The Fertility Podcast

In this episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Ian Stones, co founder of Testhim, to talk about something that should be simple but still too often isn’t. Testing men. We talk a lot in fertility about women’s bodies, women’s hormones, women’s investigations. But male fertility accounts for around a third of infertility cases, and yet men are still frequently an afterthought. Ian and I explore when men should be tested, what those tests actually look like, why semen analysis is not always enough, and how men can advocate for themselves earlier in the process. If you are dealing with male factor infertility, recurrent loss, unexplained infertility, or you simply want to understand more about sperm health, this episode is for you. And if you are the partner trying to get a reluctant man to engage with this conversation, please share it. What we discuss in this episode: What Testhim actually does Testhim offers: Their questionnaire...

In this episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Dr Carole Gilling-Smith, Medical Director of The Agora Clinic and Trustee of Fertility Action, to talk about family building within the LGBTQ+ community. If you are part of the LGBTQ+ community and thinking about becoming a parent, or you love someone who is, this episode is a practical starting point. We talk about treatment pathways, donor conception, fertility preservation, NHS inequality, and how to make sure you are supported properly by a clinic that understands your needs. This is about education, empowerment and knowing your options. What we cover in this episode About Dr Carole Gilling-Smith Dr Carole Gilling-Smith is the Medical Director of The Agora Clinic, one of the UK’s leading fertility clinics for the LGBTQ+ community, based in Brighton and Hove. She is also a founding Trustee of Fertility Action, the UK charity campaigning for fertility equality and better access to treatment. Carole has been a long standing advocate for:

In this deeply emotional episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Catherine Cousins, author of Just One Child, to talk honestly about secondary infertility, failed IVF cycles, mental health, grief, and what it means to come to terms with building a family with one child when that was not the plan. This conversation was not an easy one to prepare for or to record. Catherine shares her story with such openness, including her experience of a cancer diagnosis within her family, IVF after having a child naturally, a mental health breakdown following a failed cycle, and the long road towards acceptance. If you are currently in treatment, living with secondary infertility, or facing decisions about stopping treatment, this episode may resonate deeply. We talk about grief that is often unseen, the isolation that comes with this experience, and why it is so rarely spoken about. If this is not the right time for you to listen, please come back when you feel ready. What we discuss in this episode: About Catherine and her book Catherine Cousins is the author of Just One Child, a powerful and compassionate book about secondary infertility, loss, and redefining family when further treatment is not possible or no longer feels right. Her book explores the emotional, social, and psychological impact of coming to terms with having one child when you hoped for more, and gives voice to an experience that is often overlooked. You can find Catherine and her work here: Just One Child on Amazon

Sex and intimacy can change dramatically when you are trying to conceive, especially when fertility treatment, loss or ongoing uncertainty is part of your life. In this episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Kate Moyle, psychosexual therapist, podcaster and author of The Science of Sex, to talk about how sex, desire, relationships and connection can evolve in ways we never expected when fertility becomes part of our story. Kate brings both professional insight and compassionate understanding to one of the most normal yet least discussed parts of many people’s experience. We talk about timing, pressure, anxiety, loss, connection, expectation and how to rebuild joy and pleasure in your relationship. Whether you are in a long term partnership, thinking about future intimacy, or trying to untangle the impact that fertility has had on your sex life, this conversation is full of practical insight and reassurance that you are not alone. If this is your first time listening to The Fertility Podcast, welcome. I’m Natalie Silverman, your host, and I’m grateful you are here. The Fertility Podcast is also the official podcast of Fertility Action, the UK charity for fertility awareness, support and community. All the details of their support and education are in the show notes. What we discuss in this episode: This episode touches on loss, grief and confusion. If you are not ready for that right now, please skip and come back when you are ready. About Kate Moyle Kate Moyle is a UK based psychosexual therapist, author and public speaker whose work helps people understand sex and intimacy through a biological, psychological and social perspective. She is the author of The Science of Sex, a neutral, accessible guide to sex and sexuality designed for all bodies. You can find Kate’s work here: The Science of Sex (book)The Science of Sex podcastWebsite: Kate’s approach is grounded in research, lived experience and curiosity. This episode is one of the most honest and compassionate conversations we have had about sex and fertility on the podcast. Support from our sponsors This episode is...

