60 acast.com <![CDATA[Becky & Ben's Fertility Spotlight]]> https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight en Becky and Ben Saer IVF,Donor conception,Fertility,Becky and Ben Saer,Fertility Coaching,Fertility treatment,Fertility support,IVF support,Donor eggs,Embryo adoption,Donor embryos Becky and Ben Saer A fresh look at the world of IVF Our award-winning podcast is an honest and illuminating take on the challenges of IVF and donor conception. We're Becky and Ben Saer, fertility trailblazers on a mission. As former IVF patients, we spent years, and a small fortune, trying to conceive. We're now proud parents to two wonderful donor-conceived daughters, Ida and Coral. It was a tough journey and we're here to share everything we learned.


We've supported thousands of fertility patients over the last 12 years in our day jobs as fertility treatment coordinators. Add that experience to our personal IVF struggles and you're going to hear some unique insights into the world of IVF, donor eggs and embryo adoption.


Enjoy our fabulous guests, fertility tips, emotional advice, and much more. We'll help you develop a fertility mindset to survive this often gruelling road to parenthood.


Our mantra? Don't despair, we'll get there.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Our award-winning podcast is an honest and illuminating take on the challenges of IVF and donor conception. We're Becky and Ben Saer, fertility trailblazers on a mission. As former IVF patients, we spent years, and a small fortune, trying to conceive. We're now proud parents to two wonderful donor-conceived daughters, Ida and Coral. It was a tough journey and we're here to share everything we learned.


We've supported thousands of fertility patients over the last 12 years in our day jobs as fertility treatment coordinators. Add that experience to our personal IVF struggles and you're going to hear some unique insights into the world of IVF, donor eggs and embryo adoption.


Enjoy our fabulous guests, fertility tips, emotional advice, and much more. We'll help you develop a fertility mindset to survive this often gruelling road to parenthood.


Our mantra? Don't despair, we'll get there.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> false Becky and Ben Saer info+67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c@mg-eu.acast.com 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c becky-bens-fertility-spotlight episodic https://assets.pippa.io/shows/cover/1743501617823-dde94f37-c4be-4602-b347-e9364fbb7f21.jpeg https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight <![CDATA[Becky & Ben's Fertility Spotlight]]> ‘IVF Destroyed My Marriage’: How Lucy Reclaimed Her Life ‘IVF Destroyed My Marriage’: How Lucy Reclaimed Her Life Thu, 16 Apr 2026 07:00:00 GMT 27:03 69e08261907e5a7cc2467609 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/ivf-destroyed-my-marriage-how-lucy-reclaimed-her-life 69e08261907e5a7cc2467609 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c ivf-destroyed-my-marriage-how-lucy-reclaimed-her-life Letting Go After Unsuccessful IVF full 3 4 What happens when IVF doesn’t work? Meet Lucy Frank, whose fertility struggles led directly to the break-up of her first marriage. She talks openly about this difficult time in her life and her decision to cease treatment. A life without one’s own children, Lucy argues, should not be a label. Your life can thrive, but the conversation around child-free living needs to change. Ostracization and prejudice persist, and Lucy explores these obstacles in her job as a sex and relationship therapist. A deeply reflective interview, reconciling the pain and complexity of letting go with the impulse to reset and renew.

                                                                   

Podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com

Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


The Y Xologist: https://theyxologist.co.uk/

Instagram: @theyxologist


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> What happens when IVF doesn’t work? Meet Lucy Frank, whose fertility struggles led directly to the break-up of her first marriage. She talks openly about this difficult time in her life and her decision to cease treatment. A life without one’s own children, Lucy argues, should not be a label. Your life can thrive, but the conversation around child-free living needs to change. Ostracization and prejudice persist, and Lucy explores these obstacles in her job as a sex and relationship therapist. A deeply reflective interview, reconciling the pain and complexity of letting go with the impulse to reset and renew.

