Hello again! This episode Kate is joined by the founders of the Swimmers Charity, Tara and Henry. In this episode, Kate talks with the couple about how this charity is the first and only charity for male factor infertility. Started as a result of their own fertility journey, this charity aims to provide support for those going through infertility and to restore sperm health. Before Kate and the couple dove into what the charity does and aims to do, Tara and Henry shared their own fertility story that led them to creating the charity. Back before Tara and Henry were to be married, they decided to check that everything was okay for them to hopefully have children in the future. Through doing all the tests, Tara found that she was perfectly healthy and that there was nothing that flagged concern. Unfortunately, Henry’s results didn’t have the same outcome. Henry’s results told him that he had low sperm, and that it was decreasing. However there was never an actual reason or explanation as to why this was the case. The couple decided to go through the IVF process but sadly, they had to abandon the cycle. Tara and Henry tried again, this time with 3 embryos, however, these embryos failed the transfer.Through all of this, the couple were still trying to achieve their dream of one day having a family. So, after many talks with doctors they were pointed towards DNA fragmentation testing. This unfortunately, came back inconclusive, which Henry explained was incredibly frustrating. After this, they found out that Henry’s sperm was decreasing in numbers, so Henry made the decision to freeze his sperm, something which he recommends anyone does. Then, Henry made some lifestyle changes, like stopping drinking caffeine, taking cold diets and more.They then started another IVF cycle and this time it was successful and now they have a baby boy. They both explain how through this journey, they didn’t tell their family or friends about what it was that they were going through. Although they are wanting to try IVF again, the two of them have said that they would tell their family and friends.Kate asks about the reasons for setting up the charity and what their goals, and both Tara and Henry shared that they want to help others achieve their dreams of having children of their own. Henry tells Kate about all the exciting things that the charity is going to be doing over the next couple of months such as grants to help those fund their own fertility journey and funding research into finding out why so many people have unexplained infertility.OUR SPONSOR:We are delighted that the current series is being sponsored by Proceive who are kindly offering all listeners to The Fertility Podcast 15% off any Procieve purchase, when you use the discount code FP15.Socials:Follow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow Natalie Silverman she / her (@fertilitypoddy) • Instagram photos and videos on InstagramFollow Swimmers Charity (@swimmers_charity) • Instagram photos and videos on InstagramRead more about Request a babyloss certificate here

Hello, this is a little bit of a special episode as The Fertility Podcast is sharing The F Word at Work! We’re thrilled to have you here, and if this is your first time tuning in, we encourage you to explore our previous episodes.They feature thought-provoking discussions about why fertility and family-building topics should be a priority on workplace wellbeing agendas. This fourth series focuses specifically on how to support colleagues through various family-building challenges.In this episode, we’re delighted to welcome Katy Schnitzler, an esteemed trainer and founder of Mist. Katy is an academic whose work revolves around pregnancy loss, miscarriage, and the experiences of those who are childless not by choice, particularly their impact in the workplace.She is also a lead trainer at the Miscarriage Association, and we're excited to delve into this vital conversation together.Here’s a glimpse into our conversation:Katy emphasizes the holistic approach needed when discussing pregnancy loss, highlighting both the physical and emotional implications for those affected in the workplace.We explore common misconceptions surrounding pregnancy loss and the potential physical challenges that individuals face, which can significantly impact their work life.Katy offers practical advice for managers and HR professionals on how to compassionately support colleagues experiencing pregnancy loss. This includes the importance of using appropriate language and demonstrating genuine empathy.We discuss the emotional toll of pregnancy loss not only on the individual but also on their partner, stressing the importance of acknowledging their feelings and experiences as well.We talk about the need for workplace policies that address pregnancy loss and how to implement them, as well as the importance of peer support and training for colleaguesKaty shares strategies for initiating open conversations about pregnancy loss, emphasising that it's crucial for workplaces to foster an environment where employees feel safe discussing their experiences.As we approach Baby Loss Awareness Week, we encourage organisations to consider how they can acknowledge this sensitive topic thoughtfully and inclusively.Thank you for joining us for this important discussion. We hope you find these insights helpful in fostering a supportive workplace culture.Thank you to Apricity who are sponsoring this series of The F Word at Work. To find out more about how they can support your employees with inclusive fertility care please get in touch with its expert corporate team here. We'd love your support and feedback so please do hit follow and if possible leave a review in the app you are listening to.StayConnected:Follow The F Word at Work for access to our free resources: Download our guidance Ideal Policy Guidance - Fertility Matters at Work. You can book a call to speak with us Calendly - Fertility Matters at Work.Explore our services and subscribe to our newsletter Fertility Awareness & Support Training Workshop - Fertility Matters at WorkJoin our vibrant community on Instagram, X and LinkedIn - Becky, Claire & Natalie (@fertilitymattersatwork) • Instagram photos and videos, (1) Fertility Matters at Work:...

This week on The Fertility Podcast, Kate is joined by a patient of hers, Alice, to talk about PCOS and how to live with it. This episode is a refreshing topic as Kate and Alice chat about looking after you first and trying to conceive second.Alice, who has been trying to conceive for a while with her husband, came to Kate looking for a way to be able to live with PCOS. Together, they adopted the term ‘Project Alice’ which they both share is all about making sure that Alice is happy and healthy first.In this ep, Alice talks about how her PCOS diagnosis turned her life around and has impacted almost every aspect of her life. She talks about how it took a toll on her not only physically but also emotionally. Alice explains how she struggled with the symptoms, the results of the diagnosis and the fear of the unknown.Alice shares what her life was like before receiving the diagnosis and how she put her life on hold whilst she and her husband were trying to conceive. She talks about how she would put off holidays because she envisioned that she would be pregnant by then or weddings where she had hoped to be expecting. Alice then talks about how she felt when those events came and went and she wasn’t pregnant.Together they talk about reaching out for help and support, how easy it was for Alice to find Kate, as well as what Alice wanted to achieve out of Kate’s consultations. She explains that she felt as though her future was uncertain and unclear but after a consultation with Kate, she found her future more clear and Alice was able to ask the right questions at her appointments and other things.Coming to the end of this episode, they talk about PCOS weight loss injections and Alice’s journey with taking them. Although there is limited information and research upon these injections, as they are still a fairly new treatment, they seem to be having a positive effect on Alice. Kate and Alice go into a little more detail about these injections and what they are like.Alice’s advice is to talk to everyone, to be open with not just those going through a similar journey to you, but also friends and family too. She shares that it can be quite lonely and that being able to share the burden can lessen the burden.OUR SPONSOR:We are delighted that the current series is being sponsored by Proceive who are kindly offering all listeners to The Fertility Podcast 15% off any Procieve purchase, when you use the discount code FP15. Links to the article:Carmina E, Longo RA. Semaglutide Treatment of Excessive Body Weight in Obese PCOS Patients Unresponsive to Lifestyle Programs.&nbsp;J Clin Med. 2023;12(18):5921. Published 2023 Sep 12. doi:10.3390/jcm12185921https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10531549International PCOS guidelines - https://www.eshre.eu/Guidelines-and-Legal/Guidelines/Polycystic-Ovary-SyndromeVertity - https://www.verity-pcos.org.uk/AskPCOS - https://www.askpcos.org/Socials:Follow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fertilitypoddy/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Hello, and welcome to the second episode of this series! This week is a very special week as it is World Childless Week, and what better way to start this week off than to listen to Kate talk to Hazel who is an award-winning highly regarded facilitator, advisor and executive coach to high profile private and public sector organizations.Hazel joins Kate this week to talk about childlessness and her own fertility journey. She talks about how her experiences led her to making the decision to not have children. When Hazel was about to be married to her now husband, they decided that they would like to try to have children. And after many checks with doctors and gynecologists, they were told that if Hazel were to get pregnant, she would most likely be put into a vegetative state.This was unfortunately due to a brain surgery that she underwent years ago. Hazel describes how she felt after being told the news, expressing her sadness and numbness after the appointment.&nbsp;Hazel then goes on to talk about how she and her husband found a way to live without children, how they have almost come up with their own terms for things, like a language that only they know. Hazel shares some of the terms they use like ‘Pram Count’ when deciding on a cafe.She also talks about some of the things they have discovered while being childless, like creating little crafts or being a cat mum to her two cats. Hazel opens a new perspective on childlessness, and offers a way of living without children.Kate and Hazel talk about how Hazel copes with social situations that might resurface feelings of sadness about childlessness. Hazel describes it as lifetime grief, she shares that it comes around again when in situations where someone might ask about grandchildren, she talks about she and her husband deal with those types of questions.Lastly, Kate and Hazel talk about having to rewrite your own story, finding a new path without children and coming to terms with reality. Hazel reveals that her childlessness life is actually quite fun and she basks in the time she spends with her husband and her fur-babies.Check out these episodes about childlessness:Kate Pleace &amp; World Childless Week (thefertilitypodcast.com)What support is there for childless Men? • The Fertility PodcastHow do I deal with the grief of not being able to get pregnant? • The Fertility PodcastHow to answer that you don’t have kids, so they don’t ask again • The Fertility PodcastWhy we need to talk about childless women differently • The Fertility PodcastChildless not by choice • The Fertility PodcastOUR SPONSOR:We are delighted that the current series is being sponsored by Proceive who are kindly offering all listeners to The Fertility Podcast 15% off any Procieve purchase, when you use the discount code FP15. This episode is also sponsored by Ovom Care, who have partnered with GlycanAge, a testing company. Ovom Care are looking for participants to help with their research around knowing what your actual biological age is. So if you are interested...

Welcome back to what is the very beginning of a new series, with new voices that bring new and different fertility information for your ears.This episode is a special one, as Kate is joined by a very familiar voice, Natalie, the founder of the podcast and now Exec-producer. You might not know this but this year is The Fertility Podcast’s 10 year anniversary! In this episode, Natalie and Kate reflect on the last 10 years with laughter and a few tears…….The two catch up with what they have been doing over the summer and Natalie gives an insight into the work that she is now doing with Fertility Matters at Work and The F Word Podcast. As well as this, Natalie talks about receiving the award for Best Fertility Podcast in Amsterdam. She explains that it was a surreal moment for her and the pod, which is now celebrating 10 years.&nbsp;Together they chat about the last decade and how much change the fertility world has seen, with things like the IVF add-ons and new treatments for those struggling with infertility. Natalie and Kate chat about the development of new drugs that are being tested to better fertility treatment.The Fertility Podcast has helped so many people throughout the years, bringing patient stories and advice from experts to your ears. It has been a journey, from Natalie starting a decade ago in her booth, to Kate taking the reins solo 18 months or so ago.&nbsp;This podcast has been a way for voices to be heard and listened to, a way of letting you know that you aren’t alone and there is support out there for you. It has also helped you to advocate for yourself and both Kate and Nat feel honoured to have helped in just a small way.Unfortunately, this episode also has an announcement that comes with a heavy heart. The Fertility Podcast will be taking a long hiatus at the end of this series. Kate is hanging up her headphones and turning off her mic and is on to pastures new.&nbsp;However, this is not the definite end of the podcast, Kate and Nat may well be popping on now and again and……..if you perhaps are thinking about starting podcasting or would like to give it a go, please do get in touch with Nat. Maybe you could be the next guest presenter of the podcast………We are delighted that the current series is being sponsored by Proceive who are kindly offering all listeners to The Fertility Podcast 15% off any Procieve purchase, when you use the discount code FP15.

Clean out your ears as you're in for a treat. Over the coming weeks, as we will the British Summer to impress us, we're going to be sharing with you right here on The Fertility Podcast feed, The F Word at Work episodes, which is the podcast created by Fertility Matters at Work and its what has kept Natalie busy for the last 18 months and why Kate has been at the helm of The Fertility Podcast.Hopefully it will be useful for you if you've been trying to find the words to talk about what you are going through at work, as there's lots of examples of how support has been implemented and even if you share it with some colleagues so they get a better understanding of what you are going through, that will in itself make a difference. Be sure to subscribe if you've not already, so you don't miss anything and you can also follow The F Word wherever you get your apps and also follow Fertility Matters at Work on insta to stay up to date on all the amazing work it is doing to raise awareness of fertility issues in the workplace.

In what is the last episode of this series, Kate is joined by the podcast’s editor, Ella to ask some quick-fire fertility questions.This episode packs a variety of information, from male factor infertility, ovulation induction medication, irregular periods and what this might mean for you to what to consider when choosing your fertility clinic. Ella asks a range of different questions about topics that may peak your interest.Kate and Ella also talk about advocating for yourself and having the confidence to do so. They also discuss the education of fertility in schools, and Kate explains how she believes that students should be taught about other fertility issues and not just how to avoid getting pregnant, which can often be the subject of most sex-ed lessons. Things like the menstrual cycle and what may affect your fertility for both females and males.So settle down, grab a notepad, and get ready for an adventure through fertility topics as Ella racks Kate’s brain for answers!Thank you for listening to this series of the podcast, see you in September!SPONSORSWe are delighted that this episode is sponsored by two friends of the podcast - One Day Tests and @budfertility. One Day Tests&nbsp; is your one stop shop for ‘at home’ fertility blood tests and more. The lovely people at One Day Tests are offering The Fertility Podcast listeners 10% discount with TFP10. Bud make super male and female fertility supplements which we absolutely LOVE. You can use the code FP20 for a 20% discount off your order.Socials:Follow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow Natalie Silverman she / her (@fertilitypoddy) • Instagram photos and videos on Instagram

The F Word at Work x The Fertility Podcast - Two Podcasts, One Conversation

Just a little trigger warning, this episode mentions miscarriage and pregnancy loss. If today is a day you’re not feeling too strong, perhaps leave this episode for another day. We have a HUGE back catalog to dive into, so there may be something else you fancy instead.&nbsp;This episode of The Fertility Podcast, Kate is joined by Louise to talk about her fertility journey and her experiences with unexplained infertility AND all about the anxiety (scanxiety) you feel when you find out you're pregnant and you’re waiting for a scan.&nbsp;Louise’s fertility journey started back in 2020 when she came off the pill to start trying to conceive. After several months of trying without success and with one chemical pregnancy, Louise went to the doctors and was eventually told that they had unexplained infertility. Louise and her husband were referred to the NHS for IVF, sadly experiencing a miscarriage during this time. Happily, Louise and her husband conceived using her last embryo.Louise shares her experience of waiting until 8 weeks for her first scan and being convinced that, until she could see the baby on the scan, that she had had a missed miscarriage. Luckily for Louise and her husband, this experience of her scan was really positive and ended on a high. However Louise did find that her 12 week scan was a very different experience, which caused anxiety for Louise and her husband.Louise and Kate talk about Sonographers and the delivery of bad news to patients during a pregnancy scan. They talk about how the Pregnancy Loss Review identified that Sonographers do not receive adequate training in the delivery of bad news. Many sonographers are caring and supportive, but some may not feel equipped with the training to deliver bad news and this needs to change.SPONSORSWe are delighted that this episode is sponsored by a friend of the podcast - @onedaytests. One Day Tests&nbsp; is your one stop shop for ‘at home’ fertility blood tests and more.&nbsp;Socials:Follow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramYou can find Louise on Instagram at Odd Ones Out (@oddonesout2023) • Instagram photos and videosPregnancy loss review - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/pregnancy-loss-review

This week Kate is joined by Clinical Embryologist Victoria Wigley a.k.a @allaboutembryology, to take you on a whirlwind of an episode on, what is quite a confusing topic, Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A).&nbsp;PGT-A was first used for those who had a family history of a condition, such as cystic fibrosis. PGT-A takes a look at the chromosomes that are in the cells of the embryo. Since we all have a set amount, PGT-A makes sure that there are no aneuploidies, or in other words - an abnormal amount of chromosomes.Victoria talks about why clinics started using PGT-A testing and she goes into detail on what’s involved with this testing and how it is done.&nbsp;Kate and Victoria discuss the HFEA grading system, which currently grades PGT-A testing as ‘red’, meaning that ‘there are potential safety concerns and/or, on balance, the findings from moderate/high quality evidence shows that PGT-A testing may reduce treatment effectiveness’.&nbsp;Victoria also discusses her concerns that patients are being offered PGT-A when they do not need it. Victoria tells Kate how she believes that all patients should know everything about what they are being offered, including the risks and hidden costs. She goes on to explain how many of her patients struggle to find the confidence to say ‘no’ to their clinics, when being offered treatment that they don’t necessarily think they need.&nbsp;Lastly, Victoria and Kate talk about the cost of PGT-A, what you need to consider and managing patients expectations.We are delighted that this episode is sponsored by a friend of the podcast - @onedaytests. One Day Tests&nbsp; is your one stop shop for ‘at home’ fertility blood tests and more.&nbsp;SOCIALSYou can find Victoria on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok at All about Embryology (@allaboutembryology) • Instagram photos and videos&nbsp;And you check out her website Home | All About Embryology | Independent Advice and Support | UKYou can also listen back to a previous episode of the podcast all about the darker side of fertility treatments here - Navigating Private IVF &amp; The Darker Side Of Fertility "Treatments" (thefertilitypodcast.com)

This week’s episode of The Fertility Podcast, Kate is joined by the Grammy nominated singer, songwriter, and producer, Nelly Joy @nellyjoymusic to talk about her experience of pregnancy loss. The Fertility Podcast is honored to be sharing Nelly’s story, as this is the first time that she is openly talking about her experiences. Thank you Nelly.&nbsp;As a result of her experiences, Nelly has written a breathtakingly beautiful song and we have a sample for you to hear in this episode. Nelly’s song, ‘Baby Showers’ was written after she’d organised a Baby Shower for a friend. On the way home from the Baby Shower, Nelly felt overwhelmed with emotion for her loss, and found herself crying ‘baby showers’. Baby Showers was released on the 7th June and you’ll find it ready to stream.Nelly starts by explaining that and after numerous trips to her doctor with heavy and painful periods, and being told it’s normal to experience painful periods (note from Kate - It’s not!), she was eventually diagnosed with endometriosis. She talks about how women are often dismissed and gaslighted and the importance of being persistent and pushing for a diagnosis when you know something is not quite right.After her diagnosis, Nelly then had surgery which changed her life for the better. Nelly talks about the relief that she had from the surgery and how it helped her with the pain she was experiencing.&nbsp;In 2017, Nelly unfortunately lost a third of her left ovary, and this started to make her think about how this might affect her fertility. In 2020 Nelly and her husband started to try to conceive. A year later, after trying naturally unsuccessfully, Nelly and her husband turned to IVF.Nelly tells Kate that after her first two round of IVF were unsuccessful, the couple decided to try naturally again, and in October of 2023, Nelly fell pregnant. However, after 7 weeks, her pregnancy sadly resulted in an ectopic pregnancy and the loss of one of her fallopian tubes.&nbsp;Nelly has not given up and is continuing to try to conceive naturally. Nelly strongly believes that the stigma surrounding fertility needs to change and people need to start talking more, and this is one of the reasons Nelly wrote ‘Baby Showers’ as a way of breaking down taboos and to get people talking. We hope you enjoy listening to Nelly’s beautiful track. I’m sure many of you will relate…….Thank you so much to Nelly for sharing this with us.We are delighted that this episode is sponsored by two friends of the podcast - One Day Tests One Day Tests&nbsp; is your one stop shop for ‘at home’ fertility blood tests and more. The lovely people at One Day Tests are offering The Fertility Podcast listeners 10% discount with TFP10.&nbsp;SOCIALS:Follow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow Nelly Joy (@nellyjoymusic) • Instagram photos and videos on Instagram

In this week’s episode of The Fertility Podcast, Kate is joined by the Ro Huntriss - fertility dietitian to answer some quick fire nutrition FAQ’s. Ro shares lots of interesting evidence based facts and little tips. So buckle up for a speedy episode and don’t forget to grab a note pad!During this episode, Ro and Kate cover topics such as whether you should stop drinking alcohol when trying to conceive, and if diet can help to improve sperm DNA fragmentation. Ro breaks down some myths and drops in little pieces of advice and information on how to optimise your fertility through diet and good nutrition.One of the big questions was, whether the craze of having a Big Mac and Fries after IVF, is a good idea or not and is there really a best way to eat when TTC? Tune in to listen to Ro’s answer on these and many more fertility nutrition questions.We are delighted that this episode is sponsored by two friends of the podcast - One Day Tests and Bud Nutrition. One Day Tests&nbsp; is your one stop shop for ‘at home’ fertility blood tests and more. The lovely people at One Day Tests are offering The Fertility Podcast listeners 10% discount with TFP10. Bud nutrition make a Vitamin D which we absolutely LOVE. You can use the code FP20 for a 20% discount off your order.Socials:Follow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @fertility.dietition.UK on InstagramRo’s book - Deliciously healthy fertility is available on Amazon

*Just a little trigger warning for this episode as there are mentions of termination for medical reasons and pregnancy loss, so if you aren’t feeling in the right place today, perhaps come back another day when you feel a little bit stronger. But don’t forget that The Fertility Podcast has plenty of back catalog for you to listen to!On today’s episode, Kate is joined by Anita who is a fertility and pre-natal dietitian. Anita is here to talk about her making the difficult decision to end her pregnancy for medical reasons. This is called Termination for Medical Reasons or TFMR for short.In the beginning of the episode, Anita talks about how her and her partner wanted to start trying to conceive back in 2019. After trying naturally for sometime, Anita and her husband embarked on IVF. After many rounds of IVF the couple were at at last successful and were overjoyed.Anita shares that at her 20 week scan, the hospital staff started checking the scans and whispering to each other. This started to cause Anita concern and she just knew that something wasn't right. After a few weeks and scans later, Anita and her husband then received the information they were dreading. They knew that they had a difficult decision to make.........Anita tells Kate in the few weeks that followed and due to the uncertainty that her pregnancy could continue, she felt the need to hide her pregnancy from her family and friends. Anita talks about how she felt receiving the diagnosis and making the heartbreaking decision to end her pregnancy. She explains that she would rather take the pain of losing her son herself, rather than Alexander, as they chose to name him, not being able to live a life. And as someone beautifully put, it wasn’t his time yet.However, Anita's story has a happy ending. She and her husband now have their beautiful little boy, Oliver, Alexander’s little brother. Anita’s story is a rollercoaster of ups and downs, but she has proven there is always a rainbow after a storm.&nbsp;We are delighted that this episode is sponsored by two friends of the podcast - One Day Tests. One Day Tests&nbsp; is your one stop shop for ‘at home’ fertility blood tests and more. The lovely people at One Day Tests are offering The Fertility Podcast listeners 10% discount with TFP10.Socials&nbsp;Follow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFind Anita&nbsp; - Fertility✨IVF✨PCOS✨Diabetes (@fertility.hormone.dietitian) • Instagram photos and videos on InstagramFind Anita also Diabetes:T1,T2,GDM| Fertility (@anitab_rd) • Instagram photos and videos here on InstagramFertility and Weight loss study - https://plymouth.onlinesurveys.ac.uk/2024wlm

Welcome to the final episode in this series of The F Word at Work, where we discuss mental health at work, and its prevalence regarding the topic of fertility in the workplace. We're delighted to be in conversation with Simon Blake, CEO of MHFA England® and a leading voice in mental health advocacy.With a passion for driving social change, Simon champions diversity and community support. As Chair of the Dying Matters Campaign, he continues his commitment to promoting holistic wellbeing.Here's a glimpse into our conversation:Over 300,000 mental health first aiders are now active in the UK, with one in 40 adults receiving training. We delve into the impact of this training and how it has evolved over the years.Mental health takes centre stage alongside physical health concerns, emphasizing its crucial role in creating a healthy work environment.We explore the importance of using inclusive language and fostering supportive behaviours when discussing both fertility issues and mental health. The importance of listening and offering support, rather than trying to "fix" someone's situation.Learn about the valuable resources available for Mental Health Awareness Week and how these can support the fertility conversations in the workplace.We learn about Mental Health First Aid England's mission to provide training and consultancy on mental health awareness and support.Understand what mental health first aid is and its role in the workplace, including recognizing signs and symptoms of mental health issues, providing initial support, and signposting individuals to appropriate resources.The importance of creating a workplace culture where employees feel safe, supported, and have a sense of belonging, especially in the wake of the pandemic's impact on mental well-being.We explore the "My Whole Self" campaign, which emphasizes the need for dismantling the stigma surrounding fertility challenges and their connection to mental health.The importance of well-being check-ins and the need for managers to be trained in supporting employee well-being. It also recognizes the fear of missteps in difficult conversations and emphasizes building trust with employees.How mental health first aiders can empower managers and employees to address mental health and well-being concerns, including those related to fertility challenges.The importance of psychological safety in the workplace is highlighted and how mental health first aid training empowers individuals to support their colleagues, fostering a positive work environment.We conclude by reflecting on the rewarding aspects of MHFA England's work. This includes the widespread impact of training, the stories of individuals using their skills to help others, and the dedication of mental health first aiders in creating positive workplace cultures.Thank you to Apricity who are sponsoring this series of The F Word at Work. To find out about more about&nbsp; how they can support your employees with inclusive fertility care please get in touch with its expert corporate team here.&nbsp; We'd love your support and feedback so please do hit follow and if possible leave a review in the app you are listening to.Stay Connected:Follow The F Word at Work for access to our free resources:Download our guidance here.Watch our latest webinar with Selfridges, Cadent Gas and Diageo talking about...

