IVF Real Talk
IVF Real Talk is a weekly podcast hosted by Lucy and Yaelle, two friends who have personal experience with IVF. Each episode features honest conversations with people about their fertility journeys, as well as interviews with doctors and specialists. The show aims to create a supportive space for anyone navigating infertility, reminding listeners they are not alone. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Episodes
EP 97 | You Asked, We Answered: The Season Finale
After another huge season of IVF Real Talk, Lucy and Yaelleare sitting down together in their new studio for a more personal episode, answering your questions, addressing a fertility dilemma and having a proper catch-up.The podcast will then be taking a short three-week break,but don’t worry, Lucy and Yaelle will be back on Monday, 19 October with plenty more IVF Real Talk.Thank you for being part
EP 96 | Could Your Diet Be Affecting Your Fertility? With Clinical Nutritionist Monique Cormack
Clinical Nutritionist Monique Cormack joins us for thisepisode to share her own fertility journey, including her experience with hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA), a condition where the body can stop ovulating when it isn’t getting enough energy to meet its needs, often in the context ofunder-eating, excessive exercise or stress. Her experience completely changed the way she understoodnutrition, fertil
EP 95 | Cancer & Fertility: Understanding Fertility Preservation with Dr Ben Kroon
A cancer diagnosis brings countless decisions, but oneconversation is often missed: how treatment could impact your future fertility.In this episode, Monash IVF fertility specialist Dr Ben Kroon explains everything you need to know about fertility preservation before starting cancer treatment. We explore the difference between fertility preservation and elective sperm, egg or embryo freezing, how
EP 94 | Am I over reacting !? Infertility Addition
We’re reading YOUR fertility stories and asking the question… are we overreacting, or are we completely justified? From unfollowing a fertility clinic because of a post that rubbed you the wrong way, to someone assuming you can pick the gender of your baby because you’re doing IVF…When you’re on hormones, going through TTC or infertility, sometimes it’s hard to know if we’re overreacting or if peo
EP 93 | Genetic Testing 101: What It Is, Who It's For, and When to Start with Dr Tamara Hunter
Genetics can feel like one of the most confusing parts of IVF. But having the right information can be empowering, helping you make informed decisions for your future family.In this episode, CREI fertility specialist Dr Tamara Hunter from Monash IVF joins Lucy and Yaelle to answer the most common questions about genetic testing in fertility treatment. We unpack who genetic testing is for, the diff
EP 92 | Reading Our IVF Diaries We Never Thought We'd Read Out Loud
Lucy and Yaelle open the pages of their personal IVF journals and read back the entries they wrote while they were actually going through their fertility journeys. From the emotional exhaustion of treatment to the reality offailed cycles, they share what it was really like to keep going when they weren’t sure how much more they had left to give. They revisit the moments when hope felt impossible,
EP 91 | Fertility Care Wherever You Are: A Regional Care Conversation
This week we’re joined by Regional Nurse Team Leader, Janefrom Monash IVF, to talk about fertility care and the unique experiences of regional patients receiving treatment outside major cities. From travel, monitoring, and treatment logistics to emotional support and access to specialist care, we explore how fertility care works for regional patients and hat support is available. We also discuss c
EP 90 | You Thought Part 1 Was Bad... More Pregnancy Announcements Gone Wrong
For anyone navigating infertility, IVF or pregnancy loss, pregnancy announcements can bring a mix of emotions, and the way they're delivered can make all the difference.After the response to Part 1, the IVF Real Talk community had even more stories to share... and once again, you delivered. In Part 2, we're reacting to another round of awkward, weird, insensitive and completely unbelievabl
EP 89 | Finding Your Own Path to Parenthood: Emily & Temica Gielnik’s Donor Conception Journey with Dr Ben Kroon
In this episode Matildas forward Emily Gielnik and her wife Temica Gielnik sit down with their fertility doctor Dr Ben Kroon for an honest conversation about their path to parenthood through IUI, IVF, and donor conception.They open up about navigating failed IUI rounds, Temica’s unexpected endometriosis diagnosis along the way, and the emotional toll of balancing fertility treatment while spending
EP 88 | Pregnancy Announcement Dilemmas: Your Stories Had Us Speechless
For anyone navigating infertility, IVF or pregnancy loss, pregnancy announcements can bring a mix of emotions, the way they're delivered can make all the difference. In this episode, we asked the IVF Real Talk community to share the most awkward, weird, strange and downright unbelievable pregnancy announcement stories they've experienced, and you definitely delivered. From announcements ma
EP 87 | Not Ready for IVF? Understanding Your Fertility Treatment Options with Dr Juliette Koch
