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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99 episodes
Updated Sunday
Explicit

Episodes99

Newest first

Oct 25, 2025 · 50 min
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 success. Now on the other side of treatment, Courtney has found her voice and is passionate about sharing her story to support others walking a similar path. She has also turned her experiences into something beautiful by writing children’s books, using creativity to bring hope, comfort, and encouragement to families everywhere. Check out Courtneys website here: ArrowheadTales arrowheadtales Custom IVF,donor, booksDISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This specific episode is relating to fertility treatments and medical procedures taken place in Australia. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Oct 21, 2025 · 26 min
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 unfiltered truth behind their successful egg collections, what they did, how they felt, and the moments that led them here. This series takes you all the way from those early steps towhere they are today, and everything in between. Lucy and Yaelle reflect on the highs, lows, and deeply personal moments from their years of TTC and IVF. Trigger warning: This series includes discussions about successful IVF cycles, pregnancy, birth, and parenting. If you’re still in the thick of treatment or navigating loss, you may wish to come back when it feels right for you.
Oct 19, 2025 · 1 hr 2 min
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 on individual personal experiences. This specific episode is relating to fertility treatments and medical procedures taken place in Australia. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Oct 12, 2025 · 53 min
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 work, and the frustration of not getting many clear answers. DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This specific episode is relating to fertility treatments and medical procedures taken place around the world. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Oct 5, 2025 · 58 min
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 every fertility journey looks different, and every decision carries its own meaning. DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This specific episode is relating to fertility treatments and medical procedures taken place around the world. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Sep 26, 2025 · 1 hr
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 what it’s like to be so open about such a personal experience with her platform, the emotional toll, and the hard truths that often go unspoken. We also talk about how, in fertility, plans so often don’t go to plan, yet you still have to find the strength to keep planning the next steps. Bianca discusses the immune protocol she’s currently on, the surprising doctor-approved step she’s added to her treatment, and how she continues to hold on to hope while exploring donor eggs. Through it all, we had a warm, fun, and truly inspiring conversation with Bianca, one that will leave you feeling seen, uplifted, and reminded of the strength it takes to keep moving forward. Connect with Bianca here; Bianca Jade / Mizzfit.com (@biancajade) • Instagram photos and videos Bianca's fertility clinic Manhattan IVF Fertility Clinic | NYC Fertility Doctor | Fairfield County Fertility Center | ConnecticutDr Merhi and Dr MarcoRejuvenating Fertility Center (@rejuvenatingfertilitycenter) • Instagram photos and videos
Sep 20, 2025 · 35 min
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 through the most common questions and concerns patientshave. Jordan shares practical injection tips, explains what to doif you’re running late for your egg collection or embryo transfer, and sheds light on how nurses support and guide patients through what can often feel like an overwhelming process. We also talk about the things every patient should know before starting treatment, from managing expectations to understanding the emotional side of IVF. Whether you’re justbeginning your fertility journey or already in the middle of treatment, this episode is packed with advice, reassurance, and insights from the perspective of the nurses who are right there with you every step of the way. Jordan is a Nurse Unit Manager at Adora Fertility, a privateclinic providing specialist-led fertility care with a focus on affordability and accessibility. IVF &Fertility Clinics | Adora Fertility DISCLAIMER: Please refer to your medical professionalfor medical advice. This podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This podcast relates to fertility treatments and medical procedures availablearound the world.
Sep 13, 2025 · 56 min
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 emotional and life-changing journeys you may ever take. In this episode, Lucy and Yaelle break down what they learnt from choosing their first doctor and what changed and lead them to their new specialist . They speak about the questions to ask before committing, what red flags they looked out for and how to know if a clinic’s approach aligns with your needs and values. From bedside manner to success rates, and everything in between. YourIVFSuccess DISCLAIMER: Please refer to your medical professional for medical advice. This podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This episode specifically relates to fertility treatments and medical procedures available around the world. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: Instagram TikTok Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Sep 6, 2025 · 1 hr 4 min
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 behind celebrity pregnancies, and why IVF age limits exist. It’s a practical, honest conversation about fertility, choice, and the future of parenthood. Links: Egg Freezing Calculator: eggfreezingaustralia.com.au This episode is proudly sponsored by Melbourne IVF: mivf.com.au | IG: @melbourneivf_official | FB: facebook.com/MelbourneIVF Find Dr Joseph Sgroi here: @drjosephsgroi DISCLAIMER: Please refer to your medical professional for medical advice. This podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This episode specifically relates to fertility treatments and medical procedures available around the world. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: Instagram TikTok Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Aug 31, 2025 · 44 min
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 the deep frustration of having no clear answers, only more questions and shares what it’s like to be stuck in the grey area of infertility. DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This specific episode is relating to fertility treatments and medical procedures taken place around the world. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Aug 24, 2025 · 46 min
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; they share their honest thoughts, draw from their own experiences, and talk about what they would do if they were in your shoes.It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s everything this community stands for. If you’ve ever felt unheard, stuck in the unknown, or unsure what comes next, this one’s for you. You’re not alone.DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This specific episode is relating to fertility treatments and medical procedures taken place around the world.IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Jul 27, 2025 · 46 min