Trying to conceive can be incredibly isolating, especially when your friends and family just do not get it. That is why I loved this conversation with Sarah Banks, fertility coach, speaker, author, and creator of the Positivity Planner. Sarah’s work is all about helping you feel more emotionally supported through treatment. She also has years of experience working with clinics on patient support strategies, so she sees both sides: what patients need, and what is still missing in the system. We talked about why fertility coaching can be such a powerful complement to medical treatment, how to navigate the emotional rollercoaster of TTC, and how to protect your mental wellbeing, even when things do not go as planned. What we discuss in this episode: If you are feeling like you have no one to talk to, or like you are supposed to just keep going while your heart is breaking, this one is for you. This episode is sponsored by Access Fertility Worried about the financial pressure of treatment? Access Fertility offers funding programmes and 0% interest finance to help ease the burden of self-funding IVF. Their services include: no interest over 12 months100% backover 60 top clinics Visit accessfertility.com/thefp to learn more. Learn more about Sarah’s work: Positivity Plannerssarahbanks.coach Let’s keep the conversation going:

In this episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Jen Elworthy, fertility career coach and Director of Engagement at Fertility Matters at Work, to explore how career coaching can support you while going through fertility treatment. Jen joined our team in July 2025, and since then I’ve had the joy of learning from her insight, empathy and real-world experience. She has lived through the impact of ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage while working in high-pressure environments, and she shares how these experiences shaped her approach to coaching. If you’ve ever felt stuck in your job because of your treatment, uncertain how to talk to work, or unable to see a career path that aligns with what you’re going through, this episode is for you. What we discuss in this episode: Jen’s support offerings include: If you're considering career coaching but aren't sure it's “for you”, this is your reminder that it’s absolutely okay to ask for help, and there are options at every level. This episode is sponsored by Access Fertility Worried about the financial pressure of treatment? Access Fertility offers funding programmes and 0% interest finance to help ease the burden of self-funding IVF. Their services include:

In this episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Catherine Lightfoot, ADHD coach and founder of Rewired Circles, to talk about her experience of navigating IVF as a neurodivergent person. Catherine was working in a senior HR role while undergoing fertility treatment and dealing with the mental load of a delayed ADHD diagnosis. She joins me to talk about the emotional toll of masking, the challenges of advocating for yourself in a system that does not always recognise neurodivergence, and the importance of creating support spaces that actually meet people where they are. This is our first episode covering neurodivergence and fertility, and I want to thank Catherine for bringing this conversation forward. If you suspect you may be neurodivergent, or if you’ve been struggling to articulate how this process is affecting you, I hope this episode offers support and language for what you might be feeling. What we discuss in this episode: A note on support and asking for help So many of us keep it all in. We wait until it gets really bad before we share anything. But Catherine reminds us that asking for help does not need to be dramatic or all-encompassing. You can start small. Tell one trusted colleague at work. Let one friend know. Give someone permission to be your backup or just your quiet support. If you are masking and managing everything...

In this episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Hayley King, donor-conceived adult, mum of donor-conceived twins, and Operations Manager at Path to Parenthub. We’re talking about the story that made headlines last December, a sperm donor with a genetic mutation linked to cancer being used in nearly 200 conceptions across 14 countries. This episode unpacks how this could happen, the gaps in donor regulation that allow it, and what this means for families. We also talk about the emotional, ethical, and logistical challenges of donor conception in a globalised industry, where the same donor can be used across borders with no international limits in place. Hayley brings both personal and professional insight into how families can make informed choices, why early disclosure matters, and what changes are urgently needed to protect the next generation. If you’re on a donor conception path or supporting someone who is, this conversation is essential listening. What we discuss in this episode: A note on regulation and emotional safety: While advances in genetic screening are helpful, they are not foolproof. The issue is not just medical, it is ethical. Donors should not be used to create hundreds of families across continents. Without international family limits or shared tracking systems, donor-conceived people may unknowingly share genetics with a vast number of people worldwide. This impacts their sense of self, their safety in relationships, and their ability to connect the dots in their identity. As Hayley says, transparency matters. Families deserve accurate information and regulated systems that put people over profit. Let’s keep the conversation going:

