IVF Real Talk

Lucy and Yaelle

Welcome to IVF Real Talk a weekly podcast hosted by Lucy and Yaelle, two friends who’ve been through IVF . Each week they share honest conversations with real people about their fertility journeys, alongside insights from leading doctors and specialists. IVF Real Talk is a safe space for anyone navigating infertility, reminding you that you’re not alone on this journey.

Disclaimer: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences.

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21 episodes
Updated Yesterday
Explicit

Episodes21

Newest first

Yesterday · 47 min
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 unbelievable pregnancy announcement stories sent in by our listeners. From family gatherings and workplace surprises to comments that left people speechless, these are real experiences that highlight just how much thought and compassion can matter when sharing pregnancy news. Whether you've experienced infertility yourself or simply want to better understand how to support someone who has, this episode is an honest conversation about empathy, timing and the lasting impact our words can have. This episode is proudly sponsored by Monash IVF. Monash IVF is here to help patients understand their options, feel informed, and decide what’s right for them. Visit ⁠https://monashivf.com/ivfrealtalk/⁠ to speak with an experienced fertility nurse and take your next step with confidence today. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast⁠ Email: ⁠ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
July 26 · 1 hr 8 min
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 periods of time apart while Emily was playing for Monterrey in Mexico. Emily also shares the guilt she experienced from not always being physically present during parts of the journey. Together, they speak candidly about the deeply personal decision to choose a known donor, how they both came to feel aligned in that choice, and why creating their family in a way that felt special, intentional, and meaningful was so important to them. This episode is a raw and heartfelt conversation aboutfertility, partnership, grief, resilience, and finding your own path to parenthood, one that will make so many listeners feel less alone. This episode is proudly sponsored by Monash IVF. At Monash IVF, donor treatment options support a wide range of patients, including LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples, solo parents, and people navigating medical or genetic factors. Their experienced teams provide clear information, coordinated donor pathways, and compassionate care with an understanding that every family looks different. To learn more, visit https://monashivf.com/ivfrealtalk/ You can find Dr Ben Kroon here: https://www.instagram.com/drbenkroon/ Emily and Temica’s socials Emily Gielnik (@emilygielnik) • Instagram photos and videosTemica Sayer (@temicagielnik) • Instagram photos and videos DISCLAIMER: Please refer to your medical professional for medical advice, as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
July 19 · 54 min
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 made at work and family gatherings to unexpected conversations and moments thatcaught people completely off guard, we're reacting to your real-life stories and discussing why some announcements can be so difficult for those experiencing infertility. These are your stories, your experiences. And trust us... some of them are awkward, weird, strange and completely beyond what we expected. This episode is proudly sponsored by Repromed. Repromed understands fertility treatment isn't one-size-fits-all, and understanding your options is often the first step forward. Visit ⁠ https://repromed.com.au/ivfrealtalk/ to speak with an experienced fertility nurse and take your next step with confidence today. DISCLAIMER: Please refer to your medical professional for medical advice, as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast⁠ Email: ⁠ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com⁠
July 11 · 1 hr
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 explore the treatments that often come before IVF, what they involve, and who may benefit from them. We also discuss the HyCoSy test and the treatment options that aren't talked about nearly enough. Whether you're at the beginning of your fertility journey, considering your next steps, or simply looking to better understand the treatment landscape, this episode offers expert insights to help you make informed decisions. This episode is proudly sponsored by Repromed. Repromed understands fertility treatment isn't one-size-fits-all, and understanding your options is often the first step forward. Visit ⁠https://repromed.com.au/ivfrealtalk/ to speak with an experienced fertility nurse and take your next step with confidence today. DISCLAIMER: Please refer to your medical professional for medical advice, as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast⁠ Email: ⁠ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com⁠
July 5 · 28 min
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 your first cycle or you're well into your fertility journey, this episode is packed with real life advice, honest conversations, and plenty of reassurance from people who truly understand what IVF is like. This episode is proudly sponsored by Monash IVF. Monash IVF is here to help patients understand their options, feel informed, and decide what’s right for them. Visit https://monashivf.com/ivfrealtalk/ to speak with an experienced fertility nurse and take your next step with confidence today. DISCLAIMER: Please refer to your medical professional for medical advice, as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
June 28 · 52 min
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 of the post-collection period and the support patients need through this stage. If you're in that nervous waiting period, this episode will give you clarity and reassurance about the science and work happening behind the scenes and what it means for your cycle. This episode is proudly sponsored by Monash IVF. Visit https://monashivf.com/ivfrealtalk/ to speak with an experienced fertility nurse and take your next step with confidence today. DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠Clickhere⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠Clickhere⁠⁠⁠ Email:⁠⁠⁠⁠ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com⁠
June 20 · 48 min
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, and relationships while struggling to stay focused and mentally present. If you've ever walked into a room and forgotten why, found it hard to concentrate, or felt emotionally and mentally exhausted during IVF, this episode offers reassurance, validation, and the reminder that you're not alone. This episode is proudly sponsored by Repromed. At Repromed, patients are cared for by highly experienced fertility doctors who work closely with small, dedicated care teams. That continuity means people are listened to and supported at every stage of their journey. Search https://repromed.com.au/ivfrealtalk/ to speak with an experienced fertility nurse and take your next step with confidence today. DISCLAIMER: Please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠Clickhere⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠Clickhere⁠⁠⁠ Email:⁠⁠⁠⁠ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com⁠
June 14 · 51 min
