Whether you have just started trying, have diagnosed fertility issues or going through IVF, the Conceive Baby Podcast provides direct access to leading fertility experts to help you achieve your baby dreams
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Understanding Progesterone - it’s role in fertility, pregnancy and miscarriage
Wednesday, April 2, 2025 • Duration 46:26
In this episode of the Conceive Baby podcast, I am joined by fellow fertility naturopath Jacqui Lamplugh to discuss the role of progesterone in fertility, pregnancy and miscarriage.
We hear a lot about the importance of progesterone but is low progesterone a cause of miscarriage, or is it a symptom of an underlying issue? What does progesterone actually do? How can you support low progesterone levels? We unpack all this and more, giving you specific insights into how you can help improve hormone balance and reduce your risk of miscarriage.
Jacqui Lamplugh is a fertility naturopath and reproductive medicine expert. With over a decade of experience, Jacqui specialises in miscarriage prevention and supporting women experiencing pregnancy loss. Her journey into this field was shaped by her own experience with early pregnancy loss, which instilled in her a passion to provide better support and investigation into miscarriage causes.
Key Takeaways:
Progesterone is essential for maintaining a pregnancy but is not the primary marker for pregnancy success; its levels can fluctuate.
Low progesterone is often a symptom rather than the root cause of a miscarriage; its levels typically drop when a pregnancy is non-viable.
Potential signs of low progesterone include a short luteal phase, luteal spotting, and symptoms like PMS, pointing towards further investigation.
Lifestyle and nutritional supplementation, such as with vitamin B6, vitamin C, and Chaste Tree, can support progesterone levels but should be part of a comprehensive fertility plan.
Testing for progesterone levels should be conducted seven days post-ovulation for accuracy.
Notable Quotes:
"Progesterone is that like pro-gestation hormone and it is there to hold that endometrial lining steady waiting for implantation."
"We can't ignore the importance of thyroid; an underactive thyroid can impact progesterone levels."
"Even if it is chromosomal issues as to why the miscarriage happened - there are markers we can be testing."
"Bad luck is not a diagnosis; it's not a treatment plan."
"With the science and knowledge we have, we can identify the cause of 99% of miscarriages."
Resources:
More about Jacqui Lamplugh's work: www.jacquilamplugh.com
Food for Endo: Alex’s Personal Journey Using Food to Help Her Endometriosis
Wednesday, March 19, 2025 • Duration 41:06
In this episode of the Conceive Baby podcast, host Tasha Jennings speaks with Alex Crisp, a MasterChef Australia star and dedicated ambassador for Endometriosis Australia. In light of Endometriosis Awareness Month, Alex opens up about her challenging journey to diagnosis after years of debilitating pain which took 13 years to identify as stage five endometriosis. Together we explore the transformative power of food and nutrition in managing endometriosis symptoms and the importance of awareness and early diagnosis.
We unpack how Alex utilises food not only as a source of nourishment but as a crucial part of her management plan for endometriosis. Discussing the role of diet in controlling inflammation and hormone regulation, Alex shares insights into her personal experiences with food's impact on her health. The discussion highlights the need for wider understanding and better diagnosis processes, as well as Alex's advocacy work as a means to support and empower others in the journey towards health and wellness amidst chronic illness.
ABOUT MY GUEST
Alex Crisp is an esteemed Australian chef and a former contestant from the popular television show, MasterChef Australia. Besides her culinary achievements, Alex is a dedicated advocate for endometriosis awareness. Diagnosed with stage five endometriosis in 2020 after enduring years of debilitating symptoms, she has transformed her life through the effective use of food as a tool to manage her condition. As an ambassador for Endometriosis Australia, Alex leverages her platform to raise awareness and support others in similar situations.
Key Takeaways:
Alex Crisp discusses the lengthy and challenging journey leading to her diagnosis with stage five endometriosis after 13 years of debilitating and misdiagnosed symptoms.
The power of food and nutrition is highlighted as a significant part of managing endometriosis, emphasising the importance of a diet that reduces inflammation and balances hormones.
Misdiagnosis of endometriosis symptoms is common, leading to years of untreated pain and suffering for many women worldwide.
The episode shares Alex's advocacy work with Endometriosis Australia, focusing on raising awareness and supporting others with similar struggles.
Exploring IVF: From Egg Collection to Embryo Transfer Insights
Wednesday, July 31, 2024 • Duration 39:27
Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast, I am joined by Dr. Lisa Lee, Scientific Director at Thrive Fertility to discuss what happens after egg collection during an IVF cycle. I speak a lot about the importance of creating healthy eggs and sperm but today we delve into what happens after. What happens after your precious egg and sperm are collected?
