In this episode of the Conceive Baby podcast, I welcome Joanna Sampieri, a courageous advocate and leader in the fertility community known for her honest account of her own fertility journey. Joanna's openness about her multiple IVF attempts, the decision to use donor eggs, and the ultimate joy she has found in motherhood, inspires thousands of women grappling with fertility and IVF uncertainties.

Joanna discusses the complex world of IVF and donor conception as she opens up about about her own journey to motherhood, which began at age 43. Amidst the challenging backdrop of COVID-19, Joanna openly discusses the trials faced, including several failed IVF cycles and the emotional aftermath of a pregnancy loss.

Joanna's decision to use donor eggs overseas marked a pivotal turning point. She shares practical insights into sourcing donor eggs and the process of integrating international IVF treatment. Her experience highlights the significance of epigenetics, the selection process for a donor, and the support from professionals that facilitated their path to parenthood. Joanna's story is one of resilience, courage, and the unwavering love that defines family beyond genetics.

Key Takeaways:

• Navigating Fertility Challenges: Joanna Sampieri's journey involved numerous IVF cycles and the emotional toll of fertility struggles, showcasing the resilience required to persevere.
• Decision for Donor Eggs: Her pivotal moment came with the decision to use donor eggs, a choice met with emotional and logistical challenges but ultimately resulting in two healthy children.
• Overseas IVF during COVID-19: The process of selecting a clinic abroad during the pandemic presented unique obstacles including travel logistics and managing cycles remotely.
• Mindset and Support: Joanna emphasizes the critical role of mental health support, open communication with her partner, and setting aside quality time to maintain a strong relationship amidst fertility treatments.
• Motherhood Beyond Genetics: Joanna reflects on her profound love for her children conceived with donor eggs, asserting that genetics do not define family.

Notable Quotes:

1. "I look at Charles and Chiara, and I wouldn't change a thing. I literally would not want my own eggs to have worked because I wouldn't have this beautiful boy and beautiful girl."
2. "Most women go through 3, 4, 8 collections, 5, 6 transfers before they get their baby. It's not a guarantee, unfortunately."
3. "Family is not defined by genetics; it's created out of love."
4. "If you're on the fence, just do it. Time is ticking, and in your heart of hearts, you know when it's time to move forward."
5. "There's no way in the world that you can look at this baby that you carry and not love it a thousand million percent, if not more, because you know what you sacrificed for them.”

RESOURCES:

• Joanna’s Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/ivf_mumma_tribe/
• Tasha’s Fertility over 40 Guide - https://tashajennings.com.au/fertilityover40/

In this episode of the Conceive Baby podcast, I am joined by fellow fertility naturopath Jacqui Lamplugh to discuss the role of progesterone in fertility, pregnancy and miscarriage.

We hear a lot about the importance of progesterone but is low progesterone a cause of miscarriage, or is it a symptom of an underlying issue? What does progesterone actually do? How can you support low progesterone levels? We unpack all this and more, giving you specific insights into how you can help improve hormone balance and reduce your risk of miscarriage.

Jacqui Lamplugh is a fertility naturopath and reproductive medicine expert. With over a decade of experience, Jacqui specialises in miscarriage prevention and supporting women experiencing pregnancy loss. Her journey into this field was shaped by her own experience with early pregnancy loss, which instilled in her a passion to provide better support and investigation into miscarriage causes.

Key Takeaways:

• Progesterone is essential for maintaining a pregnancy but is not the primary marker for pregnancy success; its levels can fluctuate.
• Low progesterone is often a symptom rather than the root cause of a miscarriage; its levels typically drop when a pregnancy is non-viable.
• Potential signs of low progesterone include a short luteal phase, luteal spotting, and symptoms like PMS, pointing towards further investigation.
• Lifestyle and nutritional supplementation, such as with vitamin B6, vitamin C, and Chaste Tree, can support progesterone levels but should be part of a comprehensive fertility plan.
• Testing for progesterone levels should be conducted seven days post-ovulation for accuracy.

Notable Quotes:

• "Progesterone is that like pro-gestation hormone and it is there to hold that endometrial lining steady waiting for implantation."
• "We can't ignore the importance of thyroid; an underactive thyroid can impact progesterone levels."
• "Even if it is chromosomal issues as to why the miscarriage happened - there are markers we can be testing."
• "Bad luck is not a diagnosis; it's not a treatment plan."
• "With the science and knowledge we have, we can identify the cause of 99% of miscarriages."