                                                                   

Podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com

Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


The Y Xologist: https://theyxologist.co.uk/

Instagram: @theyxologist


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> ‘It Smashed My Identity’: Ciaran’s Male Infertility Struggle ‘It Smashed My Identity’: Ciaran’s Male Infertility Struggle Thu, 09 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT 23:00 69d66ed847ecb945c236d877 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/it-smashed-my-identity-ciarans-male-infertility-struggle 69d66ed847ecb945c236d877 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c it-smashed-my-identity-ciarans-male-infertility-struggle Exploring The Impact Of Male Infertility full 3 3 What does male infertility feel like? We speak to Ciaran Hannington, whose own fertility battle took him to rock bottom. He talks movingly about his identity crisis, his partner’s support, and the realisation that self-kindness was his route back. We discuss his work as co-founder of NeXYs Fertility, an online resource for men facing fertility issues. A judgement-free space, he argues, is what truly connects. Infertility doesn’t define you. Ciaran’s difficult road to parenthood was, eventually, inspirational. We also talk about the use of donor sperm, declining sperm quality worldwide, and what fertility clinics can do about it.

                                                            

**Content warning**: This episode discusses themes related to suicide, which some listeners may find distressing and/or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.


Podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


NeXYs Fertility: https://www.nexysfertility.com/


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> What does male infertility feel like? We speak to Ciaran Hannington, whose own fertility battle took him to rock bottom. He talks movingly about his identity crisis, his partner’s support, and the realisation that self-kindness was his route back. We discuss his work as co-founder of NeXYs Fertility, an online resource for men facing fertility issues. A judgement-free space, he argues, is what truly connects. Infertility doesn’t define you. Ciaran’s difficult road to parenthood was, eventually, inspirational. We also talk about the use of donor sperm, declining sperm quality worldwide, and what fertility clinics can do about it.

                                                            

**Content warning**: This episode discusses themes related to suicide, which some listeners may find distressing and/or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.


Podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


NeXYs Fertility: https://www.nexysfertility.com/


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Storm Within: Can Fertility Counselling Rescue You? The Storm Within: Can Fertility Counselling Rescue You? Thu, 02 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT 24:57 69cb9c3792d007a7655d0781 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/the-storm-within-can-fertility-counselling-rescue-you 69cb9c3792d007a7655d0781 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c the-storm-within-can-fertility-counselling-rescue-you Talking Therapy During IVF full 3 2 We meet counsellor Gemma Antcliffe, who has a special interest in helping fertility patients. She explains the unique challenges of infertility, focussing on its uncertainty and disruptive nature. We discuss our own experience, and the powerful emotions we felt. Gemma talks with empathy about the ‘storm’ many clients face, offering advice on when to seek the help of a fertility counsellor. The best therapy, she argues, creates a calm and non-judgmental space – with the conversation led by the client. Navigating the emotional turmoil of infertility lies in the openness of the relationship. From there, processing the unfairness of it all, and looking to the future, becomes possible.

                            

Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> We meet counsellor Gemma Antcliffe, who has a special interest in helping fertility patients. She explains the unique challenges of infertility, focussing on its uncertainty and disruptive nature. We discuss our own experience, and the powerful emotions we felt. Gemma talks with empathy about the ‘storm’ many clients face, offering advice on when to seek the help of a fertility counsellor. The best therapy, she argues, creates a calm and non-judgmental space – with the conversation led by the client. Navigating the emotional turmoil of infertility lies in the openness of the relationship. From there, processing the unfairness of it all, and looking to the future, becomes possible.

                            

Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[The Waiting Game: Hope, Patience & The IVF Clock]]> Thu, 26 Mar 2026 06:00:00 GMT 21:23 69c3cd82176efa525782759a false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/the-waiting-game-hope-patience-the-ivf-clock 69c3cd82176efa525782759a 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c the-waiting-game-hope-patience-the-ivf-clock Why Fertility Treatment Takes Time full 3 1 Becky and Ben reflect on the long waits associated with IVF. Fertility treatment can’t be rushed. Finding the resolve to keep going, and lead a normal life, is tough. Trying naturally, the switch to medical treatment, appointment after appointment, the months between each attempt – waiting is one of the biggest burdens for fertility patients. How did we cope? Mindfulness, cocooning, and being kind to ourselves and each other, helped. As did our love of music, poetry and films. Like The Shawshank Redemption, escape and new beginnings are possible. You don’t stay still for ever. Hope exists in the present, not just the future.

                                  

Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Extract from Eternal Source of Light Divine, by George Frideric Handel, performed by Aksel Rykkvin (treble) and the MIN Ensemble, Mark Bennett (trumpet and artistic director) and Lazar Miletic (ensemble director). From the album Light Divine. Label: Signum Classics. Used with permission.   