*Just a little trigger warning, this episode mentions miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy. If today is a day you’re not feeling too strong, perhaps leave this episode for another day. We have a HUGE back catalog to dive into, so there may be something else you fancy instead.&nbsp;*Joining Kate on The Fertility Podcast this week is Jade. In this episode, Jade talks about her traumatic and life-changing experiences with ectopic pregnancy. For those who don’t know, an ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that is outside of the uterus. Unfortunately, an ectopic pregnancy isn’t viable and is not able to continue.&nbsp;Jade’s story begins back in January 2022, when she first became pregnant. Unfortunately, this first pregnancy ended in a miscarriage. Later on, Jade fell pregnant again, however, this time, it was an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancies can cause pain and in some circumstances, bleeding, however, Jade didn’t have any symptoms. It wasn’t until after a few trips to the doctor, that she was told she had an ectopic pregnancy.&nbsp;Jade eventually had surgery to remove the ectopic pregnancy. She was advised by her doctor that she had an increased risk of having another ectopic, and unfortunately, this happened to Jade again in 2023. However, this time around, Jade knew something was wrong. Jade talks about how hard it was to advocate for herself. Regrettably, this pregnancy ruptured her fallopian tube. An ectopic pregnancy is a serious medical condition which can become a medical emergency.&nbsp;Jade talks about how her experiences have left both her and her body scarred. She explains she is scared to get pregnant and risk going through it all again. However Jade is a fabulous example of the importance of being your own fertility advocate and being persistent if you think something is wrong. In Jade’s words “We do always have more strength than we think we have”.Socials&nbsp;Follow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFind The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust - Support For You And Your Loved Ones for more informationFind Request a baby loss certificate - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)&nbsp;Find The Premature Menocast podcastRead Endometriosis time to diagnosis report

Welcome to another episode of The F Word at Work, where we delve into the vital conversations surrounding fertility in the workplace. Today, we're honored to host Gemma Young, Senior Managing Director at Nuveen, a driving force in shaping marketing strategies across EMEA and Asia Pacific.Gemma Young, is an esteemed marketing leader, takes center stage, steering Nuveen's marketing endeavors while chairing the business resource group "achieve," dedicated to females and female allies.What we discussed:Gemma's personal journey fuels her dedication to address fertility challenges in the workplace, propelling Nuveen to pioneer impactful initiatives.Nuveen's proactive stance in fostering fertility conversations through a robust event program.Insightful panel discussions and networking sessions covering diverse topics from IVF to LGBTQ family building.Addressing crucial health issues like PCOS and endometriosis to foster a supportive environment.Witness the ripple effects: heightened awareness, enhanced employee support, and policy shifts like the introduction of fertility leave.Gemma's brilliant work internally won an award via the business resource group. Gems of wisdom for initiating similar dialogues: leverage existing affinity groups, engage HR, and rally supportive leadership.Proactive measures are key; continuous dialogue and awareness pave the way for meaningful change.Thank you to Apricity who are sponsoring this series of The F Word at Work. To find out about more about&nbsp; how they can support your employees with inclusive fertility care please get in touch with its expert corporate team here.&nbsp; We'd love your support and feedback so please do hit follow and if possible leave a review in the app you are listening to.Stay Connected:Follow The F Word at Work for access to our free resources:Download our guidance here.You can book a call to speak with us here.Explore our services and subscribe to our newsletter here.Join our vibrant community on Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.Join the Conversation:Don't miss out on the dialogue. Follow and engage

To kick start this new series of The Fertility Podcast, I am joined by a returning guest and friend of the podcast, Lucy Lines. Lucy is an embryologist in Australia, she is also a fertility educator and advocate. On today’s episode, Lucy joins me to talk about embryo grading and what it is and how it’s done.Lucy explains how to grade an embryo and how a decision is made on which embryo to transfer. Lucy then delves into what it is like to be an embryologist, talking about the training period and the subjective nature of grading embryo’s and how this will differ from one embryologist to the next.We move on to talk about which day post collection an embryo should be transferred. Lucy tells me that there is a lot of debate around whether day 3 is the best day or day 5 is. More often than not, clinics will prefer to transfer on day 5, as it usually has a higher success rate than day 3 and there are interesting reasons as to why this decision is actually made……..Lastly, we talked about batching and what to do if you are thinking about batching embryos. Lucy’s answer is that there is a lot to take into consideration when thinking about batching. Considerations with regards to your age, your AMH, the stability of your relationship with your partner and what to do with the frozen embryos when you have completed your family.&nbsp;A little bit of advice to take with you from Lucy is when choosing a fertility clinic, take a look at the live birth rate per cycle, how many women who started a cycle ended up with a baby? And, a question to ask at you appointment is how far below the threshold would they grade the embryo?We are delighted that this episode is sponsored by two friends of the podcast - One Day Tests and Bud Nutrtion. One Day Tests&nbsp; is your one stop shop for ‘at home’ fertility blood tests and more. The lovely people at One Day Tests are offering The Fertility Podcast listeners 10% discount with TFP10. Bud nutrition make a super Omega 3 which we absolutely LOVE. You can use the code FP20 for a 20% discount off your order.Socials:Follow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow Lucy Lines - Embryologist | Fertility Educator | IVF Advocate (@twolinesfertility) • Instagram photos and videos on Instagram

In this episode, we are joined by Wayne Clark - the visionary force behind the Global Growth Institute (GGI), headquartered in the UK and Netherlands. Natalie reached out to Wayne, after hearing him speak about his book 'How to become a World Class manager' on another podcast and knew he would be the perfect person to discuss how organisations can really tap into the manager mindset when it comes to getting them to appreciate the importance of the fertility conversation at work. Wayne has an amazing track record and has been recognised for 4 years by HR Magazine as one of the top 25 “Most Influential Thinkersworking and to date he has worked with more than 700 CEOs/boards and thousands of managers in over 30 countries. What we discussed:Wayne shares the extensive research his organisation conducted to identify key traits of a world-class manager.Twelve crucial focus areas for managers Building strong relationships is crucial for effective communication between managers and team members.The importance of creating space and time for meaningful conversations and relationship building is emphasized.Steve Jobs' perspective on leadership and vision creation is shared, emphasizing the importance of clear communication.Challenges in conveying the context and vision from senior leadership to frontline managers are discussed.The frustration with unproductive meetings and the need for more effective communication tools is highlighted.Suggestions for utilizing different communication methods beyond traditional meetings are discussed.Utilizing webinars and lived experiences to enhance learning and empathy among managers is explored.High-performing manager identification and knowledge-sharing practices are discussed as effective learning strategies.Encouraging managers to understand the backstory of team members and build empathy through storytelling exercises.The value of building relationships through understanding and empathy is emphasized for effective management.Challenges with time management and the importance of flexibility in scheduling regular one-to-one meetings are discussed.The significance of spending time consciously understanding team dynamics and organizational needs is highlighted for effective management.Thank you to Apricity who are sponsoring this series of The F Word at Work. To find out about more about&nbsp; how they can support your employees with inclusive fertility care please get in touch with its expert corporate team here.&nbsp; We'd love your support and feedback so please do hit follow and if possible leave a review in the app you are listening to.Follow FMAW and access our free resources:&nbsp;Make sure you download our guidance here&nbsp;You can book a call to speak with us here.Find out more about our services and sign up for our newsletter here.Follow us on Insta and find out what our community has to say.Join us on...

*Just a little note: There is a little bit of background noise as Kayleigh joins me from a busy office. We’ve done our best to minimise it, but apologies if you hear a bit of background noise.&nbsp;*In what is the last episode of this current series, I am delighted to be joined by Kayleigh the founder of Fertility Mapper.&nbsp;Fertility Mapper aims to personalise and humanise the access to high quality fertility care. The site allows you to choose a fertility clinic based on geography, cost and patient reviews. There is also a calculator to help you identify whether you are eligible for NHS funded fertility treatments, and handily includes information on your local ICB, to help you really understand what is available for you and your specific circumstances.Kayleigh’s advice to anyone looking to access fertility treatments, is to take your time to gather all the information that you need, compare clinics and costs. She also advises to look around and read the stories of others, to help you in deciding which clinic is the right one for you.Socials:Follow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFind Fertility Mapper | Our stories change everything. For more information and supportFollow Fertility Mapper (@fertilitymapper) • Instagram photos and videos on Instagram

In this episode, we are joined by Sabine Hutchison, the dynamic CEO and Co-Founder of Seuss+ and Vice President of the HBA EMEA region. Sabine renowned for her trailblazing spirit in entrepreneurship. With a knack for innovation, Sabine has spearheaded multiple ventures across diverse sectors, showcasing her prowess as a serial entrepreneur and Natalie met her in Basel, after Becky and her had presented our Fertility Matters at Work and here's why, flagship session as part of the inagural HBA Gender Summit. The chat begins with Claire and Natalie from FMAW discussing the importance of cross-industry awareness raising activity, which we facilitate. What we discussed:Significance of cross-industry conversations in the workplace.Overview of an upcoming women's health webinar in collaboration with CIPD.The need for culture change through continuous conversations across industries.The importance of removing taboos around women's health in the workplace.Challenges faced by women in leadership roles related to menopause discussions.Considerations for discussing taboo topics in gender-specific and male-dominated environments.Challenges of maintaining focus on important well-being topics amidst distractions.Importance of diverse perspectives and storytelling in addressing workplace challenges.Encouraging open conversations to normalize discussions on personal experiences in the workplace.Exploring the emotional, psychological, and financial impact of workplace well-being.Objectives for encouraging HBA members to prioritize well-being discussions in 2024.The significance of taking action and initiating conversations on crucial topics.Reflecting on the insightful panel discussions and the importance of actionable steps.Acknowledgment of ongoing conversations and the value of addressing challenging topics in the workplace.Thank you to Apricity who are sponsoring this series of The F Word at Work. To find out about more about&nbsp; how they can support your employees with inclusive fertility care please get in touch with its expert corporate team here.&nbsp; We'd love your support and feedback so please do hit follow and if possible leave a review in the app you are listening to.Follow FMAW and access our free resources:&nbsp;Make sure you download our guidance here&nbsp;You can book a call to speak with us here.Find out more about our services and sign up for our newsletter here.Follow us on Insta and find out what our community has to say.Join us on LinkedIn.Find us on X

In this episode of The Fertility Podcast, we are joined by a friend of the podcast, and as this episode comes out just a few days after International Women’s Day - one hell of a woman - Jessica Hepburn. Jessica is an author, arts producer and, using her own words, ‘the most unlikely adventure activist’! Jessica returns to talk about her latest book, Save me from the Waves. However, for those of you who have not yet come across Jessica (and there really can’t be many as she is a living icon!) she also shares her fertility journey so you can get up to speed..Jessica’s fertility story lasted a decade, and through her journey of 10 cycles of unsuccessful IVF, she has experienced profound loss, but has found new treasures and a new career. Her books, The Pursuit of Motherhood, 21 miles and now Save me from the Waves, take you on an alternative adventure through the ups and downs of her life and provide advice and comfort for those who are on a similar journey.Through Jesssia’s many achievements, she is the only woman in the world to have completed The Sea, Street, Summit Challenge. From running the London marathon, swimming the English Channel and then to only going and climbing to the tippy top of Mount Everest! I am in awe.&nbsp;A common feature of the podcast is for me to ask our guests for a piece of advice or what they wished they knew sooner. Jessica answered both. Her advice to you is to be braver sooner, Jessica uses the hashtag #livebigandbrave wherever she can. When it comes to Fertility, her advice is that she wants people to know that there are many roots to parenthood. There are many ways to create a family, many ways to be a mother in the world. Wise words indeed!Socials&nbsp;Follow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFind Jessica’s books here Books - Jessica HepburnGo and have a look at Jessica’s website Jessica Hepburn - Jessica HepburnYou can find Jessica on Instagram at Jessica Hepburn (@jessica_hepburn_) • Instagram photos and videos

In this episode, we are joined by Madeleine Macy, formerly the Marketing Director at Liberty and currently the Chief Executive Officer at SkyDiamond, and Brendan Boucher, Group Treasurer at The Compass Group. Please note the sensitive content within this episode as there is talk of pregnancy loss and failed IVF and you will hear about Madeline and Brendan's alternative routes to parenthood through Surrogacy. What we discussed:Madeleine describes her fertility journey, spanning almost a decade and involving various treatments, including alternative medicine, medication, artificial insemination, and in vitro fertilization (IVF).The difficulties of managing fertility treatments while working, especially in a demanding career. Madeline discusses experiencing multiple miscarriages, including one during her early days at a new job. She shares that she initially chose not to disclose her pregnancy losses at work, fearing it might affect how she was perceived professionally.The toll fertility struggles took on her mental health, leading to periods of depression and personal challenges and how Madeleine eventually opened up about her experiences at work, receiving support from her boss and HR director. The importance of creating a supportive work environment for those facing fertility challenges and the impact of colleagues' pregnancies on people's emotional well-being, highlighting the difficulty of seeing others go through pregnancy while dealing with loss IVF during the pandemic and the advantages of remote work for those undergoing fertility treatments.Exploring surrogacy as the next step in their journey after facing challenges with IVF.The grief associated with another miscarriage during the surrogacy process and the emotional toll it takes and the importance of taking time off when needed and the need for workplaces to recognize miscarriage as a form of bereavement.The male experience of fertility journey, including experiences of loss, challenges, and different stages of treatment.The impact of changing jobs whilst still going through different stages of treatment including egg donation and IVF cycles, and challenges faced during the process.How a a chance encounter with a couple on a boat in Thailand led to finding a surrogate.Emotional impact, resilience, and the importance of support during the fertility journey.The challenges of balancing fertility treatments with work responsibilities and the need for awareness, education, and support networks within organizations.Conscious quitting and the changing expectations of employees regarding ethical and supportive workplaces and why organisations need to be inclusive. Consideration of individual circumstances in workplace policies and the possibility of offering paid leave per fertility cycle.Thank you to Apricity who are sponsoring this series of The F Word at Work. To find out about more about&nbsp; how they can support your employees with inclusive fertility care please get in touch with its expert corporate team here. We'd love your support and feedback so please do hit follow and if possible leave a review in the app you are listening to.Follow FMAW and access our free resources:&nbsp;Make sure you download our guidance here&nbsp;You can book a call to speak with us here.Find out more about our services and sign up for our newsletter<a...

In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Andreia Trigo @andreiatrigorn, a fellow nurse and the CEO and founder of Enhanced Fertility. We’re talking all about Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser also known as MRKH.&nbsp;Yep, you can be forgiven for not knowing much, if anything about this rare condition that severely impacts your fertility potential. Essentially if you have MRKH you’re born without a womb. Can you imagine how devastating that diagnosis would be and how it would impact you? Imagine finding this all out as a teenager and then in later years realising how this would impact your ability to create a family! Andreia talks about her diagnosis, what she experienced to even get diagnosed in the first place, the accessibility for those who are diagnosed with MRKH, and the first UK uterine transplant.Andreia’s fertility journey began when she was 17. She was concerned that she hadn't yet had her first period. After being told to come back after a year, she eventually had tests and scans done and one of the scans reported that a uterus was seen on the scan. It wasn’t until later that it turned out to not be the case and Andreia had been incorrectly diagnosed.A year later, when Andreia was 18, she was diagnosed with MRKH. The process that she went through to get that diagnosis took just over 3 years. This involved invasive and painful investigations and procedures to reach a diagnosis. Something that still haunts Andreia to this day. We talked about whether there has been a change in the way that MRKH is diagnosed in the UK. Andreia tells us how it has and now there is a lot more support and tests that are available to be able to effectively diagnose MRKH promptly. Incredibly, 1 in 5000 women are diagnosed with MRKH. Later on, we talked about the first UK uterine transplant and what this means for women like Andreia.&nbsp;Andreia is passionate about improving access and decreasing the time to diagnosis and helps women find their way through diagnosis and the next steps. Andreia’s advice to anyone on a fertility journey is, if you feel there is something wrong be persistent and feel empowered to investigate why.Find out more about Andreia at - https://efp.clinic/Follow @andreiatrigorn on InstagramFollow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @TheFertilityPodcast on Instagram

Welcome to Series 3 of&nbsp;The F Word at Work where we'd love your support and feedback so please do hit follow and if possible leave a review in the app you are listening to.In this episode, we are joined by Caroline Noublanche, the CEO and co-founder of the world’s first virtual fertility set-up called Apricity discussing the evolving landscape of fertility benefits, their importance, implementation challenges, and innovative solutions to support employees through their fertility journey.What we discussed:How Facebook was among the first to offer fertility benefits in 2014, followed by other tech giants like Google and Apple. Recently, companies in the UK, such as NatWest, Monzo, and Marks and Spencer, have also started offering these benefits.How FMAW’s work is to help organizations understand family-building challenges and support employees going through fertility treatments.Caroline explains the workings of fertility benefits explaining how they are compensation packages to support employees through their fertility journey.The workings of fertility benefits - how they can include health insurance coverage or cash allowances and are important for attracting and retaining talent, improving productivity, and promoting diversity and inclusion.How companies often inquire about the implementation, cost, and coverage of fertility benefits. The need to address misconceptions, such as the idea that offering egg-freezing benefits encourages women to prioritize their careers over family planning.How Apricity's virtual approach to fertility treatment minimizes disruption to a person's working day and providing constant support through its innovative technologies.How it can be both HR professionals who drive discussions around fertility benefits as well as employees with lived experience of fertility struggles who advocate for these benefits. The US is more advanced in offering fertility benefits, with about 40% of employers providing them. The UK is approximately three years behind but is gradually catching up, especially among large international companies.How organizations may be apprehensive about the cost of implementing fertility benefits, however, innovative approaches, such as utilization-based insurance and partnerships with insurance companies, can help alleviate financial burdens on employees.Fertility benefits extend beyond financial assistance. Virtual clinics like Apricity offer convenience, better outcomes, and reduced disruption to employees' lives, addressing physical, emotional, and financial aspects of fertility treatment.Both Fertility Matters at Work and Apricity offer educational workshops and resources to help organizations understand and implement fertility benefits effectively.Thank you to Apricity who are sponsoring this series of The F Word at Work. To find out about more about how they can support your employees with inclusive fertility care please get in touch with its expert corporate team here.Follow FMAW and access our free resources:&nbsp;Make sure you download our guidance here&nbsp;You can book a call to speak with us here.Find out more about our services and sign up for our newsletter here.<a...

This episode of The Fertility Podcast I am joined by Gemma. Gemma is going to be sharing her IVF journey with us as she goes through the process and on to the next step of donor conception. From this episode onwards, we are going to be keeping up to date with Gemma, so tune in each episode to hear a little update from Gemma.In this episode, however, Gemma starts from the beginning. After going through many tests and everything coming back as normal, they decided to take matters into their own hands and started using the cycle and ovulation monitor -&nbsp; OvuSense.&nbsp;As time went by Gemma started NHS funded IVF and sadly had two unsuccessful cycles. At this point Gemma started to look at accessing IVF abroad. Overall, Gemma went through 6 rounds of IVF in a year, unfortunately, all of them unsuccessful and this led Gemma to the prospect of using donor conception to create her family. Gemma shares how, initially, this prospect took a toll on her mental health.&nbsp;However, Gemma has now come to terms with her decision, has had all the tests required and is now waiting for a donor match. Keep tuned as we’ll be hearing from Gemma again in the next episode.&nbsp;If you are thinking about the next steps in your fertility journey and are perhaps considering donor conception, Gemma has found 2 places that she has found to be really helpful - The Donor Conception Network and Becky Kearn’s Paths to Parenthub.This episode is sponsored by our friends at&nbsp; OneDayTests. &nbsp;One Day Tests&nbsp; is your one stop shop for ‘at home’ fertility blood tests and more. The lovely people at One Day Tests are offering The Fertility Podcast listeners 10% discount with TFP10.Socials:Follow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @onedaytests on instagram&nbsp;Find Paths to Parenthub - Support and Connection for Donor Conception for more information on Donor ConceptionFind Donor Conception Network | Supporting families through donor conception (dcnetwork.org) for more information on Donor Conception

Welcome to Series 3 of The F Word at Work where we'd love your support and feedback so so please do hit follow and if possible leave a review in the app you are listening to. As we get ready for another exciting year at Fertility Matters at Work, we wanted to kick off this podcast episode in conversation with our co-founders Natalie, Becky and Claire to talk about why becoming fertility friendly in 2024 really does matter. We also wanted to share some of the amazing achievements that happened in 2023 that we'll be continuing to build on this year. What we discussed:Highlights from 2023: Including national press coverage on BBC Breakfast News, amazing speaker opportunities at The Modern Family Show and the HBA Gender Healthcare summit, Details of the organisations who have become accredited as well as our impact statistics including over 150,000 employees reachedThe perception Shift in 2023: BBC Breakfast News coverage of this topic in successive weeks has highlighted a shift in public awareness and engagement of the importance of this issueHow momentum is growing with there now being widespread discussions about fertility matters at work with numerous collaborations and the topic being discussed in global organisations as they realise the vast impact. How fertility issues impact businesses, emphasizing the financial and personal costs associated with talent turnover and lack of support during fertility-related challenges.Why the male perspective needs to be part of the conversation and how there's a recognition that the conversation is expanding beyond being viewed as solely a female issue, with a growing acknowledgment of male perspectives and LGBTQ+ considerations in fertility discussions.Why this is so important for talent Retention and engagement and the importance of businesses recognizing fertility matters as a workforce challenge, considering talent retention, engagement, and long-term planning.Why societal perspectives on Infertility on infertility are still a challenge and that infertility is still not being recognized as a legitimate medical condition or a significant life event.Optimism about changing perspectives:Call to Action for 2024:consider fertility-related conversations, share experiences, and engage in initiatives like the fertility workplace pledge.Thank you to our series sponsor Apricity: Apricity is the world’s first virtual fertility clinic. They use at-home testing and scans, which means just two in-person meetings per treatment compared to around ten with the traditional model. It's fertility benefit gives end-to-end support and treatment from Apricity doctors and nurses, and transparent pricing with no hidden costs.To find out about the unique Apricity Fertility Benefit and how they can support your employees with inclusive fertility care please get in touch with its expert corporate team&nbsp;here.Follow FMAW and access our free resources: Make sure you download our guidance here&nbsp;You can book a call to speak with&nbsp;us here.&nbsp;Find out more about our services and sign up for our newsletter&nbsp;here.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/fertilitymattersatwork/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

