A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness

After a little hiatus, we are back, and what an episode we have for you this week.Our guest this week is the gorgeous Bianca. Like so many women in the infertility trenches, after a certain point in time, and no success, things felt hopeless.She and her husband were told that there wasn't much more that they could do.... but giving up is just not in their DNA. So, when faced with a future that they just couldn't make peace with, they started their own investigations into Donor Embryo's.Bianca tells her story with such grace and pride, and so she should. They ended up using a clinic overseas and have such incredibly positive feedback to give. For anyone who may be at a cross roads, and feels there is nowhere else to turn, this episode is worth the listen. Bianca is also happy to speak to anyone who may have questions.No Dr Ray this week :( but he will be back next week!If you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses the loss of a child, as well as a successful pregnancy outcome.On this weeks episode we meet the wonderful Louis, as he shares a truly heart breaking story.He and his wife Kristen experienced every parents worst nightmare, the loss of their beautiful son Mars, at full term.Whilst their story is difficult to listen to, it truly is incredible how he and Kristen have navigated their way through this experience and come out the other side stronger and closer than ever. Their courage, strength and outlook on things is truly inspiring and I am so honoured to have been able to hold space for him to be able to share their family's journey.Forgive me for the sniffling and inability to string a sentence together.. I was truly in awe of Louis and Kristen.No Dr Ray this week, but he will be back next week xIf you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

TRIGGER WARNING - THIS EPISODE DISCUSSED SUCCESSFUL PREGNANCY OUTCOMESOn today's episode we meet the lovely Kate. At the young age of 25, she was told that she was going into early menopause, that she had a very low ovarian reserve, and that her chances of parenthood were, to be honest, incredibly slim.She candidly discusses how this affected her, as well as the people around her. She was lucky to have incredible support and she and her partner Jack (shout out to jack tbh) are seriously couple goals.Her diagnosis meant she had to navigate something she never expected, before she was truly ready for it. Her attitude is refreshing to say the least and while our chat is really lighthearted, it is clear that this was an incredibly difficult time in her life.She appreciates how blessed she is to have successfully gone on to have two children, but wants to bring awareness to the fact that young women, can... and do, experience early menopause.This week Dr Ray is back to discuss if the flu or a cold can influence an embryo transfer :)If you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discussed both successful pregnancy outcomes, and pregnancy loss. On this week's episode, I had the absolute pleasure of being joined by my gorgeous friend from across the pond, Trisha Enriquez. She is a successful blogger, wellness coach and host of podcast Yours Truly, Trisha (among many other things).Whilst in the public eye, sharing her knowledge and experience in health and fitness, she was experiencing secondary infertility and multiple pregnancy losses.She shares with us the difficulties she faced while  trying to give her daughter a sibling, and explains that even she was a little shocked to find it was so difficult the second time around.In keeping with this week's theme of health and fitness... Dr Ray fills us in on his thoughts about exercise during conception.If you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

Apologies for the little break between episodes. Easter, sickness and life commitments got me good.BUT I am so excited to share Part 2 of our chat with the amazing Sandra Sapio of Essence Of Health and Fertility. This week we talk all things Naturopathy - including nutrition, supplements, testing and the importance of a healthy lifestyle when it comes to fertility.Sandra is so passionate about this topic and you can hear it in the way she talks. We talk MTHFR gene mutation, insulin resistance, sperm health, as well as her take on nutrition in fertility. She gives us so many tips and tricks on how to improve our chances of success.Also... her Little Miss Conception is a good one... Hello Salty Fries.Dr Ray is back this week talking about low AMH & Egg quality.. is there a direct correlation between the two?If you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

This week is part 1 of our chat with the amazing Sandra Sapio, of Essence of Health . She has been a naturopath for over 20 years and has a real passion for women's reproductive health and fertility.She is a well-trusted and highly regarded Acupuncturist, working together with IVF Specialists and Fertility Clinics, along with other health care professionals. She is passionate about working with fertility issues and dedicates much of her acupuncture practice  to working with patients with fertility issues.In part 1, we talk all things acupuncture! What exactly is it, what does it feel like, what are the benefits... and so much more.I have had the pleasure of utilising Sandra's services on my road to motherhood and believe that her work, alongside that of  my fertility specialist, made all the difference.If you've been on the fence or just curious to know what its all about, give our episode a listen!Dr Ray is back this week explaining the difference between a LONG vs SHORT protocol.If you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

