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

May 25, 2025 · 1 hr 10 min
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 IVF.We talk through what really happens during a fertility consult, how genetic testing might reveal unexpected insights, and what options exist beyond the standard paths. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just unsure of where to begin, this episode is here to offer clarity, hope, and next steps.Perfect for anyone at any stage of their fertility journey.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/ Dr Simon Nathan’s website: www.drsimonnothman.com.au Socials: @drsimonnothman Dr Simon Nothman’s Marathon Donation page https://donations.ajfn.org.au/simon-nothman-marathon/donatenow 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 the Australia IVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcast Email: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
May 18, 2025 · 57 min
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 often face in the fertility system. Their honest reflections reveal not only the emotional and physical toll, but also the moments of strength and joy as they built their family.Bree's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breezuslives/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 the AustraliaIVF Real Talk Podcast;Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcastEmail: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
May 11, 2025 · 44 min
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 parenthood and what it takes to navigate this journey solo. With insights on success rates, emotional support, and the increasing normalisation of solo IVF, Dr. Kieu offers a candid look at the future of family-building for those going it alone. Whether considering IVF or simply exploring emerging trends, this conversation provides a nuanced perspective on a transformative shift in reproductive choice.This episode is sponsored by Melbourne IVF For a consultation with Dr Violet Kieu please visit https://www.mivf.com.au/Socials: https://www.instagram.com/drvioletkieu/https://www.instagram.com/melbourneivf_official/https://www.instagram.com/eggfreezingaustralia DISCLAIMER: Please refer to your medical professional for medical advice, as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This episode specifically relates to fertility treatments and medical procedures undertaken in Australia.https://yourivfsuccess.com.au/IVF Real Talk Podcast;Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcastEmail: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
May 4, 2025 · 41 min
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 factors to consider when choosing a clinic overseas. If you're considering IVF in the Czech Republic or any other destination, this episode will help you understand the steps involved and how to make your experience as smooth as possible.Genitrix IVF https://genitrix.cz/en/reproductive-medicine/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@GenitrixIVFPrague Blankas socials https://www.instagram.com/ivf_guideDISCLAIMER: Please refer to your medical professional for medical advice, as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This episode specifically relates to fertility treatments and medical procedures undertaken in Czech Republic. Please note if you donate your eggs in Australia you may elect to refund your reasonable out-of-pocket expenses throughout the process. Please note that the audio quality in this episode is not optimal.IVF Real Talk Podcast;Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcastEmail: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.comThank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please support the podcast by giving us a rating or review!
Apr 27, 2025 · 48 min
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, many of which lack solid evidence. The platform aims to empower patients and support transparent, evidence-based care in the IVF journey.Evidence Based IVF Website: https://www.unimelb.edu.au/ivfYour IVF Success Website: https://yourivfsuccess.com.au/IVF Real Talk Podcast;Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcastEmail: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.comIf you enjoyed this episode, please help support the podcast by rating or giving us a review. Thank you!
Apr 20, 2025 · 46 min
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% off until midnight, Sunday 27th April!www.whenfertility.com.au DISCLAIMER: Please refer to your medical professional for medical advice, as this podcast is based on individual personal experiences. This episode specifically relates to fertility treatments and medical procedures undertaken in Australia. IVF Real Talk PodcastSocials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcastEmail: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Apr 13, 2025 · 53 min
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!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/ Dr Tan's Website: https://www.drifernetan.com.au/ socials https://www.instagram.com/drifernetan/ 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 the AustraliaIVF Real Talk Podcast Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcastEmail: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Apr 6, 2025 · 1 hr 4 min
