement InositolThe proposed PCOS name change and how PCOS is not an ovarian disease so therefore the name is incorrectSocials and links:Follow The Fertility Podcast on Instagram: @TheFertilityPodcastHave your say on the PCOS name change: pcosnamechange.comAskPCOS: askpcos.orgInternational PCOS Guidelines: eshre.eu/PCOS-GuidelinesListen to our previous episode: Helena Teede – the PCOS name change & guidelinesAbout Verity: the UK's only PCOS charityVerity is the UK's only charity dedicated to Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), formerly known as PCOS. Founded in 1997, Verity is completely self-funded and exists to help everyone living with PMOS understand their condition, manage their symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term health complications. They offer evidence-based information, community support, local support groups and an anonymous online forum.Visit Verity: verity-pcos.org.ukJoin the Verity community on HealthUnlocked: healthunlocked.com/verity-pcosAbout Fertility ActionThe Fertility Podcast is the official podcast for Fertility Action, the UK's charity providing education, support and campaigning for fairer access to fertility treatment. They run free peer support groups every week, no sign-up or commitment needed.Find out more and access support: fertilityaction.orgSupport the Three Peaks ChallengeNatalie is climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in 24 hours to raise funds for Fertility Action. If this podcast has helped you in any way, even a small donation would mean a lot and you will get a shout-out on the podcast.Here's how you can donate
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  Happy 1st Birthday Fertility Action 13.05.2026 47นาที

  One year in. And what a year it has been.In this episode I am joined by Katie Rollings, founder of Fertility Action, to mark the charity's first birthday. We talk about everything from the support groups that have quietly changed people's lives, to the campaign work happening at the highest levels of government, to what Katie believes the next big push needs to be: a national fertility strategy.This is a conversation full of hope. There is still so much to do, but the momentum is real, the people are extraordinary, and the case for change has never been stronger.What we discuss in this episode:What Fertility Action has achieved in its first year and the stories that have kept Katie goingHow the support groups actually work and why showing up with your camera off is completely fineThe Trying to Conceive group, the Positive Test and Beyond group, the Secondary Infertility group and what each one has becomeThe in-person walk-and-talk meetups in London and ManchesterThe woman who found her best friend through a Fertility Action support groupWhy the Life After Treatment group has been harder to grow and what Fertility Action is learning from thatThe South Asian support group and why in-person connection is what that community really needsThe new NICE guidelines and the change that barely made the headlines: up to six cycles in selected patientsWhy campaigning at ICB level has not worked and why Fertility Action is now pushing for central commissioningHow fertility treatment compares across Europe and why the UK is falling behindWhy fertility still sits awkwardly between the Women's Health Strategy and the Men's Health Strategy and gets properly covered in neitherWhy Katie believes the UK urgently needs its own national fertility strategyThe education project Fertility Action has launched with colleges and the National Education UnionThe moment a 17-year-old student challenged them in a college debate and what happened nextThe Three Peaks Challenge: why Katie chose it, who is doing it and how to donateFertility Action's birthday celebrations and what the next two years look likeHow to get involved as a volunteerAbout Katie Rollings and Fertility ActionKatie Rollings is the founder of Fertility Action, the UK's newest fertility charity, now celebrating its first birthday. Fertility Action provides free peer support groups, education and advocacy for the one in six people struggling to conceive. All of the team are volunteers and every penny raised goes directly into building more services for patients.Find out more and access support: fertilityaction.orgFollow Fertility Action on Instagram: @fertilityactionFertility Action support groupsAll groups are free, online and run every week. There is no expectation to keep showing up. You can come with your camera off. You can just sit in the chat. It is as low-pressure as it gets.Trying to Conceive (Tuesdays and Thursdays)Positive Test and BeyondSecondary InfertilityLife After TreatmentSouth Asian Fertility Support (developing)Sign up at fertilityaction.orgBirthday celebrationsFertility Action is holding two celebrations for its first birthday:A formal event with clinical partners and supportersQuiz and Fizz at Fisher's Farm on 23 May, open to the wider communityGet involvedFertility Action is a grassroots, all-volunteer charity and they need help across everything from research and communications to events and policy. If you have skills and a bit of time to offer, they would love to hear from you.Get in touch at fertilityaction.orgThis episode is sponsored by Wild NutritionI know how overwhelming it can be knowing which supplements to buy when you are trying to conceive. That is exactly why I appreciate what Wild Nutrition offers: free one-to-one consultations with nutritional therapists so you get guidance that is genuinely tailored to your situation. Their supplements are formulated for optimal absorption, with 31 carefully selected nutrients including folate, zinc and B vitamins, and are trusted by over 50,000 couples.As a listener of The Fertility Podcast, you can get:50% off Wild Nutrition supplements for 3 monthsA free personal consultation with an expert nutritional therapistVisit wildnutrition.com/fertilitypodcast to get started. Terms and conditions apply.Support the Three Peaks ChallengeI am joining Katie and a brilliant group of people from across the fertility sector to climb Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in 24 hours in June, raising funds for Fertility Action. Every donation, however small, goes directly towards building more support services for people going through this. And yes, I will be giving you a shout-out on the podcast if you donate.Here's how you can donate Stay connectedFollow me on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyIf you haven't already, please subscribe and leave a review. It really helps more people find the podcast.Thank you, as always, for your ear holes. Until next time 💛
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  BONUS EPISODE: Secondary Infertility: The Hidden Struggle 07.05.2026 26นาที