Resources:

• More about Jacqui Lamplugh's work: www.jacquilamplugh.com
• Episode mentioned - Fertility and the Immune System with Professor Sarah Robertson

Mentioned in this episode:

Fertility Over 40 Guide

Learn the 5 Things you need to do NOW to boost your chances of pregnancy over 40!

Fertility Over 40 Supplements Guide

In this episode of the Conceive Baby podcast, host Tasha Jennings speaks with Alex Crisp, a MasterChef Australia star and dedicated ambassador for Endometriosis Australia. In light of Endometriosis Awareness Month, Alex opens up about her challenging journey to diagnosis after years of debilitating pain which took 13 years to identify as stage five endometriosis. Together we explore the transformative power of food and nutrition in managing endometriosis symptoms and the importance of awareness and early diagnosis.

We unpack how Alex utilises food not only as a source of nourishment but as a crucial part of her management plan for endometriosis. Discussing the role of diet in controlling inflammation and hormone regulation, Alex shares insights into her personal experiences with food's impact on her health. The discussion highlights the need for wider understanding and better diagnosis processes, as well as Alex's advocacy work as a means to support and empower others in the journey towards health and wellness amidst chronic illness.

ABOUT MY GUEST

Alex Crisp is an esteemed Australian chef and a former contestant from the popular television show, MasterChef Australia. Besides her culinary achievements, Alex is a dedicated advocate for endometriosis awareness. Diagnosed with stage five endometriosis in 2020 after enduring years of debilitating symptoms, she has transformed her life through the effective use of food as a tool to manage her condition. As an ambassador for Endometriosis Australia, Alex leverages her platform to raise awareness and support others in similar situations.

Key Takeaways:

• Alex Crisp discusses the lengthy and challenging journey leading to her diagnosis with stage five endometriosis after 13 years of debilitating and misdiagnosed symptoms.
• The power of food and nutrition is highlighted as a significant part of managing endometriosis, emphasising the importance of a diet that reduces inflammation and balances hormones.
• Misdiagnosis of endometriosis symptoms is common, leading to years of untreated pain and suffering for many women worldwide.
• The episode shares Alex's advocacy work with Endometriosis Australia, focusing on raising awareness and supporting others with similar struggles.
• Mental well-being and self-advocacy play critical roles in managing chronic health conditions like endometriosis, stressing the importance of trusting one’s instincts and seeking multiple medical opinions.

Notable Quotes:

• "Food has very much been the backbone of everything in my life... and being able to whip something up in the kitchen... it's literally like, you know, how different foods can trigger different reactions in your body." – Alex Crisp
• "Painful periods are not normal. Endometriosis is definitely a very experienced condition." – Alex Crisp
• "It's very much a subconscious thing... give her some credit, give her a cuddle and uplift her and recognize that what she's going through is hard and in a way it's really validating." – Alex Crisp
• "One conversation to change your life and I'm kind of living proof of that. So people get talking." – Alex Crisp
• "Trust your gut for a start. And second, it's get, you know, don't settle at one opinion. You hunt it until you feel satisfied." – Alex Crisp

Resources:

1. More about Alex - https://alexcrisp.com.au/ https://endometriosisaustralia.org/alex-crisp/
2. Follow Alex on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alexcrisp__/?hl=en
3. Alex Crisp's recipes for managing endometriosis symptoms - https://endometriosisaustralia.org/alex-crisp-masterchef-recipes/
4. Tasha Jennings' free endo foods guide is available at www.tashajennings.com/endofoods.

Mentioned in this episode:

Top 10 Foods to Boost Fertility with Endometriosis

Endometriosis affects millions of women worldwide, 1 in 7 women in Australia, causing pain, infertility and emotional distress. Yet diagnosis can take an average of 7 years.

In this episode of the Conceive Baby podcast, the spotlight is on the inspiring journey of Angie Kent, a beloved figure in Australian media. Angie Kent, widely recognised for her spirited appearances on shows like "Gogglebox" and "The Bachelorette" as well as resident upcycle queen on the Nine Network’s “Space Invaders”, is now sharing her personal path toward solo motherhood on the Channel Nine show, "Big Miracles." At the age of 34, single and facing multiple fertility-related conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis adenomyosis and PMDD, Angie has decided to take her future into her own hands. She is undergoing IVF in the hope of creating and freezing embryos she can use for her future family.