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 the most powerful moments in her story revolves around the selfless love of her sister, Shannen. Billie shares how Shannen, recognising the pain Billie felt, offered to be her surrogate—a testament to the depth of their sisterhood. This act of unconditional support highlighted the strength of their bond and how family can be a source of profound empowerment."Big Miracles is filmed exclusively in Virtus Health’s clinics, including IVFAustralia, Queensland Fertility Group, and Melbourne IVF. As a leader in assisted fertility, we are proud to be a part of this documentary series. We’re here to support your journey to parenthood. To find additional resources please visit:• www.mivf.com.au www.ivf.com.au www.tasivf.com.au www.qfg.com.au• https://www.instagram.com/ivf_australia/Catch up on the Big Miracles here; https://www.9now.com.au/big-miraclesWhat is MRKH Syndrome"Beyond Blue - (Mental health support) https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-supporthttps://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 in the AustraliaIVF Real Talk Podcast;Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcastEmail: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Mar 30, 2025 · 1 hr 2 min
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 prevent endometriosis from affecting fertility?- What is best: fresh or frozen embryo transfer for endometriosis patients?- Can IVF hormones make symptoms worse? Dr. Cooper shares his expert insights and provides answers to some of the most controversial and critical questions for women facing fertility challenges due to endometriosis. Dr Coopers Website: https://mjwcooper.com.au/Where Lucy got her DIE scan: https://www.omnigynaecare.com.au/endometriosis-ultrasoundDISCLAIMER: 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 the Australia IVF Real Talk Podcast;Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcastEmail: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Mar 23, 2025 · 50 min
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.Jon also reflects on what it's like to experience infertility as a man—how it feels to be less frequently discussed in conversations surrounding reproductive struggles, and how societal expectations of masculinity can make it difficult to express vulnerability in the face of such a personal issue.The episode highlights not only the medical aspects of his journey but also the emotional and psychological challenges men often face when confronted with infertility.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/Beyond Blue - (Mental health support) https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-supportJon and Lauras socials.https://www.instagram.com/infertilityman/https://www.youtube.com/@JonandLaurahttps://www.facebook.com/infertilityman/Jon’s Book: https://www.amazon.com.au/Mans-Guide-Infertility-safeguard-miscarriage/dp/0645605026DISCLAIMER: 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 the AustraliaIVF Real Talk Podcast;Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcastEmail: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Mar 16, 2025 · 1 hr 3 min
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 not having a clear path forward weighed heavily on them both.Undeterred, Jo continued to seek out solutions and discovered a renowned doctor in New York who specialised in cases like hers. Fueled by a renewed sense of hope, she traveled all the way from Australia, hoping this journey would bring clarity. Finally, after a thorough evaluation, the doctor discovered something that had eluded previous specialists: Jo had a septum in her uterus, a condition that was the root cause of her miscarriages.This revelation marked a turning point in the couples IVF journey. Armed with answers, they could now pursue the appropriate treatments with a clearer path forward. 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/Beyond Blue - (Mental health support) https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-supporthttps://www.pinkelephants.org.au/ IVF Real Talk Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcastEmail: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Mar 9, 2025 · 1 hr 13 min
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 while trying to conceive! Stef spills the tea on how food and lifestyle choices can impact fertility, what to eat (and avoid) for optimal fertility health, and the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to nutrition and TTC.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/To get in contact with Stef and her team you can find her here https://www.instagram.com/the_dietologist/Stefs Podcast: Fertility Friendly Food https://open.spotify.com/show/1QJxO90ulAgXhepf1CW552https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/fertility-friendly-food/id1499437570
Mar 2, 2025 · 1 hr 9 min
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 found endometriosis in the body? And much more. 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/ Dr Mikhail Sarofim's clinic: https://edenwomenshealth.com.au/ Socials: https://www.instagram.com/dr_mikha/ https://www.instagram.com/edenwomenshealth/
Feb 25, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
EP 25 | The Immune Protocol with A/Prof Gavin Sacks
In this episode, we speak with A/Prof Gavin Sacks, a leading fertility specialist known for his groundbreaking work in treating infertility and recurrent miscarriage. As the Clinical Director of IVF Australia’s Bondi and Alexandria Clinics, Professor Sacks shares insights on his pioneering "Bondi Protocol" for implantation failure and miscarriage, and the Natural Killer Cell activity test, tune in as Professor Sacks takes a deep dive into the role of immunology and reproduction. You can also catch Professor Sacks on the Channel Nine series Big Miracles – An Australian show that covers the intimate journey of couples and singles from all walks of life as they navigate the raw and emotional road to parenthood through assisted reproduction. Tune in every Wednesday at 9pm https://www.9now.com.au/big-miracles. For a consultation with Professor Sacks, visit www.ivf.com.au/specialists/ivf-doctors-australia/a-prof-gavin-sacks Socials: https://www.instagram.com/flow_fertility/ and https://www.instagram.com/ivf_australia/New website: https://flowfertility.com.au/