  A branded mini series in partnership with Wild Nutrition, celebrating the launch of The Fertility Disconnect report.Secondary infertility does not get the airtime it deserves. And yet, according to The Fertility Disconnect report, 79% of people say they want more children than they currently have. For those with one child, that figure rises to 88%.In this final episode of the Wild Nutrition mini series, Gail and I go deep on one of the most underserved conversations in the fertility space. Gail shares her own ongoing experience of secondary infertility, including her adenomyosis diagnosis, the emotional weight of wanting to grow her family while already being a parent, and why the medical system often leaves people with one child to fend for themselves.This is also a conversation about recovery. About what pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and parenthood actually do to the body nutritionally, and why so many of us enter a second conception journey already depleted without realising it. Secondary infertility is where I find myself too, and it is a topic I have been asked to talk about more. I am so glad we finally did.What we discuss in this episode:What secondary infertility actually is and why it gets so little attentionGail's own experience: breastfeeding, cycles returning, a new adenomyosis diagnosis and the emotional complexity of wanting a second childWhy having one child often means you fall outside the criteria for NHS fertility supportThe injustice of not qualifying for IVF if your partner already has a child from a previous relationshipKey stats from The Fertility Disconnect: 79% of respondents want more children than they have; 88% among those with one childWhy people delay growing their family and how biological timelines do not always align with life circumstancesWhat pregnancy, birth, postpartum and breastfeeding do to nutrient stores and why recovery is so often skippedThe specific tests and checks Gail recommends for anyone struggling to conceive a second timeWhy thyroid health and iron are the two most common deficiencies she sees in postpartum womenThe increased likelihood of endometriosis, fibroids and adenomyosis diagnoses after childbirthHow to start preparing your body again: the foundations of a recovery and preconception planWhy blood sugar balance, three solid meals a day and sleep are not optionalThe relationship strain that comes with secondary infertility and why therapy can be a real part of the toolkitHow to navigate the language around having one child and find the words that work for youFertility in the workplace: what support is increasingly available and why it mattersWhat Gail would want anyone feeling alone in this to hearKey stats from The Fertility Disconnect report79% of respondents said they want more children than they currently have88% of those with one child said they want more26% cited career progression as a reason for delaying growing their family25% pointed to housing constraints and affordability as barriersLinks mentioned in this episodeThe Fertility Disconnect report by Wild Nutrition:Download the full report at wildnutrition.com/fertilitypodcastFree fertility consultation with Wild Nutrition:Book your free one-to-one with a nutritional therapist at wildnutrition.com/fertilitypodcastExclusive listener offer:50% off Wild Nutrition supplements for 3 monthsA free personal consultation with an expert nutritional therapistVisit wildnutrition.com/fertilitypodcast to get started. Terms and conditions apply.About Gail MadalenaGail Madalena is a fertility and cycle health specialist and registered nutritional therapist with deep expertise in IVF, recurrent miscarriage and unexplained infertility. She supports women through conception, pregnancy and postpartum with tailored, evidence-based guidance and works with Wild Nutrition to offer personalised consultations for those trying to conceive.Missed the other episodes in this mini series?Episode 1: Understanding Your Fertility HealthEpisode 2: Weight, Nutrition & the Road to ConceptionThank you, as always, for your ear holes. Until next time 💛
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  BONUS EPISODE: Weight, Nutrition & the Road to Conception 07.05.2026 30นาที

  A branded mini series in partnership with Wild Nutrition, celebrating the launch of The Fertility Disconnect report.Weight and fertility is one of the most charged, confusing and often poorly handled topics in reproductive health. I have spoken to so many people who have been told to lose weight in order to access funded treatment, sent away with no guidance on how to actually do that. And all the while, the internet is full of conflicting advice, fad diets and quick fixes that can make the whole thing feel completely overwhelming.In this second episode of the Wild Nutrition mini series, I am joined again by Gail Madalena, fertility and cycle health specialist and registered nutritional therapist, to cut through the noise. They cover everything from ultra-processed foods and GLP-1 medications to mitochondrial health, exercise, rest, and how to actually rebuild your body between cycles.This is not about restriction or guilt. It is about understanding what your body actually needs and finding an approach you can sustain. I hope it helps.What we discuss in this episode:Why the weight and fertility conversation is so often handled badly by medical professionalsThe stigma around weight and why so many people feel they are not being taken seriouslyWhy BMI is such a divisive and limited measure of healthWhat metabolic health actually means and why it matters so much for fertilityThe problem with fad diets and starvation mode when trying to conceiveUltra-processed foods: what the research actually says about their impact on fertilityThe stat from The Fertility Disconnect report: over 60% of the average UK diet is made up of ultra-processed foodsHow UPFs drive inflammation, oxidative stress and poor sperm and egg qualityPractical strategies for reducing ultra-processed foods without overhauling your whole lifeWhat mitochondria are and why they are central to egg quality and early embryo developmentWhy the egg is the largest cell in the body and demands an enormous amount of energy to ovulateHow blood sugar balance, antioxidants and healthy fats support mitochondrial healthGLP-1 medications: what people trying to conceive really need to understandWhen GLP-1s can be a useful preconception tool and when to stop taking themHow to protect nutrient status and hormone health while using GLP-1sExercise and fertility: why high intensity training can elevate cortisol and affect progesteroneWhy strength training and daily walking may serve you better than five gym sessions a weekThe vagal nerve and why switching on your parasympathetic nervous system matters for conceptionMindfulness, rest and recovery: finding what actually works for youEnvironmental and lifestyle factors: starting small rather than overhauling everything at onceRebuilding nutrient stores between cycles and why recovery time is often overlookedWhy being kind to yourself is not soft advice, it is clinical adviceA note on GLP-1 medicationsGLP-1s came up in consultations with Wild Nutrition clients frequently enough that Gail wanted to address them directly. The key things to know if you are trying to conceive:You cannot take GLP-1 medications while actively trying to conceiveIn the preconception window, they can be a useful tool for shifting weight, reducing inflammation and supporting metabolic health, particularly for those with PCOS, endometriosis or fibroidsAim for gradual, micro-dosed weight loss rather than rapid lossPrioritise protein intake, movement and nutrient density while taking themComing off them requires a plan to maintain the healthy habits built during that periodLinks mentioned in this episodeThe Fertility Disconnect report by Wild Nutrition:Download the full report at wildnutrition.com/fertilitypodcastFree fertility consultation with Wild Nutrition:Book your free one-to-one with a nutritional therapist at wildnutrition.com/fertilitypodcastExclusive listener offer:50% off Wild Nutrition supplements for 3 monthsA free personal consultation with an expert nutritional therapistVisit wildnutrition.com/fertilitypodcast to get started. Terms and conditions apply.About Gail MadalenaGail Madalena is a fertility and cycle health specialist and registered nutritional therapist with deep expertise in IVF, recurrent miscarriage and unexplained infertility. She combines advanced functional medicine training with her own lived experience of a three-year conception journey and works with Wild Nutrition to offer personalised consultations for those trying to conceive.About this mini seriesThis is a three-part branded mini series in partnership with Wild Nutrition. If you missed the first episode, go back and listen:Episode 1: Understanding Your Fertility HealthEpisode 3: Secondary Infertility: The Hidden Struggle (coming next)Thank you, as always, for your ear holes. Until next time 💛
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  BONUS EPISODE: Understanding Your Fertility Health 07.05.2026 30นาที