The F Word at Work podcast welcomes you to series 3, where we continue to highlight the impact of people’s family building struggles at work and why as a business - whatever size you are -&nbsp;becoming fertility-friendly in 2024 should be on your priority list. You’ll hear from specific sectors on how they are addressing the issue with awareness-raising activity and training hear our updates on the work we’re doing to lobby parliament in the UK and learn more from our community about their experiences with alternative routes to parenthood such as surrogacy. You’ll also hear more insights as always from thought leaders in the workplace wellbeing space. We hope you find these conversations useful and they help you put the business case forward as to why fertility really does matter at work.Thank you to Apricity for sponsoring this podcast

In this episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m discussing how to navigate through the private IVF system. It’s a topic I’ve wanted to record for an age, mainly because many of you book in to see me for advice and support on this very topic. It seems to be a big pain point. In the UK we’re not familiar with accessing private healthcare, so how do you do it? And importantly how can you change your mindset from a patient to a consumer and why is this important? I also share some great tips on how to choose the right clinic for you and what questions to ask at your first IVF appointment.&nbsp;Later in the pod, I’m joined by freelance journalist Antonia Hoyle @greenerlanes who recently investigated the darker side of fertility ‘treatments’. We talk tarot card readings (yes really!), alternative therapies, and immunology.We talk about how these alternative ‘treatments’ and IVF Add-ons do not have the evidence to support their use. And that vulnerable women being taken advantage, both emotionally and financially of by unregulated and self-styled fertility ‘experts’ who are offering false hope.We are delighted that this episode is sponsored by two friends of the Podcast. Firstly, &nbsp;The Lowdown is the place to get the lowdown on your reproductive health. Learn about your fertility, share your experiences and read those of others. And One Day Tests your one stop shop for ‘at home’ fertility blood tests and more. The lovely people at One Day Tests are offering The Fertility Podcast listeners 10% discount with TFP10.SocialsFollow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @your_fertility_nurse on InstagramFollow @greenerlanes on instagramFollow @get.the.lowdown on instagramFollow @onedaytests on instagram

Happy New Year and welcome back to The Fertility Podcast. In this first episode of the new series, I'm joined 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.We discuss PCOS in general, chatting about the symptoms of PCOS, both the common ones and the not so common. Helena and I discuss weght 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 proactively.Helena talks about the potential risks around pregnancy and that it is not often identified, as well as the support for pregnant women with PCOS, or sadly the lack of. She tells me how she supports women with PCOS, and the steps she takes to help them manage their condition and optimise fertility. We talked about diets and eating right, Helena explains that there is no one diet, or right way to eat when it comes to PCOS. A start contrast from what you find if you consult Dr Google! I ask Helena for her opinion on the supplement Inositol, listen in to see whether she says yes or no! We discuss the new App ASKPCOS that can really help you on your journey to understanding and managing PCOS.Lastly, Helena tells me about the proposed PCOS name change. Helena talks about the fact that PCOS is not an ovarian disease so therefore the name is incorrect. Below is a link to vote for the name change. So have your say and vote as getting the right name for this is important and your support will really help.&nbsp;Socials:Follow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramGo and have your say - PCOS Name changeHave a look at Home | AskPCOS International PCOS Guidelines

Morven is an independent fertility nurse specialist living in rural Scotland, and also a nurse working in cancer care within the NHS. She joins the podcast to talk about the difficulties faced by women and couples accessing fertility treatments in Scotland and the general lack of provision across the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;What we discussed:&nbsp;The difficulties faced by those accessing treatment in rural areas of Scotland and other areas of the UKHow traveling long distances for fertility treatment can add to the emotional burden experienced when accessing fertility treatmentsUnlike England, Scotland does not have the IVF postcode lottery and therefore all people requiring fertility treatments are entitled to 3 rounds of IVF on the NHS, but with very few private clinics in Scotland, what happens when those 3 rounds fail?The importance of being able to advocate for yourself, particularly when your rural location means there is a lack of choice.Disparity of fertility and women’s health in Scotland and why this needs to changeWhy men in Scotland are disproportionately impacted with mental health issues and how fertility adds to this burden.Socials:Follow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow Morven RN BSc | Independent Fertility Nurse Specialist (@wildraefertility) | Instagram on InstagramFollow Deborah James (@bowelbabe) | Instagram on InstagramMikeysline - mental health supportThe Women’s Health Strategy

Trigger Warning - This episode contains discussion surrounding Pregnancy loss. If today is not a good day, please come back to this episode when you're feeling a little stronger. Here at The Fertility podcast, we're always here for you.We're delighted that this week's episode is sponsored by The Lowdown - the place to get the lowdown on your reproductive health. Learn about your fertility share your experiences and read those of others.In this week’s episode of The Fertility Podcast, I am joined by a patient of mine -&nbsp; Katie. Katie @secondary_infertility_life shares her story of secondary infertility, IVF and pregnancy loss.Katie knows that she is really lucky to have her little boy Jake. Jake is everything to Katie and more, however she just feels that, as yet, her family is not complete. However Katie found the process of trying to conceive again really isolating. Somehow it just felt harder to find support when you already have a child. I firmly believe that trying to conceive the second (or third, or fourth) time around is different as not only do you want a baby for yourselves but you desperately want a sibling for your existing child. So that they don’t grow up alone in life. This is exactly how Katie felt.After trying unsuccessfully for a year or so, Katie and her husband finally found out that they were pregnant. Fantastic news! However, Katie could tell something wasn’t quite right with the pregnancy, and sadly at 8 weeks they went for a scan and there was no heartbeat. Katie ended up miscarrying at home and she talks about how she felt OK physically, but took time for her to heal emotionally.After trying for another 6 months, Katie and her partner decided to start IVF. Katie had a top grade frozen embryo transfer in November last year and got a positive pregnancy test. Sadly, at Christmas, there was no heartbeat again and Katie had a miscarriage in the hospital. Katie talks about her positive experience of miscarrying at the hospital and how she got all the support she needed.Katie went for her 3rd transfer, which was sadly unsuccessful again and by this point Katie says she knew something else was wrong. She wanted to find out more and made the decision to have NK Cell testing. This identified a high level of natural killer cells which has informed her treatment going forward. At the time of recording Katie was about to embark on her next round of treatment and I’m sure you’ll all join me in wishing her the very best. We’re hoping this is the one Katie!Katie’s advice to listeners is to trust yourself and your gut, to keep driving and find out what further investigations are out there for you and get knowledgeable. Make your own decision on what’s best for you and you alone.Socials:Follow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @your_fertility_nurse on InstagramFollow @secondary_infertility_life on InstagramFollow @get.the.lowdown on Instagram

In this episode of the Fertility Podcast, I am joined by Mike Johnson-Ellis who is here to talk all about surrogacy. We talked about the ins and outs of surrogacy, his own surrogacy journey and how that led to the launching of TwoDadsUK and Your Surrogacy Journey. Mike and his partner Wez aim to support couples who are starting their own surrogacy journey, and are passionate about paving the way for a better future for surrogacy.&nbsp;What we discussed:Mike shares his surrogacy journey which resulted in two beautiful children.We talked about TwoDadsUk which launched back in 2016 and the success of the company, then the decision to launch a new non profit surrogacy organisation called My Surrogacy Journey in Feburary of 2021.&nbsp;Mike shared why many women choose to become a surrogate - the ultimate altruistic act. We talked about the feeling of empowerment and accomplishment that surrogates feel.We then discussed what it is like from the other side, for those who make the decision to have a family via surrogacy and the apprehensions of doing so.Mike highlighted the importance of building a relationship with the surrogate and their partner if they have one, and developing a friendship with them.Mike and I talked about where to start, what the options are for those who are looking into surrogacy, for both heterosexual couples, gay couples and single parents.We talked about the recent changes in surrogacy law. However, please note that since the recording of this episode there have been further changes not discussed here.Mike’s 3 top tips for those considering surrogacy are:&nbsp;Do your research - don’t rush into surrogacy, do your research on the organisation or the country your doing your journey in.Always get legal advice - just in case. Understanding that like everything, surrogacy has its highs and its lows.Socials:Follow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow Michael Johnson-Ellis (@twodads.u.k) | Instagram on InstagramFollow My Surrogacy Journey (@officialmysurrogacyjourney) • Instagram photos and videos on InstagramFind Best Surrogacy Agency in UK for Surrogacy Support in UK and US (mysurrogacyjourney.com)&nbsp;&nbsp;Find My Surrogacy Journey - Season 1 | Podcast on Spotify on Spotify

Welcome to another episode of The F Word at Work. Before we begin, we'd love to hear more of your feedback, so please do leave a review in the app you are listening to - it's possible on Apple and Spotify.Meet a man on a mission! Holding the role of Managing Director at JAAQ at Work, founder of Includability, and co-founder of DiSRUPT, Paul Smith has dedicated his professional life to instigating transformation and nurturing spaces where every voice is valued and acknowledged. His fervor lies in uniting people and constructing communities that aren't mere existences but catalysts for change. Paul firmly advocates for the potential inherent in diverse and inclusive environments, ones that embolden individuals and spark innovation. Join him in challenging the established norms and jointly creating a substantial influence!What we discussed:Paul shares how he got introduced to Jack.org and its founder, Daniel Gray. He talks about how Jack.org was born and its mission to positively impact mental health.What topics are covered by Jaaq.org including suicide, core mental health issues, eating disorders, addictions, fertility, menopause, LGBTQIA+ issues, race, ethnicity, grief, and bereavement.How the Jaaq at Work came about and is working with organizations to provide a safe space for employees to learn, be educated, and empowered.Changing the Mental Health conversation in the workplaceThe challenges of getting people to open up about their mental health at work and the importance of providing education and knowledge to employees and managers.The importance of having a visual presence of mental health conversations in the workplace, such as posters, QR codes, and other engagement tools.The importance of collaboration and empowerment within organizations. He discusses the role of Jaaq champions and employee resource groups in driving mental health initiatives.Trends in workplace wellbeing, including the increasing awareness of issues like suicide, bereavement, neurodiversity, menopause, and fertility.Making mental health conversations year-roundQuick wins for organizations - have the infrastructure in place to support mental health, train and educate employees and managers, and encourage authentic storytelling.The power of storytelling and how it can drive change within organizations and create a culture of mental well-being. Thanks to our sponsor Apricity FertilityMake sure you download our guidance here Follow Fertility_arty You can book a call to speak with&nbsp;us here.&nbsp;Find out more about our services and sign up for our newsletter&nbsp;here.&nbsp;Follow us on Insta&nbsp;and find out what our community has to say.&nbsp;Join us on&nbsp;LinkedIn.Find us on&nbsp;Twitter.

Welcome to this episode of The F Word at Work, where we are celebrating Ferring Pharmaceuticals who are now fertility friendly accredited ™️ and we're joined by Mary Knight, Head of Global Ethics at Ferring to talk about the incredible work they have been doing globally to support Ferring's employees who are building their families. We're delighted to share that Ferring Pharmaceuticals are now a fertility friendly accredited ™️ employer ( updated Jan 1st 2024 ) What was discussed: Pillars of Building Families at FerringHow the planning evolvedKey considerationsInsights gained from patient communities to learn more about people's experiences and encompasses the range of experiences and practicalities involvedProgram designed to support all family building journiesaddressing every eventuality at parental leave policies Three pillars - those who are facing challenges conceiving with financial support and it includes IVF, Surrogacy or Adoption with no capRemoving barriers such as financial support which can vary region to region as well as country to countryFerring wanted to give the most generous, holistic package so it was truly equitablePillar two - around parental leave for all parents including birthing and non-birthing parents, which is flexible and can be taken over implementsLeave also includes time off for treatment, pregnancy loss, still birth, adoption - all learned from sharing experiences from employeesNeo-natal period of leave also includedThird pillar includes tying the support and leave together with a true commitment that is informed about the issue to ensure managers have empathy about the vast issues around family building strugglesEnsuring there is training and education to bring it to life and Ferring's commitment to awareness and support at work, with FMAW's eLearning, awareness raising activities and factual information for all involved in the day-to-day of the business to make sure people are supportedMaking sure the culture of one of no taboo and people understand the need for empathy and compassion. Feedback of real-life impacts since launch in July 2022 - videos shared and testimonies sharedHow they've learned from the realities shared by people's experience meaning the issue is really brought to life. Aims to build employee support and resource groups to share experiencesAdvice for other organisations on how to implement this type of support - such as bringing in stakeholders who have passion about the topic across a range of functions within the company. You can watch Natalie and Becky as part of Ferring's Fertility Awks campaignThanks to our sponsor Apricity FertilityMake sure you download our guidance here Follow Fertility_arty You can book a call to speak with&nbsp;us here.&nbsp;Find out more about our services and sign up for our newsletter&nbsp;here.&nbsp;Follow us on Insta&nbsp;and find out what our community has to...

This week is National Fertility Awareness Week and we thought it was important to discuss male factor infertility. MFI is sometimes hidden in plain sight, as far too often (both by medical professionals and the TTC community) the focus is on the impact on us women. Therefore, joining me today on the Fertility Podcast is Frank Fallon a.k.a @betatwindad to talk about male factor and infertility. Frank and I talk about his diagnosis and the lack of answers from doctors, how he learned to advocate for himself and his drive to seek out his own support.&nbsp;Frank shares how low and shell shocked he felt when he was told that he was infertile.This was compounded sadly by his experience of unhelpful the doctors. Frank talks about how he was directed straight to IVF with no explanation or answers about the cause of his infertility.&nbsp;Eventually Frank was told that he had low sperm motility and that trying to conceive naturally was unlikely, however he felt there had to be a reason for his infertility and wanted to find out.Frank describes how he felt guilty and shameful, but the biggest part of it all was not having anyone to talk to. Frank wasn’t offered any support, so made the decision to seek it out himself.Frank talks about how fortunate he and his partner were to conceive on their first round of IVF and twins at that! After having the twins in 2022, Frank explains how he found out that there were tests that should have been done at the beginning of their fertility journey but were not done. Frank has now been diagnosed with a varicocele. Had this been diagnosed they may not have needed IVF treatment.Frank's advice to listeners is to find out as much as you possibly can about tests and treatments that are available to you, and make sure you reach out for the support you need.Socials:Follow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @betatwindad on Instagram

Welcome to the latest episode of The F Word at Work coming to you for National Fertility Awareness Week 2023. We're really excited to be able to share something that has been shaped by our hard work within the workplace wellbeing space over the last two years as we've really gained a lot of knowledge from the many conversations we've had with organisations looking to implement support and the range of policies we've now seen, so to mark the week we've launching a brilliant new download for you to use to shape your workplace policy and our three co-founders Becky, Natalie and Claire have a chat about it. We also caught up with Fran Steyn, VP of Clinical at Peppy healthcare about new research they are sharing for the week about the impact fertility issues have on people's working life. What was discussed: What you can expect from our policy guidance document - Claire talks about how she approached it from the patient as well as an HR ProfessionalOur aim was to give people a boost in their understanding&nbsp;How this should help HR have an honest conversation with employees - to ask them what they needWe hope organisations can use it to put their own stamp on itStats included to ensure people understand the scale of this conversation&nbsp;Key for managers, HR or the person going through it - that if the policy isn’t relevant, isn’t inclusive, doesn’t validate what you are going through how that will impact your first reaction as to whether you feel your organisation will support you to encourage disclosureLived experience can help the document in terms of tone and really helps it come to life - when this hasn’t been the case we’ve had to give feedback on the lack of warmth and empathy and the policy can be too formalPeople will want to know what they are entitled too - yet the sensitive nature of the topic means it’s important to compose this in a sensitive and considered way, so its holistic&nbsp;Be aware of cold language for this topic - it’s essential for this life event, like you would approach policies aboutInclusive policies are key - ensuring Intended Parents are referred to in policy, be careful about referring to those going down the surrogacy route that they’re not signposted to the Adoption policy.&nbsp;Understand who is impacted by Surrogacy&nbsp;How to support the Childless not by Choice community&nbsp;- recognise that fertility treatment doesn’t always result in a baby. Ensure that those people are recognised in terms of their experiences and signposted to support.&nbsp;Making provisions clear in terms of leave for appointments and will it be paid, ensure practical elements are includedHard to say average amount. We’ve seen a variety of days given and we advise there to be some flexibility that it doesn’t just have to be in days but it can also be in hours.&nbsp;There can be non-financial things done as well.&nbsp;Peppy Findings aimed to highlight what was going in terms of access - in relation to the cost of living crisis, the stresses within the access to funding on the NHS and the impact on people’s lives.&nbsp;More people are aware of fertility issues and how that’s not just about IVF but also PCOS and Endometriosis and

In this episode of the Fertility Podcast, I am joined by Doctor Siobhan O'Sullivan and my friend and colleague - Women's Nurse Specialist Kate Pleace to talk about premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and World Menopause day. We talk about Siobhan's experience of being diagnosis with POI in her early 30's, and Kate discusses the fertility options available and what it's like growing older with POI.To start us off, Siobhan shares her story of talks stopping the contraceptive pill and experiencing hot flushes. At first, Siobhan thought nothing of it until it got worse over the winter. Siobhan decided to get some blood tests done and how she felt when she received her results.Siobhan makes the decision to access private care and was told that she had no ovarian reserve left. She tells us about how she wasn’t able to process it all and that she found herself not really wanting to accept her diagnosis. She felt too young for this to be happening to her and she felt that there was a part of her missing.Sadly, Siobhan diagnosis coincided with a break up from her long term partner and she explains what it is like to cope alone without the support of a partner.Over time, Siobhan has came to terms with her diagnosis of POI however she says that she is still processing it all. We talk about the impact of a diagnosis of POI on relationships and work. Kate refers to a woman in Leicester who had to quit her job because of the lack of understanding/support that she received during her menopause transition and how this is now being heard by an employment tribunal. This could pave the way for significant changes in how the menopause is viewed in the workplace.When then move on to Kate who share talks her own experience with POI and how different it can be depending on your age.&nbsp;Kate also talks about fertility treatments for POI including egg donation.Both Siobhan and Kate share one piece of advice for you if you are finding yourself in a similar situation. Siobhan’s advice is to get support from those who are on the same or a similar journey to you and to never be afraid to reach out for support. Kate advises to take your take your time in finding the right fertility treatment for you. You can also read Siobhan’s book ‘My life on pause’, check out the link below!Socials:Follow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow Kate P, RN, MSc, Independent Women’s Health Nurse (@fertility_menopause_support) • Instagram photos and videos on InstagramMy Life on pause by Siobhan O'SullivanDaisy Network - for advice and support on POIHFEA IVF Add ons - New HFEA IVF add ons rating as mentioned in this episodes intro

Greetings and welcome to a brand new episode of The F Word at Work. Before we kick things off, we genuinely value your feedback, so kindly consider leaving us a review on the platform you're using to listen, whether it's Apple or Spotify.&nbsp;Now, in this episode, we have the pleasure of being joined by Emma Flaxman. Emma's career had been centered around marketing for many years. However, in 2019, she received a remarkable opportunity to become a mental health first-aid volunteer, which proved to be a life-changing decision, eventually leading her to her current role in a PhD position.A deeply personal reason drove Flaxman to seize this chance as she had experienced the harrowing possibility of losing her sister to suicide ten years prior. The mental health training inspired her to establish MINDS, the first DE&amp;I Group within Ph.D. As a result, she was soon entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing Wellbeing content for the entire parent group, Omnicom Media Group (OMG).Within her Wellbeing role, Emma created a range of resources to educate employees on the impact of mental illness on work. She initiated projects like the Open Letters series, aiming to foster open conversations about mental health experiences among Ph.D. employees. She also made mental health training mandatory for all employees, previously an optional initiative, and passionately advocated for new benefits, such as providing free therapy to all employees. This move gained overwhelming support, with Ph.D. boasting the highest number of sign-ups for this program compared to any other agency within OMG.&nbsp;What we discussed:●&nbsp;Introduction to the podcast and the guest, Emma Flaxman.●&nbsp;Emma's background and roles as a wellbeing partner at PhD, a UK media agency.●&nbsp;Emma's blog, "Insanely Normal," and her mission to promote mental health awareness in the UK.●&nbsp;Emma's recent journey to becoming a mental health advocate, starting with her training as a Mental Health First Aider in 2019.●&nbsp;Emma's personal motivation, as her sister's struggles with mental health inspired her to help others.●&nbsp;The increase in mental health-related calls after her training, and the insights she gained from the data collected during those calls.●&nbsp;Discussion on workplace support for mental health and the role of workplace wellbeing.●&nbsp;Comparison of experiences in promoting mental health in the workplace between the host's project, Fertility Matters at Work, and Emma's initiatives.●&nbsp;The importance of data and evidence in making a business case for workplace wellbeing.●&nbsp;The relationship between building a positive workplace culture and the mental health of employees.●&nbsp;The importance of mental health support in the workplace and the impact of COVID-19 on mental health discussions.●&nbsp;The role of managers in promoting mental health and wellbeing in the workplace.●&nbsp;The need for proactive mental health support and the shift from reactive to proactive approaches.●&nbsp;Challenges in discussing and disclosing mental health issues, particularly in relation to fertility issues.●&nbsp;Strategies for smaller organizations to address mental health without extensive resources.●&nbsp;The importance of role modeling and leadership in creating a psychologically safe environment.●&nbsp;The significance of education and understanding different aspects of wellness, including physical, nutrition, and mental health.●&nbsp;Emma's personal experience with burnout and the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care.Thanks to our sponsor Apricity FertilityYou...

This week's episode comes with a trigger warning as we are discussing pregnancy loss. If you are struggling right now, perhaps leave this episode for when you are feeling a little bit stronger and please do access all the support out there that is available to you.On what is Baby Loss Awareness Week, I am delighted to be joined by the lovely Tess Souray, model, actress and wellness influencer in the US. Tess shares her experiences of IVF, pregnancy loss and her decision to try genetic screening. Whilst navigating her fertility journey, Tess found out that her ovarian reserve levels were much lower than they should be for her age and that in fact her egg age was 10 years older than her biological age.&nbsp;This came as a huge shock as Tess assumed that as she young she wouldn't have any problems getting pregnant.Tess shares her frustrations of not being able to progress her fertility journey during the pandemic and the isolation she felt during this time, which has been common to many.Tess tells me about how much IVF has taught her about herself and her body, and that during a fertility journey you have to learn a whole new language with all the different words and acronyms that she had to get familiar with.&nbsp;We talked about the decision to go through IVF and the support that she had from her friends and other women who had gone through fertility treatments.&nbsp;Tess talks openly about how she coped with IVF and the challenges they went through.Tess explains how it felt, to find out at her 10 weeks scan, that there was no heartbeat. The devastating news no one wants to ever hear.Tess unfortunately had a miscarriage just before Thanksgiving, an American National holiday at the end of November. She talks about her down she felt during the holiday.Like many women, Tess felt that there was something wrong and made the decision to get further medical opinion. One specialist mentioned blood clotting, something that hadn’t been raised before with Tess.Tess made the decision to try an IVF add on tests and treatment, currently not available in the UK, called Pregmune which is a comprehensive, AI-powered fertility assessment. During these tests, Tess discovered that she had 3 active blood clots that were only present when she was pregnant.&nbsp;Tess shares that she was able to get the right support from her doctor and happily went on to conceive again.Tess offers some good advice that you are your best advocate, so research and find out everything you can to support your fertility journey.Socials:Follow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow Tess Annique Souray (@tessannique) • Instagram photos and videos on InstagramBaby Loss Awareness WeekPregmune

Welcome to another episode of The F Word at Work, in coversation with Rachel Suff, a seasoned policy and research professional with 25+ years of experience in employment and HR, has been a Senior Policy Adviser at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development UK (CIPD) since 2014. Her role involves shaping public policy, with a focus on health, well-being, and employment relations. Rachel discussed the CIPD's Fertility Guidelines which Fertility Matters at Work consulted with them on and you'll also hear our co-founder Claire Ingle talk about that. What we discussed:The decision to develop the CIPD's guidelines issued in 2023 related to fertility issues and wellbeing.Research conducted on fertility issues and the workplace.The gap in workplace support for individuals experiencing fertility issues and the impact on employees and organizations.The positive feedback and awareness generated by the CIPD's guidelines among HR professionals.Challenges organizations face when addressing fertility-related topics, such as misconceptions, lack of understanding, and fear of saying the wrong thing.The importance of creating an inclusive and supportive workplace culture for employees facing various well-being challenges.The need for education and guidance for HR professionals and managers on fertility-related issues.The need for external signposting and resources for employees facing fertility challenges.Ambitions for the CIPD's guidelines, including closing the support gap for fertility issues and promoting compassionate workplace cultures.The evolution of the guidelines and plans to explore additional topics, such as surrogacy and involuntary childlessness.The importance of language and terminology in policies related to surrogacy.Support for line managers who may also be dealing with fertility challenges personally.The significance of peer support and a broader ecosystem of support in organizations.The advice to smaller organizations on implementing changes to support employees facing fertility issues, emphasizing culture, education, and small changes.Recognizing fertility issues as a medical condition rather than a lifestyle choice.The workplace's role in providing support and reducing the stigma associated with fertility challenges.The shared mission of improving support for employees' well-being.You can book a call to speak with us here Find out more about our services and sign up for our newsletter here.Follow us on Insta and find out what our community has to say.Join us on LinkedIn.Find us on Twitter.Finally, we'd love to hear more of your feedback, so please do leave a review in the app you are listening to - it's possible on Apple and Spotify.