This week we meet the gorgeous Sophie, as she bravely shares her decision to attempt the path to solo motherhood, by choice, and what this meant for her. She opens up about the complexities attached to this decision and discusses how she had to draw a line in the sand and sadly, decide that it was time to stop.We talk about the very difficult aftermath of this decision and how she has had to adapt to a future which is very different to the one she had imagined.This episode is both heart breaking and inspiring, and is a testament to the strength she has. But whilst the outcome was not the one that she was hoping for, her story also highlights her ability to be able to take back her power and live her life with the same tenacity now, as she did before this.Trigger warning - A LOT of Swearing - sorry mum.Also, Dr Ray is back this week to answer my questions about Metformin and Baby Aspirin - what are they all about?If you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

SEASON FINALE - Omg - 15 episodes down - I cannot believe it.With the silly season approaching, I'll be taking a break, but will be returning for Season 2 in early January.To finish off the year, I have done a little episode on how you can support a loved one who may be experiencing infertility. We understand that our friends and family always want the best for us, and sometimes just don't know what to say or do, to adequately support us.I noticed that I repeated myself a little (sorry about that), but that's because the advice is often the same. Take a step back and assess the situation before jumping straight to a positive anecdote. Then as a bit of a palate cleanser, Mary Grace and I run through a list of common, yet often hard to understand fertility acronyms.Little shout out to the friend I mentioned, who made me a gorgeous hamper when I needed support after a pregnancy loss. @GoodLovegoods - she is Adelaide based and creates beautiful gifts for any circumstances.Thanks for all the support... See you all in the new year! If you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses both pregnancy loss, and a successful pregnancy outcome.This week's guest, the wonderful Rhianna, shares her remarkable journey to parenthood - a rollercoaster ride of emotions and resilience.Facing the aftermath of a missed miscarriage, Rhianna turned to IVF, a decision that, quite literally saved her life.Routine tests during this medical fertility process brought unexpected challenges, turning her life upside down and leaving her and her partner in the realm of grieving for a child they feared might never come.In a heartwarming twist, Rhianna and her partner found solace in the support of incredible friends, two of whom walked with them through the surrogacy path, ultimately leading to the fulfilment of their cherished dream - the arrival of their much hoped for child.Apologies, a couple of sneaky F Bombs toward the end.No Dr Ray this episode, but he will be back!If you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

This week, I had an insightful conversation with Dr. Ray Yoong about the all important topic of endometriosis and its impact on fertility.He walks us through what endo is, how is it diagnosed, what the treatment or management options are and much, much more. We definitely talk about pain or lack of pain, and what silent endo is.We take advantage of Dr. Ray's many years of experience, and it is honestly a must listen. If you are experiencing infertility, especially unexplained infertility, Dr. Ray  shares some great insights which might help you. And don't miss our "Ask Dr. Ray" segment this week, where we delve into stress and conception - like, do we need to just "Relax"?If you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

