As we commemorate World IVF Day on July 25th, celebrating nearly five decades since the first IVF baby changed reproductive medicine forever, we're witnessing an unprecedented technological revolution that's reshaping the future of fertility treatment. Join Nicole McPherson, Director of Research & Science Education at Genea Fertility, as she explores how artificial intelligence and cutting-edge biotechnology are transforming every aspect of reproductive medicine, from AI-powered embryo selection systems that predict success rates with remarkable accuracy, to breakthrough genetic discoveries unlocking new treatment pathways. With her exceptional ability to translate complex scientific concepts into accessible insights, she brings clarity to the most exciting developments in fertility technology, showing how today's innovations are becoming tomorrow's standard of care, and why the next chapter of reproductive medicine promises to be the most transformative yet.

 This episode is proudly supported by Fertility SA and Genea Fertility.

Some of the most wanted, most loved children in the world are conceived through the incredible gift of donor conception. In this heartwarming episode, Senior Fertility Counsellor Brooke Calo from Fertility SA powered by Genea brings over 20 years of women's health experience to guide us through the beautiful, complex world of donor conception. From the evolving legislation, to the deeply personal process of donor selection, Brooke breaks down what intended parents really need to know about this special pathway to family building. We explore the practical differences between known and unknown donors, how recent Medicare changes are making treatment more accessible, and the emotional journey of creating families through the extraordinary act of genetic generosity.  Whether you're considering donor eggs, sperm, or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers honest insights that honour every family's unique journey while celebrating the beauty of how donor-conceived people come to be

This episode is proudly supported by Fertility SA powered by Genea

Meet Katie Dunn, a voice we desperately need in the fertility space. At 39, Katie made the conscious decision to step away from fertility treatment after multiple rounds of IUI and IVF across two different chapters of her life. But here's what makes Katie's story so powerful - she calls this her HAPPY ending.

Katie writes about alternative happy endings on her Substack 'Afterglow,' creating the positive, uplifting stories she was desperately searching for when she was in treatment. Stories of people who chose to step away and are building vibrant, joy-filled lives on their own terms.

This conversation with the Fiercely Infertile host Cassie Silver, challenges the 'never give up hope' narrative and explores what happens when walking away becomes the brave choice. Whether you're actively trying or questioning your next steps, Katie's perspective will give you so much to think about.

Sometimes the most courageous thing you can do is choose yourself.

Read Katie's work: https://open.substack.com/pub/afterglowbykatie

#WhatToExpectWhenYoureInjecting #AlternativeHappyEndings #FiercelyInfertile #FierceFertility #FertilityJourney #InfertilityAwareness #TTC

Endometriosis affects millions of women worldwide, with many discovering its impact only when they face difficulties conceiving. In this compelling episode, Dr. Catarina Ang unpacks the complex relationship between this often-misunderstood condition and fertility challenges. At Genea Fertility Melbourne City, Dr. Ang implements innovative approaches that consider both pain management and fertility preservation, challenging outdated advice to "just get pregnant" as a treatment. She explores the latest evidence-based options including excision surgery, hormonal suppression, and specialised IVF protocols designed specifically for endometriosis patients, offering practical strategies for navigating this dual challenge of treating the disease while pursuing conception. From painful periods to fertility struggles to conception challenges, this episode uncovers how endometriosis impacts your entire journey to getting pregnant with quality of life at the forefront. 

This episode is proudly supported by Genea Fertility Melbourne City

Recurrent pregnancy loss leaves couples searching for answers and hope in the face of repeated heartbreak. In this episode, Dr. Julianne Cameron explores the complex medical, genetic, and emotional factors that contribute to this devastating fertility challenge. Drawing from both her personal journey through recurrent loss and her clinical expertise, she unpacks the latest testing protocols, treatment options, and success rates that patients need to understand. At Genea Fertility Melbourne City, Dr. Cameron helps patients navigate the delicate balance between medical investigation and emotional support, addressing both the physiological and psychological aspects of pregnancy after loss. From unexplained losses to genetic factors, immunological treatments to lifestyle modifications, this episode offers evidence-based guidance for those facing one of fertility's most difficult journeys, with insights that only someone who has walked both sides of the patient-doctor divide can provide.