This episode of The Fertility Podcast is all about the practice of Fertility awareness. Fertility Awareness may not be a term that you’ve heard previously, or you might be an expert! Essentially the term means understanding your body and becoming more aware of the changes throughout your cycle. I discuss how you can become more aware of what is happening in your body and just how to become fertility aware.&nbsp;In the second half of the episode, I’m joined by my colleague Laura, who has developed the ‘Read Your Body’ App. This fabulous little App, which I highly recommend, helps you get to know and understand your body. Listen in to hear what Laura has to say about her app and how it can help you when trying to conceive.What’s in this episode:In the first half of the podcast, I explain what we mean by the term ‘fertility awareness’, and share the 3 indicators of fertility to help you better understand both your body and your fertility.These three indicators are: Temperature, Cervical Mucus and your Cervix.I discuss how ovulation predictor kits and fertility monitors may help but also some of the pitfalls……I talk about how you can observe these indicators to help you identify when you’re fertile and the all important fertile window.Laura joins me to explain just what the Read Your Body app does and how it can help support you to conceive naturally.There are many methods available to help you understand your body and fertility better. From period tracking apps, to ovulation predictor kits and fertility monitors. It’s all about finding what works for you.Fertility Awareness is not currently recommended by NICE based on lack of evidence, but also concerns that women will become overwhelmed. This guidance, based on women’s curiosity and a desire to become empowered, is perhaps outdated.Becoming fertility aware is under your control. It is incredibly empowering and can provide you with so much insight. As Laura says, knowledge is power, so why would you not want to explore all the options that are available to help move you along your fertility journey?Socials:Follow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow Read Your Body (@read.your.body) | Instagram on InstagramLook at Read Your Body (RYB) - Home websiteThe OvuSense Fertility MonitorFind out more about Ovom Care here

Welcome to the latest episode of The F Word at Work, where you'll be hearing some throughts from our members, as in July 2023, we held of first in person round table event to bring together our members to share what they had been doing to implement the support from us here at Fertility Matters at Work. We had three presentations from some of our accredited members, Cadent Gas - who received their Fertility Friendly accreditation in March 2023,&nbsp;the first utilites company to do so, Burgess Mee Family Law, who were the very first of our members to gain their Fertility Friendly Accreditation and the first law firm to do so and Cornwall Council, the first local authority to receive a Fertility Friendly Accreditation so as you see there are companies making waves within their sector with this type of wellbeing activity. What was discussed: Awareness raisingTrainingImplementing policy and guidanceBuilding internal peer-to-peer support How having the different insights from the different sectors is really helpful Have a read of the blog post we shared about the event here You can book a call to speak with us here Find out more about our services and sign up for our newsletter here.Follow us on Insta and find out what our community has to say.Join us on LinkedIn.Find us on Twitter.Finally, we'd love to hear more of your feedback, so please do leave a review in the app you are listening to - it's possible on Apple and Spotify.

Welcome to the latest episode of The F Word at Work to mark World Childless Week 2023 and in this conversation you'll be hearing firstly from our expert speaker, Katy Schnitzler founder of MIST Workshops about the research she's been doing around the childless community and the conversations we've been facilitating together. Our first guest is anonymous as she is sharing an extremely personal account of how she wasn't able to have a child - which was part of a session Fertility Matters at Work hosted for Zurich Insurance, we then spoke with Dr Robin Hadley an experienced early-career researcher renowned for his expertise in the intersection of male childlessness and the aging process. What we discussed: Dealing with expectations of how life would be - Marriage, expectations, and pressures to have children.Emotional strain, arguments, and discussions about starting a family.Feeling pressure due to colleagues' pregnancy announcements.Enduring years of abusive behavior due to her desire to have a child.Escaping an abusive marriage at the age of 40.Finding a new partner and experiencing pregnancy loss.Repeated miscarriages, emergency surgeries, and medical searches for answers.Experiencing physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion.Coping with colleagues' questions and well-intentioned but insensitive advice.Challenges of sharing personal struggles at the workplace.Recognizing the need for a voice for those involuntarily childless.Encountering a lack of understanding and insensitive comments.Advocating for sensitivity and understanding towards those who are childless.Acknowledging the need for proactive support within organizations.Highlighting the impact of infertility and childlessness on individuals' lives.Encouraging organizations to embrace inclusivity and support for diverse life circumstancesDr. Robin Hadley shared his expertise in social gerontology, male childlessness, and aging.The rarity of having an in-person podcast recording compared to virtual conversations.The significance of World Childlessness Week and the importance of discussing male perspectives on childlessness and aging.Statistics about childlessness: One in four men and one in five women are childless, projected rise in childlessness among the over-65 population.The concept of "non-category" childlessness and the lack of recognition in academia and policy.Factors contributing to childlessness: partner choice, partner changing, timing of relationships, events, and economics.Differentiating between "child-free" and "involuntary childlessness."The impact of societal norms on men's emotional expression and vulnerability.Men's fear of humiliation and societal conditioning around masculinity.Disenfranchised grief related to involuntary childlessness and the lack of recognition of this type of grief.The emotional challenges and lack of narrative for men experiencing childlessness.The association of parenthood and how it's often focused on women, leaving men with limited narratives.The impact of childlessness on the workplace, including assumptions, responsibilities, and biases.Potential issues for childless men in the workplace: filling in for others with children, lack of recognition, and increased workload.Lack of recognition of men's fertility challenges, even in their 30s and 40s.Workplace considerations for childless men: acknowledging their experiences, offering support, and addressing

Joining us this week, on what is World Childless Week, is a familiar face. As some of you will know, Kate Pleace is one half of the ‘Kate’ double act, as she works with me in my practice seeing many of our fertility and menopause patients. However, Kate is more than just that - she’s also my beautiful friend.Kate and I first met here on The Fertility Podcast, many moon's ago, when Nat and I interviewed her to find out more about her experiences of a rare condition called progesterone sensitivity, which sadly ended her fertility journey. Kate is living a life without children but that hasn't held her back from living her life to the full.What we discussed:Kate tells us about her fertility journey that started back in 2012, like the majority of her patients, she had some time trying to conceive.Kate then moved onto IVF treatment using her own eggs which then lead to one unsuccessful cycle and one cycle that was cancelled.Kate talks about how she discovered that she had Premature Ovarian Insuffiency (POI)&nbsp;Her husband and Kate looked at using egg donation. This was Kate’s last cycle of treatment, and she became pregnant for the first time.Unfortunately, Kate develped a condition called progesterone hypersensitivity which made her very ill and resulted in a miscarriage.After Kate started to feel better, her and her husband made the decision to end their fertility journey.&nbsp;Kate talked about she felt she was childless but not by choice and how the decision was made for her.Kate and I talked about World Childless Week and what the campaign is doing during the week.&nbsp;We talked about how employee’s who are childless feel underrepresented within the workplace, and how companies should start to include them in the fertility programmes that are in place.&nbsp;How those who are single, childless or alone should receive something as well so that they feel like they are seen too.&nbsp;Kate and I discussed how the language we use when talking about trying to conceive is important, and even if it was not meant to upset the other person, it is still hurtful.&nbsp;Kate talks about her experience with comments and the language used when she was going through her fertility journey.&nbsp;We also talked about moving forward, and not moving on. Understanding that there is an after.Kate mentions legacy and how she felt like legacy was meant for someone else, that she was supposed to leave a legacy behind when in actual fact it is your legacy. Do it for yourself.&nbsp;Kate’s advice to you is: take the time to just be and to reflect with your partner and don’t try to force yourself to go to those baby showers or events like it. Be brave enough to say that you aren’t feeling up to it. Remember that you need to support yourself as well as others.&nbsp;If you would like to listen to more episodes on The Fertility Podcast that cover childlessness take a look at these:https://www.thefertilitypodcast.com/childless-not-by-choice/https://www.thefertilitypodcast.com/worldchildlessweek/https://www.thefertilitypodcast.com/robin/Socials:Follow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fertility_menopause_support/?hl=en" rel="noopener...

We're back with Series 2 of The F Word at Work from Fertility Matters (FMAW) at Work and we're launching into our new season discussing the changes to the Surrogacy reform bill in conversation Mike Johnson-Ellis. If you have been following us and FMAW for a while, you know that Mike is our good friend and are working closely with My Surrogacy Journey supporting intended parents with workplace issues. If you don't know Mike he is a prominent advocate for surrogacy and fertility treatments and along with his partner Wes, is the founder of Two Dads UK with his partner Wes and the pair have founded My Surrogacy Journey (MSJ) and the Modern Family Show. You can hear our previous conversation with Mike where he talks through his personal experience at work, and what it was like as a gay man in a toxic male environment where he was told that becoming a parent was 'committing career suicide'!! Mike and Wes have immense passion in the work they do and we're proud to partner with them as they raising awareness about the significance of surrogacy for LGBT+ couples. Mike has been recognized as a pioneering figure within the LGBT+ community and honored with The Surrogacy Professional of the Year Award and is in high demand as a speaker for various LGBT-themed events, so we're delighted to have him on the pod again. What we discussed:Mike's work with TwoDadsUK.com and My Surrogacy Journey and the conversations they have around gay parenting and diversity to fertility treatment and the journey to parenthood through surrogacy, all with a focus on LGBTQ+ parenting.The Modern Family Show, a family-building event happening on 23.09.23 - tickets are still available The recent legislative changes related to surrogacy and their impact on intended parents, what Mike considers to be a win, and what still needs to happen What organisations need to consider in terms of raising awareness around surrogacy, such as it being separate from adoption leave, how language needs to be more inclusiveWhat not to say to people who are embarking on surrogacy - comments such as 'you're buying a baby' or 'just adopt' are ill-informed and offensiveThe importance of inviting men in to talk about their health, especially their fertility, and how gay men in particular have a lack of education about their fertile healthHow awareness-raising webinars with men is a powerful way to validate the conversation Mike's plans for further family building through surrogacy in Mexico City as My Surrogacy Journey are now supporting a pathway in Mexico. Have a listen to our past conservation with Mike Ellis about Surrogacy here.You can book a call to speak with us here.Find out more about our services and sign up for our newsletter here.Follow us on Insta and find out what our community has to say.Join us on LinkedIn.Find us on <a href="https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%252Ffertmatterswork"...

*Trigger Warning: Mentions of pregnancy loss*In this episode of The Fertility Podcast I chat with the Infertile Midwife, Sophie Martin about infertility, IVF and pregnancy loss. Sophie’s experiences inspired her to write a deeply personal and moving memoir and changed her perspective on her practice as a midwife. Sophie shares how pregnancy loss can impact on the wider family, something we might not have the emotional energy to consider at the time. We also talk about the publication of the recent Pregnancy Loss Review and Sophie’s hopes for change as a result.What we discussed:Sophie shares her infertility journey, including her gut feeling that she was going to struggle to conceive, and the ultimate decision to access privately funded IVFWe talk about Sophie’s joy of finding out that she was pregnant with identical twins and then the devastation when she went into spontaneous labour at 21 weeksSophie talks about her decision to share the story of Wilfred and Cecil because pregnancy loss is not something to be ashamed of.How her own experience has changed her practice as a midwife and that Sophie has gained a different level of understanding her patients.We talked about Sophie going back to work and how she coped with the inevitable triggers.Sophie shares her experience of further rounds of IVF, becoming pregnant again and how to cope with pregnancy after infertility and loss.We discussed the impact of loss on the wider family. Sophie shares how it is important to learn to lean on others and being open with your family.We discussed the recent Pregnancy Loss Review and our hopes for the future.And to finish, Sophie tells me about her book, to be released on the 31st of August 2023. Her book is a moving, hopeful and warm account of her work as a midwife in a busy London hospital whilst dealing with infertility and pregnancy lossSocials:Follow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow Sophie Martin (@the.infertile.midwife) • Instagram photos and videos on InstagramYou can pre-order Sophie’s book here The Infertile Midwife: In Search of Motherhood - A Memoir (geni.us)You can check out the Pregnancy Loss review here Pregnancy Loss Review - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)You can find out more about Sepsis here Symptoms of sepsis - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Welcome back to the Fertility Podcast, after our summer break we return with Fertility Coach Sarah Banks to talk about support (or sadly the lack of) in IVF clinics. Both Sarah and I hear frequently, from the people we support, that there is just not enough emotional support in clinics. Sarah is working hard to raise awareness of this with fertility clinics, and has recently completed a survey with her support communities to assess the degree of emotional support provided in clinics.This is what we discussed:Sarah explains the results of her survey. From a total of 200 responses so far, respondents rated the level of support as 4.9 out of 10.&nbsp;8.4% reported having zero support in their clinic and 60% felt that their clinic did not have a culture of support. Many respondents felt that the degree of support had lessened since the Pandemic, with patients feeling more like a number than an individual.We talked about how there is an expectation of support and that it is now greater than it has ever been. Sarah explained why this might be the case.Sarah talked about how clinics have received her data and that she is finding that they are more open to understanding what patients need but we still have a long way to go.Sarah offered suggestions for the types of support that clinics should be offering. Counseling in clinics is often limited to one session, and counseling is not for everyone. Sarah discusses the benefit of a support group to find commonality and to feel validated, reading materials, signposting to reputable social media accounts, Apps etcSarah highlights that there needs to be a culture change among staff and the importance of receiving training to better understand the emotional needs of patients. Understandably, staff in clinics are very busy but they need to be empathetic to patients so that they feel fully supported.Sarah shares her fertility journey of 6 years and two cycles of IVF to conceive her son. This led her to retrain to be a fertility coach, and set up support groups locally and internationally.&nbsp;Sarah later developed the IVF Positivity Planner which is a fabulous resource to support you on your fertility journey. The planner is a coaching book combined with a 12 week journal to help you focus on the things you can control, from self care to action plans and goal setting to help you move forward. We totally recommend it!Finally Sarah’s advice if you feel you're not getting support from you clinic is to speak to them and tell them how you're feeling. Clinics do want to support you, so feed this back to them and get your voice heard. You can also look for professional support via BICA (British Infertility Counseling Association) or you may prefer a fertility coach to support you.We would love to hear your experiences of the support you received at your clinic. Check out Sarah’s survey via the link in her instagram bio (see below)Socials:Follow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow Sarah Banks | Fertility Coach (@ivfpositivityplanner) on InstagramFind IVF Positivity Planner – Sarah Banks Coaching&nbsp;BICA - https://www.bica.net/Fertility Coaching with Kate and <a...

This week we have a friend of the podcast returning to chat. Shaun a.k.a @knackered_knackers was previously on the podcast talking about his fertility journey using donor sperm. You can check out his previous episode Sperm Banter on the Fertility Podcast website. Now he is back with updates and more! Tune in to listen to what he is doing now and how his experiences have changed his life.Here is what we discussed:Shaun updates us on his fertility journey using donor spermHis experience with male factor fertility, how he felt when receiving news about his fertilityHis decision to start a new career path to help others and how that is working out for him.How he has started to share his story to help others on a similar journey to him and try to gain more awareness around male fertility.Why Shaun is training to be a coach and why he felt there was a need for a dedicated fertility coach for men.Shaun’s tips on what to do to stay focused when receiving news from the doctor and how to cope with that news.The support he got from those around him, and how that helped him to then better himself and his clientsWhat it is like having donor conceived childrenHis process with his clients, how he gets them to open up, and why it is so important to talk.Socials:Follow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @knackered_knackers on InstagramFind Shaun’s previous episode here Sperm Banter • The Fertility Podcast

This episode of the Fertility Podcast, Zoe is joining me as we talk about the importance of feeling empowered on your fertility journey and being able to advocate for yourself. Zoe talks about her infertility and how it led her to using donor eggs and the obstacles that she and her partner faced in order to create their family.What we discussed:Her diagnosis of childhood cancer and how this impacted her fertility for the futureHow Zoe dealt with her infertility and how it she had to have a difficult conversation with her husband, early on in their relationshipThe options they had to consider when trying for a babyTalking about Zoe’s journey with donor conception and her decision to choose an anonymous donorBeing told by her clinic in Spain that her first donor cycle would definitely be successful and then the shock of a negative pregnancy testHow Zoe was able to positively advocate for herselfHow it is important to go out and do your own research and be prepared to have an honest conversation with your consultantsLearn to cherry pick what you need and to take control and ownership of your fertility journeySocials:Follow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramMitochondrial Donation Treatment - https://www.hfea.gov.uk/treatments/embryo-testing-and-treatments-for-disease/mitochondrial-donation-treatment/

The Fertility Podcast is honoured to be joined by Martha, founder of Martha Brook Stationary. Tune in to listen to Martha as she talks about the origins of Martha Brook Stationary and her own fertility journey involving 7 rounds of IVF and a battle with endometriosis.What we discuss:The origins of Martha Brook London&nbsp;Martha on her diagnosis of Endometriosis&nbsp;Martha’s reaction to being told she would not be able to have children&nbsp;How Martha juggled the challenges faced with running a business and navigating IVF treatment&nbsp;Martha’s honesty with her work team and how her own experiences have enhanced her ability to support the emotional wellbeing of her employeesThe creation of the Martha Brook IVF journal and how it can support your fertility journeySocials:Follow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow Martha Brook (@marthabrookldn) | Instagram on InstagramThe Martha Brook IVF JournalGo to The Martha Brook Story | Martha Brook for more!&nbsp;

Well, we made it through our first series of The F Word at Work and we can't thank you enough for listening. We'd love to hear your throughts so if you're listening to this in Apple or Spotify, please do take the time to follow this podcast and also leave us a review. We'll be back in June with Series 2, talking about the new surrogacy reform bill, as well as sharing more wise words from our members about the work they're doing and thought leadership on Mental Health at Work, make sure you've subscribed. This episode is the perfect finale to our series, a conversation with one of our trainers Katy Schnitzler, founder of Mist about her research and training around pregnancy loss and childlessness. **Trigger warning as we talk about pregnancy loss in this episode ** This is another taboo topic within the workplace, that needs to be better understood and supported and we know you will learn a lot from what she shares. What was discussed: Research into pregnancy lossHow Katy set up a consultancy to share her research&nbsp;How employers need training alongside policyHow shocking some of the insensitive reactions were from line managersThe comments that people say in general about pregnancy lossPeople are unsure of how to react to pregnancy loss - due to the taboo&nbsp;Communication training is well received - helping people what to sayNot assumption forming - that everyone experiences pregnancy in the same wayIf there isn’t a policy it implies you can’t speak about pregnancy loss&nbsp;How PTSD affects someone who has experiences pregnancy loss, panic attacks&nbsp;1 in 6 people women show symptoms of PTSD as a result of pregnancy loss&nbsp;How men feel overlooked - therefore the training covers the impact on partners as they are ignored&nbsp;The language used for those around those who don’t have childrenHow someone was told they didn’t get the job as the person who did had ‘more supervision’ as they’re a parentHow working from home requests have been designed as people don’t have children&nbsp;We refer to an episode of The Fertility Podcast, which is an interview with Dr Jessica Farren about her research which you can listen to here podcast link&nbsp;We also talk about Jody Day and I've shared another episode&nbsp;from The Fertility Podcast here which is Jody talking about why we need to talk about childless women differently. Have a listen. You can book a call to speak with us here.&nbsp;Find out more about our services and sign up for our newsletter here.&nbsp;Follow us on Insta and find out what our community has to say.&nbsp;Join us on LinkedIn.&nbsp;Find us on Twitter.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Warning: Explicit contentWelcome to the Mindfulness episode! Joining me today is Amy Polly who is a Mindfullness Teacher and we will be talking about how mindfulness can help with fertility. Amy will give some tips on how you can have a go at mindfulness in your daily life.&nbsp;What we discussed:What drew Amy to mindfulness and how it has helped her in everyday lifeHow mindfulness can help through the stress of fertilityThe research and science behind mindfulness&nbsp;Talking about taking notice of what is around you, what you are doing - Mindfulness everydayBreathing meditation&nbsp;Socials:Follow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @ThisisAmyPolly on InstagramFind Amy Polly on LinkedIn&nbsp;

Welcome to another episode of The F Word at Work. This is our penultimate series and we'd love to hear more of your feedback, so please do leave a review in the app you are listening to - it's possible in Apple &amp; Spotify. Now, as we head towards the end of the series, we're once again sharing an example of Best Practice from one of our members News UK and we're delighted to be joined by Hannah Spencer Head of Finance Transformation. Hannah joined our launch event which we helf for the organisation in July 2022 and has been doing incredible work within a working group to support HR in it's policy development and also to offer that essential peers support which you will hear her explain more about. Hannah also recently joined us to speak on a panel discussing fertility issues at work, with This Can Happen *Trigger warning* we talk about pregnancy loss and trauma in this episode. What we discussed:&nbsp;Hannah's ongoing fertility treatment journey.&nbsp;The struggle of going through treatment whilst in the workplace.&nbsp;Balancing work while going through treatment.&nbsp;When Hannah first spoke out about her fertility treatment&nbsp;The impact her treatment had on Hannah's career choices How Hannah's boss and teammates supported and encouraged her to accept opportunities that came her way.&nbsp;What pushed Hannah to share her story in the panel last July 2022&nbsp;Why people on the journey and going through treatment wouldn't want to talk openly about it&nbsp;Hannah's colleagues spoke about their personal journeys on the panel as well.&nbsp;The feedback after the panel and what  was been happening since&nbsp;How they're building fertility and infertility support groups at NewsUK&nbsp;How having peer support groups is key to becoming fertility-friendly&nbsp;The proactive side of what NewsUK has been doing with their support groups&nbsp;Ensuring managers know where to go and that there's a consistent approach to how people are looked after, despite everybody's experiences being different.&nbsp;Signposting managers to the right resources - creating a manager support pathway How resources are important to managers to identify and learn what the team needs if they are going through fertility/infertility treatment.&nbsp;Hannah's advice to anyone planning to start imposing the well-being agenda in the workplace&nbsp;Hannah's take on having boundaries whilst being a fertility advocate&nbsp;Have a listen to our conversation with This Can Happen founder Zoe Sinclair here &nbsp;You can book a call to speak with us here.&nbsp;Find out more about our services and sign up for our newsletter here.&nbsp;Follow us on Insta and find out what our community has to say.&nbsp;Join us on LinkedIn.&nbsp;Find us on Twitter.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trigger Warning: mentions of domestic abuse and infant lossIn this episode, I am joined by Social worker Rachel who became a young mum and experienced many hurdles through her fertility journey. Rachel talks about her son being diagnosed with Tay-Sachs disease and the journey they went on, the aftermath and starting trying to conceive.&nbsp;What we discussed:Her life and how if changed after her mum remarriedHer son’s diagnosis and the process which her and her husband went throughThe issues raised after her son’s death and the support she receivedHow her experiences led her to her career and what she does to support others who may be in a similar situation as herRachel talks about her remarriage and how another hurdle was thrown at herRachel and her new husband desire to start a family and the problems raised through thisThe process of trying to get pregnant and all the treatments that Rachel had to go through&nbsp;How we should focus more on Women's health from an early ageSocials:Follow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @DancinginBabydust on InstagramFollow @Fatpositivefertility on InstagramFind out more about Hannah Pearn at Acupuncture Fertility London - Hannah Pearn Acupuncture