Happy New Year - hope you're enjoying the bright sunshine we have in Manchester as we wait to see if it snows! You've survived the festive season and hopefully you're starting the new year in a peaceful place, despite the possibilityof there being a lot to consider in your year ahead. I hope the podcast continues to stay in your earholes and supports you along the way. If you're yet to subscribe, please do so, wherever you have found this episode as it makes a real difference. Plus, feel free to leave a review each time you listen as I love hearing your thoughts. Natalie x

As we wrap up 2025, this final episode of The Fertility Podcast is a heartfelt reflection on the year we’ve had and a look ahead to what’s coming. I’m joined by Katie Rollings, founder of Fertility Action, for a candid chat about the emotional toll of trying to conceive at this time of year, what has changed in the support landscape, and why we need more trust, better information, and continued compassion in the fertility space. If this time of year feels like a gut punch, you are not alone. Whether you are grieving a loss, recovering from a failed cycle, or quietly carrying the weight of infertility, I hope this episode reminds you that your experience matters and that support is out there. What we discuss in this episode: A note on the mental load this season: If you have found yourself thinking “I really thought this would be our year”, you are not alone. That sense of grief, reflection, and uncertainty can be especially heavy during the holidays. But you are allowed to set limits. To say no. To opt out of conversations or events. You are not selfish for protecting your peace. Whether it is preparing a few phrases for difficult family questions, giving yourself permission to decline invites, or joining a support group for the first time, do whatever helps you feel grounded. And if you need a glimmer of hope, plan something just for you. Something small, comforting, or creative such as making a Christmas bauble while you chat with others who get it. Let’s keep the conversation going: fertilityaction.org Thank you again for listening this year. However you are ending 2025, I wish you peace, space to breathe, and a gentle start to whatever comes next. Until next time.

Tips from the TTC community In this penultimate episode of 2025, I wanted to share something a little different. This time of year can be incredibly difficult if you’re trying to conceive, dealing with loss, or navigating life after fertility treatment. So I gathered a brilliant group of patient advocates and professionals to offer their heartfelt, practical advice for getting through the holidays. From awkward questions at the dinner table to setting boundaries and finding your tribe, this episode is full of small but powerful ideas to help you protect your wellbeing and find support, whatever your journey looks like. What we discuss in this episode: You’ll hear from: Julianne BouteloupParenthood in MindMel JohnsonThe Stork and IAisha Balisariaof Mind Body Revival CoachMichael Johnson‑Ellis My Surrogacy JourneyKreena Dhiman The Art of Being BraveKev ButtonThe Man CaveHayley KingPath to Parent HubVanessa Hayewriter, speaker and infertility advocate Let’s keep the conversation going: @fertilitypoddy@fertility.action Please know that whatever you’re feeling right now, you’re not alone. Your emotions are valid, and you deserve support. Take what you need from this episode, and share it with someone who might need it too. Until next time.