If you're trying to conceive and wondering what your options are before IVF, this episode is for you.Lucy and Yaelle are joined by fertility specialist Dr Juliette Koch from Repromed to unpack the different fertility treatments available and explain how specialists determine the right pathway for each patient. From ovulation induction and timed intercourse through to IUI, IVF, and ICSI, we exp
EP 86 | The Ultimate IVF Hacks Episode
After asking listeners to share their best IVF hacks and tips, the hosts dive into the responses, discussing the practical, the surprising, and the heartwarming ideas that helped people through treatment.Along the way, they chat about which tips are backed by experience, which ones simply make the journey more manageable, and why every IVF experience is different.Whether you're preparing for y
EP 85 | Embryology Explained: Inside the IVF Lab
In this episode, Professor Deirdre Zander-Fox, Chief Scientific Officer at Monash IVF Group talks about all things embryology and what happens behind the scenes in the lab. From fertilisation and embryo development to understanding attrition rates, embryo quality, and why some embryos stop developing, we unpack one of the most anxious parts of the IVF journey. We also discuss the emotional side o
EP 84 | IVF Brain Is a Thing (And It’s Not Just You)
In this episode, Lucy and Yaelle explore something many people experience during fertility treatment but rarely hear talked about: IVF brain. From forgetfulness and brain fog to emotional overwhelm and mental fatigue, they unpack why it happens, including the impact of hormones, stress, and the emotional load of treatment. They also discuss what it can feel like to navigate everyday life, work, an
EP 83 | The Male Fertility Wake-Up Call Couples Need
This week for Men’s Health Week, we’re joined by Dr Kishani Kannangara from Monash IVF to talk all things male infertility.From understanding male factor infertility and when to get tested, to the lifestyle factors that can impact sperm health, this episode is packed with important conversations we don’t hear enough about.We also chat about how to support your partner through a male factor diagnos
EP 82 | Hey Friends & Family of Someone Trying to Conceive… Listen to This
Hey friends and family of someone trying to conceive, this episode is for you.Lucy & Yaelle open up about the inner thoughts, emotional triggers and hidden struggles that can come with infertility and IVF. From pregnancy announcements and baby showers to everyday comments people don’t realise can hurt, this honest conversation gives insight into what your loved one may be silently carrying. A
EP 81 | Navigating the IVF Noise with Dr Dhanushi Fernando
This week we’re joined by Dr Dhanushi Fernando from Monash IVF to talk about navigating the overwhelming world of fertility advice and IVF information. From social media trends and online fertility advice to knowing when to stop researching and trust your specialist, we unpack how to stay informed without feeling completely overwhelmed.We also chat about comparison, family expectations, and protec
EP 80 | The Emotional Toll of Infertility
This week we’re joined by Claire Byrne, Senior Psychologist at Monash IVF, to talk about the emotional side of fertility treatment and why emotional wellbeing is such an important part of the IVF journey. From anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and feeling like you’re “not coping,” to navigating relationship challenges, family opinions, and the unexpected emotional weight of treatment, we unpack the rea
EP 79 | I Still Haven’t Spoken to My Sister-in-Law After What Happened at Her Baby Shower…
In this episode, the hosts read out listeners’ juicy baby shower dilemmas and share their honest reactions and relatable experiences. From family drama and awkward moments to the emotional reality of attending baby showers while trying to conceive.This conversation is raw, relatable and one so many women will understand.DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as th
EP 78 | Fertility Unfiltered: The Questions You Really Want Answered with Dr Ying Li
In this episode, Dr Ying Li, fertility specialist at Genea, joins us for a no-filter conversation covering the topics everyone is thinking about.We talk through when to seek help, how much lifestyle really matters, and why male fertility is still not talked about enough. We also unpack the myths patients are hearing online, and what’s actually fact vs fiction when it comes to fertility.We dive int
EP 77 | A Wearable for Fertility… Meet OTO and Monday Fertility
In this episode, we’re joined by an IVF nurse Fran from Monday Fertility to talk about OTO, a wearable designed to track stress, sleep, and 50+ biomarkers.Fran breaks down how it works, what it actually measures, and where it might fit into a real-life fertility journey.We also share practical tips on navigating sleep, the two-week wait, and more, because it’s not just about the data, it’s about
EP 76 | Talking All Things Egg Freezing with Dr Anthony Marren
In this episode, Dr Anthony Marren, Sydney CBD Medical Director at Genea Fertility, joins us to talk through egg freezing, what it involves, who it’s for, and what to consider before making the decision.We discuss how age plays a role, what the process can look like in reality, and the key differences between freezing eggs and embryos. We also unpack the risks of putting it off, along with some br
EP 75 | IVF Egg Retrieval Day, What Really Happens!?