Welcome to The F Word at Work - we share highligts of another epic week the night before we are attending the Northern Power Women awards ( fingers crossed by the time you hear this we've won!) We also mention the This Can Happen conference we're speaking at this week. So we've got a few remaining episodes to share in this series, so we're going to be focusing on best practices from our clients. We're having more and more conversations with companies keen to offer training to their people leaders and ensure those going through fertility issues are better supported, which is so exciting for us as a start-up. Today we're delighted to share this conversation with Jo Riddell of Selfridges, Head of ER, Policy and Wellbeing. Did you know that Selfridges is actually the first company that Fertility Matters at Work signed? Jo explains how she first heard about us and the amazing feedback Selfridges is getting as a result of the work they are doing. We're delighted to share that Selfridges are now a fertility friendly accredited ™️ employer ( updated 12/3/2024 ) &nbsp;What we discussed:&nbsp;What led the drive for Selfridges to become fertility-friendlyHow Selfridges launched it's fertility friendly activity with a launch panel with a senior lead, talking about her expereince of pregnancy loss. The feedback they have been receiving since working with Fertility Matters at Work The impact of this education and how it is created an more supportive environment for colleagues.Selfridges plans for further awareness raising events. How representation is importantHow Selfridges have used surveys to gain employee feedback How employees and team members tend to share their feedback privately.&nbsp;Selfridges relaunched its internal support network called, Family Matters to encourage people to share their stories.&nbsp;Use of the Yama app to help them communicate and support each other despite the diversity and size of their organization.&nbsp;How they ensure people feel comfortable and safe and that they are not judged regardless of what they are going through.&nbsp;How Selfridges evaluated its policies to meet the different needs of its team members.&nbsp;How using their social media to highlight this work has benefited their attraction and retention Selfridges aim to become fertility accredited this year.&nbsp;How Selfridges wants to continue the conversation and to keep on looking for what’s next they can offer and how they’d be able to give support to their teams.&nbsp;Have a look @fertilit_arty on insta&nbsp;WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT FERTILITY ISSUES FOR YOUR ORGANISATION?&nbsp;&nbsp;We have a few remaining places for our workshop on March 28th here.&nbsp;&nbsp;You can also book a call to speak with us here.&nbsp;Find out more about our services and sign up to our newsletter here.&nbsp;&nbsp;Follow us on Insta and find out what our community has to say.&nbsp;&nbsp;Join us on LinkedIn&nbsp;&nbsp;Find us on <a...

Tune in to listen to me talking about stress and how it affects your fertility journey. Take an opportunity to put the kettle on and relax while listening to this episode as I bust some myths about stress.What I discuss:The research and science behind stress&nbsp;The ‘flight or fight’ responseShort and long time effects on the bodyProfessor Jacky Boivin - Cardiff University and her research on the impact of stress on fertility&nbsp;How our bodies can adapt to conditions that may not be suitable, for example war stricken countries have some of the highest birth ratesHow stress impacts all aspects of lifeFinding supportSocials:Follow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFind out more about Jacky Boivin Professor Jacky Boivin - People - Cardiff University

This week it’s both International Women's Day and Endometriosis Awareness Week. To mark the two events, we're in conversation Sophie Richardson, aka theendospectrum who explains her journey to a diganosis of the condition, which took over 5 years from aged 16 to when she went to University. Sophie underwent surgery due to having severe symptoms putting her in bed for a week during her period. She is passionate about awareness raising and along with her blog she is speaking more frequently within the corporate setting to help more people understand this complicated condition which can take up to 7 years for a diganosis. What we discussed:How despite Endometriosis Awareness and campaigns are increasing over the years there are still lots of misconceptions regarding the issue. it still It affects 10% of women&nbsp;Sophie’s symptoms and experiences prior to her diagnosis, that she’d never heard about it, It took over 5 years to diagnose and she was struggling from 16-18Sophie’s struggle to open up her symptoms to her peers&nbsp;- she didn’t know what was her being dramatic and until it caused her to pass out that she realised how severe there were&nbsp;Her symptoms were a month long and she had to have surgery for cysts on her Ovaries&nbsp;Why Sophie is passionately talking about endometriosis, especially in the workplaceHow endometriosis affects Sophie in her day-to-day experience - her skin has suffered for over a decade, despite spending a lot of money on skincare and makeup.&nbsp; Impact on her confidence, people looking at her skin and how it makes her feel unprofessional at work, confidence issues when meant more people&nbsp;Swollen belly and how it can impact your wardrobe at work and how virtual working has helped and why it’s important for employers to understand&nbsp;What is EndometriosisMisconceptions around Endometriosis and what it isHow it can be found everywhere in the bodyThe Endometriosis Spectrum is so different for everyone and it can change month by month. For Sophie, it’s in her bowl and in her chest. How it impacts internal organs&nbsp;How she’s much better now but previously, she was unable to leave the house for over a week, couldn’t eat or drink&nbsp;How employers need to understand how varied it can be and need to treat it with respect&nbsp;What kind of things do employers need to think about period policyWhy it's important to have external voices talking about these topics, how to think about time off, being adaptable, open stream of communication&nbsp;Key things for women who have endometriosis in the workplaceReasons why Sophie decided to freeze her eggs recentlyWANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT FERTILITY ISSUES FOR YOUR ORGANISATION? We have a few remaining places for our workshop on March 28th here.You can also book a call to speak with us here.Watch our FMAW 30-minute demo on our services to find out exactly how we'd support your organisation with our training and membershipFind out more about our services here.Follow us on our Insta and find out what our community has to say.Join us on <a...

Welcome back to The Fertility Podcast. We’ve had a bit of a break and now we’re back sounding a little different! It’s just me - Kate. Nat is off working hard with her Fertility Matters at Work co-founders and so, I’ve taken control of the reins!In this first episode, my guest is Paulina, Paulina, who was diagnosed with PCOS 4 years previously, then received the shocked diagnosis of a Borderline Ovarian Tumour in 2020. She talks about what it felt like when she received this diagnosis and what this means for her fertility going forward.Paulina’s journey proves that if you feel something is up with your body that you should find out as soon as you can. Despite all the surgeries and scans, Paulina still wants to conceive and have a child.&nbsp;What we discussed:&nbsp;Where she was and what if felt like to receive her diagnosisThe process that she went through&nbsp;The struggle of Covid 19 and how that affected her journeyThe difficulties that she found with communication with her DoctorsThe after effects of the scans and surgeriesProcess of trying to get pregnant with one ovary that has PCOSTurning to IVF and then choosing to freeze her eggs privately&nbsp;Looking into a Sperm Bank&nbsp;Socials:Follow @TheFertilityPodcast on InstagramFollow @YourFertilityNurse on InstagramFollow @OvaryOff on Instagram

Have a listen to hear what you can expect from the new look podcast, now hosted by Kate Davies, as of Monday 6th March.

Welcome to the latest episode of The F Word at Work, where we’re once again sharing a conversation from our F Word at Work series we shared on zoom in 2022. Here we’re speaking to Noni Martins, Noni is Zimbabwean British and her husband is Nigerian British and the pair have been trying to conceive for five years. Three years ago, they discovered that they needed IVF and they thought the issue initially was a male factor however further investigation has shown its a female factor. Noni and her husband are still on their journey and Noni has been doing amazing work as a blogger and a podcaster and she has built an amazing support network for black women called Unfertility It aims destigmatize this conversation within the black community and help overcome some of the shame and all the other kinds of hurdles that people have in their way when it comes to accessing treatment.What was discussed:&nbsp;How a huge part of Noni's upbringing was 'to be a wife'When she got married they had already started trying, but by year 2, still wasn’t happeningShe had grown up surrounded by a hyper-fertile idea that getting pregnant was easyBig part of her identity as an African girl was to have children , therefore she had a serious sense of shame.&nbsp;Had pelvic pain in 3rd year which was when a nurse suggested she had more investigations&nbsp;Catapulted into the world of IVF and all the focus on Noni she hadn’t mentioned her husband had been a dialysis patient&nbsp;- diagnosed with male factorOverwhelm of 3 failed cyclesHer work was supportive and her husband was supportive but it took him a while to talk about his feelings.&nbsp;Impact of Christmas and how it made them feel not being parents&nbsp;- how her husband actually talked about how he felt&nbsp;Noni’s decision to talk about their experience publicly has helped with the unwanted questions from family yet people still make assumptions.&nbsp;Difficulty in ‘answering back’ to comments made as it’s not part of her culture to explain that someone has said something offensive, as it's easier to say nothing than deal with the consequences of saying something.&nbsp;How she felt about talking about her treatment at work over time&nbsp;How she had to step back from her social presence as it wasn’t working for her, affecting her mental health&nbsp;SIGN UP to our workshop on March 28th here Have a read of the impact blog we mentioned in this episode here Thanks once again to our series sponsor Apricity. Book a call to speak with us here&nbsp;Watch our FMAW 30-minute demo on our services to find out exactly how we'd support your organisation with our training and membership&nbsp;&nbsp;Find out more about our services here &nbsp;Follow us on Insta and hear what our community has to say &nbsp;Join us on Linked In &nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/fertmatterswork" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Welcome to another episode of The F Word at Work where we join Helen Letchfield co-founder of P&amp;P coaching which she set up in 2009 based on her personal experience of the startling transition of moving from being a professional with a senior role, to a sleep-deprived, brand-new, home-alone parent – and then back again into the world of organisational politics and career demands – all on reduced hours. In this thought-provoking conversation Helen shares her insights on what has changed in the workplace well-being space over the last 16 years and what she thinks are key trends for 2023. What was discussed: Primary and Secondary caregiversWhat has changed over the last 16 years in terms of workplaces understanding wellbeing - more about legal casesNow it’s around helping everyone back into the workplace after becoming parents&nbsp;What it means to be a family-friendly supporting organisation&nbsp;Importance of making people feel welcomed and supported at workProgressive organisations are using that for an attraction and retentions toolHow the pandemic has helped to shifted the awareness around looking after new parents&nbsp;and leadership developHow post-pandemic both Mums and Dads were asking for flexibility chHow virtual sessions have enabled a greater reach with people feeling happier as they are able to have these conversations at home&nbsp;The choice of partitioner can be determined by the coach, not location&nbsp;Why employers are worried about giving ‘managers’ more to do&nbsp;- as senior managers hadn’t done the role play needed to coach middle managers - there was&nbsp;a skill and knowledge gapDidn’t realise the impact it has to be supportiveHow organisations are now more ready to look at the whole cycle -&nbsp;happy to look more at what family-friendly means - including looking at fertility issues and menopause, gendered ageism.&nbsp;How different organisations in different sectors are in different places in terms of taking this whole conversation.Finance and Law sectors&nbsp;- lead the way, now more male-heavy, male-dominated sectors such as manufacturing are coming to talk about these issues as they are recognising the need.&nbsp;Fertility keeps coming up time and time again as people recognise they want to break the taboo&nbsp;Need to support HR, D&amp;I, Managers in taking on these new roles&nbsp;Ensure that initiates are put out for men and womenCreate an equal playing field&nbsp;Trends in 2023 - work to prove that this work does support the attraction and retention routeGendered ageism&nbsp;- the impact on the over 50’s and the importance of this population&nbsp;Making sure managers don’t make assumptions about anyone’s circumstances&nbsp;Thanks once again to our series sponsor Apricity. Book a call to speak with us here&nbsp;Watch our FMAW 30-minute demo on our services to find out exactly how we'd support your organisation with our training and membership&nbsp;&nbsp;Find out more about our services here &nbsp;Follow us on Insta and hear what our community has to say &nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/fertility-matters-at-work/" rel="noopener...

Welcome to another episode of The F Word at Work where we're sharing one of our original zoom conversations broadcast in 2022. An enlightening conversation with Mike Johnson-Ellis one half of Two Dads UK with his partner Wes and the pair have founded My Surrogacy Journey (MSJ) and the Modern Family Show. At Fertility Matters at Work we're delighted to be working in partnership with MSJ and you can find out more about what that looks like by having a listen. What was discussed: The lack of empathy that Mike expereinced when he talked to his work about his plans. How they had no understanding of infertility or why he would want to attend appointments with his SurrogateHow Mike had no emotional support, nobody asked him what he needed or what he was going throughHis colleagues were far to afraid of saying the wrong thing so they said nothing resulting in Mike not getting any support and feeling the pressure of doing his job as he was distracted by what he was going through. tHow everyone in his work environment couldn't believe he wanted a babyThe Toxic masculinityLack of awareness in organisations - 10 years on from when same sex marriages became legal. At that point in time businesses should have started thinking about what that would mean and what people would need and they didn't. How a basic employment skill is knowing your business and your people and the importance of how we learn by our curiosity - asking people within an organisation what they need support with Why surrogacy fills people with fear -it's not just for same-sex couples it is for women who can't carry Explaination of Intended Parents (IP's) How organisations who proudly say they support LBGT communications - need to ask themselves has the conversation has gone deep enough to find out what they really needLack of people talking about policies so we need there to be more conversationsUse staff networks, ideas captures, and forums involving different groups. to raise awareness of this and get the conversation started, you can do it anonymouslyThe issue with the use of word adoption being used when people are going through surrogacy, you aren't adopting it you are having a biological childPolicies are very heteronormative Why surrogacy fills people with fear -it's not just for same-sex couples it is for women who can't carry Thanks once again to our series sponsor Apricity. Book a call to speak with us here&nbsp;Watch our FMAW 30-minute demo on our services to find out exactly how we'd support your organisation with our training and membership&nbsp;&nbsp;Find out more about our services here &nbsp;Follow us on Insta and hear what our community has to say &nbsp;Join us on Linked In &nbsp;Find us on Twitter&nbsp;

Welcome to the first episode of The F Word at Work for 2023, where all three co-founders Natalie, Becky and Claire have come together to reflect on what was an epic 2022, and to tell you bit about what is in store in 2023 and why becoming fertility friendly should be a key part of your wellbeing strategy with good reason.&nbsp;What was discussedGoing to Parliament for the launch of Nickie Aiken’s Fertility Workplace pledge and to further discuss the work we have done to support the Parliamentary Bill for paid time off for it to become a statutory right for paid time of fertility treatment appointments&nbsp;How our business has grown in it’s first yearThe impact we’ve been having and the many thank you’s we’ve been receivingOur nomination for the New Statesman Positive Impact award and meeting Joeli Brearly from Pregnant then ScrewedWhy focusing on this area of well-being will benefit your organisation and the ROI will be that good people want to come and work for you and stay working for you as they are properly supported by you as you can empathise with them due to having a better understanding of the impact of fertility treatment on all people needing it to grow their families.&nbsp;When we’re talking about paid time off and people needing to go to appointments, we’re not asking for days and days meaning an organisation isn’t going to be able to function, we’re talking about flexibility.There’s already a cost to business as if people are going to go through it whether they can get paid time off or not. It’s much easier to manage planned time off rather than someone just going off sick.Important to understand that with fertility rates declining this issue of people needing help to have a baby isn’t going awayThe ongoing issue of Intended Parents not being included in workplace policies.How different generations of workforce need different thingsOur exciting press coverage in ITV News and Red MagazineHow we’re going to be working with Liberty’sThe issue for Intended Parents not being included in workplace policies.Northern Power Women Awards nomination for Small Organisation categoryAre you ready to discuss your plans for 2023, even if you’re not quite ready to start, lets talk about how you can move forward in helping those going through it and uphill your managers, Mental Health first aiders, ensure your HR team fully understand and the right kind of language is being used in policies and guidance.&nbsp;Thanks once again to our series sponsor Apricity. Book a call to speak with us here&nbsp;Watch our FMAW 30-minute demo on our services to find out exactly how we'd support your organisation with our training and membership&nbsp;&nbsp;Find out more about our services here &nbsp;Follow us on Insta and hear what our community has to say &nbsp;Join us on Linked In &nbsp;Find us on Twitter&nbsp;

So this is a goodbye from me - Natalie, but it's going to be a Hello from Kate... and in this slightly indulgent final episode, you'll hear a little bit from me as to my decision to stop publising this podcast with me at the helm and my plans to hand over the mic to my trusty co-host Kate Davies who is soon going to be sharing more about her plans as I leave this feed in her capable hands for 2023. If you've just found this podcast, please do explore our back catalogue which can be found in all your favourite podcast apps, under the following: Getting Pregnancy ReadyMale FertilityPregnancy LossInfertility Support Donor Conception and SurrogacyMeanwhile if you'd be so kind to leave a review on the podcast if it's helped you in anyway, please do so here You can also keep in touch with me on my insta

Welcome to part three of this bumper podcast episode which is sharing our Diversity and Inclusion in Fertility Round Table conversation which was held on Zoom on 8th November 2022 with the aim to help you understand how many different people are impacted by fertility challenges in a number of different ways and also to give you a better understanding of the how these communities who are impacted. If you’ve not listened to Parts 1 &amp; 2 yet, that's fine although we do suggest you give them a listen to give you a better context of the conversation.&nbsp; In this final section, we are starting to address some of the areas of intersectionality as Fertility is not one-dimensional but intersects with many of the other challenges that workplaces face when it comes to the Diversity and Inclusion agenda. One of the important nuances to consider is in relation to the impact cultural aspects have on people who are facing fertility challenges and in this final part of our conversation we spoke with&nbsp; Dr Christine Ekechi, Co-Chair of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists’ Race Equality Taskforce and Noni Martins, a fertility patient and founder of Unfertility, supporting black women to break the silence, stigma &amp; shame around unconventional fertility journeys.&nbsp;&nbsp;Watch our FMAW 30 minute demo on our services to find out exactly how we'd support your organisation with our training and membership&nbsp;&nbsp;Find out more about our services here &nbsp;Follow us on Insta and hear what our community has to say &nbsp;Join us on Linked In &nbsp;Find us on Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;

Welcome to Part Two of this bumper podcast episode which is sharing our Diversity and Inclusion in Fertility Round Table conversation which was held on Zoom on 8th November 2022 with the aim to help you understand how many different people are impacted by fertility challenges in a number of different ways and also to give you a better understanding of the how these communities who are impacted.&nbsp;We know that this affects 1 in 6 couples, 1 in 7 individuals and that the World Health Org defines infertility as a “disease of the reproductive system”. As you will hear, fertility treatment is also needed for social reasons, and as such is a necessary medical treatment to enable people to have a child, not a simple lifestyle choice as it is sometimes portrayed. Sometimes this is the only way for people to have a chance of a child, it’s also important to be aware that it isn’t a guarantee. Here we discuss what employers need to know about being inclusive of other less commonly known paths to parenthood, such as solo parenthood, donor conception, adoption and then moving on to Surrogacy. The assumption when we think about fertility treatment is IVF – and normally with two people involved.&nbsp;&nbsp;You will hear conversations with Mel Johnson, HR Professional and Founder of The Stork and the UK’s first and only Solo Parenthood Coach and&nbsp; Nicole Narracott, Adoptive Parent and Senior Business Change Manager. We also discuss how organisations can usualise, be inclusive of and supportive of LGBTQ+ family building with discussions with&nbsp;Wes Johnson Ellis, Co-founder of TwoDads UK, My Surrogacy Journey and the Modern Family Show and Laura-Rose Thorogood, founder of LGBT Mummies&nbsp;&nbsp;Watch our FMAW 30 minute demo on our services to find out exactly how we'd support your organisation with our training and membership&nbsp;&nbsp;Find out more about our services here &nbsp;Follow us on Insta and hear what our community has to say &nbsp;Join us on Linked In &nbsp;Find us on Twitter&nbsp;

Welcome to this bumper podcast episode which is sharing our Diversity and Inclusion in Fertility Round Table conversation which was held on Zoom on 8th November 2022 with the aim to help you understand how many different people are impacted by fertility challenges in a number of different ways and also to give you a better understanding of the how these communities who are impacted.&nbsp;By inclusion we want you to start thinking about how you can ensure that any support you put in place for fertility is inclusive in both language and action. It’s about understanding your people and communities and how to create sustainable positive change that will represent and benefit those communities going forwards.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the first part of this conversation we’ll hear from&nbsp; Emma Persand, Director of Lemur Health, qualified nurse and workplace health and wellbeing professional and Lina Chan, CEO and founder of Parla, a digital health company supporting people on their reproductive life journeys from periods to fertility and menopause with expert-led programmes and workshops discussing Reproductive Health and Wellbeing regarding Cis women and anyone with a uterus as it is this group that are predominantly the ones who have physical treatment and need to be present at all appointments, they’re affected by medication side effects and quite often can be all-consumed by the process. We also spoke with Tom Webb, Director of The Easy Bit documentary Shaun Greenaway founder of Knackered Knackers, Male Support platform to discuss the importance of including and empowering men within the fertility conversation, with a focus on the cis-male experience of pressures from societal narratives leading to toxic masculinity and stigma.&nbsp;Thanks once again to our series sponsor Apricity. Watch our FMAW 30 minute demo on our services to find out exactly how we'd support your organisation with our training and membership&nbsp;&nbsp;Find out more about our services here &nbsp;Follow us on Insta and hear what our community has to say &nbsp;Join us on Linked In &nbsp;Find us on Twitter&nbsp;&nbsp;

Welcome to another episode of The F Word at Work in this episode we're talking about how a change can come about in support of fertility struggles, from employees driving the change. You'll hear two amazing examples. The first is Natalie Sutherland from Burgess Mee, who is the UK's first 'Fertility Officer' and has led the way for her firm to become the UK's first organisation to become 'fertility friendly' with our accreditation. Then you'll hear from Kelly-Anne Morris, an employee at Cadent Gas who we've just launched our services with. What we discussed:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kelly needed to have her fallopian tubes removed, so knew she was going to need treatment when she was ready to build her family.&nbsp;&nbsp;Once she met her partner and was ready, she looked to see what policies what was available - she had a supportive manage yet nothing was written, so the approach wasn’t consistent&nbsp;Women In Cadent - had leads on improvements within the workforce which is where Kelly got involved which was how she got involved in meetings.&nbsp;&nbsp;Started speaking about IVF&nbsp; - doing a survey to find out about other people’s experiences&nbsp;First person she spoke to was in HR - at the time there was a lot of change happening in the company&nbsp;Now at a point where all family provisions policies are being reviewed.&nbsp;&nbsp;It takes time to find the right people&nbsp;As Kelly was trying to put content together - she realised how much support she needed, such as regarding the LGBTQ communuty&nbsp;&nbsp;How she came to FMAW for facts and figures&nbsp;&nbsp;How it can be challenging at times, questioning whether she’s doing it right and has time to give it her full attention - when she doubts herself and then gets an email to thank her for what she’s been doing.&nbsp;&nbsp;News articles from people sharing their stories have been mixed genders ( including Men in leadership )&nbsp;&nbsp;Fertility Focus policy also cover partners - eg. if the Man works at Cadent and his partner doesn’t they hope to support the person wanting to accompany their partner.&nbsp;&nbsp;Watch our FMAW 30 minute demo on our services to find out exactly how we'd support your organisation with our training and membership&nbsp;Find out more about Natalie and Burgess Mee here Listen to Infertility in the City here Find out more about our services here Follow us on Insta and hear what our community has to say Join us on Linked In Find us on Twitter

