KIR & HLA-DQ Alpha Match Testing explained, what these immune tests mean for IVF, implantation failure, and recurrent pregnancy loss. A conversation for fertility patients seeking answers with Dr V at Fertilysis. 

This episode is especially helpful if you are:

• Experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL)
• Facing recurrent implantation failure (RIF)
• Going through IVF with unexplained outcomes
• Curious about immune causes of infertility
• Feeling dismissed or told “everything looks normal”
• Considering or questioning reproductive immunology testing

If you’ve been through multiple miscarriages, failed embryo transfers, or unexplained infertility, you may have heard terms like KIR genes, HLA-DQ alpha matching, or reproductive immunology, often with little explanation and a lot of confusion.

In this episode, we break down KIR & HLA-DQ alpha match testing and how these immune system factors may relate to implantation, early pregnancy, and IVF outcomes.

You’ll learn how the maternal immune system interacts with an embryo and why some fertility specialists explore immune testing when everything else looks “normal.”

We cover:

• What KIR genes are and how they influence immune response in pregnancy
• What HLA-DQ alpha matching between partners means
• How immune signaling may affect implantation and placental development
• Why some people with excellent embryos still experience repeated failure
• When KIR and HLA testing is typically considered
• The controversies, limitations, and unanswered questions in reproductive immunology
• Why this testing is empowering for some and not appropriate for everyone

Most importantly, this episode validates what so many fertility patients feel:“Something isn’t working and I deserve answers.”

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

In this episode I welcome Emma Haslam from Your IVF Abroad. Having navigated IVF herself, Emma brings her advice, guidance and expertise and we have a very open discussion about everything we think you need to know before starting IVF and choosing a clinic. Emma is a breath of fresh air if you are navigating IVF! 

You can follow Emma on instagram too - @yourivfabroad and more details below: 

Free short guide to the process of having fertility treatment abroad 

https://www.yourivfabroad.co.uk/step-by-step-guide-to-having-fertility-treatment-in-europe

Free short guide to the 7 things you need to know before having egg/sperm donation abroad 

https://www.yourivfabroad.co.uk/condsidering-donation-in-europe

My podcast https://www.yourivfabroad.co.uk/podcast 

Services

https://www.yourivfabroad.co.uk/services

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Golnoush Golshirazi, molecular biologist and founder of Screen Me joined me to discuss the vaginal microbiome and its importance for fertility & loss. Golnoush also discusses how her own experiences have shaped the community she has built and fuelled her research in this area. ScreenMe offers vaginal microbiome and seminal microbiome testing, paired with education, support and care to help people improve their intimate health. 

We covered: 

What is the vaginal microbiome? 
Why is it important to test your intimate health
How does this relate to fertility & Loss
How the vaginal miocrbiome can affect IVF success
What can be done if you have an imbalance & treatment plans

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Join Andrologist Olivia Musa and myself to discuss the factors which can affect male fertility, what a semen analysis actually means and a holistic approach to improving sperm parameters. 

Olivia Musa Founded The Male Fertility Clinic which offers private semen analysis in Central London whether you are trying to conceive or just want to know whether your sperm are in good health. 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Worried you might have endometriosis? Concerns post surgical management of miscarriage? Haider Jan, Consultant Gynaecologist, Obstetrician and Clinical Director for Women's Health at Epsom & Surrey NHS talks us through these conditions and will give you practical tips about what to do next. 

Haider Jan is based at Epsom & Surrey NHS and also privately at Parkside Hospital, CRP clinic & Ashtead Hospital. You can contact his wonderful secretary Helen on: 
07757 310098 or pa@migynaecology.com

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Dive into what low AMH actually means and what the best things to do are if you have been told you have low AMH. Alex certainly busts a few myths in this episode and gives practical tips and advice how about best to address low AMH. There really is not much about AMH that Alex can't answer!

Alex O'Connor is a Fertility Acupuncturist based in Essex & London, she specialises in complex cases, low AMH, male factor fertility issues and much more. Contact Alex via her website or check our her instagram here. 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Nicola Headley previously worked as a Midwife, Health Visitor and Birth Trauma Specialist.  But it was her own difficult journey to motherhood which led her to train as a fertility coach. 

