When love crosses borders, laws get messy.

In this episode, Richard Westoby and Julio Gaggia unpack the beautiful, chaotic, and often unfair reality of IVF and surrogacy in Europe — and why they built a new platform to fix it.

From Argentina to Amsterdam, they talk about new beginnings, legal limbo, empowering women in sports, and why community matters when the system doesn’t.

✈️ What you’ll hear:
• The wild truth about Europe’s patchwork surrogacy laws
• Why some same-sex couples still have to leave the EU to build families
• How women athletes are leading a new reproductive-rights revolution
• The launch of the new IVF Daddies website — built for stories, support & sanity

This isn’t policy talk — it’s real people, real bureaucracy, real hope.

Chapters

00:00 New Beginnings and Community Building

02:47 Challenges in Surrogacy and IVF in Europe

05:24 Legal Complexities and Personal Stories

07:54 Cost Considerations in IVF and Surrogacy

10:51 The Role of Medication in Reproductive Processes

13:34 Navigating International Surrogacy and Legal Issues

16:26 Positive Developments in Women's Health and Sports

18:59 Empowerment and Community Support

🌍 Join the movement: https://ivfdaddies.com
💌 Share your story: https://ivfdaddies-newsletter.beehiiv.com/
💬 DM us @IVFDaddies — your experience might be the next episode.

🎧 Press play, pour a drink, and realize Europe’s fertility map makes zero sense — until you hear it from those living it.

Your doctor throws acronyms at you like you’re in a spelling bee — AMH, FSH, HSG — and somehow you’re supposed to know if you’re still fertile?

In this brutally honest episode, Dr. Linnea Goodman joins IVF Daddies to decode the fertility alphabet soup: what those numbers actually mean, how to read your labs without crying, and why male fertility tests deserve equal airtime.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Fertility Testing Acronyms

10:21 The Menstrual Cycle and Hormonal Interactions

15:18 Male Fertility Testing: Semen Analysis

20:09 Evaluating the Uterus and Fallopian Tubes

👀 We talk about:
• AMH vs FSH — egg quantity isn’t the same as quality
• Why semen analysis should be foreplay, not an afterthought
• The “HSG” test no one warns you about
• How PCOS, hormones, and stress tag-team your fertility score

This is the episode your OB-GYN wishes they had time to record — zero fluff, all facts, and a little laughter because, honestly, fertility is weird AF.

🩸 Listen now and tell us: What fertility test result made you Google at 2 a.m.?
💌 DM or tag @IVFDaddies on Instagram with your story — you might hear it on our next episode.

💡 Subscribe to IVF Daddies on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube for more unfiltered family-building stories. https://ivfdaddies-newsletter.beehiiv.com/

Love brought them to Ibiza. Parenthood took them on a journey through egg donation, surrogacy, and the fight for LGBTQ+ family rights in Belgium.

In this deeply personal episode, Richard Westoby sits down with Guy, co-author of a new book about love, resilience, and the modern family. Together with his husband Milan, Guy opens up about their Ibiza wedding, the emotional challenge of choosing the right egg donor, and their dream to inspire better surrogacy legislation in Belgium.

Their story isn’t just about having kids — it’s about visibility, courage, and changing how Europe understands family. 🌈

🎧 Tune in for a powerful conversation about love, advocacy, and the future of parenthood in Europe.
👉 Subscribe, share, and leave a review to amplify LGBTQ+ family stories that deserve to be heard.

IVFDADDIES NEWS

Keywords

Guy & Milan — Belgian LGBTQ+ parents, advocates for surrogacy law reform, and authors inspiring families across Europe.
Richard Westoby — IVF Daddies co-host and surrogacy pioneer championing intended-parent rights worldwide.

Ibiza, surrogacy, egg donation, LGBTQ+ families, parenthood, family advocacy, Belgium, parenting journey, love, family stories

In this episode, Richard Westby speaks with Guy, who shares his journey of love, marriage, and parenthood with his husband Milan. They discuss their wedding in Ibiza, the challenges they faced in choosing an egg donor, and their experiences with surrogacy. Guy also talks about their new book, which aims to inspire other LGBTQ+ families and advocate for better legislation in Belgium regarding surrogacy. The conversation highlights the importance of sharing positive family stories and using their platform to inspire change.

Takeaways

Guy and Milan got married in Ibiza in 2020.

They started their journey to parenthood after their wedding.

Choosing the right egg donor was a significant challenge.

Genetic testing is crucial when selecting an egg donor.

They wanted their children to have the option to contact their donor.

Guy wrote a book to share their family's story.

Their story aims to inspire other LGBTQ+ families in Belgium.

Positive media coverage has helped change perceptions.

They hope to influence legislation on surrogacy in Belgium.

Using their platform for advocacy is important to them.