  A branded mini series in partnership with Wild Nutrition, celebrating the launch of The Fertility Disconnect report.What do over 1,000 women in the UK who have tried to conceive in the past five years actually know about their own fertility? The answer, according to Wild Nutrition's brand new Fertility Disconnect report, might surprise you.In this first episode of our mini series, I sit down with Gail Madalena, fertility and cycle health specialist and registered nutritional therapist, to unpack the most striking findings from the report and what they mean for anyone on a conception journey right now.Gail also shares her own story: a decade in fashion PR, a lifestyle that was not serving her body, a husband who was a personal trainer and still found himself in the dark, a PCOS misdiagnosis, a low sperm count diagnosis with no follow-up advice, and over three years of trying before finally conceiving during an IVF cycle. It is a conversation I loved having, blending clinical expertise with real, lived experience.What we discuss in this episode:The Fertility Disconnect report: what it found and why it mattersWhy 41% of women did not know when their fertile window wasWhy 60% of respondents were completely unaware of fertility testing options available to themThe gap in sex education: preparing for pregnancy vs preventing itHow the oral contraceptive pill and years of cycle suppression leave women without the basicsGail's own journey: PCOS misdiagnosis, her husband's low sperm count, and three years of tryingThe single most impactful thing you can do for your egg or sperm health right nowWhat a genuinely fertility-supportive diet looks like in practiceThe Mediterranean diet and the research behind it for fertility outcomesWhy 76% of people are not meeting their Omega 3 recommendationsWhy 40% of reproductive-age people are low in folateThe alcohol conversation: what the research says and how to be realistic about itNavigating fertility nutrition across different cultural food traditionsThe biggest myth in fertility: that it is mostly a female issueThe 50% fall in average sperm count since the 1970sFertility as a whole body event: hormones, gut health, liver function, microbiome and moreWhat blood tests can actually tell you and why ultrasounds matter more than people thinkHow to push back when your GP dismisses you and what private testing can addWhat a free consultation with Wild Nutrition actually looks likeKey stats from The Fertility Disconnect report41% of respondents did not know when their fertile window was16.7% did not know the length of their own cycleOnly 1 in 5 said they know a lot about egg health60% were completely unaware of fertility testing options available to themUp to 10% of Gen Z respondents said they know nothing about fertility76% are not meeting Omega 3 recommendations40% of people in reproductive age are low in folate32% only reduced alcohol once they had actively started trying to conceiveAround 1 in 5 men are estimated to have a sperm count below WHO guidelinesSince the 1970s, average sperm count has fallen by around 50%Links mentioned in this episodeThe Fertility Disconnect report by Wild Nutrition: Download the report at wildnutrition.com/fertilitypodcastFree fertility consultation with Wild Nutrition:Book your free one-to-one with a nutritional therapist at wildnutrition.com/fertilitypodcastExclusive listener offer:50% off Wild Nutrition supplements for 3 monthsA free personal consultation with an expert nutritional therapistVisit wildnutrition.com/fertilitypodcast to get started. Terms and conditions apply.About Gail MadalenaGail Madalena is a fertility and cycle health specialist and registered nutritional therapist with deep expertise in IVF, recurrent miscarriage and unexplained infertility. Her approach combines advanced functional medicine training with her own lived experience of a three-year conception journey. She supports women through conception, pregnancy and postpartum with tailored, evidence-based guidance and works with Wild Nutrition to offer personalised consultations for those trying to conceive.About this mini seriesThis is a three-part branded mini series in partnership with Wild Nutrition. The next two episodes cover:Episode 2: Weight, Nutrition & the Road to ConceptionEpisode 3: Secondary Infertility: The Hidden StruggleThank you, as always, for your ear holes. Until next time 💛
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  From Flare Ups to Fuel: Eating for Endometriosis with Jane Aherne 06.05.2026 32นาที

  If you have Endometriosis, you will know that the pain and fatigue can feel relentless. In our episode last week, we discussed consideration around egg freezing and IVF for Endo Warriors with Dr Shirin Khanjani. This week, we're bringing it right down to what you're eating day to day as the right approach to food can make a real difference to how your body manages inflammation, metabolises hormones and supports you through the difficult days.In this episode I am joined by Jane Aherne, a Registered Nutritionist with an MSc in Nutrition from the University of Westminster. Jane specialises in fertility, reproductive conditions and chronic inflammation, and has worked with women dealing with endometriosis and PCOS across functional medicine environments including IVF Matters and TIC Health. This is not about a restrictive diet or a long list of rules. It is about understanding why certain foods make your symptoms worse, why others help, and how to make small, sustainable changes that your body will actually thank you for.What we discuss in this episode:Why Endometriosis and chronic inflammation are so closely linkedThe difference between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory foods and why it mattersWhy Omega 3 is Jane's first recommendation for almost every client with endoThe best food sources of Omega 3 and what to do if you are vegan or do not eat fishThe role of the Mediterranean diet in reducing inflammationWhy trans fats, ultra-processed foods and alcohol can actively worsen symptomsHow gut health and liver function affect the way your body processes oestrogenThe blood sugar spike and crash cycle: why it matters so much in an inflammatory environmentHow constant blood sugar spikes can drive insulin resistance and compound existing inflammationWhy comfort eating during flare ups can actually make things worse and what to do insteadPractical swaps: dates, nuts, seeds, high protein meals and how to make them work in real lifeWhy how you eat can be just as important as what you eatMindful eating, stress and the rest-and-digest responsePlanning and preparation for shift workers and people on the goBalancing oestrogen naturally through fibre, cruciferous vegetables and liver-supporting foodsHow soon you can expect to feel the benefits of dietary changesWhy there is no single perfect diet for endometriosis and what personalisation actually looks likeThe biggest misconception Jane wants to set the record straight onJane's one piece of advice if you can only do one thingJane's five small changes to start this weekAdd two portions of oily fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel) or a quality Omega 3 supplementIncrease fibre gradually through whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumesInclude more cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and kale for oestrogen metabolismSwap high-sugar snacks for a date with a Brazil nut or a handful of mixed nuts and seedsSit down for meals away from screens and allow your body to move into rest-and-digest mode Jane on InstaThis episode is sponsored by Wild NutritionI know how overwhelming it can be figuring out which supplements actually make sense for your body, especially when you are already managing a condition like endometriosis. That is exactly why I rate what Wild Nutrition offers. Their all-women team of nutritional therapists provide free one-to-one consultations so you get support that is genuinely tailored to you, not just a generic recommendation.Their supplements are formulated for optimal absorption, with 31 carefully selected nutrients including folate, zinc and B vitamins, and are trusted by over 50,000 couples.As a listener of The Fertility Podcast, you can get:50% off Wild Nutrition supplements for 3 monthsA free personal consultation with an expert nutritional therapistVisit wildnutrition.com/fertilitypodcast to get started. Terms and conditions apply.Support and resourcesThe Fertility Podcast is the official podcast for Fertility Action, a charity providing education, support and campaigning for fairer access to fertility treatment. They run free weekly drop-in support groups, and you do not need to commit, you can just show up.Support the podcastI am climbing the Three Peaks in June to raise funds for Fertility Action. Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in 24 hours. If this podcast has helped you in any way, even a small donation would mean the world and I will give you a shout-out on the next episode.Here's how you can donate Stay connectedFollow me on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyIf you haven't already, please subscribe and leave a review. It really helps more people find the podcast.Thank you, as always, for your ear holes. Until next time 💛
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  Endo, Eggs and IVF: the conversation we should all be having 29.04.2026 32นาที

