’The Infertility Gal’ Podcast

Host Danielle shares her personal infertility journey—living with PCOS while her husband has azoospermia—and explains how infertility can affect both partners. The episode outlines common female and male causes (ovulation problems, endometriosis, fibroids, PID, low sperm count, testicular issues), testing and referral steps on the NHS, lifestyle factors, and the importance of seeing a GP. Danielle also addresses the emotional impact and social stigma, the importance of honest communication, managing stress, and seeking medical support.   The Infertility Gal website: www.theinfertilitygal.co.uk    If you are curious about how Proov can help you to test for your PdG levels or ovulation within your cycle then check out my affiliate link for 15% off at:  https://proovtest.com/THEINFERTILITYGAL Code: THEINFERTILITYGAL   The latest research continues to be poured into the Hertility products and leading diagnostic tools are utilised to guide the experts to analyse your test results.   If you are interested in purchasing your own hormone testing kit from Hertility consider using my affiliate link:   https://hertilityhealth.com/hormone-and-fertility-testing?source=aw&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2814396&utm_content=Social+Content&aw_affid=2814396&awc=47085_1774444174_04ee13e0e8c6bc4b3f7f48bff7cf8586   Hertility Code: TIG10 for 10% off any order over £249

Host Danielle shares her personal infertility journey with PCOS, her husband’s Azoospermia diagnosis, and the long NHS pathway to IVF — including weight eligibility and her imminent NHS-funded treatment. This episode explores alternative family-building options if IVF doesn’t work: the differences between fostering and adoption in the UK, eligibility checks, timelines, legal rights, and available support. Danielle discusses the emotional and practical questions she and her husband are facing, offers tips on where to find more information, and encourages listeners to research options that might suit their family.   The Infertility Gal website: www.theinfertilitygal.co.uk    If you are curious about how Proov can help you to test for your PdG levels or ovulation within your cycle then check out my affiliate link for 15% off at:  https://proovtest.com/THEINFERTILITYGAL Code: THEINFERTILITYGAL   The latest research continues to be poured into the Hertility products and leading diagnostic tools are utilised to guide the experts to analyse your test results.   If you are interested in purchasing your own hormone testing kit from Hertility consider using my affiliate link:   https://hertilityhealth.com/hormone-and-fertility-testing?source=aw&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2814396&utm_content=Social+Content&aw_affid=2814396&awc=47085_1774444174_04ee13e0e8c6bc4b3f7f48bff7cf8586   Hertility Code: TIG10 for 10% off any order over £249

Join the host after a walk in Swinley Forest as she dives into a reset week focused on recouping and rejuvenating the mind, body, and soul, while celebrating cozy activewear and comfort routines. She shares a simple tomato soup recipe, coastal walks in the Gower and Cornwall, St Michael's Mount adventures, and beloved treats like Cornish pasties and homemade 'nice cream.' The episode also explores the importance of hobbies, love languages, career pivots—especially for couples navigating fertility challenges—and invites listeners to share their activewear picks and inspirations via email.   The Infertility Gal website: www.theinfertilitygal.co.uk    If you are curious about how Proov can help you to test for your PdG levels or ovulation within your cycle then check out my affiliate link for 15% off at:  https://proovtest.com/THEINFERTILITYGAL Code: THEINFERTILITYGAL   The latest research continues to be poured into the Hertility products and leading diagnostic tools are utilised to guide the experts to analyse your test results.   If you are interested in purchasing your own hormone testing kit from Hertility consider using my affiliate link:   https://hertilityhealth.com/hormone-and-fertility-testing?source=aw&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2814396&utm_content=Social+Content&aw_affid=2814396&awc=47085_1774444174_04ee13e0e8c6bc4b3f7f48bff7cf8586   Hertility Code: TIG10 for 10% off any order over £249

In this episode we share Phil's phone appointment with a private andrologist after azoospermia results, learning there is about a 50% chance of finding sperm via surgical retrieval and discussing procedures (PESA/TESA/micro-TESE), risks, recovery, and outcomes. We explain why we paused private treatment to pursue the NHS pathway, the change in supplements (stopping Fertilosan and considering Impril), and the emotional impact of combined male and female factor infertility (Phil's azoospermia and my PCOS). We also reflect on coping strategies, alternative options (donor insemination, adoption), and finding calm and support while navigating this uncertain fertility journey.   The Infertility Gal website: www.theinfertilitygal.co.uk    If you are curious about how Proov can help you to test for your PdG levels or ovulation within your cycle then check out my affiliate link for 15% off at:  https://proovtest.com/THEINFERTILITYGAL Code: THEINFERTILITYGAL   The latest research continues to be poured into the Hertility products and leading diagnostic tools are utilised to guide the experts to analyse your test results.   If you are interested in purchasing your own hormone testing kit from Hertility consider using my affiliate link:   https://hertilityhealth.com/hormone-and-fertility-testing?source=aw&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2814396&utm_content=Social+Content&aw_affid=2814396&awc=47085_1774444174_04ee13e0e8c6bc4b3f7f48bff7cf8586   Hertility Code: TIG10 for 10% off any order over £249