Welcome to episode 3 of The F Word at Work from Fertility Matters at Work ( FMAW) which we are sharing with you one week after the three of us, Natalie, Becky and Claire went to Parliament to join our guest Nickie Aiken as she launched the Fertility Workplace Pledge. Nickie is the Conservative MP for the Cities of London and Westminster&nbsp;and along with the pledge, is bringing forward a private members bill for people undergoing fertility treatment. The episode was recorded in the summer following the first reading of Fertility Treatment (Employment rights ) bill and was a conversation between Nickie, Natalie ( FMAW) and Kate Davies who is our medical advisor at FMAW. Thanks once again to our series sponsor Apricity. &nbsp;What was discussed: How Nickie learnt of this issue from one of her constituents who was forced out of a job and had to agree on a NDA which left a nasty taste in her mouth and she came to Nickie as she didn’t want anyone else going through it.&nbsp;&nbsp;How it’s the last taboo when it comes to maternal services&nbsp; The misconception is that IVF is needed solely by career women in their 40s who have had their careers and now want a career, but it also affects women in their 20s and 30s.&nbsp;&nbsp;How she hopes to ensure colleagues can support others who might be going through it How Nickie was surprised to be talking to a big company who she spoke to about the Bill and they were surprised they didn’t have a policy&nbsp;&nbsp;Whilst there isn’t an employment bill that this can slot into and whilst ideally we shouldn’t need a law, Nickie highlights why we need a law in order for people to be better supported.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following the first reading of the Bill has happened Nicky did a speech in Parliament which you can read here Within the Women’s Health Strategy launched earlier in the summer, Nickie made sure IVF and fertility treatment was included and she believes this means the argument about women’s health is a priority has been won.&nbsp;&nbsp;Baroness Anne Jenkins made a speech listing every medical situation a girl goes through.&nbsp;&nbsp;Launch of the Fertility Workplace Pledge&nbsp;&nbsp;What Nickie thinks the impact of the Write to your MP campaign&nbsp;&nbsp;will beWrite to your MP - here's howFind out more about our services here Follow us on Insta and hear what our community has to say Join us on Linked In Find us on Twitter

Welcome to episode 2 of the F Word at Work podcast, where all three co-founders, Natalie, Becky and Claire are here once again to discuss male infertility and how traditional gender roles play a huge part in why men are less likely to discuss or seek help for their mental health and what the workplace can do to address this issue. We'll be talking with our guest Shaun Greenaway, a male fertility advocate who was diagnosed with azoospermia due to having Mumps in his 20s. After having to go through invasive procedures whilst working for the Met Police, Shaun had to go down the donor conception route to have his family. His experience has had a profound effect on him and he is now a proud Dad of twins and the founder of Knackered Knackers where he is continuing to build an amazing support platform for men dealing with infertility. Huge thanks to our series sponsors Apricity &nbsp;What was discussed:&nbsp;Shaun talks about the difficulties to open up in a male-dominated work environment and how he felt if he did he would be ‘cannon fodder’He hid the appointments with multiple dentist appointments - but how many can you realistically have&nbsp;How infertility is always seen as a female issue, especially in the workplaceShaun’s experience was a positive one once he finally disclosed to his male counterparts&nbsp;He still didn’t feel confident sharing with all of his colleagues due to how society behaves around Men showing vulnerabilityHe decided to set up Knackered Knackered his own support group which has grown from strength to strength&nbsp;How more needs to be done around the stigma of men talking about these issues&nbsp;Find out more about Knackered Knackers You can also find support via this Male only facebook group Visit Calm or the Samaritans Find out more about our services here Follow us on Insta and hear what our community has to say Join us on Linked In Find us on Twitter

Welcome to the first episode of The F Word at Work, a conversation for busy HR, D&amp;I and well-being leads with the aim to open your minds to the vast topic of fertility at work and why it really matters for employees and businesses too. Today you'll hear from all three co-founders Natalie Silverman, (your host) Becky Kearns and Claire Ingle sharing their thoughts on this new podcast series and what it is setting our to achieve and you'll hear our first conversation with a thought leader within the workplace wellbeing space, Zoe Sinclair, founder of Employees Matter. Huge thank you to our series sponsors ApricityWhat was discussed: The origins of Employees MatterHow This Can Happen came about - the workplace mental health conference How these well-being and mental health conversations evolveHow workplaces overcome fears of using certain language, such as 'stress'. The response to putting our workplace webinar on suicide from the huge number of organisations that signed up to be on the call and how many people shared their experiences. What is happening in terms of new conversations - how organisations are viewing the family-building conversation What companies need to think about to manage it all. Find out more about Zoe and Employees Matter here Find out more about our services here Follow us on Insta and hear what our community has to say Join us on Linked In Find us on Twitter

Brought to you by Fertility Matters at Work CIC this conversation hopes to offer you an insight into the many challenges people face when trying to manage the day to do of working life, whilst trying to start or complete their family. With 1 in 6 couples and 1 in 7 people dealing with fertility issues, the impact of fertility challenges is vast and the people who might be struggling are diverse. At Fertility Matters at Work we strive to guide the workplace into better supporting people going through this, by ensuring all managers, HR and well-being leads understand the complexity of this issue. We want to make sure people feel confident having these sensitive conversations with those going through this and that the people affected feel safe enough to disclose what is happening to them. Equally, by raising awareness internally with our range of live discussions and training we aim to achieve a cultural shift where fertility issues are recognised. We help colleagues feel able to support one another and collectively make the workplace a great place to be. Do you have a question you'd like us to answer in our next episode? If so email us at [email protected]. Please put 'F Word at Work' in the subject header. Find out more about our services here Follow us on Insta and hear what our community has to say Join us on Linked In Find us on Twitter

Welcome to the latest episode of The Fertility Podcast Bitesize. We are in conversation again with Dr Theodorou, a Consultant Gynaecologist and Specialist in Reproductive Medicine at the Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health explaining what patients can expect during their first consultation with a fertility consultant&nbsp;What we discussed:&nbsp;Reasons why people come to the clinicPeople want to be confident before they start trying, others might have tried with no success for some time. This varies from a few months or years.&nbsp;People who have had failed cycles elsewhere and want another approachCouples who need a donor - heterosexual, same-sex or solo&nbsp;Fertility Preservation - male or female, for medical reasons eg. treatment that could impact fertility or social reasons eg. when people want to preserve for the future. Another reason is to avoid a known genetic disease.&nbsp;Surrogacy&nbsp; - due to medical reasons or same-sex males&nbsp;Initial investigative tests - male would be semen analysis and for a female ultrasound to check the uterus, ovary and fallopian tube and blood tests to check AMH, FSH and ovulation&nbsp;Depending on circumstances they may go got specialist tests eg. recurrent miscarriage or a medical issue which could affect fertility&nbsp;The stress of fertility treatment and the importance of counselling and support along the way&nbsp;Explanation of implications of counselling and when it's needed.&nbsp;You can find out more about CRGH hereSubscribe to The Fertility Podcast&nbsp;Follow Fertility Podcast on Instagram

Earlier in this series, we spoke about the Corporate world of IVF and how clinics around the world were consolidating, and what that meant for you the patient. In this episode, we’re looking at the future of IVF and our first conversation is with Stuart Lavery, a senior consultant gynaecologist, a well-respected member of the global human fertility community, and a founding director of Aria Fertility, our second guest is Professor Nick Macklon, Medical Director of The London Women’s clinic and Medical Advisor at Verso.&nbsp;What we discussed:&nbsp;IVF Changed over the last 10 yearsThe biggest provider of IVF in the UK is a private equity&nbsp;What we can learn from the USFertility is an illness becoming demedicalised&nbsp;How his clinic Aria - competes with the big chainsMost of the big groups had the same success rates, same treatments - but mediocre customer experiencesUsing technology to enhance the patient experience.&nbsp;How important it is for a patient to feel confident and comfortable&nbsp;Tech changes that are here now and a huge amount coming tomorrowTech companies who believe tech will trump biologyDevelopments in the lab are around automation and minimization&nbsp;IVF at Home - saliva test at home replacing coming into the clinic for blood, e- consenting, and home ultrasound&nbsp;Important not to exacerbate inequalities in access to treatmentThere’s no reason that the NHS can’t be at cutting edge of technology given the patient volume it has coming through.&nbsp;NHS clinics shouldn’t access less, it should be the same standard whether you pay or access the NHS.&nbsp;The decline in ‘Gentle IVF’Automated robotic ICSIThe decline of IUI&nbsp; - need to make sure the right treatment goes to the right patientProfessor Nick Macklon explains how the incubator or the Uterine environment hasn’t really been studied until nowWhat is device monitoring?How research shows how much it fluctuates between womenHow does it impact embryo transferHow oxygen levels can change which can affect implantationHow Secretions can also affect implantationWhat this means for the future of IVF treatment&nbsp; Follow us on our socials!!!We really want to hear your thoughts on whether this matters to you.Please email.&nbsp;Fertility Poddy on InstaKate on Insta&nbsp;Aria Fertility on InstaAria Fertility websiteThe London's Women Clinic on InstaThe London's Women Clinic website

Welcome to another episode of The Fertility Podcast bitesize, with The Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health (CRGH) in this snippet, we’re going to be hearing from Xavier Brunetti, Deputy Head of Embryology to talk you through the lab set-up at CRGH. It’s fascinating getting to understand more about what happens post egg collection in the lab and how the Emrbyologists work and how they feel about sharing the news of what is going on with your precious embryos. So have a listen to Xavi explain more about the process.&nbsp;We discuss:&nbsp;What happens after egg collection&nbsp;How they are prepared for IVF or ICSIWhat ICSI is, how it is prepared for treatment&nbsp;How the embryos start to divide over 5-6 daysWhat the embryologist is looking for and what it looks like when an embryo develops abnormallyThe speed at which the embryo divides and what it showsWhen a biopsy happensEgg freezing&nbsp;What happens during embryo transfer and what the patient is toldWhat happens when it is a frozen embryo transfer&nbsp;Embryologists contact patients and how they are always happy to explain things as much as the patient needsWhat it feels like when a patient names their baby after the embryologist&nbsp;Find out more about CRGH here Follow CRGH on Instagram Follow Fertility Podcast on Instagram

This episode of The Fertility Podcast Bitesize is a conversation with Dr Matt Prior, a doctor in Newcastle, and an NHS consultant one of 143 experts is answering more of your questions over at fertially.com who we've worked with to make this bitesize chunk for you. In this episode Matt explains what tests you can expect prior to starting IVF treatment, how you can prepare for your first cycle and he also explains why it might not work. Nothing can take away the heartache of a failed cycle, however hearing an expert validate that it's not your fault can sometimes ease the pain, which is why we wanted to share this bitesize snippet. What we discussed: Tests you should expect before starting treatment: 3 most important are an Ultrasound to check womb, and counting follicles, AMH to check egg reserve, Male would have a sperm test to check any issues to make sure you don’t go through collecting eggs and then there being an issue with the sperm. Other tests might check blood - for anaemia, thyroid function, also both partners would be advised to check for Hepatitis and HIV.&nbsp;Statistically first cycle is most likely to work, but IVF isn’t the most successful of treatment.&nbsp;For most people whatever age - its not likely to be successful&nbsp;Ahead of IVF take folic acid good, eat a sensible diet, don’t limit the amount of alcohol that you drink, look at different lifestyle factors.It’s important that even if you do take into consideration a change in lifestyle factors, if your treatment doesn’t work it’s key not to beat yourself up that you&nbsp; might not have stuck to the diet that google told you or the book you bought.&nbsp;Know that actually, most of it is out of your control and while you can do everything to try and prepare to make the IVF cycle successful, it might not happen.Consider IVF as a funnel - of those starting will have an egg collection 95% or nearly all of them will have embryos to transfer.&nbsp;30 to 40% of women all become pregnantAfter a positive pregnancy test, about 70 to 80% of women go on and have a baby so really IVF fails the most between embryo transfer and pregnancy test.Issues with embryo grading, putting back a perfect embryo still doesn’t guarantee successTransfer process could be problematicThere could a problem with the womb lining - there is still a lack of evidence.&nbsp;SOCIALS: Follow The Fertility Podcast on Instagram Follow FertiAlly on Instagram Find out more about Dr Matt Prior

This is a timely episode as the HFEA has just announced a change in the law for the storage of our frozen eggs, embryos, and sperms. From 1 July 2022, all patients can store their eggs, sperm, and embryos for their own treatment for up to 55 years, you just must make sure you provide consent every 10 years. Frozen Embryos are a topic that I do find quite triggering to be honest, as we didn’t go on to use ours. We donated them to science which is something I have spoken about on this podcast before.&nbsp; Frozen embryos cause a lot of anguish to fertility patients when they don’t know if they can handle more treatment or if they can’t afford it, but it feels so unfair not to hold on to this precious material. But then as the popularity of IVF continues to grow and become more aware of it and have more access to it and sadly need it, there ultimately becomes more and more embryos in storage. We speak to embryologist Giles Palmer about this issue&nbsp;What was discussed:&nbsp;The anguish having frozen embryos has on people&nbsp;How it feels&nbsp;Reference to paper Giles wrote&nbsp;How each country has its own laws on the storage of embryos&nbsp;The growing inventory of eggs and sperm around the world and every clinic is talking about&nbsp;Storage fee that is attached&nbsp; -how that is communicated with the patient&nbsp;Compassionate transfer&nbsp;Single embryo transfer, fertility preservation - all leading to a growing inventory300% increase in embryos stored over 5 years&nbsp;If you weren’t pregnant 75% of patients go back for the embryosIf they were pregnant to live birth 16% go back&nbsp;Giles spoke about how a new Dewer bought every year&nbsp; - to store the embryos and he had to kn0ck down a wall to store them. The problem for many clinics - problem do they store in-house or off-site at a bio depositary&nbsp;How to deal with issues when storage time is upCan’t store samples after consent is upPaper said 25% of samples - never be used&nbsp;Embryos are yours to take elsewhere if you want to move them from your clinic&nbsp;Seed Ships&nbsp;SOCIALS: Follow us&nbsp;We really want to hear your thoughts on whether this matters to you. Please email&nbsp;[email protected] PoddyKate&nbsp;Giles Palmer on InstaWebinars - https://ivfmeeting.com/HFEA on Insta&nbsp;HFEA press release

We’re in a conversation about what happens to our frozen embryos and the future of cryo storage with Cynthia Hudson, VP of Clinical Strategy &amp; Specimen Services at TMRW, and Elizabeth Carr, the first IVF baby born in the United States. To give you a bit of background, Cynthia is an embryologist and medical technologist with over 20 years of experience in reproductive technology she has worked in, and founded, a number of leading IVF practices and designed multiple IVF laboratories and Natalie met with her in London to get a live demo of their technology. Elizabeth works with the company as part of their marketing team and shared her experience of life as the first &nbsp;IVF baby in the US, and her decision to become work in the world of ART.&nbsp;What was discussed&nbsp;Explaining the TMRW system in the CloudOpportunity to have lots of backups and a cynic’s inventory is updated in a real team&nbsp;How the system speeds up a lab and makes an embryologist's life easier&nbsp;Cryo beacon - holds up to 8 cry devices - standard to what exists. It has a cap, so devices can’t full out and it has a chip on it so it can be identified hands-free.&nbsp;Explanation of freezing and how if the cells aren’t treated before the temperature is lowered it will damage the embryo, so the water must be removed and replaced with a cry protectant.&nbsp;How the freezing process has changed in the last 10-15 years. Taking the temp from 37 deg C to -1.96 in under 1 second&nbsp;Previously walked around with buckets made of styrofoam and never had a purpose-built tool to move tissue safely around the lab. It has a see-through lid to never lose line of sight to the specimen.&nbsp;How it is frozen, using iris recognition and then frozen.&nbsp;Know the exact location of the beacon within the system&nbsp;Numbers&nbsp; - take the storage capability vertically.&nbsp;In a standard clinic, they have to be manually filled, liquid nitrogen has to be at the right tempSome have over 100 dewers - has to be filled and monitored regularly. This tech does it automatically.&nbsp;Overwatch 24 hours to make sure they know everything going on in every system.&nbsp;Taking a lot of risk out of the process.&nbsp;Elizabeth talks about how her parents had to leave the state they were living in to travel to a different one as it was illegal in the state they lived in.&nbsp;Her childhood was shaped by the need for her to ‘look normal’ as the topic of IVF was so she went into journalism&nbsp; - because she was fed up with people asking stupid questions and decided at 10 years old she could do a better job&nbsp;The conversations she has with the clinic conversation about cryo storageHow the volume of specimens has increased, meaning the embryologists have to do a lot of extra processes - to manage them&nbsp;How clinics become an accidental storage facility&nbsp;Patients now are so much more educated and are asking more questions&nbsp;To find out more visit TMRW&nbsp;We really want to hear your thoughts on whether you think about where your embryos are stored and if this episode has got you thinking, so please email&nbsp; [email protected]:TMRWFertility PoddyKate&nbsp;

Welcome to the latest episode of The Fertility Podcast Bitesize. We are in conversation again with Kirsty Lee Wright and Joycelia Green, two Senior Nurses at The Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health explaining how valuable getting emotional support during your treatment is, whether it's from professionals or from your friends. Plus the importance of setting boundaries.&nbsp;What we discussed:&nbsp;Find your tribeTalk to someone&nbsp;Tell the nurses about your good and your bad days as the forums and online groups can be helpful but you shouldn't compare yourself to anyone else.&nbsp;Our bodies do different things and sometimes info online can be confusing and conflicting&nbsp;If you decide you need a nurse and you want to talk - or if you want to be left to your own devices do what is right for you&nbsp;Self-care - destressing with exercising, or decompressing is important&nbsp;You are having hormone treatment, so don’t apologize as you will experience a range of emotions and that is why you need the right support network.&nbsp;Set boundaries with friends and family as you might not want to tell them much&nbsp;Speak to the counselor at your clinic, if you want to do that before starting, it can be. Don’t wait until things go wrong no matter how strong you are, sometimes that objective opinion is what you need.&nbsp;Your nurse can support you in how to talk about this at work, you can bring your work diary into the clinic, to work out a treatment plan so scans fit around your schedule.&nbsp;Use work as a distraction but also you need to give yourself time for yourself.&nbsp;You can find out more about CRGH hereSubscribe to The Fertility Podcast&nbsp;Follow Fertility Podcast on Instagram&nbsp;

In this episode of Behind the Scenes of IVF, we’re looking at who owns the clinics, with there being more groups, more venture capitalists, and more private equity. What does this mean for you, the patient? How might it impact your decision-making? What might the benefits be? We’re in conversation with James Nicopoullus, Medical Director at The Lister Fertility Clinic, Peter Reeselv - Founder and CEO of The Fertility Consultancy, and Griffin Jones founder of Fertility BridgeWhat was discussed:&nbsp;How the HFEA is still in charge in the UK as the regulatorsVCs who have bought clinics as they see it as a good business prospect and will have a master plan to make money&nbsp; - therefore there will be pressure, however word of mouth will always ensure the clinic is a success&nbsp;How clinics must make it absolutely clear where the ownership is on their website&nbsp;Finance packages are separate from the clinical decision making&nbsp;Whether prices will change and become more regulatedWhere does the buck stop when something goes wrong&nbsp;What is happening in Europe and how developments in the fertility space are changing because the pioneers are retiring so international networks can combine and offer more opportunities for patients.How fertility tourism is going.&nbsp;How Sweden, Norway, and France are now enabling single women and same-sex couples able to have treatment, yet in Poland, this is the opposite&nbsp;&nbsp;How consolidation should put more pressure on clinics to improve services&nbsp;Shared best practiceNetworks enable clinics from different countries to&nbsp; come together and share best practices and research&nbsp;The global reach of IVFPrivate equity within the IVF sectorHow Branding has changed over the last 20 years&nbsp;SOCIALS:&nbsp;&nbsp;We really want to hear your thoughts on what helped you choose your clinic?. Please email&nbsp;[email protected] Poddy's InstaKate's&nbsp;InstaFertility Consultancy&nbsp;on LinkedInThe LIster's InstaFertility Bridge's Insta&nbsp;

In this episode we’re talking to some incredibly passionate people who absolutely love their jobs - meet the Embryologists and learn about the highs and lows of their work as we talk to 3 female and one male embryologist - in a field that is over 75% female. We hear from Alease Daniel, Victoria Wigley, Dani Smale, and Giles Palmer about what makes them happy and sad in their work.&nbsp;What was discussed:&nbsp;Why Alease chose to share her work on social media to dispel the mystery about the lab and how it can empower patients&nbsp;How Labs can be understaffed and embryologists are undervalued and their opinions aren’t valued.&nbsp;Burnout but it’s still a job - they don’t want to be worked to death and the human aspect of the embryologist isn’t considered.&nbsp;Lack of training in delivering bad newsHow when Victoria was working as a lab manager meant she could spend more time with patients - not been able to do that previously, so didn’t have the opportunity to build rapport&nbsp;How she realized there was a gap in the info from the lab side - eg. lots of questions from patients about add-ons that make patients feel vulnerable&nbsp;The benefit of having someone impartial to go through them to make an informed decision to go back to the clinic and feel more in control&nbsp;WHow being an Emrbyologist is always a topic of conversation at dinner parties always fascinates people.&nbsp;How you go on the journey with patients so when it doesn’t work or they lose the baby, it’s heartbreaking&nbsp;Embryologists are scientists and aren’t trained in the emotional side&nbsp;Talks about a study of over 1k embryologists - looking at mental health and presented as a poster at Fertility 2022Job needs a lot of skills, as there is little automation.&nbsp;Need good hand and eye coordinationOften work alone&nbsp; but often don’t do the whole cycleCan be very stressful&nbsp;Daily appraisal - why didn’t this person get pregnant&nbsp;Time Commitment - every weekend, on a rota, often on call - mission-critical equipment is on alarms&nbsp;Job changes all the timeAbout 75% are female to male in embryology&nbsp;The embryology population is ageing out&nbsp;This series of The Fertility Podcast is sponsored by TMRW&nbsp;SOCIALS: We really want to hear your thoughts on whether this matters to you. Please email&nbsp;Fertility PoddyKate&nbsp;Alease Daniel&nbsp;Victoria Wigley&nbsp;Giles PalmerIVF Initiative Webinars - https://ivfmeeting.com/

Welcome to the latest episode of The Fertility Podcast Bitesize. We are in conversation with Kirsty-Lee Wright and Joycelia Green, two Senior Nurses at The Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health who are sharing some top tips for your IVF cycle that they gathered from the 28 strong nurse team at the clinic. The nurses are always on hand to hold your hand, literally as well as answer any questions you might have in between your consultations and stages of treatment and these tips are really handy.&nbsp;What we discussed:&nbsp;Bringing in your own dressing gown&nbsp;Remove all piercings, especially the intimate ones&nbsp;Bring a snack for after egg collectionPlan a treat for that post egg collection breakfast&nbsp;Read all your discharge information once you’ve gone home and had a sleep and if anything doesn’t make sense - ring/email the nurses with any questions&nbsp;You can find out more about CRGH hereSubscribe to The Fertility Podcast&nbsp;Follow Fertility Podcast on Instagram&nbsp;