Egg collection is one of the biggest milestones in IVF and also one of the most overwhelming. In this episode, we break it all down in a simple, honest way from injections and trigger, to the procedure itself, to what recovery actually feels like.We also share the emotional highs and lows that come with it and the things we wish someone had told us beforehand. Whether you're about to go throug
EP 74 | Strength Through It All: Sarah’s Journey with Crohn’s, IVF & Surrogacy
Sarah was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at just 13, a moment that would shape so much of her life. In this episode, she opens up about living with chronic illness, undergoing surgery and having a stoma, and the unexpected challenges she faced on her journey to motherhood.Through IVF, loss, and ultimately surrogacy, Sarah’s story is raw, honest, and incredibly powerful. This conversation is a remi
EP 73 | Fertility Dilemmas Part Two, The Decisions That Keep You Up at Night
In Part Two, the hosts continue the conversation around real fertility dilemmas sent in by listeners. They explore the emotional toll of staying or starting over and unpack the moments that feel impossible to choose between. These stories highlight the mental load of infertility and the quiet decisions happening behind the scenes, ones that can feel just as heavy as the journey itself.The podcast
EP | 72 Listener Fertility Dilemmas are back: IVF, Avoiding Pregnant Friends & Everything In Between
In this episode, the hosts open the floor to fertility dilemmas sent in by listeners. From IVF decisions and the stress of changing clinics to the pressure felt from family members, they talk through the real-life situations people face while trying to conceive. These stories reflect the emotional complexities of infertility and the many challenges people experience along the way.DISCLAIMER: pleas
EP 71 | We Answer the Listeners Questions, Nothing Was Off Limits!
In this episode, we’re opening the floor to your questions and sharing more about ourselves. From our IVF journeys and even the times we’ve disagreed, we get real about what it’s like running this podcast together, and how friendship, honesty, and a little laughter keep us going.DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal
EP 70 | IVF and the Power of Community
Infertility can feel incredibly isolating. In this episode, we share how we found the IVF community, where it actually exists, and how it completely changed our journey.From feeling alone and misunderstood to finding people who truly get it, we talk about the online spaces, friendships, and unexpected connections that carried us through some of our hardest moments.If you’ve ever wondered where you
EP 69 | Endometriosis vs Adenomyosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
This week, we’re having an essential conversation about endometriosis and adenomyosis, two conditions that affect so many people, yet are still widely misunderstood, underdiagnosed, and dismissed.In recognition of Endometriosis and Adenomyosis Awareness Month, we’re joined by Dr Devini Ameratunga https://www.instagram.com/dr_dev_ameratunga/ a board-certified Fertility Specialist, Medical Director
EP 68 | Laparoscopy, Our Experience, Tips, Hospital Bag, Recovery & Do We Regret It?!