This heartfelt interview delves into Angie's ongoing battle with multiple reproductive health conditions with Angie bravely and openly sharing how these challenges have shaped her decisions and outlook on life. Her story offers both a ray of hope and a source of solidarity for many listeners facing similar struggles. Angie provides encouragement and practical advice for women navigating the complexities of invisible illnesses, fertility and reproductive challenges. Throughout the episode, Tasha and Angie explore topics such as self-awareness, self-care, and the importance of understanding one's body and actively preparing for pregnancy, empowering listeners with the knowledge that despite the challenges, there is always a pathway to motherhood and self-fulfillment.

Key Takeaways:

• Trust Your Body: Angie's story emphasizes the importance of listening to your body and advocating for your health when dealing with chronic, invisible illnesses.
• Preparation and Support: Comprehensive preparation and supportive networks are crucial in navigating the intricate process of IVF, especially when dealing with reproductive health issues.
• Empowerment and Self-Love: Embracing one's own journey and deriving strength from it is vital; Angie's decision to pursue solo motherhood exemplifies self-empowerment and self-love.
• Breaking Stigmas: Highlighting the societal pressures and the importance of breaking away from traditional expectations conveys the message of crafting one's own version of happiness.
• Emotional Resilience: Angie's experience serves as a reminder of the emotional highs and lows involved in fertility treatments and the significance of persistence and resilience.

1. Angie Kent: "I am my person and I can create this for myself."
2. Angie Kent: "People need to know that period pain is not normal."
3. Tasha Jennings: "You are running a marathon on the other end. You're building a new human being."
4. Angie Kent: "You know your body better than anyone, even if you don't know the fancy medical terms."
5. Angie Kent: "I'd rather take the chance than have the regret."

• Angie Kent on Instagram (@angiekent_): AngieKent
• Angleon Facebook
• "Big Miracles" TV Show: Tune in on Channel Nine
• Angie onTikTok
• Tasha Jennings - Your Fertile Pantry Online Program: Tasha Jennings Website

Mentioned in this episode:

Fertility Over 40 Guide

Learn the 5 Things you need to do NOW to boost your chances of pregnancy over 40!

Fertility Over 40 Supplements Guide

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast, I speak with experienced embryologist Dr. Tiki Ozianlis who shares her insights into embryo development.

If you've been with me for a while, you know I’m passionate about the crucial 90 days before ovulation, where we have the opportunity to really boost the health of your egg and sperm to optimise your chances of creating a healthy embryo and a healthy pregnancy.

In this episode we're dive into what happens next in the context of an IVF cycle. When you’ve hopefully done some great preparation work, to create the healthiest egg and sperm you can, your eggs have been collected and fertilised and now you’re crossing your fingers, toes and anything else you can to see what happens next. And that’s what we cover right here.

What happens to those precious embryos as they develop in the lab? How are they graded and what does the grading mean? What’s the difference between transferring a day 3 embryo and a day 5 embryo? And what PGT Testing and mosaic embryos—how does that fit into the picture?

We’ll be diving into all these questions and more today, with Dr. Tiki Osianlis. Dr. Osianlis has been at the forefront of embryology for over 18 years now, working with some of Melbourne’s most renowned IVF providers.

She’s also an adjunct Senior Lecturer with Monash Health’s Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, where she enjoys guiding the next generation of researchers in the fields of sperm and egg interaction and embryo selection.

About the Guest(s):

Dr. Tiki Ozianlis is a distinguished embryologist with over 18 years of experience in the field. She has been instrumental in advancing embryology in Melbourne's leading IVF clinics. Dr. Ozianlis also serves as an adjunct senior lecturer at Monash Health's Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, where she mentors upcoming researchers in the domain of sperm and egg interaction and embryo selection. As the Scientific Director at Newlife IVF, Dr. Osianlis leads the charge in applying cutting-edge science and technology to reproductive care, ensuring patients receive the very best that modern embryology has to offer.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding developmental stages and grading of embryos are crucial for IVF success, with expansion, inner cell mass, and trophectoderm quality all playing key roles.
• Egg quality significantly influences embryo development, highlighting the importance of healthy lifestyle choices prior to IVF cycles.
• Genetic testing of embryos, including insights on mosaic embryos, offers a window into chromosomal normalcy but must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
• Lifestyle factors, especially for male sperm health, can directly impact embryo viability and should not be underestimated.
• Open communication with embryologists can provide valuable insights for patients, offering clarity and empowerment throughout their IVF journey.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Embryos do have their own developmental potential…every embryo has its own developmental potential." - Dr. Tiki Osianlis
2. "Egg quality is huge. And that also is one of the number one factors affecting IVF success." - Dr. Tiki Osianlis
3. "If the embryo is suitable for transfer or freezing, it means that the embryologist has deemed it a viable embryo and that's the most important thing." - Dr. Tiki Osianlis
4. "And I do want to say that every embryologist that I've ever come across, and I've seen many of them, genuinely care about what they're doing and they care so much about the patients." - Dr. Tiki Osianlis
5. "The embryos are always showing you something different." - Dr. Tiki Osianlis