This episode of The Fertility Podcast Bitesize is in partnership with Mira, and you’ll be hearing from its founder Sylvia Kang to explain why it’s important to understand your fertility hormones and how monitoring them is a great way to help you understand whether or not you are ovulating and what might be going on with your menstrual cycle. Mira describes itself as offering personalized cycle prediction by measuring an exact number of hormone concentrations in urine samples, which can tell women their full fertile window, pinpointing ovulation, revealing hormone imbalances, and pregnancy status.What was Discussed:&nbsp;How hormones are measuredWhat you are looking for&nbsp;What surges you are looking for in your LH and whyOestrogen levels explainedWhen progesterone surges&nbsp;When the FSH surge should happen and what happens if it is too high&nbsp;When is your fertile window&nbsp;How Mira works and what you can learn from the app&nbsp;Visit Mira to get your 10% and add THEFERTILITYPODCAST to your order.Follow Mira on InstaFollow The Fertility Poddy

Welcome to the latest episode of The Fertility Podcast bite-size. We are in conversation with Dr.Theodorou,&nbsp; Consultant Gynaecologist, and Specialist in Reproductive Medicine at The Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health about Egg Freezing. If you want to understand more about whether this could be an option for you then this snippet will give you plenty to think about.&nbsp;What we discussed:&nbsp;What is involved in initial tests and who might freeze their eggs and whyWhat a treatment plan looks like and when in your cycle it would start&nbsp;When is the best time to freeze your eggs?&nbsp;Explanation of egg health and egg ageEgg quality over the age of 40When it is good to freeze eggs early, eg. known family history of low egg reserve or issues such as endometriosis or operation on the ovaries that would impact the ovarian reserve.&nbsp;What egg quality decline means&nbsp;How egg freezing is empowering for a woman’s career and the options it gives for the future if they were to have treatment older&nbsp;How companies are offering egg freezing benefits&nbsp;How best to afford the treatment with finance packages available&nbsp; - CRGH offers Secure Find out more about CRGH hereSubscribe to The Fertility Podcast&nbsp;Follow Fertility Podcast on Instagram&nbsp;

Egg health is a topic Kate and I are always asked about and having spoken with Embryologist Lucy Lines, on the podcast before we knew she’d be perfect for sharing bitesize chunks of helpful information on the matter. Lucy’s career as an embryologist began with Monash IVF in Melbourne in 2001. Since then, she has worked in Sweden, the UK, Ireland, and Germany. Lucy is one of 143 experts answering more of your questions over at fertially.com and we've worked to make this bitesize chunk for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What was discussed:&nbsp;What is the relationship between fertility and egg quality?&nbsp;Can you explain a bit about why and how egg quality declines over time?What foods can improve egg quality&nbsp;Does poor egg quality cause Down syndrome or genetic diseases in the baby?&nbsp;How many eggs do you lose per cycle?Find out more about Lucy here&nbsp;Follow Lucy on InstaFollow FertiAlly on InstaSubscribe to The Fertility Podcast&nbsp;Follow Fertility Podcast on Instagram&nbsp;

Welcome to the latest episode of The Fertility Podcast bite-size where we are in conversation with Dr. Waal Saab, Deputy Clinical Director at The Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health about Sperm Health. It’s important to understand that infertility is a male and female issue and you will learn more about sperm health and what you can do to improve it.&nbsp;What we discussed:&nbsp;How does sperm quality impact the ability to conceive?&nbsp;How fertility issues are a fifty-fifty male-female issue - 40% of fertility issues are related to a female factor infertility 40% to male factor infertility and 20% are unexplained.The impact on miscarriages&nbsp;Testing the sperm including Sperm DNA fragmentation test.&nbsp;Recurrent IVF failuresLifestyle changes and how long sperm takes to develop&nbsp;Issues with heat and sperm healthWhy a diet rich in antioxidants and some minerals should be considered.&nbsp;The decline in sperm counts&nbsp;Issues with Anabolic steroids and protein shakes&nbsp;Find out more about CRGH here

Today’s bitesize is withKate - co-host of The Fertility Podcast where you can find yourfertilitynurseAre you currently trying to conceive but nothing is happening?Do you find it hard to access your GP for help and would like to move forward on your fertility journey?Kate explains how she is now offering blood tests as well as her normal fertility consultation.So you can now choose to book a Preparing for Pregnancy home blood test &amp;fertility consultation package or the Ovarian Reserve (Fertility MOT) homeblood test and fertility consultation package. &nbsp;Here's what's involved in both:⁠• Book the Planning forpregnancy blood test and a fertility consultation to review your results andreceive bespoke advice on information on how to optimize your fertility.⁠• Simple and easy-to-do finger-prick blood test.⁠• Blood test checks your full hormone profile, Thyroid, prolactin, and vitamin D⁠• 60-minute consultation provides personalized medical and lifestyle advice to optimize your fertility.⁠Get in touch via https://yourfertilityjourney.com/ and make sure you tell her you heard about her right here. &nbsp;Get in touch with@fertilitypoddy

Welcome to another episode of The Fertility Podcast bitesize, with The Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health (CRGH) in this snippet, we’re going to be hearing from Xavier Brunetti, Deputy Head of Embryology to explain more about how embryos are graded. All too often there are conversations online within Facebook groups or forums about what the different gradings mean and it can cause all sorts of stress and unease for patients. We are all so different and every clinic is different, so Dr. Google is not your friend when you are at this stage of your fertility treatment. So have a listen to Xavi explain more about what the embryologist is looking for and what happens in the lab.&nbsp;We discuss:&nbsp;Day 1 - Day 3 and then Day 4 to Day 5 or 6Symmetry, fragmentation, can they see the nucleiHow synchronized cell divisions are&nbsp;How Blastocysts grow&nbsp;What that means for the gradingHow the lab keeps in touch with you - the patient&nbsp;How to manage patients' expectations of egg collection&nbsp;Find out more about CRGH here Follow CRGH on Instagram Follow Fertility Podcast on Instagram

Wishing you a Happy Easter or a Happy Passover - or just a Happy Bank Holiday. This episode is a bit of an interactive one, so you might want to listen back if you’re on the move as I have a few tasks, all of them good and useful I hope.&nbsp;Mainly to get in touch and leave a message if you’d like via The Fertility Podcast about the topics we’re discussing in our next series - so have a listen and Kate and I would love to hear from you.&nbsp;The news feeds of our archive as mentioned in this episode can be found here:Getting Pregnancy Ready Infertility Support Pregnancy Loss Male Fertility Alternative Routes to Parenthood&nbsp;Come say hello on Insta&nbsp;Or Twitter

Welcome to the latest episode of The Fertility Podcast bite-size where we are in conversation with Dr Waal Saab, Deputy Clinical Director at The Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health.What was discussed: How treatment is tailored depending on medical history Success rates and what they mean at different clinicsHow CRGH is open 24/7 The multidisciplinary approach when it comes to medical care. WHow all medical decisions depend on input from clinicians, embryologists, nurses. How a patient’s psychological status is well cared for with access to counselling and how partners are also supported How CRGH are well known to be a centre of referral where patients come, after recurrent failures eg. implantation failures or miscarriages To find out more visit CRGH Find them on facebook or Instagram Follow The Fertility Podcast on Instagram

If you’re a regular listener to The Fertility Podcast, you’ll probably be well aware that Kate, an independent fertility nurse consultant is our Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) expert and in this bitesize chunk she explains some of the core elements of getting your head around PCOS.What's discussed: How do you know if you have PCOS How is it diagnosed?&nbsp;Can a woman with PCOS conceive?&nbsp;How you ovulate when you have PCOS&nbsp;What you should eat with PCOS?To find out more about Kate, follow here on Insta here Follow The Fertility Podcast on Instagram

In this episode of The Fertility Podcast Bitesize we'll be hearing from Emma Grønbæk who is a Nurse and Content Marketing Coordinator at Cryos International supplies frozen&nbsp;donor sperm&nbsp;and eggs to more than 100 countries worldwide. Cryos has the world’s largest selection of Non-ID Release and ID Release donors and boast the highest number of registered pregnancies in the world.Emma offers advice and guidance on how to have conversations which can cause lots of worry, in terms of how to talk about the donor and when is the best time to have the conversation. Cryos have a dedicated section on their website talking about timings along with research from Susan Golumbok. There are also personal stories and other resources such as books you can read to your children. Titles such as 'Happy Together' and The Pea that was Me' are really popular. Cyros also has a whole FAQ section available. To find out more visit Cryos International and you can follow them on Instagram and facebook You can also follow us Instagram

Possibly the MOST frustrating diagnosis when you are trying to conceive, unexplained or 'sub' fertility can really mess with your head as you just want to have something you can focus on. It's a label that we give people who haven't conceived within a reasonable timeframe and whilst it doesn't necessarily mean that there's a problem if there might be a number of things that are preventing a pregnancy. In this episode Dr Jane Stewart, NHS Consultant in Reproductive Medicine in NE England and one of 143 experts is answering more of your questions over at fertially.com who we've worked with to make this bitesize chunk for you. Jane explains what investigations can be done to try and find out what could be the problem, including explaining how it's important to consider.Here you'll learn:Length of time a couple have been trying Making sure they're having reasonably regular sex The menstrual cycle of the woman needs to be considered Sperm Health - so tests need to be done Making sure the woman's fallopian tubes aren't blocked Follow Jane on TwitterListen to our full a patient story about their Unexplained diagnosis here Follow The Fertility Podcast on Instagram Follow FertiAlly on Instagram

In this episode of The Fertility Podcast Bitesize we'll be hearing from Emma Grønbæk who is a Nurse and Content Marketing Coordinator at Cryos International supplies frozen&nbsp;donor sperm&nbsp;and eggs to more than 100 countries worldwide. Cryos hase the world’s largest selection of Non-ID Release and ID Release donors and boast the highest number of registered pregnancies in the world.Emma talks about what you need to consider when choosing a sperm donor in this snippet about donor conceptions as well as highlighting the resources Cryos have available for you as they know how overwhelming this decision making process can be. To find out more visit Cryos International and you can follow them on Instagram and facebook Do come say hi on Instagram

Welcome to the first episode of The Fertility Podcast bite-size, where the aim is to give you a snippet of useful information. March is Endometriosis Awareness Month and Andrew Horne is a Professor or Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences and Co-Director at the EXPPECT Centre for Pelvic Pain and&nbsp;Endometriosis and one of 143 experts is answering more of your questions over at fertially.com who we've worked with to make this bitesize chunk for you. What you'll learn: What is EndometriosisHow it can impact a woman’s fertility What are the symptoms The four stages of endometriosisHow would a woman know what stage of endometriosis she might have?The best pain management before surgical intervention&nbsp;Can you still be fertile? If you have endometriosisTo get more support for Endometriosis visit Endometriosis UKListen to our full interview with Andrew Horne Follow The Fertility Podcast on Instagram Follow FertilAlly on Instagram

OK, we're trying something a little different in 2022 and we'll be sharing bite-size chunks of useful information with you every Friday. We'd love to know if you like them so do come and say hello on insta

Male Fertility is something we have talked about on The Fertility Podcast a lot in the past and you can hear more of our conversations here All too often Men are overlooked when having conversations with healthcare and medical professionals about this topic and as you will hear, they often don't want to speak to anyone about what is going on. This bonus episode being shared to support National Fertility Awareness Day and its focus on male fertility is called 'MAN UP' - an ethnodrama written from empirical research date from interviews with people experiencing complex fertility journeys by Manchester Metropolitan University. It has been written and produced by www.jennyberry.co.uk&nbsp;Follow on insta: Jenny BerryFertility Poddy Fertility Network UK

In this episode, as we near the end of this current series of the podcast, we chat with Steph Phillips the founder of World Childless Week.World Childless Week is a relatively new initiative raising awareness of being childless not by choice. Steph tells us how the interest in this week, but also across the year, has increased dramatically over the last 2 years. We also talked about the differing terminology used to explain living without children and how Steph as learned to own the term ‘Childless’.The World Childless Week website encourages people to submit blogs and videos to get their voices and stories heard. Steph has noticed in recent weeks that this is gaining more momentum and people are wanting to take ownership of their childlessness.The COVID pandemic has highlighted the difficulties in the workplace faced by childless people – the discussions on Zoom about children, children seen on Zoom etc. However, the pandemic has also encouraged greater awareness surrounding mental health for example and Steph also sees this as a positive for sharing childless awareness. The sharing the commonality of childlessness has had a profound effect on Steph and others, providing validation and an outlet for grief. We also talked about finding the humour and laughter that can come with sharing stories and that it is possible to come through the dark days.We discuss the narrative surrounding childlessness and how frequent the insensitive comments are heard, such as ‘Have you thought about adoption’. This needs to change. Steph recommends listening to this webinar - which will help to highlight what not to say to a childless individual.Did you know that there is more childless men than women?Men rarely speak out, but they need to be heard more.Steph talks about the desire many childless individuals have to leave a legacy and why it is important for us not to be forgotten. Steph now tries to leave a legacy in a different way – she may compliment someone on their leggings or let a car out in front of her. This small action can make their day and never hurts to be kind.Next steps, Steph hopes to make a difference in raising awareness of childlessness in the workplace. Steph welcomes submissions on any topic for the website. See below for more information on how you can do this.SOCIALS:FacebookTwitterInstagramReleasing Our Grief through the Power of Words (good to help people find the confidence to start exploring the cathartic power of writing):Legacy - Making Today CountFertility poddy KateOther episodes we mentioned:Jessica HepburnKate KaufmannLesley PyneYvonne JohnKelly Da SilvaJody Day

Today we’re talking all about what happens after fertility – parenting after IVF. What is it like to be pregnant and then parenting after you’ve gone through a fertility journey? Is it different if you’ve not experienced this rollercoaster journey and you’ve managed to conceive naturally? To find out, we’re giving a big welcome to a previous guest and friend of the podcast – Cat Strawbridge otherwise known as @tryingyears.Cat, after 7 years of trying to conceive and multiple rounds of IVF, finally became a mum to beautiful Wren, who has recently celebrated her 2nd birthday. Cat works tirelessly to break the silence surrounding infertility, has her own podcast The Finally Pregnant Podcast, consults within the fertility industry, host events and to top it all is now (at time of writing) embarking on fertility treatments to try for a sibling for Wren.We’re delighted to chat to Cat again and wanted to ask her what are the most common fears for women who have conceived following fertility treatments? Cat didn’t hesitate in answering – the anxiety. The anxiety of pregnancy, ‘scanxiety’ and once parenting the fear of being an overbearing and anxious parent.You may not have heard the term ‘scanxiety’ before but we suspect you’ve felt it. It’s that anxiety you get every time before and during a scan. Whether it be a fertility or pregnancy scan, that fear never leaves you. Cat talked about her pregnancy with Wren and her need to have regular reassurance by having a scan. Particularly as sadly, Cat lost Wren’s twin sister in early pregnancy. Cat talks about how ‘scanxiety’ starts from the moment she’s booked the scan until she’s had the reassurance that everything is OK. We talked about Cat’s experiences of how the scanning professionals dealt with her anxiety, which luckily was generally positive, however we all know that sometimes bad news isn’t delivered in the best way and many professionals seem to lack empathy. A recent guest Amber Isso termed this ‘empathy fatigue’.Kate recently had the pleasure of listening to a webinar Cat did for ESHRE week on hope and how professionals can help patients maintain hope by treating them respectfully and honestly and acknowledging that it is the patient’s fertility journey. Whilst health professionals are becoming more informed on how to speak to patients, she feels that there is still a long way to go.Cat then spoke about her decision to try for another baby with her remaining embryo and how this has been a difficult decision to make, especially as this is her last shot. She is feeling overwhelmed, excited and petrified but hopes that this time around she has more knowledge and the resilience to cope better. Kate talked about how the emphasis on a second attempt at IVF after having success is so different. The first time it’s on your having a baby, the second its on having a sibling for your child, so the pressure is totally different.&nbsp;We also discuss Cat’s feelings on the COVID-19 vaccine and how she has had one but plans to delay the second one for now.Since recording Cat has shared that her FET didn’t work and has spoken about it on her socials. We send Cat all our love and thank her for talking to us.&nbsp;Other episodes mentioned:&nbsp;Katie Eaves who is working to support midwives understand how to talk to pregnant women who have been through infertilityWe also spoke in a previous episode with Julianne Boutelab about the fears we have on becoming parents.&nbsp;SOCIALS:&nbsp;Cat Strawbridge Fertility Poddy<a...

As we head towards the end of this series, we really want to make sure you know about all the other episodes we have, which you can listen to via www.thefertilitypodcast.com&nbsp;We’re having a break at the end of the month and will be back in November but will be reminding you through all of our channels of other episodes so you’ll still have plenty to listen to.&nbsp;This week we catch up with&nbsp;Not a Fictional Mum (NFM) who we actually spoke to in December 2020 and then didn’t get to publish the chat until now. If you follow her on insta you will know she has had an incredible year and is doing so much to change the narrative about Adoption especially in retail.&nbsp;We start off by chatting about her decision to start her Insta, which was after her friends told her to use social media in a positive way and she threw herself into it and she has aced it.&nbsp;She wanted to make people stop and read to get her messages across. She has decided to stay fictional and not share photos.&nbsp;She spoke about the heartbreak of finding out their family wasn’t going to be created as they’d expected and how she has made a point of not sharing who had the infertility issue.&nbsp;What happened after getting the diagnosis of infertility&nbsp;They had a free cycle of treatment on the NHS which was all consuming and tough. They did numerous rounds, experienced a miscarriage, spent £25,000 on treatment and it was really taking its toll on their mental health.&nbsp;Once they were told it wouldn’t happen naturally they were already talking about Adoption. However they wanted to try everything so they didn’t have any regrets and Kate talks about talking with clients about trying everything before you ‘close the door’Making the decision to AdoptThe weight was lifted once they decided that this was going to be their route, although it had taken a long time to grieve what wasn’t to be. Every decision she had made previously was all around the treatment, she felt like a robot. Once the decision was made to stop, she felt she had a sense of herself back.&nbsp;Adopting a child will not replace the loss of a biological child. These children are their own people with their own background story and their rights to know that.&nbsp;How much needs to be done about how we talk about Adoption?&nbsp;So much. NFM talks about how it needs to be talked about it early years at school during sex education, all the routes to parenthood should be discussed, so her little boy grows up knowing its just another route.&nbsp;People are curious / nosey about an adopted child and the more we talk about it the more it will be normalised. People whisper the word to you, you can hear it in their tone of voice.&nbsp;There seems to be a stigma about it which is sad. We need to understand it on a wider scale.&nbsp;Obscene questions asked about AdoptionWho is it with the problem, you or him?&nbsp;People are obsessed with his background - his real Mum, his real parentsWhat are you going to do when he grows up, if he wants to go and live with his real parents?&nbsp;Do you think you love him as much as you would if he was your biological child?&nbsp;Thousands of cups of tea with a social worker and the matching processTime is so precious when you’ve spent so many years trying.&nbsp;NFM talks about how she never felt she wasn’t being asked anything necessary or obtrusive. You can find out a lot about yourself and your partner if you open yourself up to it.&nbsp;Matching was the most difficult - stage 1 and 2 there is a lot of onhold support as you have to fill in a lot of...

Don't miss The Fertility Podcast relaunch as we return to guide you through all the many things you need to consider when trying for a baby. We'll be talking about cycles and lifestyle changes as well as other conditions or deficiencies that might be affecting your changes of getting pregnant naturally. Then we'll be moving onto what fertility treatment is all about, the options available for you, support, hollistic treatment and most importantly making sure you know that there is a community for you to join so you don't feel like you are going through this alone. Visit www.thefertilitypodcast.com Follow @fertilitypoddy Closed facebook group  &#10;&nbsp;See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

To mark Men’s Health Week, this week in the UK we are chatting with Tom Webb the Director of The Easy Bit, and Morten Ulsted CEO and co-founder of ExSeed.The Easy BitFirst up it’s Tom. Tom has spoken on the podcast before and this time joins us now that his film – The Easy Bit is finished and now available to watch. The aim of the film is to help men realize that there is help and support out there for them, particularly as more often than not the focus, when going through a fertility struggle, is on the woman.Tom has been overwhelmed by the reaction the film has had from both men and women, but he wasn’t expecting the overwhelming response from the fertility industry on how the film has opened its eyes to how men feel. Hopefully, this will result in changes to care within the clinics and consideration of the language used by men and couples. You can view The Easy Bit now on Vimeo&nbsp;&nbsp;Mental Health and FertilityDuring the film, the men being filmed used the words such as shame, upset, anger, horrific ordeal, and emotional toil, to explain their experiences of infertility and all talked about the feeling of being ignored throughout their journey.The film highlighted that counseling services within clinica are all set up for women and no support is available for men. However, Tom found that men do prefer to access support very differently from women such as through podcasts, peer-to-peer support, and men-only Facebook groups.&nbsp;To visit the Men Only Fertility Support Facebook page click hereTom tells us how watching the film can teach men so much and validate their feelings. One of the men filmed said that being vulnerable makes you strongerCOVID-19 and MenThe new guidelines within clinics due to COVID-19 mean that men may well be excluded from the majority of appointments. Tom believes that excluding men will do so much damage, and he hopes that clinics will consider ways in which men can be safely included during this time.&nbsp;ExSeed the Home Sperm TestMorten Ulsted is the CEO and co-founder of the sperm home test ExSeed. Morten set about developing an advanced home test that is as good as clinic tests. The test uses the amazing computing power and camera technology we all have in our pockets on our smartphones.What ExSeed TestsUsing your phone as an advanced microscope, the ExSeed test looks at sperm concentration and motility. Morten wanted to design a test that any healthcare practitioner, anywhere in the world, will look at the result and feel confident with what it says.As well as testing, ExSeed also offers a personalised programme to improve sperm based on the test. This bespoke advice supports men to work on and improve their lifestyles to optimize their fertility. Through the ExSeed App users are also able to book a chat with a doctor, dietician, or personal coachWhen should you test with ExSeed?Morten tells us that the test can be used for men who are curious about their fertility, those who are starting out trying to conceive, and those who have been trying for some time and want to monitor any progress. The ExSeed box comes with 5 tests and Morton recommends that as sperm parameters can fluctuate on a daily or weekly basis, you should test once then wait about a week and repeat the test. It’s important to abstain from ejaculation 48 hours beforehand.ExSeed costs £149.00 for 5 tests and is available on the ExSeed website. Check out Natalie’s Facebook Group where she’s...