In this episode the host checks in with listeners for a quarterly life audit, sharing personal experiences of living with PCOS and navigating the long NHS IVF/ICSI waiting process. She discusses managing physical health, mental wellbeing, work and finances, saving for potential parenthood, and considering alternatives if conception isn’t possible. With honest stories and practical tips, she encourages small, sustainable changes, protecting your peace, strengthening relationships, and planning for a future that supports your wellbeing no matter the outcome.   The Infertility Gal website: www.theinfertilitygal.co.uk    If you are curious about how Proov can help you to test for your PdG levels or ovulation within your cycle then check out my affiliate link for 15% off at:  https://proovtest.com/THEINFERTILITYGAL Code: THEINFERTILITYGAL   The latest research continues to be poured into the Hertility products and leading diagnostic tools are utilised to guide the experts to analyse your test results.   If you are interested in purchasing your own hormone testing kit from Hertility consider using my affiliate link:   https://hertilityhealth.com/hormone-and-fertility-testing?source=aw&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2814396&utm_content=Social+Content&aw_affid=2814396&awc=47085_1774444174_04ee13e0e8c6bc4b3f7f48bff7cf8586   Hertility Code: TIG10 for 10% off any order over £249

This episode follows a couple navigating infertility after a failed sperm collection, exploring options like ICSI with a donor and surgical sperm retrieval while dealing with private clinic delays and NHS waiting lists. Along the way the host shares personal reflections on PCOS, career decisions, family caregiving responsibilities, and difficult conversations about disability and parenthood. A candid, hopeful episode about resilience, tough choices, and finding community during the fertility journey.   The Infertility Gal website: www.theinfertilitygal.co.uk    If you are curious about how Proov can help you to test for your PdG levels or ovulation within your cycle then check out my affiliate link for 15% off at:  https://proovtest.com/THEINFERTILITYGAL Code: THEINFERTILITYGAL   The latest research continues to be poured into the Hertility products and leading diagnostic tools are utilised to guide the experts to analyse your test results.   If you are interested in purchasing your own hormone testing kit from Hertility consider using my affiliate link:   https://hertilityhealth.com/hormone-and-fertility-testing?source=aw&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2814396&utm_content=Social+Content&aw_affid=2814396&awc=47085_1774444174_04ee13e0e8c6bc4b3f7f48bff7cf8586   Hertility Code: TIG10 for 10% off any order over £249

The 9th of January 2025 was Phil’s sperm collection date at Kings Fertility Clinic in London. In the days of the lead up to the 9th of January Phil had been taking his Fertilisan F supplements, the three tablets a day and eating healthier, going on runs at least once a week or sometimes two times per week. I was nervous in the days of the lead up to the sperm collection date as there was every chance that the news which we were going to receive after the collection to be not what we were expecting. Phil was also nervous in the lead up to the collection date and didn’t feel ready to talk about the process as much, he wanted to be excited but there was a huge element of the unknown as well.   The infertility Gal website: www.theinfertilitygal.co.uk    If you are curious about how Proov can help you to test for your PdG levels or ovulation within your cycle then check out my affiliate link for 15% off at:  https://proovtest.com/THEINFERTILITYGAL Code: THEINFERTILITYGAL   The latest research continues to be poured into the Hertility products and leading diagnostic tools are utilised to guide the experts to analyse your test results.   If you are interested in purchasing your own hormone testing kit from Hertility consider using my affiliate link:   https://hertilityhealth.com/hormone-and-fertility-testing?source=aw&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2814396&utm_content=Social+Content&aw_affid=2814396&awc=47085_1774444174_04ee13e0e8c6bc4b3f7f48bff7cf8586   Hertility Code: TIG10 for 10% off any order over £249

Before spending your money at the first Fertility Clinic you find do your research, the clinic is required to provide you with a full price list of their various procedures and a list of their live birth rate statistics based on age and health conditions.  The clinic Thames Valley Fertility is running an open evening every 2 weeks on a Thursday from 1800. The event is free for all to attend and to give you a closer idea of what is involved in the process, the costing and to see the clinic.  Look out for clinics which provide open evenings or open days which you can attend to gather more information.    The Infertility Gal website: www.theinfertilitygal.co.uk    If you are curious about how Proov can help you to test for your PdG levels or ovulation within your cycle then check out my affiliate link for 15% off at:  https://proovtest.com/THEINFERTILITYGAL Code: THEINFERTILITYGAL   The latest research continues to be poured into the Hertility products and leading diagnostic tools are utilised to guide the experts to analyse your test results.   If you are interested in purchasing your own hormone testing kit from Hertility consider using my affiliate link:   https://hertilityhealth.com/hormone-and-fertility-testing?source=aw&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2814396&utm_content=Social+Content&aw_affid=2814396&awc=47085_1774444174_04ee13e0e8c6bc4b3f7f48bff7cf8586     Hertility Code: TIG10 for 10% off any order over £249