Nicola specialises in supporting women following pregnancy loss or who are going through IVF or fertility treatment to take back emotional control of their fertility journey.  Because infertility takes over every area of life.  It affects our mental health, confidence, and feelings of self-worth.  Which is why looking after how you’re feeling during this time is so important. 

Her unique programme is a mix of counselling, coaching and hypnotherapy techniques.  To support you to release what’s happened in the past, start living in the now and look to the future with hope and optimism.

We discuss:

 - Why mindset matters when TTC  & your Subconscious thoughts

 - Common emotions that arise when TTC

 - Ways to manage these emotions and why it’s important to address them

 - Exploring PTSD around fertility treatment

 - What fertility coaching is and how it can help

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Nicola is a fat-positive fertility coach and author of “Fat and Fertile”.

She helps fat folks navigate getting pregnant in a weight-obsessed world and advocates for change in how fat people are treated whilst accessing help with their fertility.

Nicola uses her unique fat positive framework to support people in finding their own version of health without diets, advocate for their bodies, relearn how to trust their body and believe in their ability to get pregnant.

In this episode we discuss: 

 - Why women in bigger bodies are often discriminated against in the fertility world
 - Why BMI should not be used to determine who is entitled to fertility treatment or not and the reasons behind why it's currently used!
 - Why weight does not always have a direct correlation to a woman's fertility
- Ways you can approach medical professionals in a non confrontational way with the evidence base to get the care you deserve.
- where to go to find evidence around weight and fertility

You can find many more resources at Nicola's website. 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Becky is the founder of 'Paths to Parent Hub' which is an online support network & community for couples going down the route of doner conception. She also co-founded 'Fertility Matters at Work', a company which  is dedicated to raising awareness and education of fertility issues in the workplace. 

In this episode we discuss: 

- When to consider, or when you might have to consider, donor conception

- Different types of donation - ie: egg, sperm, embryo, double

 - The main things to consider when choosing a donor 

 - Where to go to start choosing a donor

 - The implications of Donor Conception, attachment, bonding, anonymity and potential implications for the child/parent relationship.

If you are considering Donor conception then this episode is for you!

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Hannah Pearn is a fertility and women’s health acupuncturist who runs a practice in South London. She is also a passionate educator on all things women’s health, fertility and menstrual cycle related, so much so she has even designed her own online course, teaching to conceive.

In this episode we discuss how acupuncture actually works and how it can support fertility, we also bust a few acupuncture myths!

Click here, if you are looking for a fertility support trained acupuncturist near you! You can also check out the British Acupuncture Council for a list of qualified Acupuncture practitioners near you. 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Rebecca Hay is a qualified midwife and private fertility nurse at The Evewell Clinic in London and in this episode we are discussing IVF.

We talk through choosing a clinic or consultant, the very first appointment and all the paperwork you will need to complete to what actually happens in each part of an IVF cycle. Rebecca explains the differences between protocols, IVF & ICSI and  what you can expect at each part of the treatment. She even talks about how you might feel emotionally during each part if the treatment! If you are about to start fertility treatment or are even considering it then this episode will be invaluable for you.

You can contact Rebecca via The Evewell Clinic. Please note the wait time for an appointment at The Evewell is now much shorter than mentioned in the podcast! 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Emma is an embryologist and the lab manager at The Evewell fertility clinic in Harley street and previously spent 13 years at the lister fertility clinic in London. 

Emma specialises in pre-implantation genetic testing of embryos and she has a passion for preventing the transmission of inherited genetic disease and enhancing the capabilities of embryo selection. 

Emma believes IVF patients should have the opportunity to understand what goes on in an IVF laboratory. Her goal is to help patients alleviate some of the stress and anxiety caused by so many unknowns by championing education and awareness around IVF and embryology. 

In this episode we discuss: egg quality (obviously!), PGT-A testing, what happens to your embryos in an IVF cycle and much more! 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Maria is a Personal Trainer who founded Fitness Fertility, a specialist PT service for women who are struggling to conceive or undergoing fertility treatment. In this episode we bust some myths around exercise and TTC and Maria explains why we should be exercising for health first and the benefits for fertility. 