Dr Lee shares her experience and insights into the intricate process, explaining what happens to eggs and sperm after collection, how they are fertilized, and the factors influencing embryo viability. Dr Lee demystifies grading (AA or CC) and shares her insights into laboratory technologies enhancing fertilization.
Dr Lee also emphasizes the importance of your health in the 90 days leading up to ovulation, when egg and sperm are developing, to optimise both egg and sperm quality at collection, as well as sharing her insights into the technologies and techniques used to enhance embryo development after collection.
This in depth episode offers invaluable insights for anyone considering or undergoing an IVF cycle.
Key Takeaways:
Role of an Embryologist: Embryologists are crucial in the IVF process, from handling eggs and sperm to fertilization and embryo culture. They are often referred to as the "actual baby makers."
Egg and Sperm Quality: The quality of eggs and sperm is paramount. Factors such as age and lifestyle significantly impact these gametes, influencing the success of fertilization.
Embryo Grading: Embryos are graded (AA, BB, CC, etc.) based on the quality of the inner cell mass and the trophectoderm. This ranking helps embryologists choose the best embryos for transfer.
Advanced Techniques: Cutting-edge techniques like ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection), laser-assisted hatching, and various sperm preparation methods are used to optimize fertilization and embryo development.
Communication and Trust: Patients should actively communicate with their medical team and can trust in the regulated and high-standard processes of IVF clinics.
Optimising Fertility – Actionable steps for women over 40 trying to conceive
Tuesday, July 2, 2024 • Duration 49:23
Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Conceive Baby podcast, Functional Nutritionist Alexandria Devito joins me to discuss the proactive measures women over 40 can take to boost their fertility wellbeing. We discuss actionable steps you can take to increase your chances of creating your healthy pregnancy over 40, even after the challenges of failed IVF cycles, miscarriage and natural conception hurdles.
Together we bust the myths around Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) and why it should not be used to dictate your fertility potential. We talk through the various factors affecting fertility, including stress, hormones, and diet, as well as debunking myths surrounding age and conception. You’ll leave this podcast empowered with knowledge and strategies to enhance your reproductive health through targeted testing, nutrition, lifestyle modifications, and understanding the hormone symphony!
About the Guest:
Alexandria DeVito is a renowned
functional nutritionist, author, and entrepreneur with a deep-seated passion
for enhancing preconception health and fertility. She has distinguished herself
as a thought leader in the reproductive wellness arena. DeVito is the creator
behind the book "Nine Months Is Not Enough," which offers a
comprehensive guide to building a fertile body and generational health. She's
also the founder and CEO of Poplin, an innovative pre-pregnancy wellness
company devoted to helping individuals optimise their fertility.
Key Takeaways:
AMH levels are not indicative of natural fertility; rather, they reflect ovarian reserve in the context of assisted reproductive technology cycles.
Your body's biological age, influenced by lifestyle and health, can differ significantly from chronological age, impacting reproductive wellness.
Surrogacy Laws - A Positive and Achievable Path to Parenthood in Australia
Wednesday, June 19, 2024 • Duration 42:00
Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Conceive Baby podcast, I welcome Surrogacy Lawyer Nicole Russell to explore the complexities and nuances of surrogacy in Australia. Nicole Russell is an accomplished surrogacy lawyer and together we delve into a subject often shrouded in mystery and misconception. Seemingly common in celebrity circles, we discuss what surrogacy looks like in the context of Australian law and culture.
Nicole Russell shares her personal surrogacy experience and professional insights into the world of surrogacy, detailing the step-by-step process that intended parents must navigate to start a family via surrogacy in Australia. Nicole highlights the importance of cultivating strong relationships, mandatory counselling sessions, and the legal frameworks that surround surrogacy. Throughout the podcast, Nicole emphasizes the attainability and positivity of surrogacy when conducted within our country's carefully regulated system.
About
the Guest:
Nicole Russell is an accomplished surrogacy lawyer with a background as a senior commercial litigation and insolvency lawyer at some of Australia's top law firms and as
legal counsel for one of the country's largest financial institutions. After a personal journey through the surrogacy process, Nicole found a new direction in her legal career. She established Russell Walker Lawyers, a firm dedicated to assisting Australians in creating their families through surrogacy arrangements. With firsthand experience as an intended parent in an Australian surrogacy arrangement, Nicole brings a unique and compassionate perspective to her practice.