As someone who lives with PCOS being told that I needed to lose weight in order to have the best success on the ICSI journey I was initially overwhelmed. Overall I lost 16 kilograms by doing an audit on my food consumption, exercise consistency and lifestyle changes.    The Infertility Gal website: www.theinfertilitygal.co.uk    If you are curious about how Proov can help you to test for your PdG levels or ovulation within your cycle then check out my affiliate link for 15% off at:  https://proovtest.com/THEINFERTILITYGAL Code: THEINFERTILITYGAL   The latest research continues to be poured into the Hertility products and leading diagnostic tools are utilised to guide the experts to analyse your test results.   If you are interested in purchasing your own hormone testing kit from Hertility consider using my affiliate link:   https://hertilityhealth.com/hormone-and-fertility-testing?source=aw&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2814396&utm_content=Social+Content&aw_affid=2814396&awc=47085_1774444174_04ee13e0e8c6bc4b3f7f48bff7cf8586    Hertility Code: TIG10 for 10% off any order over £249

In this episode we deep dive into the importance of our finances and future planning for the possibility of a growing family.    The Infertility Gal website: www.theinfertilitygal.co.uk    If you are curious about how Proov can help you to test for your PdG levels or ovulation within your cycle then check out my affiliate link for 15% off at:  https://proovtest.com/THEINFERTILITYGAL Code: THEINFERTILITYGAL   The latest research continues to be poured into the Hertility products and leading diagnostic tools are utilised to guide the experts to analyse your test results.   If you are interested in purchasing your own hormone testing kit from Hertility consider using my affiliate link:   https://hertilityhealth.com/hormone-and-fertility-testing?source=aw&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2814396&utm_content=Social+Content&aw_affid=2814396&awc=47085_1774444174_04ee13e0e8c6bc4b3f7f48bff7cf8586   Hertility Code: TIG10 for 10% off any order over £249

In this episode Dani and her partner Phil share their first joint NHS fertility appointment on 24 December 2024, meeting a gynaecologist and urologist to explore ICSI after private testing. The consultants discuss Phil’s very low sperm count, possible sperm collection or surgical retrieval, Dani’s PCOS and the positive effects of metformin, and the pathway to NHS funding for one ICSI attempt. The episode captures the emotional highs and uncertainty of starting IVF, next steps including a private sperm collection, an open evening, and the couple’s plans moving forward.   The Infertility Gal website: www.theinfertilitygal.co.uk    If you are curious about how Proov can help you to test for your PdG levels or ovulation within your cycle then check out my affiliate link for 15% off at:  https://proovtest.com/THEINFERTILITYGAL Code: THEINFERTILITYGAL   The latest research continues to be poured into the Hertility products and leading diagnostic tools are utilised to guide the experts to analyse your test results.   If you are interested in purchasing your own hormone testing kit from Hertility consider using my affiliate link:   https://hertilityhealth.com/hormone-and-fertility-testing?source=aw&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2814396&utm_content=Social+Content&aw_affid=2814396&awc=47085_1774444174_04ee13e0e8c6bc4b3f7f48bff7cf8586   Hertility Code: TIG10 for 10% off any order over £249

Dani shares her infertility journey, beginning with home blood tests and a pelvic scan that confirmed PCOS, followed by private clinic appointments that uncovered male factor infertility (azoospermia) in her husband. She walks through the tests, treatment options considered (ovulation induction, ICSI), private sperm collection and storage, costs, and the next steps toward NHS care or surgical sperm retrieval. The episode also reflects on the emotional impact of diagnosis, the practical challenges of private fertility care, and offers comfort to others facing similar fertility investigations and decisions.   The Infertility Gal website: www.theinfertilitygal.co.uk    If you are curious about how Proov can help you to test for your PDG levels or ovulation within your cycle then check out my affiliate link for 15% off at:  https://proovtest.com/THEINFERTILITYGAL Code: THEINFERTILITYGAL   The latest research continues to be poured into the Hertility products and leading diagnostic tools are utilised to guide the experts to analyse your test results.   If you are interested in purchasing your own hormone testing kit from Hertility consider using my affiliate link:   https://hertilityhealth.com/hormone-and-fertility-testing?source=aw&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2814396&utm_content=Social+Content&aw_affid=2814396&awc=47085_1774444174_04ee13e0e8c6bc4b3f7f48bff7cf8586   Hertility Code: TIG10 for 10% off any order over £249

