Becky & Ben's Fertility Spotlight

What’s really involved when you freeze your eggs? We speak to Heather, who decided to freeze hers aged 35. Social egg freezing is the fastest growing fertility procedure in the UK. But, as Heather explains, it comes with its own set of mental and physical challenges. We discuss the duality of feeling both lonely and proud, the medical treatment itself, and the supportive role of her friends and family. Her eggs are treasures, Heather says, and this candid interview reveals her positive and thoughtful approach to the whole process. This extends to the future, as she considers her options for motherhood with or without a partner. Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comInstagram: @fertilityspotlightHeather Long: https://www.heatherlongcoaching.com/Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Many women try own-egg IVF in their early 40s. But do the success stats make this a fruitless quest? We speak to Dr. Pavel Otevřel, head doctor at the renowned Reprofit clinic in Brno, Czech Republic. Age and ovarian reserve play their part, he argues, but things get challenging at 44. At that age, donor eggs and embryos hold the power. We discuss the benefits of genetic testing, mild stimulation cycles and how tactical freezing of eggs and embryos can help certain IVF patients. Treatment decisions by older women can be psychological, not simply medical. A good clinic presents options with care and respect. From there, patients can make informed choices – and brave ones.  Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comInstagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when IVF doesn’t work? Meet Lucy Frank, whose fertility struggles led directly to the break-up of her first marriage. She talks openly about this difficult time in her life and her decision to cease treatment. A life without one’s own children, Lucy argues, should not be a label. Your life can thrive, but the conversation around child-free living needs to change. Ostracization and prejudice persist, and Lucy explores these obstacles in her job as a sex and relationship therapist. A deeply reflective interview, reconciling the pain and complexity of letting go with the impulse to reset and renew.                                                                   Podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comInstagram: @fertilityspotlightThe Y Xologist: https://theyxologist.co.uk/Instagram: @theyxologistProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does male infertility feel like? We speak to Ciaran Hannington, whose own fertility battle took him to rock bottom. He talks movingly about his identity crisis, his partner’s support, and the realisation that self-kindness was his route back. We discuss his work as co-founder of NeXYs Fertility, an online resource for men facing fertility issues. A judgement-free space, he argues, is what truly connects. Infertility doesn’t define you. Ciaran’s difficult road to parenthood was, eventually, inspirational. We also talk about the use of donor sperm, declining sperm quality worldwide, and what fertility clinics can do about it.                                                            **Content warning**: This episode discusses themes related to suicide, which some listeners may find distressing and/or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.Podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comNeXYs Fertility: https://www.nexysfertility.com/Instagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We meet counsellor Gemma Antcliffe, who has a special interest in helping fertility patients. She explains the unique challenges of infertility, focussing on its uncertainty and disruptive nature. We discuss our own experience, and the powerful emotions we felt. Gemma talks with empathy about the ‘storm’ many clients face, offering advice on when to seek the help of a fertility counsellor. The best therapy, she argues, creates a calm and non-judgmental space – with the conversation led by the client. Navigating the emotional turmoil of infertility lies in the openness of the relationship. From there, processing the unfairness of it all, and looking to the future, becomes possible.                            Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comInstagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Becky and Ben reflect on the long waits associated with IVF. Fertility treatment can’t be rushed. Finding the resolve to keep going, and lead a normal life, is tough. Trying naturally, the switch to medical treatment, appointment after appointment, the months between each attempt – waiting is one of the biggest burdens for fertility patients. How did we cope? Mindfulness, cocooning, and being kind to ourselves and each other, helped. As did our love of music, poetry and films. Like The Shawshank Redemption, escape and new beginnings are possible. You don’t stay still for ever. Hope exists in the present, not just the future.                                   Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comInstagram: @fertilityspotlightExtract from Eternal Source of Light Divine, by George Frideric Handel, performed by Aksel Rykkvin (treble) and the MIN Ensemble, Mark Bennett (trumpet and artistic director) and Lazar Miletic (ensemble director). From the album Light Divine. Label: Signum Classics. Used with permission.               Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Positive pregnancy test after IVF treatment? Fantastic. Now comes the next challenge – the pregnancy itself. Many fertility patients are in their late 30s or early 40s, and pregnancies in this age group require close care and monitoring. We speak to renowned fetal medicine specialist Ruwan Wimalasundera, senior consultant obstetrician at London’s University College Hospital. We discuss the medical risks associated with older mothers, specifically relating to multiple pregnancies and the complications that can occur. These include preeclampsia, preterm birth and gestational diabetes, and we stress the importance of single embryo transfers to reduce these pregnancy risks. We also talk about the positive aspects of having children later in life. From surgery in the womb to emotional support in the consulting room, this is a reflective interview with an outstanding doctor in tune with the challenges and joys of IVF pregnancies.      Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com/Instagram: @fertilityspotlightFacebook: @fertilityspotlight Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What foods should you eat when trying to conceive? We meet functional nutritionist Hayley Paul, who takes a science-based approach to food, drink and dietary planning. We ask if fertility patients really need to eat pineapple to boost their pregnancy chances. We discuss the ‘superfood’ label: beetroot, maca powder and green tea all score highly. And we look at the benefits of full fat dairy products, antioxidants and other important food groups. Overlooking all of this is Hayley’s strong interest in good digestion, gut health and the nature of food absorption. A detailed and fascinating look at the ways we can optimise our conception health – and, crucially, our potential baby’s health too.                                                             Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com/Hayley Paul: https://www.habitude.co.uk/Instagram: @fertilityspotlightFacebook: @fertilityspotlight Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can you maintain a happy sex life during fertility treatment – and after it? We speak to world-renowned sex therapist Kate Moyle about this tricky dilemma. The disruptive nature of IVF can often affect closeness and Intimacy. But, as Kate points out, not all relationships need sex to thrive and survive. We discuss the different approaches to sexual comfort by couples and singles on their fertility journeys. IVF affects everyone in different ways. Common feelings of temporary unhappiness can sometimes lead to strained sexual connections. And this unhappiness can spill over into life after the birth of a longed-for child. Kate opens up about her own IVF experience and the challenges she herself faced. A frank and revealing discussion, highlighting the obstacles and solutions to love and togetherness on the infertility road. Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com/Kate Moyle: https://www.katemoyle.co.uk/Instagram: @fertilityspotlightFacebook: @fertilityspotlight Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do IVF patients make better parents? We discuss the reality that many fertility patients are, like us, older. Now in our fifties, with two children under 13, we ask if age is a help or a hindrance to good parenting. Positivity and energy are key. Health is a priority. We explore the nature of love, our friendships with fellow parents younger than us, generational ties, and what our ages really mean to our two daughters. It’s all about the quality of our time together. From there it's a short step to happiness, where stability and the flow of love underpin our children’s future.Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comInstagram: @fertilityspotlightFacebook: @fertilityspotlight Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A fascinating chat with Liberty Mills, an integrative health and nutrition coach with a remarkable life story. She conceived her second daughter naturally, at 44, after a range of holistic and lifestyle changes. Liberty talks with honesty and humour about the highs and lows of her life, and how determination and pragmatism saw her through. We explore the small adjustments that could make a big difference to conception success. These include a tailored approach to diet and exercise, digital detoxing and an awareness of pollutants in the home. We discuss Liberty's new book, 360 Fertility, a compendium of ideas for optimising male and female fertility. Liberty's interview is warm and inspiring, full of personal and professional wisdom.Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com360 Fertility, by Liberty Mills, is published by Headline Home.Instagram: @fertilityspotlightFacebook: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What exactly are fertility add-ons? And are they safe, effective and worth the money? We speak to fertility specialist, Dr. Tomáš Bagócsi, from Reprofit, which has clinics in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. From embryo glue to PGT-A genetic testing, assisted hatching to time-lapse cameras, Dr. Tomáš summarises the risks and potential benefits of ten of the most popular add-on treatments. We reflect on the cautious approach taken by the HFEA (the regulator of UK fertility clinics), challenging its wariness. Skilled doctors and clinics, Dr. Tomáš argues, can be trusted to recommend add-ons responsibly. Larger trials may be needed, but this doesn’t mean add-ons should be disregarded. An honest and informative interview with a fertility doctor at the top of his game.                                                   Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comInstagram: @fertilityspotlightFacebook: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can herbs optimise your fertility? We speak to Jodie Foreman, a medical herbalist and reflexologist​ with a keen interest in pregnancy and conception issues. Plants have been used in medicine for centuries. Many countries, including China, embrace holistic approaches to health alongside ​man-made drugs. Jodie talks about the importance of tailored treatments, with an emphasis on carefully considered herbal assistance. She spent ​ten years herself trying to conceive – and Jodie’s empathy for those with fertility issues is clear. For her, as well as ​her patients, a ​delicate balance of herbs, emotional support, conventional medicine and lifestyle adjustments can work ​together. ​And when herbal remedies ​are used to improve general health, optimal fertility can follow. Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comInstagram: @fertilityspotlightFacebook: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is the womb the finest human organ? And what role does it really play in female identity? In this fascinating episode, we speak to Dr. Gabriel Weston – surgeon, broadcaster, author and mother. She argues that the womb is far more than an anatomical wonder. The stories and humanity behind it transcend its biological function. We discuss its form, its place in our collective imagination, and the patriarchy’s astonishing attempts to subvert its power. As Dr. Gabriel writes in her latest book, Alive, the womb represents something profound and provocative within the human journey. ‘Love is the inescapable accompaniment to giving birth to a child,’ she says in the interview. That’s just one of the emotions underpinning this remarkable organ.                                            Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comAlive: An Alternative Anatomy, by Dr. Gabriel Weston. Instagram: @gabrielwestonalive Instagram: @fertilityspotlightFacebook: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A landmark episode today, featuring 13-year-old Eve – a donor-egg child with a story to tell. Accompanied by her mother, Eve speaks with calmness and clarity about the way she came into the world. The present, not the past, is what drives her. She questions the donor-conceived label; how she was created is far less important to her than her family, friends and current interests. We discuss the emotional side of treatment from both the parent and child perspective, with some surprising revelations. A fascinating interview, enhanced with wisdom and thoughtfulness from Eve and her lovely mum.Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comInstagram: @fertilityspotlightFacebook: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What’s it really like having IVF as a single woman in your 40s? Meet Sarah, now in her fourth year trying to conceive as a solo patient. She talks with honesty and intelligence about her fertility treatments and challenging journey. We discuss her choice of sperm donor, her support network, her contribution to Davina’s McCall’s new book, and the surprising gaps in care and information she received. Sarah speaks movingly about her approach, and the strength and motivation that guide her. This is a story about determination and deep thought. Her sense of ownership, of herself and her future, is palpable.Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comInstagram: @fertilityspotlightFacebook: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is IVF treatment open to same-sex female couples? In the UK, yes – and, thankfully, in many other countries. We speak to Hannah and Maria, two gay parents who had IVF – with the help of a sperm donor – over a decade ago. Back then, their decision was pioneering. Today, it’s more mainstream. We discuss their decision to have treatment, how they chose their donor, the support of their families, Maria’s decision to donate her eggs, and integrating their two children into the wider community. Two wonderful mums, who seized the moment on their path to parenthood and never looked back.                     Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comFacebook: @fertilityspotlightInstagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are donated eggs right for you? They were for us, but every patient is different. We launch season 2 with a frank discussion about egg donation. The decision to have it takes time – nobody makes it quickly or lightly. The key issues? Developing a positive mindset, tackling prejudice and entrenched views, trying not to overthink donor matching, and integrating a donor-conceived child into your life. We look back at the challenges we faced. Thoughts went deep; emotions ran high. But we kept communicating. Fertility treatment is, after all, one long conversation. Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comFacebook: @fertilityspotlightInstagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to season 2 of the podcast – created by patients, for patients. We’re rethinking IVF, giving you the tools and techniques to get you through. Here’s a taster of what’s coming up. More wonderful guests and pragmatic advice – presented with sensitivity and emotional intelligence by Becky and Ben.                 Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comFacebook: @fertilityspotlightInstagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this final episode of the first season, we revisit the moments that resonated most with listeners. The thoughtful reflections from Julia, a donor-egg mum, were a big hit. Deeper emotions were explored by Gemma, a positive psychology coach who highlighted our natural abilities to survive infertility. Many were moved by our own story, and we recall the kindness of Sheila, our local taxi driver, when things got tough. Everyone’s favourite ‘tech’ episode featured sonographer Kate, who talked about the importance of warmth and sympathy. And actor Simon Taylor returns to read The Solitary Reaper – a moving poem about loss that hints at better times ahead. To lighten the tone, we end with Ben’s Michael Caine impression, but the less said about that the better. Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comFacebook: @fertilityspotlightInstagram: @fertilityspotlight              Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we look back in time with feminist scholar Dr. Kate Angell, who guides us through infertility in history and literature. Accompanied by readings from Simon Taylor, Kate presents an alternative framework of love and creativity from key writers, musicians and political thinkers. From Greek goddesses to medieval composers, Romantic poetry to 20th-century novelists, this is a fascinating discussion about female success, sacrifice and solidarity. We hope this 'alternative abundance of life' will inspire women struggling with infertility and childlessness. These voices offer us comfort and strength – real women who lived fulfilling and remarkable lives in the face of convention, tragedy and loss. Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comFacebook: @fertilityspotlightInstagram: @fertilityspotlightExtract from O Viridissima Virga by Hildegard of Bingen, performed by Grace Davidson (soprano). From the album Sacred Chants. Label: Signum Classics. Used with permission.            Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Does your vaginal microbiome help or hinder your reproductive health? We talk to Milena Mastroianni, a leading nutritionist with a keen interest in microbiome and optimising our bodies in the pre-conception period. Holistic therapies for infertility have, until recently, been limited to treatments like yoga, acupuncture and reflexology. But, as Milena explains, supporting the ‘good’ and treating the ‘bad’ in our vaginas is a sensible thing to do. What’s more, microbiome is not limited to the vagina or gut: it’s present in sperm, too. A fascinating discussion on a new and intriguing science – and the research behind it.  Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comFacebook: @fertilityspotlightInstagram: @fertilityspotlighthttps://www.habitude.co.uk/Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can you optimise your chances of a successful embryo transfer? What can you really do in the run-up to this critical moment - and afterwards? In this episode, we share key tips that may just lead to a successful pregnancy. Your clinic will know some of them, but others are down to you. From embryo quantity to the ERA test, acupuncture to alcohol reduction, we explore ways you can improve the odds of a successful embryo transfer as a fertility patient. One thing's for sure: a proactive approach to your mental and physical health, as we found out, makes a big difference.Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comFacebook: @fertilityspotlightInstagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're talking today about ultrasound scans, and we're joined by leading IVF sonographer Kate Richardson. Every fertility patient has them, but scans are more than routine assessments. The relationship with your sonographer is special: they're often the first and last person you see on your fertility journey. Emotional understanding and technical excellence are crucial. Fertility patients see their wombs, and their embryos, sooner and more often than women who conceive naturally. As Kate points out, the role of sonography in some ways frames and defines the fertility treatment process. The technology helped IVF develop – and every pregnancy is unique. Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comFacebook: @fertilityspotlightInstagram: @fertilityspotlighthttps://www.thebirthcompany.co.uk/Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we talk to Mike and Jess, a wonderful couple who bravely opted for donor-embryo treatment. After years of trying naturally, unsuccessful IVF cycles, and a devastating ectopic pregnancy, they chose a fertility solution that gave them the highest possible chance of success: embryo adoption. Both talk passionately about that decision and the emotional aspects of using donated eggs and sperm. Embryo adoption was unusual even a decade ago. Today, it's an increasingly popular choice for single women, same-sex and heterosexual couples. The icing on the cake? Listen out for the surprise that made their family even more unique.Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comFacebook: @fertilityspotlightInstagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do we really survive infertility? We discuss coping strategies with Gemma Duffy, a positive psychology coach with a keen interest in IVF. Gemma explains how the capacity for resilience, strength and hope runs deeper in our characters than we think. Alongside traditional counselling, positive psychology coaching can help us to draw on these resources. We talk about our own childhoods, and how our contrasting experiences sowed the seeds of resilience for our challenging fertility journey. And we reflect on how humour helped – a powerful and uniting force for both of us. So how can we find that resilience? If we look within ourselves, it’s there for us. Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comFacebook: @fertilityspotlightInstagram: @fertilityspotlighthttps://www.gemmaduffycoaching.com/Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do male partners cope with IVF treatment? Meet John and Tim, two very different characters united by their experience as fertility patients. For John, a cancer diagnosis led to urgent IVF intervention. For Tim, successful treatment was followed by three years of frustrating twists and turns. Both talk honestly about the challenges they and their partners faced and the support they gave and received. What really mattered on their contrasting journeys? For both, managing unpredictable life events meant loyalty to their partners, a sense of shared love and loss, and a realisation that emotions are best out in the open. Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comFacebook: @fertilityspotlightInstagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can you really improve the odds of embryo implantation? In this episode, we share hints and tips of how you and your clinic can maximise your implantation chances during fertility treatment. We look at diet and nutrition, asking if certain foods really help. We chat about taking time off before and after your treatment, and if it makes any difference. And we discuss the role of add-on treatments – endometrial scratching, steroids, blood thinners and uterine biopsies – in the complicated implantation process. Transferring one or two embryos, medication alternatives, genetic testing – there’s no magic solution. But lifestyle choices can help, and a clinic with a strong understanding of your medical options is key.  Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comFacebook: @fertilityspotlightInstagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re joined today by Julia, a donor-egg mum looking back at her long journey to motherhood. After numerous treatments, Julia and her partner Ollie travelled to Spain for donor-egg IVF. Their daughter, Eve, was welcomed into the world nine months later. Julia talks emotionally and humorously about the highs and lows of treatment, the deep bond with her longed-for daughter, and the hurdles and worries she and her partner overcame. From tearful pizzas to bumpy trains, egg sharing to epigenetics, this is a courageous and intelligent story from a mother deeply grateful for the medical advances that came to her aid. Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comFacebook: @fertilityspotlightInstagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What’s the best way to truly own your fertility journey? In this episode, we talk about planning and preliminaries. Devising a game plan, from the very start, for the timeframe of your road to conception. (We might have succeeded after three years, not five, had we taken a more proactive and pragmatic approach.) Taking control with pre-emptive fertility check-ups, forward-thinking counselling, and initial budgeting, are three key conversations. We explore the choice of clinics, and why local is not always best. And we encourage a positive fertility mindset – the best way to keep grounded as you look to the future.  Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comFacebook: @fertilityspotlightInstagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our opening episode asks the question: do family and friends really give you the support you need? We talk frankly and honestly about our long and difficult fertility journey, and what kept us going on the road to parenthood. You may be surprised. Dustin Hoffman and Mo Farah played their part, as did Sheila, the loveliest taxi driver in the Midlands. And who could forget Paul and Anthea, our wonderful neighbours? We ponder on some sensitive and tactful things to say to IVF patients – and what not to say! Most loved ones went the extra mile for us. For that, we remain incredibly grateful.  Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comFacebook: @fertilityspotlightInstagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re on a mission to demystify fertility treatment. Here’s a preview of what’s in-store. Great guests, genuine conversation, emotional support and the information you really need.Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comFacebook: @fertilityspotlightInstagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.