Key Takeaways:
Surrogacy in Australia is a legally viable and positive pathway to creating a family, with structured regulations in place to ensure successful outcomes.
The foundational relationship between intended parents and the surrogate is crucial for a seamless surrogacy journey, with counselling playing a key role.
Sarah’s fertility journey - From multiple miscarriages and IVF failure, to natural conception at 40
Wednesday, June 5, 2024 • Duration 36:10
About the Guest(s):
Sarah and her partner embarked on their journey to parenthood later in life, experiencing heartbreak of multiple miscarriages and the devastation of numerous failed IVF treatments before the wonderful natural conception of their daughter, Hattie. With a science background and a knack for research, Sarah was proactive in taking ownership over her fertility journey. As a new Mum to thriving little Hattie, Sarah is kindly sharing her story to help you overcome similar challenges to help create your healthy pregnancy and your happy, healthy baby.
Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Conceive Baby podcast, host Tasha Jennings, a fertility naturopath and nutritionist, leads a heartfelt discussion with Sarah Cumming, whose fertility journey epitomizes courage and the will to pursue every available option towards achieving parenthood. Sarah's candid recount of her experiences, from natural conception efforts to the whirlwind of IVF and nutrition strategies, provides invaluable insights for those navigating a similar path.
Sarah Cumming's personal story begins with the optimism of conceiving naturally and progresses through the trials of recurrent miscarriages and IVF cycles, interlaced with a determination to leave no stone unturned.
She advocates for proactivity in fertility health, especially for women over 35, and integrates scientific evidence into her approach, emphasizing the role of specific dietary modifications and supplements. Following three demanding years of hope and loss, Sarah's story of natural conception and birth of her daughter, Hattie, is a testament to perseverance and the power of hope. She hopes her story can offer hope, advice and inspiration for others on their journey to pregnancy over 35.
Key Takeaways:
The importance of maintaining hope despite the challenges of a fertility journey marked by miscarriages and IVF.
Embracing dietary and lifestyle changes as a means to improve fertility outcomes, focusing on what can be added to the diet instead of restrictions.
The effectiveness of combined medical and naturopathic approaches to fertility, acknowledging both science and nutrition.
Egg Donation: International Hope for Couples Facing Fertility Challenges
Wednesday, May 1, 2024 • Duration 37:46
Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Conceive Baby podcast, I am joined by Dr. Uliana Dorofeyeva who provides expert insights into the transformative advancements in reproductive medicine, particularly international egg donation. Dr. Dorofeyeva brings a wealth of knowledge, having pioneered groundbreaking work in assisted reproduction technologies. Our discussion centres around how international egg donation functions in Australia, the way donors are selected, the detailed information provided about donors, and the prospects of achieving a healthy pregnancy through egg donation.
The rise of egg donation has provided hope for many couples battling insurmountable fertility barriers. Dr. Uliana explains the recruitment and ethical considerations in the process of egg donation in Australia while clarifying the misconceptions around compensation in such arrangements. As we delve deeper into the selection mechanisms, Dr. Uliana talks about the AI-driven processes that enhance the quality and potential of the donor eggs, improving the likelihood of a successful pregnancy.
Key Takeaways:
International egg donation is offering hope to couples facing significant fertility challenges, operating within the legal and ethical frameworks of the respective countries.
Egg donors are meticulously screened and educated about the process, with their motivation being largely altruistic in nature.
Advanced AI technology is employed to select high-quality eggs, considering multiple factors to increase the efficacy of egg donation treatments.
Prospects for successful pregnancies using donor eggs are considerably high, especially with the advancement of AI and thorough genetic testing.
It's important for the recipient mother to adopt a healthy lifestyle to create an optimal environment for embryo implantation and pregnancy progression.
About the Guest(s):
Dr. Uliana Dorofeyeva is an esteemed figure in the realm of assisted reproductive technology with comprehensive expertise in advanced fertility treatments. Her professional journey began with a deep-seated desire to enter the medical field, inspired by the profound impact medical professionals had on saving lives and improving quality of life. Dr. Dorofeyeva's extensive knowledge base covers a multitude of techniques including artificial insemination, ovarian stimulation, embryo transfers, and reproductive medicine. With a focus on the latest research and technologies, she specialises in intricate procedures like intracytoplasmic sperm injection, assisted hatching, and mitochondrial donations.