You can also check our Maria's instagram @fitness_fertility 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Dr Hassan Shehata is a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist and a subspecialist in Maternal Medicine. He is the clinical director for south west London maternal medicine network. He has a specific interest in reproductive immunology and it’s impact on fertility and pregnancy. He founded the Centre for reproductive immunology and pregnancy miscarriage clinic in Epsom and this is where he is primarily based. He also its on the royal college of obstetricians and gynaecologists council. 

In this episode we discuss how the immune system can cause recurrent miscarriage, unsuccessful IVF cycles and so called 'unexplained infertility'. Dr Shehata highlights the differences between NHS treatment for reproductive immunology and those of private clinics and why. We also touch on signs and symptoms of potential immunology issues and treatment protocols. 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Professor Sheena Lewis’ research has been focused on male infertility and in particular sperm DNA damage testing, where her goal has been to identify causes of and treatments for male infertility by developing novel biomarkers.

Sheena has published over 120 full papers plus book chapters and numerous reviews.    Her research has led to the formation of a University spin out company; Examen  marketing male fertility tests. She also has a strong commitment to public engagement with research and regularly communicates her group’s latest research findings through international TV, radio and online interviews.

Today we talk all about what sperm DNA fragmentation is, how it affects fertility and how to go about understanding whether this may be an issue for you.

Examen have recently launched semen analysis testing in Belfast. You can book your test and find out more about your fertility here. https://examenlab.com/book-a-semen-analysis-test-at-our-belfast-hub/ 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Karen Hanson is the founder of Aura Fertility, which is an app designed to support and empower couples going through fertility struggles by providing personalised support and whole person care. The app was recently voted number 2 for fertility support in the app store and is growing quickly. 

Karen had her own fertility journey which led to the birth of her son and she is currently pregnant with her second child.  In this episode, she’ll be discussing how being diagnosed with unexplained infertility led her down the path of getting a diagnosis and advocating for women in a similar position to do the same. 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Dr Lauren Rockliffe is a Chartered Health Pyschologist and pregnancy health coach and founder of Bloomwell Pregnancy supporting women throughout any stage of their fertility and pregnancy journey. 

In todays episode we discuss: 

The emotional impact of TTC, triggers and how hard & overwhelming it can all be 
Tools to help manage this and foster self compassion 
How self compassion can help with TTC and why its important 
Practical tools and tips for cultivating Self Compassion  

You can book a free call with Lauren via her website or follow her on instagram at @bloomwellpregnancy 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

In this episode we are joined by the wonderful Claire Mooney, andrologist, embryologist and founder of Fertility Solutions, a specialist male fertility clinic in Beaconsfield, Herts.

Claire brings her wealth of knowledge to the table to discuss:

What is sperm DNA fragmentation and how it can affect a man's fertility
The importance of optimising sperm and how you may be able to avoid IVF with better sperm health
Bacterial infections and how they harm sperm
Treating couples to improve fertile parameters before signposting them straight to IVF and the ideal scenarios for IVF preparation if necessary

Claire offers short fertility consultations to discuss male fertility test results and offer support and guidance here. You can undergo a wealth of male fertility tests at Fertility Solutions including consultations with renowned Fertility Urologist Jonathan Ramsey. 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Dr Katie Lee is a dentist and author of 'Saved by the Mouth'

Join Katie & myself to discuss:

• Fertility Facts: the connection between oral health and fertility, your oral health can be vital for fertility amongst other things
• Red Flags for Oral Health, signs and symptoms there maybe some work to be done!
• How to look after your Oral Health and testing for the Oral Microbiome

Katie is based in Colorado, USA and offers telehealth consultations and saliva testing for the oral microbiome, you can get in touch with Katie via her website or her instagram. 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Emma Harding is our Fertility Suite Reproductive Reflexologist, trained under expert Barbara Scott to support you with your fertility. We discuss:

How reflexology actually works
How it can support fertility and conditions affecting fertility
How it supports an IVF cycle
Reflexology in early pregnancy
What to expect at your first appointment.