Feb 23, 2025 · 57 min
EP 24 | Chantelle's Journey | IVF, OI, Polycystic Ovaries, Miscarriage, Hyperthyroidism, The Immune Protocol
Chantelle joins today's episode to share her 4-year long journey, which included 5 specialist, countless tests, tears and back-to-back failures, Chantelle followed her intuition and gut in the search for answers. Follow Chantelle on socials @ https://www.instagram.com/chantelle.barresi/ 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 in the Australia Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcastEmail: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Feb 16, 2025 · 48 min
EP 23 | Q&A with Acupuncturist Carissa
In today's episode, we chat with Carissa, an experienced acupuncturist, about the role acupuncture can play in supporting IVF journeys. She answers all of our questions and explains how acupuncture works alongside IVF treatments to enhance success. Carissa discusses the best times to begin acupuncture, the frequency of sessions, and the overall benefits it can offer throughout the IVF process. A big thank you to Carissa for joining us and sharing her insights — we learned so much!. Carissa's current clinic; Nuwa Natural Health https://nuwanaturalhealth.com.au/ Sydney clinic: Acupuncture Pregnancy Clinic https://acupuncturepregnancy.com.au/
Feb 9, 2025 · 57 min
EP 22 | Yana's Journey | IVF Abroad in Russia during a war!? total fertilisation failure, Ectopic miscarriage, MTOP
Yana, a lawyer and a typical Type A personality, joins us from the UK to share her IVF journey, which began with back-to-back total fertilisation failure rounds—something that only happens 2-5% of the time in IVF. Feeling lost and confused, she traveled to Belgium to participate in a scientific experiment, determined to find answers. Unfortunately, Yana was left with more questions than answers. After enduring further devastating blows and heartbreaking losses, she found a single glimmer of hope and traveled abroad once again, this time to her home country, Russia. Yana reveals how shocked she was by the new protocol, which resulted in PGT-tested normal embryos! TW: medical termination mentioned 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 in the United Kingdom and Russia.Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcastEmail: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com
Feb 2, 2025 · 36 min
EP 21 | Sarah's Journey | Cancer, ovulation induction, male factor, PCOS, IVF
When Sarah and her husband decided they were ready to try for a baby the unthinkable happened, her husband got diagnosed with cancer, after successful radiotherapy treatment they were faced with further challenges and told they would need to delay trying for a further 6 months, after patiently waiting yet again it was not straight forward as they struggled to conceive on their own. Sarah asked for help and found a fertility specialist to help guide them on their journey which ended in a surprising outcome. This is a great episode for anyone who is wanting to hear a story of IVF working the first time. Beyond Blue - (Mental health support) https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-supporthttps://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 in Australia. Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcastEmail: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com Clinic and Doctor: https://www.genea.com.au/Specialist/0039e000001pCZhAAM/sonal-karia
Jan 26, 2025 · 44 min
EP 20 | Dee's Journey | IVF, Endometriosis, MF, recurrent miscarriages, partial DQ alpha match, balanced translocation, donor embryo
Dee's IVF Journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster, filled with hope, heartache and heartbreak, many closed doors, additional diagnoses including a missed diagnosis that prolonged the struggle. The emotional toll of a failed egg donor round from a friend was heavy, leaving feelings of disappointment and uncertainty. However the search for alternatives led to a couple willing to donate their embryos, which opened a new door of possibilities. Beyond Blue - (Mental health support) https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-supporthttps://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 in Australia. Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcastEmail: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com Dr Anu Kaur - https://www.aurorawomenshealth.com.au/
Jan 19, 2025 · 1 hr 15 min
EP 19 | Stacy's Journey | IVF, Endometriosis, Adenomyosis
In today's episode you will hear Stacy's 7 year long journey to motherhood, it has been one of resilience, determination and advocacy. Through it all Stace has demonstrated incredible strength whilst holding on to hope and leaning into her faith which helped carried her through some of her lowest points. Beyond Blue - (Mental health support) https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support 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 and South Africa.Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ivfrealtalkpodcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ivfrealtalkpodcastEmail: ivfrealtalkpodcast@gmail.com