Resources:

• New Life IVF - Learn more about the cutting-edge work being done at Dr. Tiki Osianlis's clinic.
• Reach out to Dr. Tiki Osianlis via Monash Health or New Life IVF for further insights and consultations.

Mentioned in this episode:

Fertility Over 40 Guide

Learn the 5 Things you need to do NOW to boost your chances of pregnancy over 40!

Fertility Over 40 Supplements Guide

In the first episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast for 2025, I am joined by the wonderful Tracey Anderson Askew, a distinguished educator in breathing retraining and parenting, who sheds light on a fundamental yet overlooked aspect of our physiology—breathing. Together we explore how intentional breathing techniques can alleviate stress, lower cortisol levels and boost blood flow, which can ultimately enhance fertility and overall reproductive health.

We discuss the connection between breath and the nervous system, revealing how different breathing patterns affect us both physically and emotionally. Tracey introduces practical strategies to combat over-breathing—a common yet misunderstood practice and distinguishes between typical breathwork and breathing retraining.  Her practical advice will be a game-changer if you’re struggling to fall pregnant.

Tracey Anderson Askew is a seasoned teacher, hypnotherapist, breathing retrainer, and educator specialising in childbirth and parenting. She is the director of Transform Parenting and the former director of the Better Breathing Centre in Canberra. With over two decades of experience, Tracey has assisted more than 6,000 new parents with her face-to-face and online workshops. As a mother of four, she combines her vast knowledge and personal insights to guide families through pregnancy and early parenting. Her expertise in breathing retraining aims to enhance physiological wellness and subsequently, reproductive health.

Key Takeaways:

• Breathing is a powerful, free resource that plays a critical role in managing stress and supporting fertility.
• Breathing retraining helps to optimise oxygen utilisation and reduce stress.
• Nose breathing and maintaining an upright posture are cornerstones of optimal breathing habits.
• Over-breathing can lead to lower CO2 levels, impacting the body’s ability to utilise oxygen effectively.
• Simple changes in breathing technique can significantly influence physiological states and promote both relaxation and reproductive health.

Notable Quotes:

1. "The pathway to the deep relaxation response, or one of the most direct pathways, is the breath."
2. "The opposite to the stress response is what’s called the deep relaxation response."
3. "The myth is that CO2 is just a waste gas. No, it's actually vital for oxygenation processes."
4. "Nose breathing is generally much calmer and signals to the body that you're not being chased by a tiger."
5. "When you're stressed, you get dumber because you can't access your whole brain."

Mentioned in this episode:

Fertility Over 40 Guide

Learn the 5 Things you need to do NOW to boost your chances of pregnancy over 40!

Fertility Over 40 Supplements Guide

In this bonus episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast, I invite several women within my community, whose advice I trust, to provide their real life advice for you. From personal tips to professional advice, this episode has been created to help you navigate the emotional challenges the festive season can bring while facing fertility struggles.

The episode features contributions from notable community figures including Joanna Sampieri, known on Instagram as IVF Mumma Tribe, Rachael Casella from Macenzies Mission, who you can find on Instagram as My Life of Love, Trish Tselepi from Pink Elephants support, Fertility Psychologist Cath Corcoran and we also have someone my patients would know well and that’s Emilee Nichols, Emilee is my Patient Care Coordinator and Marketing Coordinator who experienced her own IVF journey.

These beautiful guests have kindly taken the time to offer their practical tips and advice around managing difficult conversations, finding time for self care, emphasising the importance of being kind to yourself and finding moments of joy.