You can book an appointment with Emma here or reach out to her on instagram @reflexologywithemma 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Louise Collyer is a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner, specialising in endometriosis and fertility. We discuss the complexities of Endo and considerations you need to make for your fertility: 

 - How endo affects fertility 

 - The Links with your vaginal microbiome 

 - The Links with your gut microbiome 

 - Nutritional support for Endo 

 - How acupuncture and herbal medicine can help 

 - Other practical tips to help Endo

You can contact Louise via instagram @_louisecollyer_

www.louisecollyeracupuncture.co.uk

She also has an online Endo Support Plan - Endo Fertility Solution 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Victoria Wigley , Embryologist tells us everything you need to know to improve your chance of success with IVF. We discuss: 

- What it means to have ‘good egg quality’ 

 - Embryo grading & PGT-A testing

 - What factors will affect how many blastocysts you could get

 - How important the lab is when choosing an IVF clinic and what should be the basic requirements 

 - The importance of improving sperm health before an IVF cycle

 - Top tips to improve your chance of getting good quality embryos

Victoria runs independent IVF advice service 'All About Embryology' and has previously worked at New Life clinic, CRGH and The London Fertility Centre. 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Andrew Coutts of the International Fertility Company tells us everything you need to know about having IVF abroad. For anyone considering IVF this is a must listen! 

We discuss: 

What are the benefits of having IVF abroad 
What are the standards of clinic like abroad
Do the clinics abroad offer ‘better’ more up to date treatment options than UK clinics Are there big cost differences
What are the pitfalls/potential downsides of IVF abroad
How do you start to look for a clinic 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

In this episode of The Fertility Suite Podcast, we explore the vital and often overlooked role of the vaginal microbiome in fertility.

Joined by Jess Childs, registered Nutritional Therapist and Intimate Health Specialist at Pelvic Relief, we break down what the vaginal microbiome is, why a Lactobacillus-dominant environment supports fertility, and how imbalance may affect sperm survival, implantation, and early pregnancy.

We discuss what influences vaginal bacteria, common (and silent) signs of imbalance, how vaginal microbiome testing works, and practical ways to support vaginal health when trying to conceive. We also explore live bacteria (probiotics) and their potential role in maintaining a healthy vaginal environment.

This episode is essential listening for couples TTC who want a deeper understanding of fertility beyond hormones and timing. Below you will also find some of the studies that were referenced in this pod and you can contact Jess on: jessica@pelvicrelief.co.uk

• Impact of ureaplasma in semen (these findings revealed that U. urealyticum lowers semen quality via the upregulation of semi nal fluid leukocytes, elastase, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and DNA fragmentation): https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1186/s12610-025-00262-5.pdf 
• In conclusion, although the causes of miscarriage are often unknown, research suggests that the microbiota in the vaginal could contribute to an increase in miscarriages. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165037824000603
• Taken together, these findings underscore the potential of the (reproductive tract) microbiome to shape immune responses in pregnancy and the possible role of microbial dysbiosis in Recurrent Pregnancy Loss through its effects on immune balance: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165037824000603

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

When couples struggle to conceive, the focus often falls on female fertility but sperm health plays a crucial role too.

In this episode, we’re joined by Ian Stones from Test Him to explain sperm DNA fragmentation, one of the most overlooked factors in male fertility and unexplained infertility.

We break down what sperm DNA fragmentation actually is, how it differs from a standard semen analysis, and why sperm count and motility can appear “normal” while conception still doesn’t happen. This episode is especially relevant for couples facing unexplained infertility, recurrent miscarriage, or repeated IVF or ICSI failure.

Ian explains who should consider DNA fragmentation testing, how the test works, and what the results really mean. We also explore lifestyle factors that can damage sperm DNA, such as stress, smoking, alcohol, diet, heat exposure, and inflammation and discuss evidence-based treatments and lifestyle changes that may help improve sperm DNA quality.

If you’ve never been told about sperm DNA fragmentation testing but are struggling to conceive, this episode could be the missing piece.

Ian also has an online support group which can be joined via the Test Him website. 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Endometriosis is common, complex, and often misunderstood especially when it comes to fertility. In this episode, Dr Rahi Victory, a reproductive endocrinologist and fertility expert breaks down how endometriosis affects fertility, how it’s diagnosed, and what treatment and pregnancy options are available.