This episode is proudly supported by Genea Fertility Melbourne City

Meet Dom and Matt, whose journey to parenthood took an unexpected turn when a routine anaesthesia check revealed a life-threatening heart condition. After devastating pregnancy losses and the crushing news that conception wasn't safe until major heart surgery, Dom faced the ultimate choice: fix her heart to save her life and future family. Through two open-heart surgeries, months of recovery, IVF challenges, and the anxiety of a high-risk pregnancy, this couple's resilience shines. Their story is a testament to the unexpected medical hurdles that can complicate fertility journeys and the incredible strength required to fight for the family you've always dreamed of. From heartbreak to heart surgery to holding their perfect baby girl Mia, this is a story of hope, medical miracles, and the lengths we go to for love.

This Men's Health Week, we're shining a spotlight on the crucial yet often overlooked role men play in the fertility journey. In this episode, Dr. Eashan Tambimuttu brings his specialised expertise to discuss male fertility in straightforward, practical terms. At Genea Fertility Melbourne City, he cuts through myths and misconceptions, offering clear guidance on what actually impacts male fertility and how men can become active participants rather than sideline spectators in the fertility process. Whether you're anxious about the collection room, considering sperm freezing for future family planning, or supporting a partner through IVF, this Men's Health Week episode provides the information men need but rarely receive. This episode is proudly supported by Genea Fertility Melbourne City. 

When one partner is ready to end the IVF journey while the other wants to continue, couples face one of fertility treatment's most challenging emotional crossroads. In this episode, Dr. Alice Huang addresses this delicate relationship dynamic with sensitivity and clinical wisdom, exploring how couples can navigate different grief timelines, financial considerations, and future family-building alternatives. At Genea Fertility Melbourne City, she helps patients identify when treatment fatigue differs from genuine readiness to stop, offering communication strategies that honour both partner's perspectives. Dr. Huang's approach blends evidence-based medicine with a holistic understanding of each individual's journey, providing guidance for couples seeking resolution when their fertility goals no longer align.

This episode is proudly supported by Genea Fertility Melbourne City

Meet Emily O'Donohoe, an avid listener to now a welcome guest on the show, here sharing her raw and honest journey through the complexities of secondary infertility. Emily's story is one that so many of you will relate to - from the joy of her first successful pregnancy after an ectopic, to the devastating loss of miscarriage, and now navigating the confusing world of unexplained secondary infertility. This conversation dives deep into the unique challenges of secondary infertility - the guilt, the isolation, the assumptions others make when you already have one child. We explore how different this journey feels, how the medical system treats you differently, and why 'at least you have one' cuts deeper than people realise. Emily's honesty about the emotional toll, the impact on her existing child, and the way secondary infertility reshapes your entire family dynamic is both heartbreaking and healing. Sometimes the second chapter of your fertility story is harder than the first. Emily's courage in sharing reminds us all that every journey matters, every struggle is valid, and community is everything.

From old wives' tales to TikTok trends, fertility advice comes from everywhere, but which claims actually stand up to scientific scrutiny? In this enlightening episode, Dr. Mathias Epee brings his 20+ years of global obstetrics and gynaecology experience to debunk common fertility misconceptions and validate surprising truths. Drawing on his diverse clinical background across Australia, Europe, and Africa, Dr. Epee offers a uniquely cross-cultural perspective on reproductive health beliefs. At Genea Fertility Perth, his evidence-based approach helps patients navigate the overwhelming sea of fertility information. This conversation cuts through internet myths, superstitions, and outdated medical advice to deliver clarity on what actually impacts your fertility journey. 

This episode is proudly supported by Genea Fertility Perth.