After a lovely week away with my family, I am unfortunately a little behind schedule.This week we sit down with Naturopath, Nutritionist and Registered Nurse, Deb Ashton, and we take it back to basics and discuss some ways you can improve your chances of natural conception in that horrible first 12 months of trying to conceive... before most fertility clinics or doctors will see you .We talk about all the ways you can track your ovulation and the importance of understanding your own body. Whilst this might all be fairly straightforward to those of you who have been on this train for a while, it might be a good refresher or reminder for those of you who are just beginning. Stay tuned for this weeks "Ask Dr Ray" segment where we discuss single versus double embryo transfers... we get the low down.If you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses pregnancy loss.This weeks episode is a really tough one for us. We update you all on what has been happening for us over the last few months.I have been feeling so many feelings about sharing this topic, and our latest struggles with you all, but ultimately the topic we discuss this week is one that is just not spoken about enough.I searched high and low for things to get me through, and found that there just wasn't enough available. So I am sharing this in the hopes that i can help someone else who might be going through something similar.Warning, there are a lot of tears and a lot of emotions, and I am, in true Kristy form, oversharing no doubt. But hopefully it helps.A couple of points I did want to clarify, after listening back to the episode myself.1. All decisions made, were made by both Joe and myself - at one point I feel it sounded as though that wasn't the case. 2. Joe and Henry have been the biggest support throughout all of this experience and I am so lucky to have them.3. I did have to record this in a few parts as it was a tough one.If you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses the physical aspects of miscarriage, so please protect yourself.This week I have a very special guest with me... My big sister Katie.She is a nurse, and has cared for women who are experiencing loss, and she has provided them with compassion and understanding. She has also experienced loss herself and like far too many women, unfortunately did not receive that same compassion and understanding. Instead of being angry, she has used this experience to deepen her understanding of how to provide her patients with even better care.She shares openly the physical elements of her miscarriage, and the effect that her experience has had on the kind of nurse she wants to be.I drop a little 'F Bomb' (Sorry), and whilst I do talk about wanting to punch people, I certainly don't condone violence of any kind. (If you listen, I think you will agree with me though).Stick around for this weeks 'Ask Dr Ray' segment too.... We talk about how to improve your lining!If you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses a successful pregnancy outcome.In this episode, Milissa shares her quest for a diagnosis amid the complexities of secondary infertility. Despite an uncomplicated first pregnancy, she and her husband faced years of difficulty conceiving their second child.Milissa challenges the notion that her weight was the sole obstacle to conception, suspecting other underlying issues. Whilst she understands that her weight may have been a contributing factor, she knew her pain was something that shouldn't be ignored.Tune in to hear about her journey to a successful second pregnancy and the hurdles she overcame to make her voice heard.Hang around for this weeks 'Ask Dr Ray' where we discuss improving sperm health.This episode recorded and produced by Kristy Saunders.If you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

This week, I speak to Anna about the obstacles she and her partner Charles have had to overcome. First, Charles' life altering cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent fertility pathway they have been on.She shares the effect her unexplained infertility, and the whole fertility treatment rollercoaster, has had on her mental health and wellbeing.She discusses the different treatments she has undergone - including a hycosy, intralipid therapy and immune protocol - among others, and stresses the need to talk about your experiences with someone.We laugh, we cry and overall we have a really great time.Warning: We do use the word vagina quite a bit :)TRIGGER WARNING: We discuss early pregnancy loss in this episode.No Dr Ray this week, he'll be back next week, don't worry.Episode 8 recorded and produced by Kristy SaundersIf you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

TRIGGER WARNING: THIS EPISODE DISCUSSES PREGNANCY LOSS AND ALSO SUCCESSFUL PREGNANCY OUTCOMES.This week we hear from Keira about the absolute rollercoaster she has been on, whilst trying to have and then complete, her family.Keira has experienced a multitude of different "types" of miscarriage, from two ectopic pregnancies, a blighted ovum, multiple chemical pregnancies and much more. She has had to advocate for herself at every turn and she shares how this journey, and these losses have affected her.When we speak she is days away from meeting her new daughter and I hope that her story can provide a little hope and light to anyone feeling hopeless on their own personal TTC rollercoaster.Like so many of my guests, and so many of you, she has faced immensely challenging experiences, and she knows just how lucky she is.Don't miss this weeks 'Ask Dr Ray' segment either - alcohol and conception?If you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

This week, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Genetic Scientist, Dr Kara Levin, to discuss all things genes, and most importantly, genetic testing, with regards to fertility treatments. She breaks down genetic science in a really easy to understand way, and runs us through the different types of genetic testing that is offered (PGT-A, PGT-M & PGT-SR) and why these different types would be utilized.We also discuss a few very interesting topics like, what do we do with our unused embryo's? And what is a mosaic embryo?.. among others. I also took the opportunity to give everyone a little update on a small part of our journey. This update was recorded some time ago, but sharing with you now, and it was the perfect opportunity  to ask some very top of mind questions, which can hopefully help anyone else going through something similar.Stick around to the end to hear this weeks 'Ask Dr Ray' segment, where we ask the age old question - can we test at home after embryo transfer... or should we sit tight and wait? Episode 6 recorded and produced by Kristy Saunders.If you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