  If you have endometriosis and you’re thinking about your fertility, this is one of those conversations I really want you to hear.In this episode, I sat down with Dr. Shirin Khanjani, Consultant Gynaecologist and accredited subspecialist in reproductive medicine and surgery, to properly unpack what’s actually going on when endometriosis and fertility collide.This chat comes off the back of the government’s Renewed Women’s Health Strategy, which has once again highlighted just how many women are still being dismissed, delayed, or left without answers. And when it comes to endometriosis, the reality is still pretty shocking. On average, it takes seven to eight years to get a diagnosis.So this episode is about what happens next. Once you finally have that diagnosis, what do you actually need to know?We talk through everything, from how surgery can affect your egg reserve, to why IVF isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach for endometriosis patients, to the emotional weight of trying to navigate all of this at the same time.What we cover in this episodeWhy endometriosis has been one of the biggest gaps in women’s health and how that is slowly starting to shift The many different ways endometriosis can show up, from period pain to IBS, fatigue, back pain and infertility Why diagnosis still takes years and what you can do to advocate for yourself What to ask for at GP level and how to push for proper investigations The nuance around surgery and when it can help fertility or potentially reduce egg reserve What happens to ovarian reserve when chocolate cysts are removed Why fertility preservation, like egg or embryo freezing, should be considered before surgery in some cases How endometriosis changes IVF protocols and why specialist care matters The impact of fluid-filled tubes on implantation and when surgery becomes necessary The emotional and psychological toll of managing endometriosis alongside fertility treatment Why continuity of care makes such a difference to outcomes Common misconceptions around natural conception with endometriosis Why waiting too long without investigation can cost valuable reproductive time The impact of endometriosis in the workplace and why awareness still matters Why endometriosis and IVF is not one-size-fits-allOne of the biggest takeaways from this conversation is that standard IVF pathways don’t always apply if you have endometriosis.Dr. Khanjani explains that specialist protocols often need to include:Managing oestrogen levels carefully during stimulation Navigating more complex egg collections due to scar tissue or cysts Using antibiotics during egg collection to reduce inflammation risk Supporting the body after collection to keep endometriosis under control Her advice is simple but important. When you walk into a clinic, ask directly if they have specific protocols for endometriosis patients. If they don’t, that tells you something.Misconceptions we really need to clear upThere are a few things Dr. Khanjani is very clear on:You can still fall pregnant naturally with endometriosis. The chances may be lower, but it’s not impossible Egg quality is not automatically worse. IVF outcomes can be comparable once eggs are retrieved Surgery is not always the first step. In some cases, it can delay treatment or reduce egg reserve Being told to “just keep trying” without investigation can waste valuable time There isn’t one perfect pathway. Everything needs to be individualised About Dr. Shirin KhanjaniDr. Shirin Khanjani is a Consultant Gynaecologist and accredited subspecialist in reproductive medicine and surgery.She holds a PhD from Imperial College London and is an Honorary Associate Professor at University College London. In her NHS role at UCLH, she focuses on low ovarian reserve, recurrent implantation failure and endometriosis.She is also a co-founder of Fitzrovia Fertility, a London clinic built around genuinely personalised, evidence-based care.Find out more: https://fitzroviafertility.co.uk https://fitzroviafertility.co.uk/about-usWhy this conversation mattersI hear from so many of you who’ve been dismissed, misdiagnosed, or passed from one specialist to another for years.By the time you get to a fertility clinic, you’re often already exhausted, anxious, and unsure who to trust.This episode is about helping you feel more informed and more prepared. So when you walk into those conversations, you know what to ask and what to look out for.This episode is for you if you are:Newly diagnosed and trying to understand what this means for your fertility Considering surgery and want to understand the impact on your egg reserve About to start IVF and unsure whether your clinic has the specialist knowledge needed Trying to conceive and being told to wait without investigation Supporting someone navigating all of the above Support and resourcesThe Fertility Podcast is the official podcast for Fertility Action, a charity providing education, support and campaigning for fairer access to fertility treatment.Fertility Action runs free drop-in support sessions twice a week. No sign-up needed.This episode is sponsored by Wild NutritionNavigating supplements when you are trying to conceive can feel overwhelming.Wild Nutrition offers free one-to-one consultations with nutritional therapists so your support is tailored to your specific situation.Their supplements are formulated for optimal absorption, with 31 carefully selected nutrients including folate, zinc and B vitamins, and are trusted by over 50,000 couples.As a listener of The Fertility Podcast, you can get:50% off for 3 months A free personal consultation Visit: https://wildnutrition.com/fertilitypodcast Terms and conditions applySupport the podcastI’m climbing the Three Peaks this June to raise funds for Fertility Action. Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in 24 hours.If this podcast has helped you in any way, even a small donation would mean a lot and you’ll get a shout-out on a future episode.Here's how you can donate: Everyone who donates will get a shout-out on a future episode , so listen out for your name!Stay connectedFollow me on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyIf you haven’t already, please subscribe and leave a review. It really helps more people find the podcast.Thank you, as always, for your ear holes. Until next time.
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  Just the Three of Us: Secondary Infertility and Letting Go with Seetal Savla 22.04.2026 41นาที

  What does it feel like to reach the end of your fertility journey , not with the family you imagined, but with the one you have? In this episode, host Natalie Silverman sits down with patient advocate, writer, and blogger Seetal Savla for an honest, moving conversation about secondary infertility, the decision to stop treatment, and the complicated emotions that don't simply disappear after a hard-won pregnancy.Seetal spent six years trying to conceive, went through five rounds of unsuccessful IVF (including one with a donor), experienced multiple losses, and eventually conceived her daughter naturally. Now living in Berlin, she and her husband have made the deeply personal decision not to pursue further treatment , and she speaks candidly about what that letting go actually looks and feels like.This is also a conversation for those of you who are still on the journey. Because the feelings Seetal describes , the sting of pregnancy announcements, the guilt, the grief for the family you thought you'd have , are feelings many of you will recognise wherever you are right now.Trigger warning: This episode includes discussion of pregnancy loss, pregnancy after loss, and the emotional impact of making the decision to stop fertility treatment.What we discuss in this episode:Secondary infertility and what it means when there's no clear diagnosisThe decision to stop treatment , and the grief and relief that can come with itHow to navigate the sting of pregnancy announcements, even as a parentAllowing yourself to feel the 'negative' emotions: sadness, jealousy, resentmentSeetal's two-part answer to the question: 'Do you want another baby?'Donating remaining embryos , and the complicated emotions around thatThe language we use: why 'only child' and 'one and done' don't always fitHow to handle intrusive questions, especially within South Asian communitiesForewarnng friends and family about pregnancy announcements , what actually helpsWhen fertility friendships shift or break downSeetal's in-person support group for South Asian women in BerlinThe power of lived experience communities , and why you don't have to speak to belongSeetal's 13-part Ferring video diary series documenting her final cycle through to motherhoodAbout Seetal SavlaSeetal is a patient advocate, writer, and blogger who supports the South Asian fertility community both in the UK and internationally. She has written for The Times, contributed to Kat Brown's anthology No One Talks About This Stuff, and partnered with Ferring Pharmaceuticals on a 13-part fertility video diary series. She also hosts support groups for South Asian women navigating fertility challenges, most recently in Berlin.Follow Seetal on Instagram: @seetalsavlaLinks from SeetalOnline Fertility Diaries series , filmed with Ferring, documenting Seetal's final cycle, loss, pregnancy after loss, motherhood and her husband's perspective. Episode one of 13 is on her Instagram, with all episodes available there.No One Talks About This Stuff , Seetal wrote one of 22 essays in Kat Brown's anthology, on the experience of being on the verge of the 'happy ending'.Instagram post: 'Do you want another baby?' , Seetal's two-part answer to one of the most loaded questions she gets asked.The Times Weekend article , Seetal's piece about donating their remaining embryos (paywalled).Books mentioned in this episodeFriendaholics by Elizabeth Day , on the complexity and expectations of female friendshipInconceivable by Elizabeth Day , on donor conception, family secrets, and her own IVF journeyWhy this conversation mattersSo much of the fertility conversation is focused on the next step, the next cycle, the path forward. But what happens when there is no next step? When the path ends somewhere different from where you thought it would?This episode is for anyone who has made , or is close to making , the decision to stop treatment. It's for anyone navigating secondary infertility, sitting with grief alongside gratitude, or trying to find the words for feelings that don't have easy names. And it's for those of you still on the journey, because understanding that these emotions persist , and that they're valid , matters too.Support and resourcesThe Fertility Podcast is the official podcast for Fertility Action, a charity providing education, support and campaigning for fairer access to fertility treatment.Fertility Action also runs free drop-in support sessions twice a week , no sign-up needed, just a space to be heard.This episode is sponsored by Wild NutritionTrying to conceive can make supplement decisions feel overwhelming. Wild Nutrition offers free one-to-one consultations with nutritional therapists so you get guidance tailored to your specific situation , not just a generic product recommendation. Their supplements are formulated for optimal absorption, with 31 carefully selected nutrients including folate, zinc and B vitamins, and they're trusted by over 50,000 couples.As a listener of The Fertility Podcast, you can get:50% off for 3 monthsA free personal consultation with an expert nutritional therapistVisit wildnutrition.com/fertilitypodcast to get started. Terms and conditions apply.Support the podcastNatalie is taking on the Three Peaks Challenge , Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in 24 hours , to raise funds for Fertility Action. If this podcast has helped you in any way, even a small contribution would mean the world.Here's how you can donate: Everyone who donates will get a shout-out on a future episode , so listen out for your name!Stay connectedFollow Natalie on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyIf you haven't already, please subscribe and leave a review , it really helps more people find the podcast.Thank you, as always, for your ear holes. Until next time 💛
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  What Happens When AI Enters the Fertility Clinic with Dr Cristina Hickman 15.04.2026 33นาที