Genetics & Fertility – Empowering Reproductive Choices for Healthy Babies
Wednesday, April 17, 2024 • Duration 35:34
In this episode of the Conceive Baby podcast IVF and Fertility Specialist Dr. Daniel Lantsberg joins me to dive into the evolving topic of genetic carrier screening in preconception care and IVF.
Dr Lantsberg shares valuable insights into what genetic carrier screening is and who should consider testing. We also explore how genetic carrier screening can influence reproductive outcomes and the options available to couples who are found to be carriers of genetic conditions. Dr. Lanstberg highlights the accuracy and limitations of genetic testing and discusses the future of genetic screening and potential advancements in the field. This informative episode empowers you with valuable information, enabling you to make informed decisions.
Key Takeaways:
Genetic carrier screening is a form of preconception care that can identify the risk of passing on genetic conditions to offspring, even if there’s no known family history of illness.
Screening is meant for the general population and is ideally done before starting a family to maximize the available preventative options.
Basic genetic carrier screening in Australia covers the three most common conditions and is now bulk billed by Medicare.
Expanded screening can test hundreds of genes, offering a higher chance of detecting carrier status but at a higher cost.
Knowledge from these tests empowers prospective parents to make informed reproductive choices, including IVF with pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) to select healthy embryos.
About the Guest:
Dr. Daniel Lantsberg is a respected consultant gynecologist with a specialization in fertility, reproductive endocrinology, and fertility preservation. He serves as the clinical director of education at Melbourne IVF and has a rich professional background with special interests that include elective egg freezing, age-related infertility, unexplained infertility, male infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and fibroids. Dr. Lantsberg’s commitment to reproductive health extends to his role at the Reproductive Services Unit at the Royal Women’s Hospital, as well as a senior lecturer position at the University of Melbourne’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
You can find out more about Dr Daniel Lantsberg at the links below.
Endo Empowered - Boosting your fertility and getting pregnant with endometriosis
Wednesday, March 27, 2024 • Duration 54:11
In this episode of the Conceive Baby podcast, my wonderful colleague, fellow Fertility Naturopath Rhiannon Hardingham joins me to discuss the unique challenges and solutions involved in managing endometriosis and creating a healthy pregnancy.
Endometriosis is common yet often misunderstood condition that impacts millions of women, yet diagnosis can take an average of 7 years or more, with considerable suffering in between.
We dive into the complex nature of endometriosis, and explore how this condition extends far beyond its diagnosis of ‘misplaced endometrial tissue’. With a focus on practical resolutions, we unpack the underlying drivers including immune dysregulation, inflammation, and the intertwining of genetics and microbiome health and draw a clear picture of what you can do to reduce symptoms, improve fertility, and increase your chances of conceiving a healthy baby.
Expert Guest - Rhiannon Hardingham is a renowned naturopath, presenter, practitioner, educator, mentor, and author with over 16 years of experience specialising in infertility and IVF support. She has made significant strides in the integration of natural and conventional medicine, often working alongside top fertility doctors in Melbourne to achieve the best outcomes for patients. Rhiannon is a respected voice in her field, routinely invited to present on collaborative patient care to medical specialists and naturopaths. She also fulfils her passion for education by providing professional mentoring to functional medicine practitioners. Authorship is among her achievements; co-authoring "Create a Fertile Life," a preconception healthcare guide, stands as a testament to her commitment and expertise in fertility health.
Endometriosis is more than just tissue growth outside the uterus; it involves immune dysregulation and microbiome dysbiosis, making it a multifactorial condition.
Toxins & Fertility – The impact on embryo creation and what you can do about it
Wednesday, March 6, 2024 • Duration 29:46
We are exposed to hundreds of thousands of chemicals each and every day. What impact is this having on our ability to create a healthy pregnancy?
As my guest today, embryologist Lucy Lines explains, it has a big impact and we need to take action now.
Lucy is an embryologist who likes to describe herself as a Fertility Educator and an IVF Advocate, with her sole purpose being to help women and couples find the information they’re searching for, in the knowledge that it is science based, comes from a reputable source and from someone who isn't trying to sell you anything more.
I have previously interviewed Lucy about the biology of what’s needed to create a healthy pregnancy. Today, we’re discussing all the chemicals we are exposed to in our modern world and how they can:
• Reduce egg quality
• Reduce sperm health
• Affect our risk of miscarriage
• Reduce our ability to create a healthy pregnancy.
In this episode Lucy explains what endocrine disrupting chemicals and the specific impact they are having on the creation of healthy sperm, healthy eggs and a healthy pregnancy.