Chapters

00:00 Journey to Parenthood: A Love Story

02:43 Navigating the Surrogacy Process

05:11 The Impact of Their Story on Society

07:38 Advocacy for Change in Belgium

If this episode moved you, follow IVF Daddies on your favorite platform, share it with someone dreaming of parenthood, and tag us to help bring more visibility to LGBTQ+ families everywhere.

"We wanted to tell our own story from the start."

"Using your platform for good is important."

"Thank you for being here today."

One decision nearly ended our surrogacy journey before it began.In this IVF Daddies episode, Julio & Richard share the little-known red flags that can derail IVF and surrogacy — from medical surprises to emotional landmines. Joined by Dr. Lauren Garrett, we dive deep into genetic testing and why understanding results early is critical for building a healthy family.What you’ll learn:• Why preconception genetic testing matters• What expanded carrier screening actually looks for• How pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) works• The truth about mosaic embryos and healthy pregnancies• What’s coming next in non-invasive genetic testingComment below: Do you think every IVF patient should do genetic testing before transfer?Subscribe for unfiltered IVF truths, emotional support, and practical insights for modern family building.Submit your anonymous story → https://ivfdaddies-newsletter.beehiiv.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction to Genetics in Fertility02:55 Understanding Preconception Genetic Testing05:45 Embryo Testing: Techniques and Implications08:45 Pre-implantation Genetic Testing Explained11:26 The Future of Genetic Testing in Fertility

In collaboration with https://www.ivyfertility.com/ and https://www.reproductivepartners.com/

In this conversation, Dr. Nurit WinklerDouble Board-Certified Fertility Specialist & International Reproductive Expert, discusses the complexities of navigating fertility treatment options. Emphasizing the importance of understanding patient needs and preferences, she highlights the balance between medical advice and patient autonomy. The discussion also covers the role of holistic approaches in managing stress during treatment, the significance of early diagnostics, and the various treatment options available based on individual diagnoses. Dr. Winkler advocates for a respectful and collaborative approach to fertility care, ensuring that patients feel empowered in their treatment decisions.

It's important to match treatment options with patient desires.

Respecting patient wishes is crucial in fertility treatment.

Holistic approaches can help manage stress during treatment.

Patients should not feel guilty about their fertility challenges.

Early diagnostics can lead to better treatment outcomes.

Each treatment should be tailored to the individual's diagnosis.

Clomid is not effective for all patients, especially older women.

IVF may not always be the first option for younger patients.

Open communication between doctor and patient is essential.

Navigating fertility options early can expand treatment possibilities.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Fertility Treatment Options

01:21 Understanding Patient Needs and Treatment Preferences

04:23 The Role of Holistic Approaches in Fertility

08:47 Navigating Fertility Diagnostics and Early Intervention

11:40 Exploring Treatment Options Based on Diagnosis

Sound Bites

"Don't feel guilty about that."

"Anything that can be done to help you..."

"The sooner you do that, the better..."

In this episode of the IVF Daddies podcast, Dr. Connor Curley shares his journey from being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis to founding Phytofix, a nutrition product company focused on food supplements. He discusses the importance of nutrition in managing health conditions like MS and endometriosis, and how this led to the development of Fertility Fix, a product designed to support fertility in both men and women. The conversation highlights the often-overlooked connection between nutrition and reproductive health, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches in fertility treatments.

Takeaways

Dr. Curley was diagnosed with MS at 15, which shaped his career.

Phytofix focuses on science-based nutrition supplements.

Lifestyle factors play a significant role in managing MS.

Endometriosis is often neglected in healthcare discussions.

Fertility issues affect one in six couples globally.

Fertility Fix was developed based on scientific research.

The product is designed for both men and women.

Nutrition can improve sperm and egg quality.

Some nutrients can help reduce the risk of miscarriage.

Phytofix has already seen success with pregnancies since launching.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Connor Curley and Phytofix

02:25 The Journey from MS to Nutrition Science

05:07 Exploring Endometriosis and Its Impact on Fertility

07:35 The Development of Fertility Fix

09:33 The Importance of Nutrition in IVF and Pregnancy

10:39 Conclusion and Future Directions

IVF, fertility, nutrition, endometriosis, multiple sclerosis, health supplements, Phytofix, fertility fix, pregnancy, wellness

"It's unisex and convenient."

"It tastes really good."

"It's doing something right now."

In this conversation, IVFDADDIES Richard Westoby , and Deirdre A. Conway, MD from the Utah Fertility Center discusses the complexities of choosing a fertility clinic, the importance of patient experience, and the various metrics that define success in fertility treatments. She emphasizes the role of embryology in IVF success and the need for patients to understand and interpret success rates accurately. The discussion highlights the emotional journey of patients and the critical support provided by the entire clinic staff throughout the process.

Takeaways

Choosing a fertility clinic involves multiple touchpoints.