Resources:

• Rachael Casella - www.instagram.com/mylifeof_love
• Pink Elephants Support Network - https://www.instagram.com/pinkelephantssupport/

https://www.pinkelephants.org.au/

• Fertility Psychologist Cath Corcoran - www.instagram.com/cathcorcoranpsychologist
• Joanna Sampieri - www.instagram.com/ivf_mumma_tribe

Mentioned in this episode:

Fertility Over 40 Guide

Learn the 5 Things you need to do NOW to boost your chances of pregnancy over 40!

Fertility Over 40 Supplements Guide

Episode Summary:

In this inspiring episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast, I am joined by World Renowned Entrepreneur Lisa Messenger and Seasoned Lifestyle Columnist and Finance Expert Sarah Megginson who share with us special insights into their story detailed in their book, "The Power of Two." Lisa, a dynamic force in the business world as the CEO of Collective Hub, opens up about her challenging path to motherhood, spanning eight years and 18 rounds of IVF. Sarah, a respected lifestyle columnist and financial expert, joins her as both co-author and the incredible surrogate who carried Lisa's child. Their story is not just about overcoming fertility challenges; it's a testament to the power of connection, resilience, and unwavering support.

Lisa’s candid recount of living a "private hell" while maintaining her successful career is a sentiment many can resonate with. Sarah’s empathetic leap into surrogacy, highlights the beautiful nature of a true friendship and of mutual empowerment.

Both Lisa and Sarah share insights into the nuances of asking for help and maintaining open communication and boundaries, not only through their personal journey but also as invaluable life lessons for listeners facing any form of adversity.

About the Guests

Lisa Messenger: Lisa Messenger is a renowned entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker. She is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Collective Hub, a multimedia brand dedicated to empowering individuals to pursue their passions. With over 40 books to her name, Lisa is a leading figure in business innovation and positive psychology. Her journey through diverse professional landscapes and personal challenges, including an extensive fertility journey, culminates in her new book, "The Power of Two."

Sarah Megginson: Sarah Megginson is a seasoned lifestyle columnist, editor, and financial expert with notable works appearing in Cosmopolitan, Mamma Mia, and Yahoo Finance. She is dedicated to simplifying finances for a broader audience, using her platform to educate and empower. Sarah’s transformative experience as a surrogate mother for Lisa Messenger frames the heart of "The Power of Two," where friendship and resilience shine through adversity.

• Lisa’s journey through 18 rounds of IVF highlights the emotional and financial strains associated with fertility struggles and the importance of support systems.
• Surrogacy in Australia is an altruistic process deeply embedded in trust and mutual respect, as exemplified by Sarah's unwavering support.
• Open communication and clearly defined boundaries can strengthen relationships and ensure mutual understanding in challenging journeys.
• Empowerment stems from shared experiences, as Sarah and Lisa illustrate the power of sharing struggles to inspire and uplift others.

• "Sometimes the unthinkable becomes thinkable." — Lisa Messenger

• "The power of possibility is really what our book is all about." — Sarah Megginson

• "If you have tried that yourself or watched that path yourself, then that's when advice is helpful." — Lisa Messenger

• "There's so much that went into it…for me it was about open communication and understanding each other's needs." — Sarah Megginson

• "Hugo is my baby. He is the one I was always meant to have." — Lisa Messenger

• Check out the book "The Power of Two" for a detailed narrative of Lisa and Sarah's extraordinary journey - https://www.panterapress.com.au/product/the-power-of-two/

Mentioned in this episode:

Fertility Over 40 Guide

Learn the 5 Things you need to do NOW to boost your chances of pregnancy over 40!

Fertility Over 40 Supplements Guide

In this episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast, I speak with Dr Scott Pearce about early pregnancy and the role of HCG and progesterone.

Early pregnancy can be such a wonderful yet nerve wracking time.  Waiting on that next test result, looking for symptoms and so many questions.  What exactly is HCG?  How reliable is an at home test over a blood test?  What level should it be?  What should my progesterone level be?  How do you know if it’s too low or too high and what does that mean?  What changes are normal?  How quickly should my HCG be rising?  Is it rising quickly enough? 

We answer all these questions and more in this informative episode.  So if you’re currently in early pregnancy or hope to be soon, then this is for you!