TRIGGER WARNING: THIS EPISODE DISCUSSES PREGNANCY LOSSThis week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Mary about her fertility journey so far. We discuss the time when you really want to be trying for a baby, but for reasons outside of your control, you can't. Struggling for a child doesn't always begin with the physical aspects. Mary gets real about the obstacles she's faced, and her desire to not be a "hysterical woman" whilst waiting (so much waiting), for her partner to be onboard.She runs us through her many (mis)diagnoses, surgeries and question marks... so many question marks.Mary is funny and sweet, and she makes amazing bread! Check her out on @marygracebread.(Oops, another sneaky F'Bomb. Sorry mum)Episode 5 - recorded and produced by Kristy SaundersIf you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

What is the difference between a Day 4 or Day 5 transfer? 3BB Embryo... What does that mean?On this weeks episode, I sit down with Embryologist, Dr Helana Shehadeh to discuss all things embryo's! She has over 11 years in the field and is incredibly experienced and passionate about her role.We get to pull back the curtain and find out EXACTLY what happens when we hand over our eggs and sperm to the professionals during an IVF cycle. She runs us through embryo grading, fresh vs frozen transfers, day 4 vs day 5 embryo transfers and so much more!This episode answers A LOT of questions, and Helana makes science fun!Stick around for our 'Ask Dr Ray' Segment at the end, where we discuss sex during ovulation week.Episode 4 recorded and produced by Kristy SaundersIf you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

TRIGGER WARNING: THIS EPISODE DISCUSSES PREGNANCY LOSS(Also, one little sneaky 'F' Bomb - sorry, it gets tense).Honoured to have Misty, from Misty's Salted Caramel, come and share her experiences on the road to parenthood. She fills us in on  her donor egg journey,  among other things, including all the hurdles she had to overcome (a war included), and passes on some advice to others who might be faced with the prospect of moving to donor eggs.She's warm and funny and I'm sure you'll love listening to the episode, as much as I loved recording it.Episode 3 - Recorded and Produced by Kristy SaundersIf you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

Am I "Infertile"? Do I need some help? What are my options?On this weeks episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Gynaecologist, Fertility Specialist, Surgeon, Obstetrician and Endo Guru, Dr Ray Yoong. (Warning: I get really excited about interviewing him and fan girl a bit in the beginning).He explains where you might begin when trying to find out what the heck is going on with your fertility, and what some of the fertility treatment options are for people who may need a little help on their journeys to conceive.He has an interest in endometriosis, laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery and fertility care, and has also completed his Masters of Reproductive Medicine.We also launch our weekly "ASK DR RAY" segment, so keep listening until the very end!TRIGGER WARNING: BRIEF MENTION OF PREGNANCYEpisode 2 - Recorded & Produced by Sam Leverenz of Spice of Life MediaIf you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio

A Little Miss Conception is a podcast about the trials and tribulations of trying to conceive, and so, on our very first episode, I will hopefully help you get to know a little more about me, my partner Joseph and our infertility journey. I will welcome you and fill you in on what this podcast is about, and what I hope to create, in my quest to support others going through infertility. It can be a really lonely place, and I hope this podcast will help you to not feel as alone.(One little sneaky 'F' bomb - sorry)TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses some topics that might be upsetting to some. Including pregnancy loss and successful pregnancy outcome. Please be kind to yourself.Episode 1 - Recorded and produced by Sam Leverenz of Spice of Life Media.If you like what you hear, follow along on our socials for extra content.You can find us on insta @alittlemissconception or facebook "A Little Miss Conception - Infertility Awareness Podcast.Cover Artwork by Paul Heidenreich of Roundhouse Studio