In this episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Dr Anand Patel, a GP and specialist in men’s health, for an honest and incredibly practical conversation about how male fertility is handled in general practice. Anand shares the exact questions men should be prepared to ask their GP, why basic investigations are often missed, and how a simple examination could reveal more than you think. If you or your partner are just starting to explore fertility testing, this is a must‑listen. What we discuss in this episode: Special thanks to Examen, sponsor of this episode Examen offers direct, cutting‑edge sperm DNA fragmentation testing (including both single and double‑strand DNA damage), used by 85% of fertility clinics across the UK and Ireland. Tests are: You don’t need a referral to get tested. Simply book online, drop off your sample and receive detailed results to discuss with your clinic. 🎧 Learn more at examenlab.com Let’s keep the conversation going: @fertilitypoddynatalie@thefertilitypodcast.com@fertility.action Centre for Men's Health Instagram uk.linkedin.com examenlab.com Please subscribe and leave a review if this episode was helpful. And if you know someone who needs this kind of GP‑level support, send it their way. Until next time.

In this episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Kevin McEleny, Consultant Urologist at Newcastle Fertility Centre and Nuffield Health. Kevin is a specialist in male fertility and urology and has worked for years to raise awareness around the crucial but often overlooked role of male health in fertility care. We talk about how much of male fertility is still ignored, under-tested and underfunded, and what that means for couples trying to conceive. As someone who has experienced male factor infertility personally, this episode means a lot to me, and I know it will to many of you too. Whether you're going through IVF, facing a male factor diagnosis, or simply wanting to understand the full picture, I hope this episode helps you feel more informed and empowered. What we discuss in this episode: This episode is a call for more inclusive care, not just for women, but for men too. Because fertility is a shared journey, and everyone deserves to be heard. Special thanks to Examen, sponsor of this episode Examen offers direct, cutting-edge sperm DNA fragmentation testing (including both single and double-strand DNA damage), used by 85% of fertility clinics across the UK and Ireland. Tests are: You don’t need a referral to get tested. Simply book online, drop off your sample and receive detailed results to discuss with your clinic. 🎧 Learn more at examenlab.com Let’s keep the conversation going: @fertilitypoddy @fertility.action examenlab.com Please subscribe, leave a review and share this episode if it resonated, especially with someone who may need this conversation. Until next time.

In this special episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Lalana Songra, medical advisor at Examine Lab, to talk about the urgent need for better understanding and testing around male fertility, particularly sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF). As someone whose own fertility journey involved a male factor diagnosis, this is a topic close to my heart. And it’s still one that doesn’t get enough attention. We explore why male fertility plays such a vital role in conception, pregnancy loss, and future child health, and how overlooked it still is in both diagnosis and support. What we discuss in this episode: If you’ve had unexplained infertility, failed cycles, or losses with no clear answer, this episode could help you explore new questions and possibilities. Special thanks to Examine, sponsor of this episode Examine offers direct, cutting-edge sperm DNA fragmentation testing (including single and double-strand damage) used by 85% of fertility clinics across the UK and Ireland. Tests are: You don’t need a referral to get tested – just book online, drop off your sample, and get detailed results you can discuss with your clinic. 🔍 Learn more at examinelab.com Let’s keep the conversation going: @fertilitypoddy @fertility.action examinelab.com Please subscribe and leave a review if this episode spoke to you – and do share it with someone who may need this conversation. Until next time.

Hi, it’s Natalie here. This episode is an emotional and important one. I’m joined by Tim Royal, a television director known for his work on Coronation Street, Emmerdale, and EastEnders, who reached out to me to share the story behind his short film "It’s the Hope That Kills You." If you’ve been listening for a while, you’ll know that male factor infertility was part of my own fertility story. And this month on the podcast, we’re shining the spotlight on male infertility and men’s experiences, which often go unheard. Tim’s story speaks to that silence and the emotional toll that fertility treatment can have on men. What we talk about: About the film It’s the Hope That Kills You is a 13-minute short film written and directed by Tim, based on his and his wife’s seven-year fertility journey. It is raw, authentic, and quietly devastating, capturing the micro-aggressions, emotional weight, and relationship strain of infertility. Tim self-funded the film and created it to spark conversations and help others feel seen. It’s especially powerful for those trying to support loved ones but unsure how. The film will be available to watch for free on YouTube on 30 November. It has a Christmas element and was inspired by their 11th and final transfer, which took place on Christmas Eve. You can follow the film’s Instagram page for updates: @itsthehopethatkillsyoufilm Support for Men and Mental Health As Tim shares, his anxiety became life-altering and the lack of support for men in the fertility space made it worse. If you’re navigating something similar, please know there is help available. Organisations and initiatives that support men: Fertility for MenThe Male Fertility Coachtesthim - Male Fertility SupportFertility Matters at WorkFertility Action Don’t forget to ask your clinic about advanced sperm DNA testing. Many men are told their semen analysis is “normal,” but tests like those offered by ExamenLab go deeper by detecting hidden DNA fragmentation that can impact conception,...