Success in fertility is often defined as having a baby.

Patient experience is as important as clinical success rates.

Embryology plays a crucial role in IVF outcomes.

Success rates can be complicated and vary by clinic.

Patients should compare clinics carefully based on age and statistics.

The lab's protocols significantly impact IVF success rates.

Understanding success metrics is essential for patients.

Communication and support are vital during the fertility journey.

Asking questions is key to navigating fertility treatments.

Chapters

00:00 Choosing the Right Fertility Clinic

02:55 Understanding Success in Fertility Treatments

05:49 The Role of Embryology in IVF Success

09:07 Interpreting Success Rates in Fertility Treatments

11:48 Defining Success Metrics in IVF

Sound Bites

"It's not only the biological success."

"You have to compare apples to apples."

"You want to have a baby in your arms."

Navigating the Fertility Clinic Landscape

Defining Success in Fertility Treatments

In this conversation, In colaboration with IVY Fertility, Richard Westoby from IVFDADDIES and Dr. Meredith Brower, MD discusses the process of frozen embryo transfer, including the preparation of the uterus, the administration of estrogen and progesterone, and what to expect on the day of the transfer. She explains the differences between medicated and natural cycles, the importance of monitoring the uterine lining, and the steps taken during the transfer procedure. The discussion also touches on patient experiences and the emotional aspects of the IVF journey.

Takeaways

The final step in IVF is the embryo transfer.

The uterus lining needs estrogen and progesterone for implantation.

Different methods exist for administering estrogen and progesterone.

Patients can switch methods if one isn't working effectively.

The embryo transfer process involves careful monitoring and preparation.

Natural cycles allow the body to produce its own hormones.

The day of transfer includes identity checks and ultrasound guidance.

Patients can eat and drink normally on transfer day.

Resting after transfer is encouraged, but not strictly necessary.

Pregnancy tests are conducted about 10 days after the transfer.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Frozen Embryo Transfer

11:06 The Day of the Transfer Process

"What is a frozen embryo transfer?"

"The progesterone's for implantation."

"Thank you very much."

frozen embryo transfer, IVF, embryo transfer process, progesterone, estrogen, natural cycle, medicated cycle, pregnancy test, reproductive health

In this conversation, Dr. Carrie Melissa Wambach , Leading MD from IVY Fertility discusses the multifaceted benefits of Ozempic, a medication primarily used for diabetes management, and its implications for weight loss, hormonal balance, and women's health, particularly in relation to fertility and pregnancy. The discussion highlights how Ozempic can help normalize hormonal levels, improve egg quality, and reduce pregnancy complications associated with higher BMI, while also addressing the complexities of its use in pre-pregnancy and surgical contexts.

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Ozempic is primarily for diabetes management but has other benefits.

It decreases insulin resistance, aiding in weight loss.

Ozempic helps normalize luteinizing hormone (LH) levels in women.

Women on Ozempic may experience regular periods and improved fertility.

The medication lowers testosterone and insulin, contributing to better egg quality.

Patients are advised to stop Ozempic two months before pregnancy.

The drug's effects on gastric emptying can complicate surgical procedures.

Weight management is crucial for reducing pregnancy complications.

Lower BMI is associated with healthier pregnancies and reduced risks.

The exact mechanisms of Ozempic's benefits in fertility are still being studied.

Unlocking the Secrets of Ozempic

Ozempic: A Game Changer for Women's Health

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ozempic and Its Benefits

02:53 Ozempic's Impact on Women's Health and Fertility

05:41 The Broader Implications of Weight Management in Pregnancy

Ozempic, diabetes management, weight loss, fertility, women's health, insulin resistance, hormonal balance, pregnancy complications, health benefits

Summary

We are Honored of partnering with Ivy Fertility who opened their doors to us to ask all the questions you have been asking us, we got the answers in a special collaboration with the best experts in the IVF Field.

In this conversation, Dr. Said Daneshmand discusses his extensive experience in helping families navigate the complexities of IVF and surrogacy, particularly focusing on the LGBTQIA+ community. He emphasises the importance of support systems, breaking down barriers, and providing accessible and affordable fertility services. The discussion covers various options available for gay male and female couples, including egg donation, surrogacy, and reciprocal IVF, while highlighting the need for community support and the evolution of fertility services over the years.

Check out his podcast

FERTILITEA WITH DR. D

IVFDADDIES INSTAGRAM

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Surrogacy and IVF Journey

02:49 Supporting LGBTQIA+ Families in Fertility

06:10 Options for Gay Male Couples

09:02 Family Building for Gay Female Couples

11:53 Access and Affordability in Fertility Care

Keywords

IVF, surrogacy, LGBTQIA+, fertility, egg donation, family building, access, affordability, intended parents, reproductive health

"The joy of parenthood inspires my career."

"Their success is our purpose."

"Building communities for support."