Laparoscopy can be a huge, overwhelming decision, whether it’s suggested for fertility reasons, endometriosis diagnosis, or to help manage ongoing pain. And if they’re being honest… Lucy and Yaelle were so scared.In this episode, Lucy and Yaelle share their full laparoscopy experience, from the anxiety leading up to surgery day to recovery at home. They talk openly about why they choose to have it
EP 67 | Unexplained Infertility with Dr Kokum
Being told “everything looks normal” can feel anything but reassuring, especially when you’re still not getting pregnant.In this episode, we gently explore unexplained infertility with Dr Kokum, a fertility specialist from Melbourne IVF, who also understands this diagnosis on a deeply personal level after walking through her own journey with unexplained infertility.We talk about what unexplained i
EP 66 | Your Most Unhinged Fertility Stories!
Lucy and Yaelle are back! In their first episode of 2026, the hosts ease back into things with a check-in on where they’ve been.Then, things get a little unhinged.Listeners were asked to send in their most outrageous ,unexpected, and unforgettable fertility moments, and they absolutely delivered. From laugh-out-loud chaos to stories that made everyone pause and take a breath, the hosts read throug
EP 65 | Wrapped! Last Episode Of 2025
For the season finale, and the last episode of the year, we’re looking back at the moments that shaped this season. We chat about the episode we’d delete if we could, the one that almost didn’t make it to air, and what really goes on behind the scenes.A massive thank you to our listeners and sponsors. we’re taking a break and will be back in the new year!DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical pr
EP 64 | Calming the Chaos: Jen Edmonds on Stress, Regulation & Her Personal Journey
In this powerful episode, we sit down with Jen Edmonds todive deep into stress, nervous system regulation, and the transformative turning points that reshaped her life. Jen opens up about her own fertility journey and the moment she realised stress had completely taken over, the signsshe ignored, and the breakthroughs that sparked her healing.We explore how chronic stress shows up in the body, why
The Miracle Mini Series: Growing, Learning, Parenting: Our Current Update
Today Lucy and Yaelle are giving you a real-time update: how they are navigating food, what sleep currently looks like with toodlers, and how our parenting style continues to evolve. No perfect routines, no expert advice, just our experience, what’s working, and what we’re still figuring out our new IVF mums
EP 63 | A Day in the Life of a Fertility Specialist with Dr Charley Zheng
We asked Dr Charley to take us through every part of his day, yes, including how many coffees he needs to survive it.He tells us when he starts, when he finishes, whether lunch is a myth, and all the chaos that happens behind the scenes of fertility care. It’s the nitty-gritty no one ever talks about, and it’ll make you appreciate your specialist even more.DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical
The Miracle Mini Series: Trimester 4
In this episode, Lucy and Yaelle look at the fourth trimester and what those early weeks were really like from recovering after birth, getting the hang of feeding, adjusting to life at home, and working out new routines. We share what helped, what surprised us, and how we found our way through those first days of becoming mums.Trigger warning: This series includes discussions about successful IVF
EP 62 | Denied IVF: Ainara’s Fight as an HIV Positive Woman in Ireland
Ainara joins us to share her powerful story of being denied IVF in Ireland solely because she is HIV positive, a decision rooted in outdated laws, not modern science. We unpack the misconceptions, the medical truths, and the emotional toll of being told she cannot access fertility treatment in her own country. This episode shines a light on stigma, inequality, and the reality for people living wit
The Miracle Mini Series: Lucys IVF Birth Story
After years of trying and the emotional journey of IVF, Lucy finally met her little miracle, Alexia. In this episode, she shares every detail of her birth: the long three-day labour, all the things she did to help labour come naturally. With her baby arriving one day before her planned induction and right on her due date, Lucy reflects on the anticipation, the challenges, and the ultimate joy of h
EP 61 | Unsolicited Fertility Advice: Our Pettiest Replies
Today we’re diving into the comments, advice and unwanted opinions every couple trying to conceive seems to collect. From the classic “just relax” to annoying advice, oversharing success stories, and those deeply intrusive questions, we’ve heard it all.We share our own experiences, what we wish we said in the moment, and the ultimate trio of responses we’ve crafted: a nice reply, a deflective repl
The Miracle Mini Series: Yaelle's IVF Birth Story
Yaelle shares her beautiful and empowering birth story, a moment that brought her long three-year IVF journey full circle. After three heartbreaking miscarriages, Yaelle opens up about finally welcoming her miracle baby, Olivia. She talks about her decision to have a c-section, how she overcame her deep fear of birth, and the incredible experience of having her own IVF doctor, Dr Charley, there to
EP 60 | Your Best Start, Preconception Health and Fertility with Dr Hector Georgiou
This episode is your ultimate guide to preconception health, what it really means, when to start preparing, and how to get your body (and mind!) ready.We’re joined by Dr Hector Georgiou, Fertility Specialist from Melbourne IVF, to break down everything you should know before trying to conceive. We cover it all: from key health areas like nutrition, sleep, and exercise, to fertility testing, sperm
The Mini Miracle Series: Our Successful IVF Pregnancies, From First Trimester to Third
After years of trying to get pregnant, we finally made it through IVF. This mini-series takes you inside our pregnancies from the first pink line to each passing week. We share the highs, the fears, and everything in between: symptoms, sleep, cravings, doctor appointments, and the emotional rollercoaster of each trimester. Yaelle opens up about navigating pregnancy after loss, while Lucy shares th
EP 59 | Fertility Dilemmas Are Back!