Key Takeaways:

• HCG's Role: HCG, produced by the placenta, supports early pregnancy by stimulating progesterone production. Monitoring its levels helps assess pregnancy health.
• Testing HCG: HCG levels can be tested as early as ten days post-conception. Home urine tests are reliable, but blood tests provide detailed quantification.
• Interpreting HCG Levels: Focus on the rate of increase rather than absolute values. Ideally, HCG should double every 48 hours in early pregnancy.
• Progesterone Importance: Progesterone supports the pregnancy by maintaining the uterine lining. Supplementation may be necessary in some cases of fertility treatment or recurrent miscarriage.
• When to Seek Help: Spotting can be normal, but cramping paired with heavy bleeding should prompt a medical consultation. An early ultrasound can provide vital reassurance

Dr Scott Pearce is a caring, approachable, and experienced fertility specialist, gynaecologist and obstetrician who spends quality time with his patients to explain, reassure and answer questions.

Scott completed advanced laparoscopic, fertility and IVF training at Monash health and The Womens’ hospital. He is a Director of Monash Endosurgery, senior trainer of gynaecological surgery at Monash Health and an accredited Australasian Gynaecological Endoscopic Surgery Society trainer for advanced laparoscopic surgery.

Scott thoroughly enjoys being an obstetrician, providing immense joy helping to create families. He has delivered over 3500 babies.  How wonderful.  Welcome Scott!

Mentioned in this episode:

Fertility Over 40 Guide

Learn the 5 Things you need to do NOW to boost your chances of pregnancy over 40!

Fertility Over 40 Supplements Guide

When we think of medical fertility options, we often jump straight to IVF. While IVF often seems like the immediate next step if you’re facing difficulties in conceiving naturally, there are other options that may be worth considering.  In this episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast, I explore fertility treatments before IVF with Dr. Sascha Edelstein.  Dr. Edelstein shares his insights into less invasive options that could be suitable depending on individual circumstances. Our discussion not only navigates through these alternative treatments but also demystifies the entire treatment process, providing you with valuable insights and empowering you with a deeper understanding of fertility options.

Dr. Edelstein brings his extensive knowledge and personal empathy into the conversation, discussing methods such as ovulation induction and intrauterine insemination (IUI), and explains the diagnostic steps to determine the most appropriate treatment. He talks about the importance of understanding the underlying causes of infertility, enabling couples to make informed decisions. Dr. Edelstein also emphasises the significance of overall health, diet, and lifestyle adjustments as integral parts of the fertility journey. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to explore their fertility options comprehensively before considering IVF.

Dr. Sascha Edelstein is a highly skilled gynecologist with subspecialty training in reproductive medicine. With an impressive background, Dr. Edelstein has undergone training in Cape Town, South Africa, and has contributed significantly to the field of fertility. He has personal experience with IVF, having successfully conceived two children with his wife through the procedure. Dr. Edelstein launched his own fertility practice and now leads Thrive Fertility in Melbourne, aiming to make IVF more accessible and affordable. His approach emphasizes a comprehensive and patient-centered treatment methodology, leveraging state-of-the-art technology and practices.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Ovulation Induction: Ovulation induction helps women who are not ovulating naturally. This involves certain medications and requires careful monitoring through blood tests and ultrasounds.

• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): IUI is another less invasive treatment where prepared sperm is injected into the uterus at the time of ovulation. Both fallopian tube patency and sperm quality are prerequisites.

• Assessing Fertility: A thorough assessment of the underlying causes of infertility is crucial before deciding on the treatment. Factors like ovulation, tubal patency, and sperm viability are key areas of focus.

• Holistic Treatment Approach: Emphasizing the importance of general health, diet, and lifestyle changes, Dr. Edelstein advocates for a holistic approach to improve egg and sperm quality before proceeding to more invasive treatments like IVF.

• Patient-Centered Care: Dr. Edelstein's practice is about providing patient-centered care, ensuring couples are fully informed and comfortable with their fertility journey, whether through less invasive methods or advanced treatments like IVF.

Resources:

• Thrive Fertility: Thrive Fertility Clinic (Mentioned for those based in Melbourne seeking accessible fertility treatments)
• Medications Mentioned: Clomid (clomiphene), Femara (letrozole) for ovulation induction

Mentioned in this episode:

Fertility Over 40 Guide

Learn the 5 Things you need to do NOW to boost your chances of pregnancy over 40!

Fertility Over 40 Supplements Guide