In this episode Danni shares her personal PCOS journey, explaining how diagnosis impacted her fertility, weight, hormones and wellbeing, and the steps she took to regain control. She describes practical strategies that helped her: diet and Mediterranean-style meals, regular exercise, metformin and supplements (inositol, probiotics, vitamins), and daily habits like spearmint and green tea. She also discusses managing symptoms such as irregular periods and excess body hair, and working with healthcare professionals. Honest and actionable, the episode offers encouragement and clear starting points for anyone managing PCOS through lifestyle changes and medical support.   The Infertility Gal website: www.theinfertilitygal.co.uk    If you are curious about how Proov can help you to test for your PdG levels or ovulation within your cycle then check out my affiliate link for 15% off at:  https://proovtest.com/THEINFERTILITYGAL Code: THEINFERTILITYGAL   The latest research continues to be poured into the Hertility products and leading diagnostic tools are utilised to guide the experts to analyse your test results.   If you are interested in purchasing your own hormone testing kit from Hertility consider using my affiliate link:   https://hertilityhealth.com/hormone-and-fertility-testing?source=aw&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2814396&utm_content=Social+Content&aw_affid=2814396&awc=47085_1774444174_04ee13e0e8c6bc4b3f7f48bff7cf8586    Hertility Code: TIG10 for 10% off any order over £249

Dani recounts her and her husband Phil's ICSI/infertility journey and the difficult decisions around telling family and employers while navigating Phil's mother's cancer and multiple medical appointments. She shares personal reactions from loved ones, practical steps they took with the NHS and at work, and offers honest reflections and encouragement for others facing similar conversations.   The Infertility Gal website: www.theinfertilitygal.co.uk    If you are curious about how Proov can help you to test for your PdG levels or ovulation within your cycle then check out my affiliate link for 15% off at:  https://proovtest.com/THEINFERTILITYGAL Code: THEINFERTILITYGAL   The latest research continues to be poured into the Hertility products and leading diagnostic tools are utilised to guide the experts to analyse your test results.   If you are interested in purchasing your own hormone testing kit from Hertility consider using my affiliate link:   https://hertilityhealth.com/hormone-and-fertility-testing?source=aw&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2814396&utm_content=Social+Content&aw_affid=2814396&awc=47085_1774444174_04ee13e0e8c6bc4b3f7f48bff7cf8586   Hertility Code: TIG10 for 10% off any order over £249

In this intimate episode the host, sipping her favorite matcha, shares how she and Phil discovered infertility in their family-building journey — from irregular periods and a PCOS diagnosis to male-factor issues, job instability, repeated moves, and the emotional toll of waiting for answers. She explains using an ovulation tracker (MIRA), the decision to seek medical help, and the impact of stress on fertility. Practical advice is offered: see your GP early if you have menstrual irregularities, be gentle with yourself during the process, and know you are not alone — infertility affects many couples. This episode aims to offer comfort, insight, and hope to anyone considering starting a family or navigating fertility challenges.   The Infertility Gal website: www.theinfertilitygal.co.uk    If you are curious about how Proov can help you to test for your PdG levels or ovulation within your cycle then check out my affiliate link for 15% off at:  https://proovtest.com/THEINFERTILITYGAL Code: THEINFERTILITYGAL   The latest research continues to be poured into the Hertility products and leading diagnostic tools are utilised to guide the experts to analyse your test results.   If you are interested in purchasing your own hormone testing kit from Hertility consider using my affiliate link:   https://hertilityhealth.com/hormone-and-fertility-testing?source=aw&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2814396&utm_content=Social+Content&aw_affid=2814396&awc=47085_1774444174_04ee13e0e8c6bc4b3f7f48bff7cf8586    Hertility Code: TIG10 for 10% off any order over £249

In this first episode the host shares the story of meeting her husband across continents, their long‑distance romance, engagement and marriage. She opens up about their dual infertility diagnosis, the emotions that come with the journey, and their decision to pursue IVF together — offering comfort and encouragement to others facing similar challenges.   The Infertility Gal website: www.theinfertilitygal.co.uk    If you are curious about how Proov can help you to test for your PdG levels or ovulation within your cycle then check out my affiliate link for 15% off at:  https://proovtest.com/THEINFERTILITYGAL Code: THEINFERTILITYGAL   The latest research continues to be poured into the Hertility products and leading diagnostic tools are utilised to guide the experts to analyse your test results.   If you are interested in purchasing your own hormone testing kit from Hertility consider using my affiliate link:   https://hertilityhealth.com/hormone-and-fertility-testing?source=aw&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2814396&utm_content=Social+Content&aw_affid=2814396&awc=47085_1774444174_04ee13e0e8c6bc4b3f7f48bff7cf8586   Hertility Code: TIG10 for 10% off any order over £249