Lucy and Yaelle are diving into all the trickyquestions and real-life scenarios, from leftover embryos and untestable ones, to navigating pregnancy after miscarriage, ovulation induction, and so much more. No topic is off-limits. DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medicalprofessional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This specific episode is relating to
The Mini Miracle Series: The Two Week Wait That Worked
Two weeks that felt like forever. The waiting, the overthinking, the symptom spotting, and the constant swing between hope and fear. In this mini-series, Lucy and Yaelle open up about our two very different experiences: Yaelle, holding her breath after going through prior miscarriages, and Lucy, feeling everything for the very first time. They share how they coped, what was running through our min
EP 58 | Our Spiciest Episode Yet: The Fertility Queen Herself, Dr Lynn Burmeister, Joins the Podcast
Get ready, this one’s a big one! We’re joined by Dr Lynn Burmeister, the fertility queen herself and founder of No.1 Fertility, for one of our spiciest and most insightful episodes yet. Dr Lynn doesn’t hold back as we dive into what’s trending in IVF treatments, how to boost sperm health, why perfectly normal embryos sometimes don’t implant, and the growing role of holistic therapies. Real talk,
The Mini Miracle Series: Our Successful IVF Transfers
In this mini-series, Our Success IVF Transfers, Lucy and Yaelle open up about the transfer that finally worked. From the lead-up and the emotions leading into the day, to the mindset they carried and the quiet moments of hope,they share it all. Did it feel like it was going to be the one? Maybe. This episode captures the anticipation, the rituals, and the energy of the day that changed everythingT
EP 57 | Courtney’s Story: Dual Factor Infertility, PCOS, OHSS & a First-Round IVF Success
Courtney joins the podcast to open up about the many layers of her fertility journey. What began with her husband’s male factor infertility diagnosis quickly became more complex when Courtney discovered she had PCOS while preparing for IVF. The process wasn’t easy, she experienced OHSS and the physical and emotional toll that comes with it, but against all odds, their very first IVF cycle brought
The Mini Miracle Series: Our Successful Egg Collections
Today’s episode is sponsored by arxi, nail your preconception with OvaGold Shop here: https://fromarxi.com/products/ovagold and follow along on socials at https://www.instagram.com/from.arxi Use the codeIVF10 for $10 off your first order.Welcome to Our Mini Miracle Series, where Lucy and Yaelle open up about the IVF cycles that finally worked. In this first episode, they share the emotional and un
EP 56 | What We Wish We Knew Before Starting IVF
Lucy and Yaelle get real about all the things no one tells you before starting IVF, what appointments and medications are really like, the truths that surprised them the most, and the mental load it takes on your body and relationships. This is the episode they wish they had before their first cycle.DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based o
EP 55 | Banking Embryos and Holding on to Hope: Trish’s IVF Story
Trish joins us right in the thick of her IVF journey to share what it’s really like when things don’t go as planned. From not responding well to medications, to facing the emotional rollercoaster of low egg numbers and embryo attrition, Trish opens up about the mental game it takes to keep going. She also talks about her dream of one day having two children, the challenge of balancing IVF with wor
EP 54 | Alyce Returns: Hysterectomy, Healing, and the Gift of Embryo Adoption
Alyce returns to the podcast to share the next chapter of her journey with honesty and courage. This time, she opens up about facing a hysteroscopy and what led her to make the deeply personal decision to give her embryos up for adoption.Together, we talk through the emotions, the hopes, and the heart behind these choices. Alyce’s story is one of resilience, selflessness, and love, a reminder that