This week, I’m joined once again by my lovely former co-host and friend, Kate Davies. You might remember Kate as the science bit of The Fertility Podcast, an independent fertility nurse and all-round champion for women’s health. These days, she’s got a very fancy title as Vice President of Medical, Women’s Health and Longevity at Ultra Human, and also works as Clinical Lead for One Day Tests, who’ve been a previous sponsor of the pod. In this episode, we’re diving into what blood tests can really tell you about your fertility and overall health. Whether you’re just starting to try, have PCOS, or have been on your journey for a while and still don’t have all the answers, this one’s for you. Kate and I talk about: Mentioned in This Episode One Day Testsonedaytests.comTFP10Fertility Action -@fertilityactionukFertility Matters at Work - The F Word at Work Live5th Novemberfertilitymattersatwork.com Before You Go Please make sure you’re subscribed wherever you listen. It really helps others find the podcast and means you won’t miss an episode (especially if I have a little break). If you found this chat helpful, I’d love it if you left a quick review. You can also find links to all the resources and everything Kate and I mentioned in the show notes below. Thank you, as always, for listening and for letting us be part of your fertility journey. 💜

Hello and welcome to this week’s episode of The Fertility Podcast. I’m Natalie, and this is a slightly different one. As it is Baby Loss Awareness Week, I want to hold space for anyone who has experienced loss, is grieving, or is navigating uncertainty in their fertility journey. In this episode, I’m resharing a previous conversation hosted by Kate Davis, my former co-host and an independent fertility nurse. Kate spoke with Jade, who bravely shared her story of miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy. This episode comes with a trigger warning as it discusses pregnancy loss in detail. If this is not the right time for you to listen, please take care of yourself and maybe explore other episodes from our ten-year archive. Before we return to Jade’s episode, I want to briefly share something personal. Last week, my family and I were caught up in the terrorist attack in Manchester during Yom Kippur, one of the holiest days in the Jewish calendar. We were at our synagogue when the lockdown happened. My husband, who volunteers for our community’s security, was outside in a stab-proof vest, which is a sad reality for British Jews. We spent the day on edge, and in the days since, it has taken a toll emotionally. I want to thank those who reached out with kindness and acknowledgement. If you have Jewish friends or colleagues, please take a moment to check in. A small gesture goes a long way. Now, back to this important episode. About this episode In this powerful re-shared conversation, Kate speaks with Jade, who opens up about her journey through multiple pregnancy losses, including two ectopic pregnancies. Jade shares her experience navigating diagnosis, advocating for her own care, and the emotional and physical recovery process. She also reflects on the fear of trying again and the trauma of nearly losing her life. What we talk about Let’s keep the conversation going @fertilitypoddyfertilityaction.org Ectopic Pregnancy Trustwww.gov.uk/request-baby-loss-certificate Support for Baby Loss Awareness Week If you or someone you know needs support, here are some brilliant charities offering resources, counselling, and community: Petals – The Baby Loss Counselling CharityTommy’sThe Miscarriage Association