  Welcome to a brand new series of The Fertility Podcast where we’re asking - what if artificial intelligence could change the way fertility treatment is delivered… before you even begin a cycle?In this episode, I’m joined by embryologist and clinic founder Dr Cristina Hickman to explore what actually happens when AI enters the fertility clinic. This is not about robots replacing doctors. It is about using data, technology and human expertise together to improve how decisions are made, how patients are supported and ultimately how we get to a baby.Cristina has built 13 IVF clinics and consulted with more than 250 clinics worldwide. Her latest project brings together years of clinical experience and AI innovation to create a completely new model of fertility care.What we discuss in this episode:What an AI powered fertility clinic actually looks like in practiceHow embryos generate billions of data points and what that means for your treatmentWhy traditional embryo grading can vary between embryologistsHow AI can predict embryo development as early as day twoThe role of AI in egg retrieval, sperm selection and treatment planningHow personalised fertility care is evolvingWhy human expertise still matters just as much as technologyThe emotional side of fertility treatment and how clinic environments can impact outcomesThe reality of success rates and what to look for when choosing a clinicA different way of looking at fertility careOne of the most fascinating parts of this conversation is how AI allows clinics to move from reactive treatment to predictive care.Instead of waiting five days to see if embryos develop, clinics can now:Predict outcomes earlierManage expectations soonerPersonalise next steps based on your dataCristina explains how this changes the conversations patients have during treatment, helping them feel more informed and supported rather than left in the unknown.AI and the human touchA big takeaway from this episode is that AI is not the decision maker. It is a tool.Cristina shares why compassionate care, clinical experience and personalised understanding still sit at the centre of fertility treatment. AI simply helps clinicians make better, more informed decisions using data that would otherwise be impossible to process.Why this conversation mattersWith increasing pressure on NHS funding and more people needing to explore private treatment options, understanding what is available and how clinics differ is more important than ever.This episode is about giving you insight so you can make informed choices about your fertility journey.Whether you are:Just starting to explore treatmentNavigating failed cyclesConsidering switching clinicsOr simply curious about what the future of IVF looks likeThis conversation will give you a lot to think about.Huge thanks to our series sponsors Wild Nutrition - If you’re trying to conceive, you’ll know how confusing it can be to figure out what supplements actually make sense for your body., That’s why I really like what Wild Nutrition offers. They don’t just give you products, they offer free one-to-one consultations with nutritional therapists, so you can get guidance that’s tailored to you and your situation. Visit wildnutrition.com/fertilitypodcast to get 50% off for 3 months AND a free personal consultation Follow and support: Instagram - @fertilitypoddyThe Fertility Podcast is the official podcast for Fertility Action, a charity providing education, support and campaigning for fairer access to fertility treatment.Sponsor Natalie doing the 3 Peaks challenge - please show your support by sponsoring her hereFinally - if you haven’t already, please do subscribe and leave a review. It really helps more people find the podcast.Thank you, as always, for your ear holes.Until next time 💛
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  Three Peaks. Three Mountains. One Mission. 04.03.2026 5นาที

  Hello, it’s Natalie.This is just a short message from me to let you know that The Fertility Podcast is taking a little hiatus for the next couple of weeks while I get a few things organised behind the scenes.We will be back very soon with more episodes. In the meantime, if you have only just discovered the podcast, there is plenty for you to explore in the recent episodes.Since the start of 2026 we have covered a wide range of topics including:Sperm donationNavigating IVF as a neurodivergent personFertility career coachingWhat you wish your colleagues understood about fertility treatment at workSex and the impact that trying to conceive can have on intimacySecondary infertilityFamily building in the LGBTQ+ communityMale fertility testingSo if you are new here, do scroll back through the feed and have a listen.And if you have found the podcast helpful, please do subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It really does help more people find these conversations.Why I’m taking a short breakAs you may know, The Fertility Podcast is the official podcast for Fertility Action, the UK charity working to support people navigating fertility challenges and campaigning for fairer access to funded treatment.They are doing incredible work.And this summer, they are organising a huge fundraising challenge.The National Three Peaks Challenge.That means climbing:Ben NevisScafell PikeSnowdonAll within 24 hours.That is around 23 miles of walking and a total vertical ascent of more than 3,000 metres.And yes… I have signed up.At the end of June I will be attempting to climb all three mountains as part of the Fertility Action team.How you can supportIf this podcast has helped you in any way, I would absolutely love your support.You can donate to my fundraising page here:Every donation helps Fertility Action continue supporting the 3.5 million people in the UK navigating fertility struggles.I will also be sharing updates on my training along the way. I have already started with a six mile walk and quickly realised just how long walking actually takes. There will definitely be blisters involved.Join the challengeThere are still places available if you would like to take part in the Three Peaks Challenge yourself.It takes place on 26 June and the team will be climbing all three mountains in support of Fertility Action.If climbing mountains is not your thing, you can still help by:Sharing the challenge on social mediaSupporting the fundraisersFollowing Fertility Action onlineWhat’s coming next on the podcastWhile I take this short pause to get everything organised, I am lining up some brilliant upcoming episodes.We will be talking about:AI in fertility careVaginal microbiomesThe experience of teachers navigating IVFAnd plenty more conversations to help you feel more informed and supported on your fertility journeyIf there is a topic you would like me to cover, please do get in touch.Stay connectedFollow Fertility Action:https://fertilityaction.orgFollow me on Instagram:@fertilitypoddyThank you as always for your ear holes.Make sure you are subscribed so the next episode lands straight in your feed.And I will be back with you very soon.Until next time.
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  Testhim.. it's that simple! Understanding sperm tests with Ian Stones 25.02.2026 41นาที