EP 53 | Hope, Loss & Next Steps: Bianca Jade’s Fertility Journey
In this episode, we sit down with Bianca Jade, a TV host and wellness personality from New York, who is courageously in the midst of her fertility journey.Bianca opens up about freezing her eggs in her late 30s, experiencing two natural pregnancies that sadly ended in miscarriage in her mid-40s, and going through one IUI and three IVF transfers, with one precious embryo still remaining. She shares
EP 52 | IVF Nurse Jordan’s Guide: Your Questions, Answered
Today’s episode is sponsored by arxi, nail yourpreconception with OvaGold Shop here: https://fromarxi.com/products/ovagold andfollow along on socials at https://www.instagram.com/from.arxi Use the codeIVF10 for $10 off your first order.Ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes of your IVF journey? In this episode, we sit down with Jordan, an experienced IVF nurse manager, who walks us th
EP 51 | IVF Doctor Shopping: Finding the Right Specialist for You
Today’s episode is sponsored by arxi, nail your preconception with OvaGold Shop here: https://fromarxi.com/products/ovagold and follow along on socials at https://www.instagram.com/from.arxi Use the code IVF10 for $10 off your first order.Choosing an IVF specialist can feel overwhelming, after all, you’re not just picking a doctor, you’re choosing someone to guide you through one of the most emoti
EP 50 | The Shifting Age of Motherhood: A Conversation on Fertility, Choice and the Future of Parenthood with Dr Joe Sgroi
Fertility rates for women over 40 have nearly doubled in the last 30 years, but age is still the biggest factor when it comes to conception. In this episode, Dr Joseph Sgroi unpacks how fertility really changes over time, the role of lifestyle, and what women should know if they’re planning children later in life. We also dive into egg freezing, Australia’s new egg freezing calculator, the truth b
EP 49 | Keri’s IVF Journey: Unexplained Infertility and No Answers
In today’s episode, we sit down with Keri who began her fertility journey at just 25 young, hopeful, and completely unaware of how complex things would become. Despite running every test imaginable, the results always came back “normal.” But deep down, she knew something wasn’t right.She opens up about the emotional toll of unexplained infertility, the shock of an ectopic pregnancy during IVF, and
EP 48 | We’re Back! Listeners Fertility Dilemmas – Part 2
Lucy and Yaelle are back with Part 2 of your fertility dilemmas, and this time they are going even deeper.In this episode, they unpack the big, messy, emotional questions so many of us carry: When is enough, enough? What do you do when your doctor isn’t listening or, even worse, falls asleep? How do you trust your gut when all the tests say you’re fine?The hosts don’t just read out your messages;
EP 47 | Season Finale: Listener Dilemmas Answered
For the final episode of the season, Lucy & Yaelle are handing the mic over to their listeners. This one is personal, the audience trusted them with their dilemmas, and they’ve taken them to heart.They’re unpacking some of the biggest emotional hurdles shared by the community: the heartbreak and hope of the two-week wait, what it feels like when a partner isn’t quite on the same page, how to c
EP 46 | After IVF Fails: Emma’s 7-Year Fertility Journey and Success with Traditional Chinese Medicine | DQ Alpha Full Match, High NKC's
Emma spent seven years in the depths of one of the hardest journeys, trying to become a mother. After seeing a fertility specialist and six months of ovulation induction with no success, she was told she’d need IVF. Reluctantly, she agreed, believing it was her only hope. But after multiple heartbreaking failed IVF rounds, Emma was left shattered, grieving the dream that felt so far out of reach.
