The Fertility Podcast

• Cracking the Code: Sperm DNA, Miscarriage, and the Future of Fertility Care

  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:What sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) actually is and how it’s different from a standard semen analysisThe difference between single-strand vs double-strand sperm DNA damage and how they impact fertilityHow new research links high SDF levels to recurrent pregnancy loss, even when semen analysis appears normalWhy it’s problematic that men are only looked at after multiple pregnancy lossesThe lifestyle and health factors that impact sperm quality, and how quickly men can improve itWhat the sperm testing process looks like and where to access itThe importance of including men in the conversation around fertility and pregnancy lossHow better male testing can lead to more accurate, personalised treatment decisions (like ICSI vs IVF)Why early intervention and equal diagnosis for men matters, not just emotionally but medicallyIf 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 episodeExamine 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:Non-invasiveAvailable via clinics or partner hubsDesigned to provide clarity, confidence, and actionable insightYou 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.comLet’s keep the conversation going:Follow me on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyEmail your thoughts or guest ideas: [email protected] our advocacy work: @fertility.actionLearn more about the men’s health campaign with Fertility Action and Test HimFind out more about SDF testing via your clinic or directly at examinelab.comPlease 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.

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• Tim Royle on the male experience of fertility struggles

  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:How Tim felt marginalised and overlooked throughout the IVF processThe emotional weight of never being called by name or offered therapyThe pressure of “sample day” and why language matters in the clinicThe cumulative trauma of repeated failed transfers and insensitive staff questionsA powerful idea: colour-coded patient folders to avoid retraumatising questionsThe stark contrast between treatment at St Mary’s Hospital and CARE FertilityTim’s experience of debilitating anxiety and his journey to seek therapyThe importance of recognising and challenging intrusive thoughtsHow IVF reshaped his relationships, identity, and day-to-day mental healthTim’s reflection on IVF as a team effort, and how he supported his wifeThe impact of working on scripts about fertility while living through treatmentChoosing to use film as a tool for honesty, empathy, and social changeHow hope can both carry and crush us during infertilityThe moment everything changed: a final transfer, a fertility stone, and holding on to the “1 percent”About the filmIt’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: @itsthehopethatkillsyoufilmSupport for Men and Mental HealthAs 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:ExamenLab – Sperm DNA Fragmentation TestingFertility for MenThe Male Fertility Coach testhim - Male Fertility SupportThe Male Fertility PodcastFertility Matters at WorkFertility Action – Regular support groups and workplace advocacyDon’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,...

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• The Fertility Full Picture: What Blood Tests Can Really Tell You

  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:What your blood tests can (and can’t) reveal about your fertilityHow often you should get your bloods checkedWhy it’s so important to monitor cholesterol and glucose if you have PCOSThe key tests to ask for if you’ve got unexplained infertility such as thyroid, vitamin D, and prolactinHow to use your results to advocate for yourself, especially if you’ve been dismissed beforeAnd yes, we even go through my blood test results from One Day TestsKate also shares what she’s been working on with Ultra Human, including the fascinating world of biometric health tracking.She also introduces something called the Havening technique, a research-backed way to help manage stress and anxiety that’s well worth looking into.Mentioned in This EpisodeOne Day Tests👉 onedaytests.com - Use code TFP10 for 10% off your blood test. Fertility Action - Our amazing partners raising awareness of male fertility. Find them on Instagram @fertilityactionuk.Fertility Matters at Work - My other hat! Our big event, The F Word at Work Live, is happening on 5th November, and tickets are still available at fertilitymattersatwork.comBefore You GoPlease 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. 💜

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• Beyond the Two Lines: Navigating Ectopic Pregnancy

  Hello and welcome to this week’s episode of The Fertility Podcast. I’m Natalie, and this is a slightly different one.Please note the trigger warning on this episode. 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 episodeIn 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 aboutJade’s multiple pregnancy losses including miscarriage and two ectopic pregnanciesHow she knew something was wrong even when the symptoms didn’t match textbook examplesHer experience with methotrexate treatment and emergency surgery after ruptureThe importance of advocating for yourself when seeking medical helpEmotional trauma and grief following pregnancy lossThe mixed feelings around tube-saving surgery and IVF as a future pathCommon myths about ectopic pregnancy and how symptoms can differHow hospital staff and personal support helped her through itThe role of the Ectopic Pregnancy Trust and the support she receivedJade’s message to other people navigating early pregnancy and lossLet’s keep the conversation goingFollow me on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyExplore the work and support groups from Fertility Action: fertilityaction.orgLearn more about ectopic pregnancy: Ectopic Pregnancy TrustRead about the Baby Loss Certificate scheme: www.gov.uk/request-baby-loss-certificateSupport for Baby Loss Awareness WeekIf you or someone you know needs support, here are some brilliant charities offering resources, counselling, and community:Petals – The Baby Loss Counselling CharityTommy’sThe...

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• Race Across the World to MRKH Advocacy: Betty Mukherjee

  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: The challenges of being a teenager diagnosed with MRKHWhy conversations with siblings and friends were avoided for yearsThe reality of egg freezing, hormone injections, and physical side effectsThe role of mental health support—both professional and personalUsing YouTube and social media to share raw, vulnerable momentsFinding comfort in everyday rituals, like lighting candles, cooking, and walking her dog, MapleBetty’s story is one of resilience, advocacy, and hope—and a reminder that “shame dies when stories are shared in safe spaces.”Resources & LinksFollow Betty on InstagramWatch Betty’s journey on YouTubeLearn more about MRKH: MRKH Support ResourcesPrevious podcast episodes with Julianne Boutileb (psychological advisor mentioned in this episode)Andria Trigo shares her story of life with MRKH Sign up for support groups and advocacy through Fertility ActionExplore more about the Fertility Matters at Work initiative and tell your workplace about The F Word at Work Live

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