  In this episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Ian Stones, co founder of Testhim, to talk about something that should be simple but still too often isn’t. Testing men.We talk a lot in fertility about women’s bodies, women’s hormones, women’s investigations. But male fertility accounts for around a third of infertility cases, and yet men are still frequently an afterthought.Ian and I explore when men should be tested, what those tests actually look like, why semen analysis is not always enough, and how men can advocate for themselves earlier in the process.If you are dealing with male factor infertility, recurrent loss, unexplained infertility, or you simply want to understand more about sperm health, this episode is for you.And if you are the partner trying to get a reluctant man to engage with this conversation, please share it.What we discuss in this episode:Why male fertility testing is often delayedWhen to start investigating male fertilityWhy semen analysis is only the starting pointThe role of sperm DNA fragmentation in recurrent miscarriageWhat a varicocele is and how it affects sperm qualityWhy testicular scans matterHow infections and oxidative stress impact sperm healthThe importance of seeing a male fertility specialist, not just a general urologistWhy lifestyle changes should happen at least three months before trying to conceiveThe impact of heat, cycling, tight underwear and hot tubsAlcohol, diet and BMI in sperm healthWhy men need to know their anatomy and check for lumps and changesThe emotional experience of male infertility and feeling like the spare partHow proactive testing could reduce repeated failed IVF cyclesWhat Testhim actually doesTesthim offers:Advanced male fertility testingA detailed male fertility questionnaire to build a personalised risk profileSperm DNA fragmentation testingOxidative stress testingTesticular ultrasound scansFollow up calls to explain results clearlyAccess to male fertility urology specialists across the UKMonthly male fertility support groupsA dedicated male fertility podcastTheir questionnaire covers:Fertility historyGeneral healthLifestyle and dietWork environmentRed flag history such as undescended testicles or confirmed varicoceleExercise habitsClothing choicesMiscarriage historyThe system builds a risk profile and gives clear next step guidance.Because knowledge is power.Listen to the Testhim podcastIan co hosts the Testhim podcast with male fertility advocate Toby Trice. It is one of the only UK podcasts dedicated specifically to male fertility.Here are some standout episodes to explore:Fertility Talk with Jonathan RamsayEnvironmental toxins and fertility with Professor Richard LeaUnderstanding varicocele with Steven MoserThe couple approach with Jas Kalsi and Fatima HusainDealing with friends and familyYou can also explore all episodes athttps://www.testhim.comA note on being proactiveOne of the strongest messages from this episode is this:Do not wait until after multiple failed IVF cycles to investigate male fertility properly.If you can:Test earlyOptimise earlySee the right specialist earlyYou want to know that you have left no stone unturned.Support from our sponsorsAccess FertilityIf you are worried about the financial aspect of IVF treatment, Access Fertility partners with over 60 UK clinics to offer interest free finance, multi cycle packages and refund programmes.Find out more at:https://www.accessfertility.com/thefpOne Day TestsBook a confidential online fertility consultation and discuss blood testing with a specialist.Use code FERT10 for 10 percent off your blood test.https://www.onedaytests.comLet’s keep the conversation goingFollow me on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyLearn more about Fertility Action:https://fertilityaction.orgFind out more about workplace fertility support:https://fertilitymattersatwork.comExplore Testhim and their services:https://www.testhim.comIf this episode has helped you, please share it with someone who needs it.Male fertility is not an afterthought.It is half the story.Until next time.
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  Family building for the LGBTQ+ community - a starting point of what you need to know with Carole Gilling-Smith 18.02.2026 32นาที

  In this episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Dr Carole Gilling-Smith, Medical Director of The Agora Clinic and Trustee of Fertility Action, to talk about family building within the LGBTQ+ community.If you are part of the LGBTQ+ community and thinking about becoming a parent, or you love someone who is, this episode is a practical starting point. We talk about treatment pathways, donor conception, fertility preservation, NHS inequality, and how to make sure you are supported properly by a clinic that understands your needs.This is about education, empowerment and knowing your options.What we cover in this episodeWhy fertility equality on the NHS is still not where it should beThe postcode lottery affecting IVF fundingWhy three full IVF cycles should be the national standardThe additional financial barriers faced by same sex couplesWhy six self funded IUIs before NHS eligibility is deeply problematicThe risks of sourcing donor sperm onlineChoosing between known donors and donor banksHow clinics should approach inclusive paperwork and languageWhy pronouns and preferred names matter in clinical settingsShared motherhood and reciprocal IVFFertility testing for both partners before deciding who carriesSupporting gay male couples through complex pathways involving egg donation and surrogacyWorking with the trans community around fertility preservationPreserving sperm or eggs before starting hormone treatmentThe emotional impact of genetic connection and non biological parentingWhy counselling is essential before treatment beginsSupporting patients who fear internal examinations or surgical environmentsCreating clinic spaces that feel safe, calm and inclusiveAbout Dr Carole Gilling-SmithDr Carole Gilling-Smith is the Medical Director of The Agora Clinic, one of the UK’s leading fertility clinics for the LGBTQ+ community, based in Brighton and Hove.She is also a founding Trustee of Fertility Action, the UK charity campaigning for fertility equality and better access to treatment.Carole has been a long standing advocate for:Equal NHS funding for fertility treatmentInclusive fertility care for LGBTQ+ patientsFertility education in schools and universitiesFertility preservation for the trans communityYou can find out more here:The Agora ClinicFertility ActionA note on donor sperm and online routesWe discuss the growing number of people sourcing donor sperm online due to cost barriers.Carole explains why this carries significant risks, including:Lack of medical screeningNo infectious disease screeningNo genetic testingLegal parenthood complicationsPotential financial liability issuesIf you are considering donor conception, please ensure you fully understand the medical and legal implications.Fertility preservation for the trans communitySince 2019, NHS guidance states that individuals starting hormone treatment should be offered the opportunity to preserve sperm or eggs beforehand.Carole explains:Why this conversation needs to happen earlyHow egg or sperm freezing worksWhy preservation can be empoweringThe importance of specialist, experienced clinicsThe emotional impact of being offered choiceIf you or someone you know is starting transition and has not been offered fertility preservation, please ask.Support from our sponsorsAccess FertilityIf you are worried about the cost of IVF, Access Fertility partners with over 60 UK clinics to offer interest free finance, multi cycle packages and refund programmes.Find out more at:https://www.accessfertility.com/thefpOne Day TestsBook a confidential online consultation with a fertility specialist and discuss hormone testing and next steps.Use code FERT10 for 10 percent off your blood test.https://www.onedaytests.comLet’s keep the conversation goingFollow me on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyLearn more about workplace fertility support at:https://fertilitymattersatwork.comExplore Fertility Action’s campaigns and support groups:https://fertilityaction.orgSubscribe to the podcast so new episodes land straight in your feedIf this episode has helped you, please share it with someone who might need it. Education and visibility matter.Thank you for listening.
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  Getting your head around secondary infertility with Catherine Cousins 11.02.2026 55นาที