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 diagnosis and why infertility should never be seen as just a “female issue.”  This episode is proudly sponsored by Monash IVF. At Monash IVF, they see fertility as a shared journey. Their specialists take the time to explain male fertility clearly, without judgement or blame, and support both partners through testing, diagnosis and next steps. Visit ⁠www.monashivf.com/ivfrealtalk⁠ to speak with a fertility nurse and take your next step with confidence today. ⁠https://healthymale.org.au/⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-AzuFj1iS4⁠ DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠Clickhere⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠Clickhere⁠⁠⁠ Email:⁠⁠⁠⁠ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com⁠
June 7 · 48 min
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 vulnerable but important listen for anyone wanting to better support someone on their TTC journey. This episode is proudly sponsored by Monash IVF. Monash IVF is here to help patients understand their options, feel informed, and decide what’s right for them. Visit monashivf.com/ivfrealtalk to speak with an experienced fertility nurse and take your next step with confidence today. DISCLAIMER: Please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: TikTok: ⁠⁠Clickhere⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠Clickhere⁠⁠ Email:⁠⁠⁠ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com⁠
May 31 · 54 min
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 protecting your mental health during the IVF journey. This episode is proudly sponsored by Monash IVF. You can find Monash IVF here: Click Here (https://monashivf.com/ivfrealtalk/) You can find Dr Dhanushi here: Click Here Instagram Monash IVF helps patients understand what is evidence-based, what is personal, and what is not relevant to their situation so they can move forward feeling informed. Visit www.monashivf.com/ivfrealtalk and take your next step with confidence today. DISCLAIMER: Please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: TikTok: ⁠⁠Clickhere⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠Clickhere⁠⁠ Email:⁠⁠⁠ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com⁠
May 24 · 1 hr 10 min
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 realities many people face but don’t always talk about. This episode is proudly sponsored by Monash IVF. Monash IVF believes emotional wellbeing is a core part of fertility care. Their teams recognise these challenges and provide support that helps patients feel heard and supported. Visit https://monashivf.com/ivfrealtalk/ to speak with a fertility nurse and take your next step with confidence today. DISCLAIMER:please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast isbased on individual personal experiences. Australian & NewZealand Infertility Counsellors Association Clickhere Lifeline: 13 11 14 Click here Beyond Blue - (Mental health support) Click here IVF Real TalkPodcast Socials: TikTok: ⁠Click here⁠ Instagram: ⁠Click here⁠ Email:⁠⁠ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com⁠
May 17 · 43 min
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 this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠ Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
May 10 · 1 hr 5 min
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 into the emotional side of the journey too, from the two week wait to pregnancy loss, stress, and what patients are really going through behind the scenes. Plus, what the future of fertility could look like, and the breakthroughs that may change everything. This episode is proudly sponsored by Genea. Genea is renowned for its expertise in assisted reproduction, offering personalised care and support to patients. With clinics in various locations, they combine advanced technology with expert medical guidance to help individuals and couples achieve their fertility goals. Visit Genea Home Find Dr Ying Li Here IVF Sydney & Fertility Specialist In Sydney | Dr Ying Li DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. IVF Real TalkPodcast Socials: TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ Email: ⁠⁠⁠ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
May 3 · 1 hr 4 min
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 how you feel during the process. Find Monday Fertility and OTO here: Click Here This episode features a product-focused conversation with a guest from the company, alongside a broader discussion on stress and fertility. DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. IVF Real TalkPodcast Socials: TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠ Email: ⁠⁠⁠ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
April 26 · 46 min
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 brutal truths about outcomes and expectations. Plus, a simple but often overlooked tip for anyone considering egg freezing. This episode is proudly sponsored by Genea. Genea is renowned for its expertise in assisted reproduction, offering personalised care and support to patients. With clinics in various locations, they combine advanced technology with expert medical guidance to help individuals and couples achieve their fertility goals. Visit Genea Here Find Dr Anthony Marren Here Dr Anthony Marren Instagram Here DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. IVF Real TalkPodcast Socials: TikTok: ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ Email: ⁠⁠ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
April 19 · 54 min
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 through it or supporting someone who is, this episode is for you. DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. IVF Real TalkPodcast Socials: TikTok: ⁠Click here⁠ Instagram: ⁠Click here⁠ Email: ⁠ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
April 12 · 53 min
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 reminder that even when your body feels like it’s working against you, hope can still find a way. DISCLAIMER: please refer to yourmedical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individualpersonal experiences. Sarah’s Playlist Clickhere My book- The Belly That Brought Me Home Clickhere Sarah Jefford- Lawyer Clickhere Simone Cureton- Lawyer Click here IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: TikTok ⁠Click here⁠ Instagram ⁠Click here⁠ Email: ⁠ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
March 22 · 44 min
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 will be taking a short two week break overEaster and will return soon. DISCLAIMER:please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as thispodcast is based on individual personal experiences. Support for Pregnancy Loss & Miscarriage | The PinkElephants Support Network: Click here IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: TikTok Click here Instagram Click here Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
March 14 · 40 min
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: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: IVF Real Talk Podcast (@ivfrealtalkpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos TikTok - Make Your DayEmail: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
March 8 · 44 min
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 experiences. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: IVF Real Talk Podcast (@ivfrealtalkpodcast) • Instagram photos and videosTikTok - Make Your Day Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com