Frankie Brunker – These Precious Little PeoplePlease be warned that this weeks’ episode is a hard-hitting and emotional one. It is a raw and emotional account of stillbirth and the grief that follows.Natalie chats with Frankie Brunker, whom Natalie met at a fabulous Yoga day put on by Lucy from The Rainbow Running club.Route to ParenthoodFrankie’s route to parenthood started really quickly after conceiving in the first month of trying however, devastatingly their daughter was born stillborn at 38 weeks. This came as a complete shock.Frankie’s husband had to call their family from the hospital to break the news. Frankie felt so concerned about telling family and how they would feel, particularly her nieces and nephews who were excited about a new baby coming into the family. They decided that they needed to be insular and in their own little bubble to get through this difficult time, one day at a time.The Funeral&nbsp;Frankie made the decision for her nieces and nephews not to attend the funeral of their daughter. At the time, this felt like the right decision but now Frankie has some regrets and is now mindful that not being included may make it more difficult for children, in general, to deal with grief.Experiencing a StillbirthFrankie talks about her experience of giving birth at the hospital and how she felt that some of the midwives had limited experience of caring for a mother delivering a stillborn baby, and that she felt there were gaps in the bereavement care she and her husband received.Frankie’s honest account of the, sometimes insensitive and ignorant, remarks she has received along the way is powerful and arrestingPrecious Little People&nbsp;As a result of her experience, Frankie is now the author of a beautiful children’s book to help explain baby loss to children but also Frankie says the book helps adults to come to terms with grief too.&nbsp;Her aim for the book is that you can talk about loss of your baby but that you can still think of them and smile. Her book aims to appeals to bereaved parents from diverse communities and cultures.Blogging as a bereaved parent&nbsp;Frankie has recently written a blog giving support to bereaved parents who may be finding it especially difficult going through this experience during lockdown, and urges people to reach out for support.&nbsp;SOCIAL MEDIA:Frankie Brunker Instagram: @thesepreciouslittlepeopleThe Fertility Podcast&nbsp;Instagram&nbsp;&nbsp;Kate DaviesInstagram&nbsp;See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to another ‘Meet the Makers’ episode where we chat to Louise Zeniou from Cradle. When we spoke to Louise, she had been having a busy few days with various media interviews, and in-between her busy schedule she managed to sneak in an interview with us whilst sat on the floor outside the toilets in Pret!Louise has a personal experience of what it feels like to go through early pregnancy loss when she became ill and diagnosed with an ectopic pregnancy. As she was so ill, she was rushed into hospital and had surgery immediately. She talks about the amazing care she received, but after surgery she missed the most basic of items such as a toothbrush and a hairbrush.The Comfort BagFrom her own experience Louise started the Comfort Bag Project with the aim to support hospitals, so that in those early moments of pregnancy loss women and men can be provided with toiletries and other products to give them a little comfort and importantly dignity. In the bag Louise also includes a personal message to give immediate words of comfort following a loss and the ways bereaved parents can connect for support once they have been discharged from hospital.How Cradle Supports the NHSCradle provides Comfort Bags to various hospitals across the country and it’s growing! From just starting out as one, Louise now has 73 volunteer ambassadors. Cradle also work with Hospital Trusts as the patient voice to help in the development of services and projects for bereaved parents.&nbsp;SignpostingThe role of Cradle is also to signpost to various support and counselling services to offer parents much needed professional support.&nbsp;Want to get involved?Contact Louise for information on how you can become an ambassador for Cradle.SOCIAL MEDIA:&nbsp;CRADLEThe Fertility Podcast@fertilitypoddyKate Davies&nbsp;Instagram&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Meet Katy Leeson, Managing Director of Social Chain who also hosts a podcast called 'I Shouldn't Say This But' and at the time of us chatting had just been nominated for an award for 'Leading the Charge and Pushing the Boundaries' with Campaign Magazine ( a big industry title ) I spoke with Katy in real life at Social Chain's very cool office in central Manchester, in the days where you could do that, which is why Kate isn't in this episode.&nbsp;Self ProtectionKaty spoke about her struggle with the responsibility of being a young female Managing Director. She had imposter syndrome and took herself into therapy sessions to get support on how best to deal with it. In the context of this chat, Katy explained how she made sure she was mentally prepared to talk about her miscarriage in the public sphere because she had no idea what the reaction would be and she was nervous that people would tell her it wasn't the right place or platform&nbsp;- something so many people fear when talking about infertility.&nbsp;Baby Loss Awareness WeekKaty shared her story in October 2019, a year on from her miscarriage which happened in December 2018. She spoke about the challenges of that time of year with everybody being together and how it forced her into telling people that I was pregnant, as she wasn't drinking in the Chrimbo celebrations - this was before the '12 week' point. Her family and friends knew and so she also had to share her that she had miscarried on Christmas Eve because she didn't want to get messages wishing her the best Christmas and New Year because I was going to have a baby in the next year. Katy talked about feeling that she was also ruining other people's Christmas because I'd tell them such sad news.Miscarrying Naturally Katy spoke about how she miscarried naturally the day before she was due to be put under for the operation. The first the scan she had, she said felt a good connection to someone who really cared and she said 'You look healthy, everything there on the scan looks healthy, you've just started an unfortunate experience, there was just a problem with that egg or that sperm, and you should be fine and I can't wait to see you again' which Katy said gave her such hope as every other interaction she had, felt like she was just being told to get on with things.&nbsp;Breakdown in Communication.Katy explained how she was still getting letters about having scans for her pregnancy after she had miscarried due to being registered with two different hospitals and how they were ringing her partner but wouldn't speak to him so he couldn't even act as her&nbsp;gatekeeper for. This meant in the end, she had to have numerous conversations reliving her experience over and over/Telling WorkKaty talked about how she had spoken to others about how much of a lift it is, to be told it's not your fault, which is such a straightforward piece of information to give to somebody. We talked about how she had no follow up conversations after going through it and wasn't given any guidance on where to find support. She had stopped her therapy and hadn't told her work as she didn't want to tell them she was going through 'something so horrific'&nbsp;because she was worried they would think she would then be trying again and be off on Maternity. So she didn't tell anyone and struggled with it from Christmas until Easter - which is when she said the broke down. When she did tell them, they were amazing&nbsp;Talking it through in TherapyKaty discussed the grieving process with her therapist and how she had been putting so much pressure on herself with her work and doing the right thing by others. She talked about giving herself permission to grieve once she had accessed support once again. She also talked about how she...

In this bonus episode,Kate and I speak with&nbsp;&nbsp;Sally Cheshire, who is the chair of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA)&nbsp;These shownotes are a transcript of part of our conversation with Sally. Please listen to hear the full interview:What is 'elective treatment'&nbsp;It is the word that the NHS use when it's not an outright emergency. So the NHS made that decision. And it's an unfortunate name because no one chooses to go in for surgery, particularly with regard to fertility treatment, but that's the word that's been used.&nbsp;So the NHS said that they would suspend all non-emergency treatment during the pandemic, so the only people who were being treated in the first stages of the pandemic after the 23rd of March, that was, were people who were in an emergency situation.What we said in terms of fertility is that patients who were having cancer surgery, for example, and needed fertility preservation would still be allowed to go ahead and our clinics would stay open for those patients to store gametes and embryos. But also, we would allow as many patients as possible to try and finish their cycles if they had started. And we know that there was a different response from clinics, and you can imagine that they were trying to manage, as well as all other NHS hospitals, some clinics carried on with those cycles, and then collected eggs or frozen eggs or embryos. But some patients we know had their cycles cancelled earlier than the 15th of April. And all I have to say is it was up to the clinic to decide whether they could go ahead. Some of them of course, had already lost staff to the front line. They'd had some of their equipment used for testing for virus testing from the embryology lab, and some of them also had staff who were self isolating or who've been diagnosed.&nbsp;Counselling:We do know there's been a massive increase in patients seeking counselling support. But if you actually talk to counsellors, some patients are asking different questions. Some of them are clearly distressed, not being able to have treatment. Some of them are very fearful of the virus and what impact it might have. So counsellors tell us they've seen an increase in patients who were just seeking help to deal with their general anxiety, not necessarily ready to talk about the implications of their particular treatment and what that might mean. So we do know that there is support out there and I'm sorry to patients who didn't quite get what they wanted, perhaps from their clinic.Professional Guidance:We've had to rely on professional guidance. So from the UK bodies from the British fertility society and of and the clinical scientists, but also from Europe and America, who advised similarly to stop treatment, until we knew a few more things, and their guidance has been very similar to the UK all along. And the Royal College of Obstetricians and gynaecologists also had to think about whether they considered there was any risk in early pregnancy. And they've also issued a couple of sets of guidance. So I think everybody has issued at least two sets of guidance over the last four weeks from the professional bodies. We've issued a number of letters to clinics explaining our requirements. And we've also tried to communicate with patients as best we can.The professional bodies have issued their latest guidance, which is cautious optimism.Tough Decision:I think this is the most difficult decision the FDA has ever had to make in 30 years really and the board and the staff have tried so hard to get it right. One of one of our criteria, quite rightly, was that there was no, or that there was as much evidence as possible to say there was no increased risk in pregnancy. And when I was thinking about it this morning, as a patient, you know, pregnancy is...

Welcome to this bonus episode of The Fertility Podcast in association with Medichecks, the home blood-testing company.&nbsp;Medichecks have started working with the wonderful Kate Davies, aka my co-host to develop a range of fertility tests and they invited me to their headquarters in Nottingham to talk more about them. So I headed back to my home town with brand new podcasting kit to chat with Sam Rogers,&nbsp;Medical Director and Natasha Fernando. Head of Clinical Excellence and Kate about what the tests are going to enable you to find out.&nbsp;What you will hear in this episode is:&nbsp;&nbsp;How the tests were developed looking at which biomarkers people need to understand their fertility and the training for Medichecks doctors in how they process themHow Medichecks will look at people’s medical histories, lifestyle, diet, activity and energy levels and tie in with the info they glean from blood tests.How repeat customers are getting much more informed about how behaviours affect their lifestyle and how home testing means you don't have to wait until you are over 40 (which is when the NHS do overall health checks )&nbsp;Baseline Fertility Tests&nbsp;FSH &amp; LH Levels:&nbsp;these control periods and time of ovulation, levels of Oestradiol - the main female hormone which shows if you are ovulatingProgesterone: 7 days before the first day of a period. This can be called the 21-day test. Kate explains how she sometimes gets two tests during that timeAMH:&nbsp;and how it gives an indicator as it is a useful measurement but is no means a guarantee of a baby. A lower test result shouldn't cause panic, just talk to your doctor, look at your baseline hormone levels.&nbsp;PCOS:&nbsp;looks at an initial diagnosis PCOS test as well as looking at the more long term effectsFor Men:&nbsp;Testosterone:&nbsp;looking at the hormones that control testosterone release as the body it likes to hold on to it. We also discussed the impact on male fertility from using protein shakes and steroids and how you get irreversible, low levels of fertility or infertility as a result.&nbsp;We also discussed tight pants!Advice for Men&nbsp;To limit alcohol and coffee and how smoking is so bad for developing sperm.Exercise&nbsp;- we discuss how too little or too much can have negative effects on sperm production. We also discussed Jonathan Ramsey - a Urologist and former podcast guest who has talked about how cycling for commuting is OK, but long rides put a lot of pressure on the testicles. Hear a previous chat with Jonathan here&nbsp;We discussed the importance of avoiding hot tubs, heated car warmers, and Natasha talked about papers on mobile phone radiation in pockets.Erectile DisfunctionAn early sign that the blood vessels are getting clogged up with cholesterol. Testosterone can also cause it as can the stress and pressures of TTC.&nbsp;DietOverall benefits of eating a health diet, which can help the balance of your hormones. We discuss what oxidative stress levels are and how you can manage them.&nbsp;The benefits of plant based diet&nbsp;and how a&nbsp;Vegan lifestyle - has no impact on testosterone levels. There is a belief amongst Men that a plant-based diet lowers testosterone but there is no evidence available&nbsp;Sleep&nbsp;The importance of sleep and how many health factors it can impactHow to future proof your fertilityBe proactive in the conversations you have with your family. For example, ask your mother when she had her menopause. With Men, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor if you have any pains in your testicles.&nbsp;&nbsp;Any concerns you...&nbsp;See <a...

Meet Janet Murray. Janet is a digital content expert, author, and fellow podcaster. Earlier in the year Janet shared an article about secondary infertility and we wanted to talk to her about this and her experiences of miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy.Fertility StruggleJanet struggled with infertility and after routine tests, she was diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis. Treatment ensued and shortly after her diagnosis, Janet fell pregnant. Sadly this pregnancy ended in a miscarriage, and Janet, who is normally a very pragmatic person, felt completely floored. However, she did fall pregnant again but this pregnancy was thwarted by anxiety and at 29 weeks Janet went into early labor. Luckily after time in neonatal intensive care, Janet was able to bring home her daughter Katie. Very soon after, Janet was surprised to find she was pregnant again. Unfortunately, this pregnancy ended in an ectopic pregnancy and Janet was told that she would be unlikely to conceive again.The loneliness of the first 12 weeksJanet shares her thoughts on how difficult it is to reach out for support for after an early miscarriage, as it’s almost taboo to talk about your pregnancy until after the 12-week point.I have an excuse to talkSecondary infertility is frequently dismissed by society. Over the last 5 years, Janet has run five London Marathons to raise money for The Miscarriage Association and the Ectopic Pregnancy Trust and she feels this has given her an excuse to talk about miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy in a public space."At least you have oneJanet felt that friends didn’t understand her desire to have another child and a sibling for her daughter.&nbsp;Because she was career-focused people always assumed that Janet only wanted to have one child out of choice. In her article (above) Janet talks about the agony of not being able to have a sibling for Katie.SOCIAL MEDIA:Janet Murray&nbsp;Instagram&nbsp;Miscarriage AssociationEctopic Pregnancy Trust&nbsp;Bliss&nbsp;Tommy’s&nbsp;The Fertility Podcast&nbsp;InstagramKate Davies&nbsp;Instagram&nbsp;See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

It was a bleak and dreary day.. .Kate and I connected with Eleanor Stevenson, Professor of Nursing from Duke University, North Carolina USA and Kevin McEleny, Consultant Urologist at Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Trust to discuss a brilliant new initiative to support men struggling with infertility.Together Kevin and Eleanor have created All about fertility&nbsp;an evidence-based resource providing couples with up to date articles, webinars and videos created by experts from the field of fertility. But they didn’t want to just stop there. From their research Kevin and Eleanor identified that men didn’t want to engage with support from counsellors and so they created a support forum just for men to access support in a way that was accessible to them and on their terms.Peer Support&nbsp;In the future, Kevin and Eleanor hope to roll out other versions of this platform to include support forums for same-sex couples and women. In the US, Eleanor is seeing that professionals are becoming more aware of male fertility but as yet, US men aren’t opening up. Whereas conversely, in the UK men are beginning to talk and there are a number of men that are leading the way, some of who have been recent guests on the podcast.Educating medical professionalsKevin talks about the need for greater awareness and sensitivity among professionals. The evidence that has come out of their research shows that what men are told at the very start can have enormous consequences on their emotional wellbeing. Eleanor tells us that while men continue to feel that their problems are not real. It reinforces stigma and men get further silenced.SOCIAL MEDIA:&nbsp;https://all-about-fertility.com/Twitter&nbsp;Kevin on twitter&nbsp;Eleanor on twitter&nbsp;FacebookKevin’s previous episode on The Fertility Podcast&nbsp;The Fertility Podcast&nbsp;Instagram&nbsp;&nbsp;Kate DaviesInstagram&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this special episode, we wanted to address some of your questions and concerns with regards to coronavirus and what this means for your fertility treatments. So over the next few weeks, we’re bringing in the experts!  First up we chat with Julie Morgan, who like Kate, is a Fertility Nurse Consultant. Julie has been keeping the TTC community up to date by sharing really useful information and updates on her instagram @allaboutinfertility Not all clinics are routinely cancelling treatments. Please check with your clinic to find out what their up to date guidance is. Don’t stop any medication until you have spoken with your clinic. Clinics are open currently and are here to help and advise you during this difficult time. Egg collection does appear to still be going ahead in many cases. To help with social distancing, clinics will be operating slightly differently with phone and video consultations, and face-to-face appointments may be staggered. If you are undergoing a stimulation cycle it is likely (although not in all circumstances) that you will be able to continue with your cycle. If you are newly pregnant it is advised that you self isolate but speak with your clinic for further advice. Clinics who offer egg donation have been advised that patients must not donate if they have recently visited a high-risk country, and must wait for a minimum of 28 days if infected with coronavirus or after being in contact with someone with coronavirus before donating. If you are having treatment abroad, please contact your clinic for further advice and self isolate if required. If you are self-funding your treatment and are required to freeze embryos in what would have been a fresh cycle, it may be that your clinic will not charge you for storage fees. However, there may be costs associated with repeat tests etc on restarting treatment again in a few months. Please bear in mind that we recorded this interview last Friday, and in this ever-changing and dynamic world, it is likely that there may be more recent updates available. Please do check with your clinic for the most up to date information for your individual circumstance. SOCIAL MEDIA Julie Morgan  Instagram  The Fertility Podcast Instagram   Kate Davies  Instagram  &#10;&nbsp;See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Covid-19 and fertility treatmentsWe appreciate given the current crisis you may well be worrying about what covid-19 means for your fertility treatments, and therefore at the beginning of this episode, we give you an update on the current advice.At the moment, there is limited guidance out there, however, this will likely change in the coming days/weeks. Currently, the HFEA recommends that you contact your clinic for advice as each clinic will likely have contingency plans in place. We plan to chat with experts this coming week and will, of course, keep you informed of any developments that relate to fertility treatments.If you are required to self-isolate over the coming weeks, then you can be reassured that The Fertility Podcast will be keeping you entertained. So, make sure you subscribe so as not to miss an episode!Parenthood in MindNext up, Natalie and Kate talk to Julianne Boutaleb, a peri-natal psychologist, Clinical Director, and Founder of the Parenthood in Mind practice. Julianne works with women and couples who have experienced trauma in relation to birth and miscarriage but also with women who suffer from fertility trauma.Typical patients that Julianne works with are couples who have concerns with regard to known genetic issues, couples who are facing assisted conception,&nbsp;couples who have had failed cycles or reproductive injuries, and those contemplating donor conception, surrogacy, or adoption to create or complete their family.Many couples who have previously experienced miscarriage come to Julianne as they have a fear – either physically or emotionally of a miscarriage reoccurring.TokophobiaTokophobia is the fear of being pregnant or giving birth. Tokophobia may occur in women who have never given birth to a child, but it may also affect women who have had prior traumatic pregnancies or birth experiences.&nbsp;Protecting your relationshipCouples who don’t conceive are 3 times more likely to separate or divorce than couples who do conceive.Clinics are starting to support couples more with regard to the emotional impactOften reaching menopause can be a trigger for women who haven’t been successful in conceiving through assisted conception.Julianne helps couples rewrite their ‘happy ever after’ story without children.Fertility Trauma*The term Fertility Trauma helps to highlight that struggling to conceive is a real trauma and this also includes ‘perceived’ trauma.Fertility trauma is not just depression, anxiety, or stress but is your brain going into ‘fight and flight’ mode.SOCIAL MEDIA&nbsp;Julianne Boutaleb&nbsp;InstagramJessica Hepburn&nbsp;Unfortunately, since recording this episode, Jessica’s Pond to Peak Challenge and her ascent of Everest has been canceled due to Covid-19 but she will hopefully be making this journey next year!Natalie Silverman&nbsp;Instagram&nbsp;&nbsp;Kate Davies&nbsp;Instagram&nbsp;*Fertility Trauma explanationThe term ‘reproductive trauma’ was first coined by perinatal psychiatrist Dr....

We all spend A LOT of our time at our place of work of if you freelance, you possibly spend time in and out of workplaces.However it manifests, if you are working it takes up a lot of your time. So when it comes to trying to conceive and struggling&nbsp;- the one thing you really need in place is a supportive workplace.&nbsp;Sadly, this often isn't the case, which is why Natalie has teamed up with two brilliant ladies Becky Kearns and Claire Ingle to create Fertility Matters at work.&nbsp;This episode may seem a big self-indulgent as Natalie interviews Becky and Claire, her partners in crime at Fertility Matters At Work, but please do indulge us just this once as we are on a mission.&nbsp;One step at a time we are looking to change how fertility issues are addressed in the workplace.The motivation behind Fertility Matters At WorkBecky has a background in HR but also experienced fertility treatments and a miscarriage whilst holding down a job and strongly felt that so many things could have been done differently. Becky hears from other women just how stressful it is for women going through fertility treatments and how they have felt that they’ve not been able to speak out, feeling misunderstood and unsupported in the workplace. Becky recently featured in the latest video from Ferring Pharmaceuticals talking about one encounter she had with her boss which you can watch here&nbsp;Claire also has an HR background and felt that she ‘bumbled’ through her IVF treatment, working around appointments and trying not to inconvenience her place of work. This caused Claire so much anxiety and stress and she felt she couldn’t manage both her job and her fertility treatments. Like Becky, Claire felt this could have been handled so differently. Claire also felt that the policy in her workplace was lacking. Natalie met Claire through a mutual friend as Claire was already running a survey on her instagram called IVF at Work&nbsp;Support in the workplaceNatalie shared her experience of not knowing who she could turn to for advice and support within her workplace. Both Becky and Claire noticed that while they were working in HR never once did an employee came to them for support or to understand what they were entitled to. Employees are worried about how they are going to be perceived for openly admitting that they are trying for a baby, and there is the assumption that women who are trying to conceive are not as committed.Advice to employers and employeesTogether they are hoping that they can increase the conversations and narrative surrounding what needs to be thought about from employers and an employees perspective. They have already found that they are getting a huge response on social media and have started gathering examples to use this to inform employers about the issues that women are facing.Natalie, Becky and Claire want to be able to offer advice and tips to empower women to start conversations and challenge their employers to change current policies and strategy. However, they also hope to be able to support employers to aid retention of the workforce and understanding what their generation of workers need.Changing policiesAll organisations will differ on how easily and quickly they can change policy. Natalie, Becky and Claire hope to be able to offer employers assistance with the development and implementation of these policies.Socials:Fertility Matters at Work on InstaGet in touch via email with your positive or negative...

Meet Dr Dean Morbeck, Scientific Director at Fertility Associates in New Zealand and Sunfert International Fertility Centre in Malaysia, which combined have 10 fertility clinics in the two countries.&nbsp;Prior to moving to New Zealand, he was an Associate Professor at the Mayo Clinic for 10 years.&nbsp;He is an internationally recognized expert on quality in the IVF laboratory, having published more than 40 papers, numerous book chapters and is the coeditor of a book that is a practical guide for embryologists. He is taking his passion and expertise for the science of IVF beyond the laboratory to engage with patients with the goal to improve the patient experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;In his spare time, Dean has written many research papers, book chapters and is the co-author of a practical guide for Embryologists.If that wasn’t enough, in 2010 Dean is also starting a Podcast with the aim of improving the patient experience, called "The Fertility Patient Revolution".&nbsp;Look for it in 2020!Single embryo transfer vs MultipleWe interview Dean while he is at the American Society for Reproductive Medicine conference (ARSM) in the US, and he talks about his views on single embryo transfer vs multiple. In the US this is the first year that has seen a decrease in twin rate in both natural pregnancy and IVF.As a clinician, this is the preferred outcome to reduce the risks associated with multiple births. Twin pregnancies result in 8 times the risk of complications to both mother and baby but also an increased financial and time burden once the babies are born. New Zealand has seen less than 10% twin rate overall.&nbsp;The IVF League TablesDean has recently been reviewing the HFEA data for individual clinics in the UK and was surprised to see a number of clinics with high twin rates of 20% or higher. He feels there is a trade-off between clinics desiring high pregnancy rates and therefore an increase in twin pregnancy rate. Dean’s impression is that patients are attracted to clinics high pregnancy rates but may not necessarily take on board the resulting twin pregnancy rate and what this might mean for adverse pregnancy outcomes.Increasing the chances of successIn New Zealand 97% patients receive a single embryo transfer, however in particular clinical situations, women may receive a double embryo transfer. However Dean states that it is a myth that transferring more than one embryo increases the chances of success, you actually have the same or higher by transferring single embryos consecutively. Dean feels that it is critical that patients receive the right information at the right time to help them make informed decisions based on the risks associated with twin pregnancies.&nbsp;Changing the narrativeDean is noticing a sea change globally and in particular in the US, with regards to an increase in single embryo transfers. This increase is impart, as a result of greater success with frozen embryo cycles.&nbsp;Dean is also seeing more focus globally on supporting the patient and in particular supporting the couple and their relationship. Managing the expectations of a couples treatment is also vital, particularly with regards to the success rates of an initial cycle.The multiple births foundation - as referred to in this episode&nbsp;SOCIAL MEDIA:&nbsp;Dean Morbeck:InstagramFacebookLinkedINThe...