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 cope with unexpected triggers at work, and the relentless stress that can come with infertility and IVF.The team expresses gratitude to everyone who has been part of the journey, for listening, sharing, and helping shape this space. And to their incredible sponsors, thank you for backing a podcast built on honesty and heart.They’ll be taking a short break and will be back soon with more. Until then, they’re sending love and thanks to all who have tuned in.https://www.pinkelephants.org.au/DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This specific episode is relating to fertility treatments and medical procedures taken place around the world.IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Jul 19, 2025 · 50 min
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. It wasn’t until she turned to Traditional Chinese Medicine, that everything changed.DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This specific episode is relating to fertility treatments and medical procedures taken place around the world.Emma's TCM Doctor : https://firmania.biz/templestowe-lower/mr-marcello-dintini-1351003IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Jul 13, 2025 · 1 hr 15 min
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 life-changing offer. A beautiful reminder that sometimes, family begins with the kindness of a friendDISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This specific episode is relating to fertility treatments and medical procedures taken place around the world.IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Jul 4, 2025 · 55 min
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 pressure of being a “first,” and how the fertility space has changed (and what still needs to change). Elizabeth opens up about the stigma that still surrounds infertility, the emotional weight some families carry, and why it’s so important to talk openly, with our communities and with our kids, about how our families come to be.Elizabeth’s story is not only a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come in fertility science, it’s also a testament to the strength, advocacy, and compassion she continues to bring to this space. Her work is nothing short of inspiring, and this conversation is one you won’t want to miss. Elizabeths book: https://www.amazon.com.au/Under-Microscope-USAs-First-Baby-ebook/dp/B0BLHXY5C5Website: www.ejordancarr.comSocials https://www.instagram.com/ejordan12/DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This specific episode is relating to fertility treatments and medical procedures taken place around the world.IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Jun 29, 2025 · 45 min
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 parents with ethical, unbiased advice and brings deep, hands-on experience from working with agencies and clinics across six countries, including Mexico, Colombia, Georgia, Albania and more.Olga shares insights drawn from over 250 real cases. Together, we explore how to avoid being misled by unclear information or unethical referrals.You’ll also hear essential tips on how to confidently research providers, compare options, and build a trusted team. Whether you're overwhelmed by where to start or just want to feel more informed, this episode offers grounded, honest insights to support your journey. This episode is proudly sponsored by the surrogacy insider.Find Olga here: https://www.thesurrogacyinsider.com/Olga offers a FREE, no-obligation Discovery Session to help you explore your options, reach out to book yours.@thesurrogacyinsider. Whatsapp +38 098 547 64 22DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This specific episode is relating to fertility treatments and medical procedures taken place around the world.IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Jun 22, 2025 · 1 hr 18 min
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.Together, we unpack the emotional weight of fertility treatment, from the desperation that leads people to try unproven add-ons in hopes of improving their chances, to the complex reasons behind “clinic shopping” and how hard it can be to make decisions when so much is uncertain.We also address the recent embryo mix-up that devastated the fertility community, how it could happen, what safeguards exist, and what this means for trust in the system.Charley speaks openly and humbly from both a clinical and personal perspective, offering a rare glimpse into what it’s like to be a doctor who has also walked this road. In a powerful moment of vulnerability, he shares how his own fertility experience has shaped the way he cares for his patients, with empathy, honesty, and compassion that comes from truly understanding what it’s like to be on the other side.This is a heartfelt and important conversation, and one with someone we are eternally grateful for in helping make our families possible.DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This specific episode is relating to fertility treatments and medical procedures taken place in Australia.IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Jun 15, 2025 · 56 min
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 journey. We also explore the world-leading IVF Patient Estimator, how it works, and why data transparency is critical in reproductive healthcare. Professor Chambers explains how the website empowers patients with clear, comparable data which is drawn from the oldest IVF registry in the world, ANZARD a comprehensive national database of more than 800,000 IVF treatment cycles collected from all accredited clinics across Australia.Your IVF Success website: https://yourivfsuccess.com.au/DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This specific episode is relating to fertility treatments and medical procedures taken place in Australia.IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Jun 8, 2025 · 1 hr 16 min
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 challenges, and the deep sense of purpose that drives her work. Whether you're curious about the science or inspired by the human stories behind it, this conversation is both eye-opening and heartfelt.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 at https://www.genea.com.au/Your IVF Success website: https://yourivfsuccess.com.au/https://www.pinkelephants.org.au/my-fundraising/65/sanjana-khanna DISCLAIMER: please refer to your medical professional for medical advice as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This specific episode is relating to fertility treatments and medical procedures taken place in Australia. IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Jun 1, 2025 · 55 min
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 the same time, and to find strength in the most unexpected places. This is a conversation about resilience, tenderness, and the courage it takes to keep believing. Big Miracles is filmed exclusively in Virtus Health clinics, including IVFAustralia, Queensland Fertility Group, and Melbourne IVF. As leaders in assisted fertility, we are proud to be part of this heartfelt documentary series, showcasing real stories of hope, resilience, and the journey to parenthood.We’re here to support you every step of the way.Explore more resources:www.mivf.com.auwww.ivf.com.auwww.tasivf.com.auwww.qfg.com.auFollow us on Instagram: @ivf_australiaFor a consultation with Professor Sacks, visit www.ivf.com.au/specialists/ivf-doctors-australia/a-prof-gavin-sacksJoin Ilina and Sheila's new program, Brave with IVF, to navigate your fertility journey with support and strength: https://www.sheilav.co/brave-through-IVFIlina's socials: https://www.instagram.com/ilinagorgievski/