  In this deeply emotional episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Catherine Cousins, author of Just One Child, to talk honestly about secondary infertility, failed IVF cycles, mental health, grief, and what it means to come to terms with building a family with one child when that was not the plan.This conversation was not an easy one to prepare for or to record. Catherine shares her story with such openness, including her experience of a cancer diagnosis within her family, IVF after having a child naturally, a mental health breakdown following a failed cycle, and the long road towards acceptance.If you are currently in treatment, living with secondary infertility, or facing decisions about stopping treatment, this episode may resonate deeply. We talk about grief that is often unseen, the isolation that comes with this experience, and why it is so rarely spoken about.If this is not the right time for you to listen, please come back when you feel ready.What we discuss in this episode:What secondary infertility can look like when you already have a childHow a cancer diagnosis changed Catherine’s fertility journey overnightIVF after having a child naturally and the emotional complexity that bringsThe mental health impact of failed cycles and untreated griefWhy many people do not feel able to talk about secondary infertilityShame, isolation, and feeling undeserving of support because you have a childHow grief can exist for the family you imagined but could not haveThe strain fertility treatment can place on relationshipsDeciding when to stop treatment and how hard that decision can beMarking the end of treatment and finding closure in your own wayParenting while grieving and the guilt that can come with itNavigating comments, questions, and assumptions from othersReframing the narrative around being a family with one childFinding acceptance without pretending it does not still hurtAbout Catherine and her bookCatherine Cousins is the author of Just One Child, a powerful and compassionate book about secondary infertility, loss, and redefining family when further treatment is not possible or no longer feels right.Her book explores the emotional, social, and psychological impact of coming to terms with having one child when you hoped for more, and gives voice to an experience that is often overlooked.You can find Catherine and her work here:Just One Child on AmazonCatherine on FacebookA gentle noteThis episode includes discussion of failed IVF cycles, mental health breakdowns, grief, and decisions to stop treatment. Please take care of yourself while listening.There is no right or wrong way to feel when it comes to secondary infertility. Your experience is valid.Support from our sponsorsAccess FertilityIf the financial side of IVF feels overwhelming, Access Fertility offers interest free loans, multi cycle treatment packages, and refund programmes that can help make treatment more manageable. They work with over 60 clinics across the UK to help you access care when you need it.Find out more at: https://www.accessfertility.com/thefpOne Day TestsIf you are trying to conceive or fertility curious, One Day Tests offers online fertility consultations and blood testing with fertility specialists. You can discuss results, get clarity on next steps, and receive written notes after your appointment.Use code FERT10 for 10 percent off your blood test.Book at: https://www.onedaytests.comLet’s keep the conversation goingFollow me on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyEmail your thoughts or guest ideas: [email protected] more about support and advocacy at Fertility ActionSubscribe on your podcast app so you never miss an episodeShare this episode with someone who may feel seen by this conversationThank you for listening and for trusting this space with such tender parts of your story. Secondary infertility can feel incredibly lonely, but you are not alone.Until next time.
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  Let’s talk about sex with Kate Moyle 04.02.2026 50นาที

  Sex and intimacy can change dramatically when you are trying to conceive, especially when fertility treatment, loss or ongoing uncertainty is part of your life. In this episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Kate Moyle, psychosexual therapist, podcaster and author of The Science of Sex, to talk about how sex, desire, relationships and connection can evolve in ways we never expected when fertility becomes part of our story.This episode touches on loss, grief and confusion. If you are not ready for that right now, please skip and come back when you are ready.Kate brings both professional insight and compassionate understanding to one of the most normal yet least discussed parts of many people’s experience. We talk about timing, pressure, anxiety, loss, connection, expectation and how to rebuild joy and pleasure in your relationship.Whether you are in a long term partnership, thinking about future intimacy, or trying to untangle the impact that fertility has had on your sex life, this conversation is full of practical insight and reassurance that you are not alone.What we discuss in this episode:Why sex often feels different when fertility issues are part of your lifeHow timing and pressure can change desire and connectionWhy we often feel there is something wrong with us when intimacy changesThe impact of miscarriage, loss and medical trauma on sex and relationshipsHow shame and silence make it harder to ask for helpReclaiming touch and connection beyond the fertility goalHow fertility challenges affect male partners and masculinityHow to bring pleasure and ease back into sex after it has become stressfulWhy rebuilding intimacy is a process and not a quick fixKate Moyle is a UK based psychosexual therapist, author and public speaker whose work helps people understand sex and intimacy through a biological, psychological and social perspective. She is the author of The Science of Sex, a neutral, accessible guide to sex and sexuality designed for all bodies.You can find Kate’s work here:The Science of Sex (book) – available from major retailers and online booksellersThe Science of Sex podcast – listen wherever you get podcastsWebsiteKate’s approach is grounded in research, lived experience and curiosity. This episode is one of the most honest and compassionate conversations we have had about sex and fertility on the podcast.Thank you to our sponors:This episode is supported by partners who help people access care and clarity on their fertility journey.👉Access FertilityIf you are worried about the cost of treatment, Access Fertility offers interest free loans, multi cycle packages and refund programmes to help make IVF more affordable for you. They partner with over 60 UK clinics to help you access treatment without added financial stress.👉One Day TestsIf you want clarity on your hormones, ovulation or fertility indicators, One Day Tests offer online appointments with fertility specialists plus convenient fertility blood testing. You can discuss results with a specialist, get direction on next steps and track key hormones that matter in your journey.Use code FERT10 at checkout for 10 percent off your blood test.Let’s keep the conversation goingFollow The Fertility Podcast on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyEmail your thoughts or ideas: [email protected] more about support and community at Fertility ActionSubscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps others find support tooLeave a review or share this episode with someone who needs to hear itThank you for listening and for being part of this community. Intimacy, connection and fertility can be hard, but you do not have to navigate it alone.Until next time.
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  What I wish my colleagues understood about IVF with Sarah Banks 28.01.2026 33นาที