We talk through the symptoms many people miss, why diagnosis is often delayed, and what patients can do if they’ve been told they have “unexplained infertility.” Most importantly, we share realistic and positive outcomes for people with endometriosis who want to grow their families.

In this episode, we cover:

• What endometriosis is and how it impacts fertility
• Signs and symptoms of endometriosis
• Diagnosis delays and why they’re so common
• Treatment options for endometriosis and fertility
• Pregnancy outcomes and success rates in patients with endometriosis
• How to advocate for yourself with unexplained infertility

You can contact Dr Victory on: info@drvictory.com

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Eating for IVF: What to Eat and Why

In this episode, Jen Walpole, a fertility nutritionist explains how nutrition can support IVF outcomes, with a focus on the three months before treatment, a key window for egg and sperm development.

We explore why nourishment matters before IVF, the key nutrients linked to IVF success, and how vitamin and mineral deficiencies can impact hormone balance, egg quality, sperm health, implantation, and early embryo development.

We cover which foods to increase and which to reduce when preparing for IVF, plus a realistic look at what a typical day of eating might look like during IVF prep.

We also discuss eating during the two-week wait, what to prioritise, what not to overthink, and how to support both implantation and mental wellbeing.

Ideal for couples preparing for IVF or starting fertility treatment soon.

You can contact Jen via her website for more information. 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

Why does Chinese medicine view fertility so differently and could it be the missing piece if you’re trying to conceive? 

In this episode, we’re joined by acupuncturist Kate to explore how Chinese medicine and acupuncture can support fertility naturally, especially for couples navigating unexplained infertility, IVF, or difficulty conceiving. If you’ve been told “everything looks normal” but you’re still not pregnant, this conversation offers a fresh, holistic perspective.

We break down how Chinese medicine approaches fertility by looking at the whole body, cycle health, and nervous system, rather than just test results, helping to identify underlying imbalances that may be affecting your ability to conceive.

You’ll also learn how acupuncture can support fertility, improve overall reproductive health, and bridge the gap between “unexplained infertility” and moving forward with assisted treatment.

In this episode, we cover:

• How Chinese medicine can help improve fertility and support natural conception
• Why Western medicine doesn’t always explore fertility challenges in depth
• How acupuncture helps bridge the gap between unexplained infertility and IVF
• Kate’s personal journey into Chinese medicine 
• Top 5 fertility tips for couples trying to conceive

Whether you’re at the beginning of your fertility journey or considering IVF, this episode is packed with practical advice, holistic fertility support, and expert insights to help you feel more informed and empowered.

You can join Kate's community here. 

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

In this episode, we sit down with Emma Haslam, a fertility expert who runs a company specialising in IVF abroad and who has also personally built her family through double donor conception. Emma brings both professional insight and real-life experience to the conversation, making this a must-listen for couples who are just starting to explore donor conception or have been told it’s their best option.

What we cover:

• What is double donation?
  We break down what double donor conception means, how it works, and why it might be recommended.
• Key things to consider
  We talk about the emotional, ethical, and practical factors couples should think through before moving forward.
• Costs and logistics
  Emma explains the typical financial landscape, what’s included, and what to expect when pursuing IVF abroad.
• How to choose a suitable donor
  We walk through the practical steps of searching for and selecting a donor, including the questions to ask and the criteria to consider.

Whether you’re just beginning to learn about donor conception or you’re ready to take the next step, this episode offers honest guidance, expert clarity, and a real-life perspective from someone who has been in your shoes.

Following her own journey with infertility which led to the birth of her son via IVF abroad Emma Haslam has become the go-to independent expert guide for fertility testing and treatment in Europe. Since 2019 Emma has helped 100s of people globally struggling to conceive to start and grow their families.
Emma has been featured in the national and international media, interviewed and featured in a book and is an advocate, writer and podcaster for the infertility community. Emma was a headline speaker at The Fertility Show in London 2025, and Judge at the European Fertility Care awards in 2024 and 2025.