EP 45 | Simone Was 24 When She Was Told She Was in Early Menopause | IVF, Egg Donor, Graves Disease
At just 24 years old, Simone’s world shifted when she came off the pill and was told she was going through early menopause. What followed was something she never expected to face so young. In this episode, Simone shares how she navigated the shock of her diagnosis, processed the need for an egg donor, and how a remarkable friend, who crossed her path at just the right time, stepped forward with a
EP 44 | Elizabeth Carr: Life as the First US IVF Baby & What She Wants You to Know
In this heartwarming and honest conversation, we sit down with Elizabeth Car, the very first baby born through IVF in the United States. Elizabeth shares the incredible story of how her parents made history, what it was like growing up with the world watching, and how she turned that spotlight into a lifelong mission to educate and advocate.We talk about the challenges her family faced, the pressu
EP 43 | International Surrogacy Unpacked: What Intended Parents Need to Know
Considering surrogacy abroad? This episode is your guide to navigating the complex world of international surrogacy. We break down what intended parents need to know, from choosing the right country and avoiding common pitfalls, to understanding the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ families.We chat with Olga from The Surrogacy Insider, an independent surrogacy consultant who supports intended par
EP 42 | Patient vs Doctor: We ask our Fertility Specialist Dr Charley Zheng all of our burning unanswered questions
We’re back with our trusted Fertility Specialist, Dr. Charley Zheng, someone who has supported both of us through our own fertility journeys, for a deeply honest and, at times, controversial conversation.In this episode, we ask Charley all the burning, unanswered questions we’ve been holding onto, the ones that so many patients think about but rarely get to discuss openly with their doctor.Togethe
EP 41 | Your IVF Success: Understanding Clinic Success Rates and Your Personal IVF Estimator with Professor Georgina Chambers
In this episode, we’re joined by Professor Georgina Chambers, Director of the National Perinatal Epidemiology and Statistics Unit at UNSW Sydney, to discuss the award winning YourIVFSuccess website. Professor Chambers explains how this government-funded platform is Australia’s first and only independent source of IVF clinic success rates to help bring transparency to patients on their fertility jo
EP 40 | Tiny Miracles: Inside the World of an Embryologist
What really happens in the lab where life begins? In this episode, we sit down with a senior embryologist from Genea, Sanj, a passionate and dedicated embryologist, to explore the science, emotion, and wonder behind fertility treatments and early human development. From handling precious embryos to navigating the ethical and emotional terrain of IVF, Sanj shares powerful insights, unexpected chall
EP 39 | Still Fighting, Still Hoping with Ilina from Big Miracles
The episode everyone has been asking and waiting for. You may know Ilina from Big Miracles, but today, you’ll hear the story behind the scenes, in this intimate and heartfelt conversation, Ilina opens up about her IVF journey: the quiet moments of waiting, the private heartbreaks, and the flickers of hope that kept her going. She reflects on what it means to live in limbo, to grieve and hope at th
Ep 38 | What to Know About IVF, Secondary Infertility & Seeing a Specialist
Trying to conceive isn’t always straightforward and when terms like “unexplained infertility” or “secondary infertility” come into play, it’s easy to feel lost. In this candid and empowering episode, Dr. Simon Nothman a top fertility specialist, joins us to break down what these terms actually mean, what the journey to answers can look like, and why fertility care is about so much more than just I
EP 37 | Bree & Lou’s Journey | IVF, IUI, Same-Sex
Bree and Lou, a same-sex couple, share their deeply personal journey through IUI and IVF. What began with optimism quickly shifted when they realised the clinic saw them as an “easy case” a label that didn’t reflect the complexity of their experience. From navigating challenges in their relationship to starting new treatment interstate, their story highlights the unique experiences LGBTQ+ couples
EP 36 | The Rise of Solo Motherhood by Choice: Empowering Women Through IVF with Dr Violet Kieu
In this episode, we delve into the rising trend of solo IVF, where individuals are choosing to build families independently. Dr. Violet Kieu Fertility specialist and Clinical Director at Melbourne IVF and an expert in reproductive medicine, unpacks the societal, emotional, and practical factors driving this shift. From donor options to legal considerations, we explore the landscape of solo parenth