  Trying to conceive can be incredibly isolating, especially when your friends and family just do not get it. That is why I loved this conversation with Sarah Banks, fertility coach, speaker, author, and creator of the Positivity Planner.Sarah’s work is all about helping you feel more emotionally supported through treatment. She also has years of experience working with clinics on patient support strategies, so she sees both sides: what patients need, and what is still missing in the system.We talked about why fertility coaching can be such a powerful complement to medical treatment, how to navigate the emotional rollercoaster of TTC, and how to protect your mental wellbeing, even when things do not go as planned.What we discuss in this episode:The power of coaching and how it can support people emotionally through treatmentHow Sarah’s own journey inspired her work in fertility and patient experienceWhat fertility clinics are doing (and not doing) to better support patientsCoping with anxiety, stress, and overwhelm while TTCStrategies for building resilience and staying hopefulTips for advocating for yourself in appointments and with providersThe Positivity Planner and how journaling can support your mental wellbeingThe importance of community, connection, and being heardWhat Sarah wishes everyone struggling with infertility knewIf you are feeling like you have no one to talk to, or like you are supposed to just keep going while your heart is breaking, this one is for you.This episode is sponsored by Access FertilityWorried about the financial pressure of treatment? Access Fertility offers funding programmes and 0% interest finance to help ease the burden of self-funding IVF.Their services include:Loans of up to £12,000 with no interest over 12 monthsMulti-cycle packages that can save you up to 30%Refund programmes offering up to 100% back if treatment is unsuccessfulPartnerships with over 60 top clinics in the UKPersonalised advice based on your age and treatment planVisit accessfertility.com/thefp to learn more.Learn more about Sarah’s work:Positivity Plannerssarahbanks.coachLet’s keep the conversation going:Follow me on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyEmail your thoughts or guest ideas: [email protected] more about Fertility Coaching and Support from Sarah at sarahbanks.coachSubscribe on your podcast app to stay updatedLeave a review or share this episode with someone who needs itUntil next time.
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  How fertility career coaching works with Jen Elworthy 21.01.2026 20นาที

  In this episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Jen Elworthy, fertility career coach and Director of Engagement at Fertility Matters at Work, to explore how career coaching can support you while going through fertility treatment.Jen joined our team in July 2025, and since then I’ve had the joy of learning from her insight, empathy and real-world experience. She has lived through the impact of ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage while working in high-pressure environments, and she shares how these experiences shaped her approach to coaching.If you’ve ever felt stuck in your job because of your treatment, uncertain how to talk to work, or unable to see a career path that aligns with what you’re going through, this episode is for you.What we discuss in this episode:Jen’s personal fertility journey, including multiple losses and the emotional toll on her mental health and careerHow she moved from ambitious and confident to experiencing panic attacks at workThe challenges of opening up to colleagues and managers during early treatmentThe power of having just one supportive person at work who gets itHer IVF survival kit and practical tips for managing during a workdayWhy “career coaching” isn’t just for high-flyers or executivesExamples of how she’s helped clients through job changes, promotions, sabbaticals, and re-aligning their work-life balanceHer approach to resilience coaching and “bounce back ability” during treatmentWhy therapy helped her heal, but coaching helped her move forwardMisconceptions about who coaching is for, and why it can be more accessible than you thinkHow Jen structured her coaching offers to meet people at different financial entry pointsJen’s support offerings include:Jen is now offering Group Coaching One-to-one coaching (short-term or long-term packages)One-off coaching conversationsEmployer-sponsored coaching (some clients have had it covered as part of redundancy packages)Low-cost workshops (around £20–£25)Free resources and templates on her websiteFree newsletter + insights via LinkedIn and InstagramIf you're considering career coaching but aren't sure it's “for you”, this is your reminder that it’s absolutely okay to ask for help, and there are options at every level.This episode is sponsored by Access FertilityWorried about the financial pressure of treatment? Access Fertility offers funding programmes and 0% interest finance to help ease the burden of self-funding IVF.Their services include:Loans of up to £12,000 with no interest over 12 monthsMulti-cycle packages that can save you up to 30%Refund programmes offering up to 100% back if treatment is unsuccessfulPartnerships with over 60 top clinics in the UKPersonalised advice based on your age and treatment planVisit accessfertility.com/thefp to learn more.Let’s keep the conversation going:Follow me on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyExplore career coaching and free resources at: jenniferelworthy.comLearn more about workplace support at: fertilitymattersatwork.comWant coaching in your workplace? Reach out to us or speak to your HR teamWhether you’re holding it all together or feel like you're about to break, know this — there are people who get it, and support that fits where you are. Thank you for your ears, and until next time.
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  Navigating IVF as a Neurodivergent Person with Catherine Lightfoot 14.01.2026 29นาที

  In this episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Catherine Lightfoot, ADHD coach and founder of Rewired Circles, to talk about her experience of navigating IVF as a neurodivergent person.Catherine was working in a senior HR role while undergoing fertility treatment and dealing with the mental load of a delayed ADHD diagnosis. She joins me to talk about the emotional toll of masking, the challenges of advocating for yourself in a system that does not always recognise neurodivergence, and the importance of creating support spaces that actually meet people where they are.This is our first episode covering neurodivergence and fertility, and I want to thank Catherine for bringing this conversation forward. If you suspect you may be neurodivergent, or if you’ve been struggling to articulate how this process is affecting you, I hope this episode offers support and language for what you might be feeling.What we discuss in this episode:Catherine’s delayed ADHD diagnosis and how it overlapped with her fertility journeyWhy she and her partner opted for early fertility testing and how a surprise male factor diagnosis shifted everythingThe emotional whiplash of having a clear process derailed by COVID delaysHow hyperfocus, masking, and people-pleasing made it harder to ask for helpOverworking and pretending everything was fine while secretly undergoing injections and treatmentThe moment she realised she could not cope alone anymoreWhat IVF felt like as a neurodivergent person and why it is easy to become overwhelmed and disconnectedThe challenge of advocating for yourself when you are not sure what your needs areThe risks of masking and burnout in high-pressure jobs while going through treatmentHer reflections on memory loss, dysregulation, and why she misremembered the number of cycles she hadWhy support groups are powerful but may not be the right fit for everyone at every stageHow Catherine’s coaching and lived experience helped her move from burnout to self-awarenessThe shocking mental health statistics for women with ADHD and why fertility support needs to evolveWhy the fertility and neurodivergent overlap is an urgent area of focus for workplaces and support providersHer top advice for anyone navigating fertility and ADHD, especially in silenceA note on support and asking for helpSo many of us keep it all in. We wait until it gets really bad before we share anything. But Catherine reminds us that asking for help does not need to be dramatic or all-encompassing. You can start small. Tell one trusted colleague at work. Let one friend know. Give someone permission to be your backup or just your quiet support.If you are masking and managing everything alone, this is your nudge to breathe, pause, and share.Let’s keep the conversation going:Follow me on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyEmail your thoughts or guest ideas: [email protected] more about Catherine’s support and coaching at rewiredcircles.co.ukExplore weekly support groups and mental health resources at fertilityaction.orgIf you are navigating fertility while neurodivergent, reach out to Catherine or Fertility Action to explore the right support for youIf this conversation gave you language for something you have been struggling to express, or made you feel a little less alone, please subscribe, leave a review, or share the episode with someone who needs it.Until next time.