Emma is on a mission to make fertility testing and treatment globally more transparent, affordable, accessible, safe and supported for more people and she wants to put you firmly back in the driver’s seat of your fertility journey and give you the best chance of reaching your desired destination; growing your family.

Links

Want to learn more about going abroad for fertility treatment? 

Start with my free training that will tell you everything you need to know.

yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclass

IVF abroad podcast with Emma:

yourivfabroad.co.uk/podcast

Connect with Emma on Instagram:

www.instagram.com/yourivfabroad.co.uk

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

If you’ve experienced miscarriage, especially recurrent pregnancy loss, you may have been told that everything “looks normal.” But for some couples, the missing piece lies within their genetics.

In this episode, we’re joined by embryologist and Director of Embryology at The Evewell, Emma Whitney to explore how genetic testing, including karyotyping, can help uncover hidden causes of miscarriage and fertility challenges. We break down what karyotyping is, how it works, and why it’s often recommended after two or more pregnancy losses.

We discuss how chromosomal variations, such as balanced translocations, can be present without any obvious symptoms, yet still impact embryo development and implantation. Emma also explains how genetics plays a key role in IVF, including the use of preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), and how this can support more informed decision-making moving forward.

This episode is designed to give you clarity, reassurance, and practical next steps, whether you’re trying to conceive naturally or considering fertility treatment.

In this episode, we cover:

• What karyotyping is and what it can reveal about your fertility
• The link between genetics and recurrent miscarriage
• What balanced translocations are and how they affect pregnancy outcomes
• When to consider genetic testing if you’re trying to conceive (TTC)
• How IVF and genetic testing (PGT) can support healthy embryo selection
• What your options are if a genetic factor is identified

If you’re searching for answers after loss, this conversation offers expert insight and a compassionate, evidence-based perspective on your next steps.

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

If you've ever felt like your body is working against you on your fertility journey, this episode might be the missing piece.

Rachel sits down with Laetitia Felix, fertility and pregnancy coach, mind-body practitioner, and founder of Mindset Body and Soul, to talk about something that doesn't get nearly enough airtime: your nervous system.

We get into Laetitia's own personal experience, what she sees showing up again and again in her clients, and how chronic stress and unprocessed loss can keep your body stuck in fight or flight and why that matters.

We cover:

• Why the nervous system plays such a central role in fertility and loss
• The signs your body might be stuck in survival mode
• How Laetitia works with clients to shift from fight or flight into rest and digest
• The mind-body connection 

Whether you're in the middle of treatment, navigating loss, or just starting out, this one's worth a listen.

🎙️ Find Laetitia at mindsetbodyandsoul.com

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite

TTC and been told you need IVF but you're not sure you're ready? You have more options than you might think. In this episode, I'm joined by Marija Skujuna from Plan Your Baby to talk about monitored cycles and ovulation induction: what they actually are, who they could help, and why they might be the step that changes everything before you ever set foot in an IVF clinic.

This Episode Is for You If…

• You've been told IVF is your next step but you want to explore other options first
• You're TTC and feel like you're not getting enough information or support from your current care
• You've been trying for a while with irregular cycles or suspected ovulation issues
• You want to understand what's actually happening in your body before committing to a treatment plan
• You feel overwhelmed by IVF and want a more gentle, monitored approach first

Marija Skujuna is a fertility specialist and the founder of Plan Your Baby, a clinic dedicated to supporting women through their conception journey with monitored cycles, ovulation induction, and personalised fertility care. Plan Your Baby's approach is built around working with each patient's individual cycle, not applying a blanket protocol.

🔗 Book an Initial appointment with Plan Your Baby: www.planyourbaby.co.uk

The Fertility Suite offers in person Fertility Acupuncture with the UK's top Fertility Acupuncturists at 6 UK clinics and 5 Affiliate Clinics. Find your nearest clinic here. 

We also work online to help you get the answers you need to help you have a healthy pregnancy 🩷 

We support: 

📍Couples who are struggling to concieve 

📍Couples suffering through miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss 

📍Couples undergoing Assisted Reproduction Techniques such as IVF

📍Anyone who wants answers and support on their road to a healthy pregnancy

Book a discovery call with us to find out more 💜

Find us on instagram @thefertility_suite