Unfortunately, the release of chemicals to market is largely unregulated, which means we need to take matters into our own hands.
If you would like to work further with Lucy or join her DetoxWTF Program, you can find more details here.
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Mental well-being and self-advocacy play critical roles in managing chronic health conditions like endometriosis, stressing the importance of trusting one’s instincts and seeking multiple medical opinions.
Notable Quotes:
"Food has very much been the backbone of everything in my life... and being able to whip something up in the kitchen... it's literally like, you know, how different foods can trigger different reactions in your body." – Alex Crisp
"Painful periods are not normal. Endometriosis is definitely a very experienced condition." – Alex Crisp
"It's very much a subconscious thing... give her some credit, give her a cuddle and uplift her and recognize that what she's going through is hard and in a way it's really validating." – Alex Crisp
"One conversation to change your life and I'm kind of living proof of that. So people get talking." – Alex Crisp
"Trust your gut for a start. And second, it's get, you know, don't settle at one opinion. You hunt it until you feel satisfied." – Alex Crisp
0:03 The Role of an Embryologist in the IVF Process
6:20 The Crucial Role of Embryologists in the IVF Process
15:07 Embryo Development Milestones and Grading for Successful Pregnancy
20:06 Understanding Embryo Grading and Its Impact on IVF Success
23:41 Advanced IVF Technologies Mimic Natural Body Processes
30:33 Navigating the IVF Journey with Trust and Proactive Questions
About the Guest:
Dr. Lisa Lee is the Scientific Director at Thrive Fertility, with a distinguished career spanning multiple fertility clinics across Hong Kong and Australia. Her roles have included leadership and management, as well as research and embryology positions. Dr. Lee has served as a committee member for the professional group Scientists in Reproductive Technology and has authored numerous peer-reviewed journal articles.
Hormonal balance is crucial, and factors like chronic stress and sleep quality can affect reproductive hormones
Preconception health is essential for both partners, especially during the 90 days it takes for eggs and sperm to mature.
Adopting a fertility-friendly lifestyle by reducing exposure to endocrine disruptors and improving diet can enhance egg and sperm quality, regardless of age.
Mentioned in this episode:
The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Ageing on Fertility
If you are trying to conceive over 35 or over 40, I have something for you! One of the most common questions I get, is what are the best supplements to boost my chances of conceiving over 40?
So, I’ve put together a comprehensive FREE guide for you – The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Ageing on Fertility.
In this guide I deep dive into the top 5 supplements including doses, specific forms of nutrients, ideal reference ranges you should be looking for and more, that have been proven to help reverse the impact of ageing to help you conceive and carry your healthy baby over 40! ACCESS HERE
Currently, she is associated with Ovogene, a global European egg bank, and actively engages in assisting international patients with their fertility challenges.
The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Ageing on
Fertility
If you are trying to conceive over 35 or over 40, I have something for you!
One of the most common questions I get, is what are the best supplements to
boost my chances of conceiving over 40?
So, I’ve put together a comprehensive FREE guide for you - The 5 Game
Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Ageing on Fertility.
In this guide I deep dive into the top 5 supplements including doses,
specific forms of nutrients, ideal reference ranges you should be looking for
and more, that have been proven to help reverse the impact of ageing to
help you conceive and carry your healthy baby over 40! ACCESS HERE
Mentioned in...
Diagnostic strategies for endometriosis include ultrasound, laparoscopy, CA-125 blood tests, and there is an emerging role for MRI assessments.
Diet and lifestyle modifications, such as consuming high-fibre foods and omega-3-rich fish, avoiding processed foods, and engaging in regular exercise, can have significant impacts on managing endometriosis.
The microbiome plays a pivotal role in the regulation of inflammation and immunity; specific probiotic strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus, reuteri, and crispatus are beneficial for uterine health.
Individualised approaches in treatment, testing, and supplementation, including considerations for hormone clearance pathways, are critical for optimal outcomes in managing endometriosis and fertility challenges.
Mentioned in this episode:
The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Ageing on
Fertility
If you are trying to conceive over 35 or over 40, I have something for you!
One of the most common questions I get, is what are the best supplements to
boost my chances of conceiving over 40?
So, I’ve put together a comprehensive FREE guide for you - The 5 Game
Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Ageing on Fertility.
In this guide I deep dive into the top 5 supplements including doses,
specific forms of nutrients, ideal reference ranges you should be looking for
and more, that have been proven to help reverse the impact of ageing to
help you conceive and carry your healthy baby over 40!