Welcome to this episode of The Fertility Podcast and joined by Betty Mukherjee, who you may know, if you're a fan of Channel 4's Race Across the World as she was in series 4 with her brother James and spoke about her condition MRKH (Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser) and is now doing amazing advocacy work on the topic and sharing her own experiences as she finds out more regarding her family building options. Betty opens up about receiving her MRKH diagnosis at 16, how it shattered the future she had imagined, and how sharing her story publicly on national TV changed her life. She reflects on the healing power of vulnerability, the support of her partner Dan, and the importance of balancing self-care, fitness, and mental wellbeing during fertility treatment. What we talk about: Betty’s story is one of resilience, advocacy, and hope—and a reminder that “shame dies when stories are shared in safe spaces.” Resources & Links InstagramYouTubeMRKH Support ResourcesJulianne Boutileb Andria Trigo Fertility ActionThe F Word at Work Live

Hello and welcome back to The Fertility Podcast. I’m Natalie, your host, and if you’re new here, I went through fertility treatment over a decade ago. I have a 10-year-old son and a background in broadcasting, and I started this podcast before podcasting was even really a thing. Today, I’m proud to share that The Fertility Podcast is now the official podcast of Fertility Action, the UK’s new charity for fertility awareness and support. In this episode, I’m joined by Ro Huntriss, an award-winning fertility dietitian and founder of Fertility Dietitian UK. If you're listening in real time, it's September, which means it’s PCOS Awareness Month, and that’s exactly what we’re focusing on today. Ro breaks down what PCOS is, how nutrition and lifestyle changes can make a real difference, and how to advocate for yourself, especially when you feel dismissed or misunderstood by healthcare professionals. What we talk about ● Why conversations about fertility nutrition are finally becoming more mainstream ● What PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) actually means and how it shows up differently for everyone ● The emotional impact of being dismissed by your GP and how to push for answers ● How to identify insulin resistance and support your body through nutrition ● The truth about carbs – why reducing carbohydrate load and choosing low glycaemic index foods helps ● What a balanced, PCOS-friendly breakfast, lunch, and dinner can actually look like ● The role of resistance training, HIIT, sleep, and stress in PCOS management ● Understanding supplements like inositol and when they might help ● How to advocate for yourself with your GP using NHS resources and tracking symptoms ● Misconceptions about fertility and PCOS – and why hope and progress are still possible ● Managing the mental load of trying to conceive while navigating PCOS ● Why support, education, and specialist care can change the journey completely Let’s keep the conversation going @fertility.dietitian.uk NHS Choices Final thoughts If you’ve just received a PCOS diagnosis, give yourself a moment. It’s okay to feel upset or overwhelmed. When you’re ready, know that there are lifestyle strategies that can help you feel better and regain a sense of control. Nutrition, sleep, movement, and self-compassion all play a role. And you’re not alone. Support is out there. Please take a moment to subscribe to this podcast on Apple, Spotify or wherever you’re listening. It really helps more people find these conversations and lets us know you’re finding them helpful. Thanks as always for being here. Unti next time.

Welcome to the latest episode of The Fertility Podcast, which is during World Childless Week. If this is your first time listening, welcome. I’m a fertility advocate, a podcaster, and a mum of one. During the last decade of making this podcast, I've shared many stories of people's route to parenthood talking about those who have brought home a baby and also those who haven't as I have always wanted to ensure that whatever you are going through, you can find people who you can relate to. I also have a deep responsibility to include the voices of those who are childless not by choice, as their experiences and the acceptance that comes with revaluating the reproductive story you might have grown up provides such valuable insight. In this episode, I’m joined by Helen Gallagher, the inspiring voice behind the Happy and Childless podcast. Helen shares her powerful story of navigating grief, identity, and purpose after coming to terms with not having children. We talk about what acceptance really looks like, how the workplace can be more inclusive, and why connection and compassion matter more than ever. If you’re in this place yourself, or you know someone who is, I hope this conversation helps you feel less alone. And if now is not the right time, that’s okay too. Just remember that when you are ready, there is a whole community out there waiting to welcome you. What we talk about Let’s keep the conversation going Happy and ChildlessGateway WomenJessica Hepburn, @fertilitypoddyFertility Action Here's other onspired convesations with The Fertility Podcast archives from people from the CNBC community