EP 35 | IVF Abroad: What You Need to Know with Blanka from Genitrix IVF
In this episode, Blanka, an IVF Patient Care Coordinator at Genitrix IVF in Prague, provides clear, expert advice on what to expect when seeking IVF treatment abroad. Prague has become a leading destination for fertility care, offering high-quality services at competitive prices. Blanka discusses everything from the process of IVF treatment and how to prepare for your trip, to the important factor
EP 34 | IVF Extras Explained: A Patient’s Guide to Informed Choices with Dr Sarah Lensen
Research fellow Dr Sarah Lensen joins this episode to discuss the launch of Evidence-based IVF, a new website developed by University of Melbourne researchers to help IVF patients make informed decisions about optional treatment add-ons. Dr Sarah Lensen, who leads the initiative, discusses how the site uses high-quality research to clarify the benefits, risks, and costs of commonly offered extras,
EP 33 | Reflections & Signs
Lucy and Yaelle reflect on their IVF experiences—what they wish they’d done differently, and what they learned along the way. They also answer listener-submitted questions about their journeys.This episode is sponsored by WHEN FertilityCheck your egg count at home with a simple finger-prick test. Get fast, clear insights into your fertility health—on your terms.Use discount code REALTALK20 for 20%
EP 32 | Does the Pill Affect Your Fertility? When is it Time to Get A Second Opinion? And Can I Have My Coffee? with Dr. I-Ferne Tan, Reproductive Surgeon & Fertility Specialist
In today’s episode, we’re thrilled to be joined by Dr. I-Ferne Tan, a fertility specialist with a patient-centered approach who has personally navigated her own fertility journey. Dr. Tan answers your burning questions, including:IVF dos and don’ts, How fertile are we really?What tests should be done before considering IVF?Are there any long-term effects from multiple IVF cycles?...and much more!T
EP 31 | Big Miracles: Billie's Journey of Being Born Without a Uterus and Her Sister Shannen's Gift of Surrogacy
Big Miracles - Billie joins us to share her emotional journey of discovering, at the age of 12, that she was born with a rare condition called MRKH, which meant she was born without a uterus. in this heartfelt conversation, Billie opens up about the emotional challenges she faced growing up feeling different and navigating life with a condition that meant she couldn’t carry her own baby. One of th
EP 30 | A Controversial Talk with A/Prof Dr. Michael Cooper on Endometriosis, IVF & Fertility
In this enlightening and controversial episode, A/Prof Dr. Michael Cooper, a leading endometriosis surgeon and fertility doctor with over 30 years of experience, joins the podcast to take a deep dive into the complex world of endometriosis, IVF and fertility. Dr. Cooper is asked some pressing questions, including:- Should surgery or IVF be the first step when facing infertility ?- How can one prev
EP 29 | Male Factor with The Infertility Man
In this episode, we speak to Jon, known on socials as The Infertility Man, who shares his personal story of dealing with infertility after being diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2011. Jon opens up about how the diagnosis and its aftermath deeply affected him.Jon talks about undergoing two microTESE (microsurgical testicular sperm extraction) procedures and the emotional toll they took on him.Jo
EP 28 | Jo & Adrian's Journey | IVF, Recurrent miscarriages, partial DQ alpha match, the immune protocol, ovarian PRP, septum
Jo and Adrian join the podcast to share their IVF journey, which began with an overwhelming sense of uncertainty, as the cause of their struggles remained unexplained despite numerous attempts and treatments. After multiple miscarriages, they both found themselves navigating a maze of doctors, specialists, and testing, yet answers remained elusive. The emotional toll was immense, and the fear of n
EP 27 | McDonalds Fries for IVF Transfer!?!?
We sit down with Stef, a fertility dietitian & nutritionist, to dive deep into all things fertility nutrition! From her own egg freezing journey to answering YOUR burning questions like: Does eating McDonald's fries after an IVF transfer really help? Are Brazil nuts, pomegranates, and pineapple cores fertility superfoods? What supplements are a MUST for fertility? Foods and drinks to avoid whi
EP 26 | Talking Endometriosis with Excision Surgeon Dr. Mikhail Sarofim
In today’s episode, we are joined by A/Prof. Mikhail Sarofim, an excision surgeon who is passionate about women’s health. We have an open discussion, sharing some of our own experiences living with endometriosis, while also asking Professor Sarofim questions that the listeners have sent in, such as: Excision vs. ablation surgery? What is silent endometriosis? Where is the strangest place you have
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