            

Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Becky and Ben reflect on the long waits associated with IVF. Fertility treatment can’t be rushed. Finding the resolve to keep going, and lead a normal life, is tough. Trying naturally, the switch to medical treatment, appointment after appointment, the months between each attempt – waiting is one of the biggest burdens for fertility patients. How did we cope? Mindfulness, cocooning, and being kind to ourselves and each other, helped. As did our love of music, poetry and films. Like The Shawshank Redemption, escape and new beginnings are possible. You don’t stay still for ever. Hope exists in the present, not just the future.

                                  

Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Extract from Eternal Source of Light Divine, by George Frideric Handel, performed by Aksel Rykkvin (treble) and the MIN Ensemble, Mark Bennett (trumpet and artistic director) and Lazar Miletic (ensemble director). From the album Light Divine. Label: Signum Classics. Used with permission.   

            

Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Care & Comfort: Managing High-Risk Pregnancies After IVF]]> Thu, 11 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT 25:08 6939857f6957d1e1812ab412 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/care-comfort-managing-high-risk-pregnancies-after-ivf 6939857f6957d1e1812ab412 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c care-comfort-managing-high-risk-pregnancies-after-ivf Pregnancy care for older IVF patients full 2 12 Positive pregnancy test after IVF treatment? Fantastic. Now comes the next challenge – the pregnancy itself. Many fertility patients are in their late 30s or early 40s, and pregnancies in this age group require close care and monitoring. We speak to renowned fetal medicine specialist Ruwan Wimalasundera, senior consultant obstetrician at London’s University College Hospital. We discuss the medical risks associated with older mothers, specifically relating to multiple pregnancies and the complications that can occur. These include preeclampsia, preterm birth and gestational diabetes, and we stress the importance of single embryo transfers to reduce these pregnancy risks. We also talk about the positive aspects of having children later in life. From surgery in the womb to emotional support in the consulting room, this is a reflective interview with an outstanding doctor in tune with the challenges and joys of IVF pregnancies.      


Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com/


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight

Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Positive pregnancy test after IVF treatment? Fantastic. Now comes the next challenge – the pregnancy itself. Many fertility patients are in their late 30s or early 40s, and pregnancies in this age group require close care and monitoring. We speak to renowned fetal medicine specialist Ruwan Wimalasundera, senior consultant obstetrician at London’s University College Hospital. We discuss the medical risks associated with older mothers, specifically relating to multiple pregnancies and the complications that can occur. These include preeclampsia, preterm birth and gestational diabetes, and we stress the importance of single embryo transfers to reduce these pregnancy risks. We also talk about the positive aspects of having children later in life. From surgery in the womb to emotional support in the consulting room, this is a reflective interview with an outstanding doctor in tune with the challenges and joys of IVF pregnancies.      


Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com/


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight

Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Maca, Myths and Mush: Eating Your Way to Fertility Health Maca, Myths and Mush: Eating Your Way to Fertility Health Thu, 04 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT 25:48 69308efbd6bc23eda26c0404 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/maca-myths-and-mush-eating-your-way-to-fertility-health 69308efbd6bc23eda26c0404 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c maca-myths-and-mush-eating-your-way-to-fertility-health Fertility foods, diet and digestion full 2 11 What foods should you eat when trying to conceive? We meet functional nutritionist Hayley Paul, who takes a science-based approach to food, drink and dietary planning. We ask if fertility patients really need to eat pineapple to boost their pregnancy chances. We discuss the ‘superfood’ label: beetroot, maca powder and green tea all score highly. And we look at the benefits of full fat dairy products, antioxidants and other important food groups. Overlooking all of this is Hayley’s strong interest in good digestion, gut health and the nature of food absorption. A detailed and fascinating look at the ways we can optimise our conception health – and, crucially, our potential baby’s health too.                                                             


Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com/


Hayley Paul: https://www.habitude.co.uk/


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight

Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> What foods should you eat when trying to conceive? We meet functional nutritionist Hayley Paul, who takes a science-based approach to food, drink and dietary planning. We ask if fertility patients really need to eat pineapple to boost their pregnancy chances. We discuss the ‘superfood’ label: beetroot, maca powder and green tea all score highly. And we look at the benefits of full fat dairy products, antioxidants and other important food groups. Overlooking all of this is Hayley’s strong interest in good digestion, gut health and the nature of food absorption. A detailed and fascinating look at the ways we can optimise our conception health – and, crucially, our potential baby’s health too.                                                             


Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com/


Hayley Paul: https://www.habitude.co.uk/


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight

Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Sex & IVF: Top Tips From Psychosexual Therapist Kate Moyle]]> Thu, 27 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT 24:22 69271aaa44d46fbcb2837d52 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/sex-ivf-top-tips-from-psychosexual-therapist-kate-moyle 69271aaa44d46fbcb2837d52 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c sex-ivf-top-tips-from-psychosexual-therapist-kate-moyle Sex and intimacy during fertility treatment full 2 10 Can you maintain a happy sex life during fertility treatment – and after it? We speak to world-renowned sex therapist Kate Moyle about this tricky dilemma. The disruptive nature of IVF can often affect closeness and Intimacy. But, as Kate points out, not all relationships need sex to thrive and survive. We discuss the different approaches to sexual comfort by couples and singles on their fertility journeys. IVF affects everyone in different ways. Common feelings of temporary unhappiness can sometimes lead to strained sexual connections. And this unhappiness can spill over into life after the birth of a longed-for child. Kate opens up about her own IVF experience and the challenges she herself faced. A frank and revealing discussion, highlighting the obstacles and solutions to love and togetherness on the infertility road. 


Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com/


Kate Moyle: https://www.katemoyle.co.uk/


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight

Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Can you maintain a happy sex life during fertility treatment – and after it? We speak to world-renowned sex therapist Kate Moyle about this tricky dilemma. The disruptive nature of IVF can often affect closeness and Intimacy. But, as Kate points out, not all relationships need sex to thrive and survive. We discuss the different approaches to sexual comfort by couples and singles on their fertility journeys. IVF affects everyone in different ways. Common feelings of temporary unhappiness can sometimes lead to strained sexual connections. And this unhappiness can spill over into life after the birth of a longed-for child. Kate opens up about her own IVF experience and the challenges she herself faced. A frank and revealing discussion, highlighting the obstacles and solutions to love and togetherness on the infertility road. 


Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com/


Kate Moyle: https://www.katemoyle.co.uk/


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight

Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> ‘Mum, Dad, You’re So Old!’ Parenting After IVF In Your 40s ‘Mum, Dad, You’re So Old!’ Parenting After IVF In Your 40s Thu, 20 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT 20:05 691d77ce589629f7d615e5c2 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/mum-dadyoure-so-old-parenting-after-ivf-in-your-40s 691d77ce589629f7d615e5c2 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c mum-dadyoure-so-old-parenting-after-ivf-in-your-40s Do older patients make better parents? full 2 9 Do IVF patients make better parents? We discuss the reality that many fertility patients are, like us, older. Now in our fifties, with two children under 13, we ask if age is a help or a hindrance to good parenting. Positivity and energy are key. Health is a priority. We explore the nature of love, our friendships with fellow parents younger than us, generational ties, and what our ages really mean to our two daughters. It’s all about the quality of our time together. From there it's a short step to happiness, where stability and the flow of love underpin our children’s future.


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight

Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Do IVF patients make better parents? We discuss the reality that many fertility patients are, like us, older. Now in our fifties, with two children under 13, we ask if age is a help or a hindrance to good parenting. Positivity and energy are key. Health is a priority. We explore the nature of love, our friendships with fellow parents younger than us, generational ties, and what our ages really mean to our two daughters. It’s all about the quality of our time together. From there it's a short step to happiness, where stability and the flow of love underpin our children’s future.


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight

Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Life With Liberty Mills: How To Boost Your Fertility Health Life With Liberty Mills: How To Boost Your Fertility Health Thu, 13 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT 30:33 69138ea4543edcb560b988ff false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/life-with-liberty-mills-how-to-boost-your-fertility-health 69138ea4543edcb560b988ff 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c life-with-liberty-mills-how-to-boost-your-fertility-health Optimising Your Conception Chances full 2 8 A fascinating chat with Liberty Mills, an integrative health and nutrition coach with a remarkable life story. She conceived her second daughter naturally, at 44, after a range of holistic and lifestyle changes. Liberty talks with honesty and humour about the highs and lows of her life, and how determination and pragmatism saw her through. We explore the small adjustments that could make a big difference to conception success. These include a tailored approach to diet and exercise, digital detoxing and an awareness of pollutants in the home. We discuss Liberty's new book, 360 Fertility, a compendium of ideas for optimising male and female fertility. Liberty's interview is warm and inspiring, full of personal and professional wisdom.


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


360 Fertility, by Liberty Mills, is published by Headline Home.


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> A fascinating chat with Liberty Mills, an integrative health and nutrition coach with a remarkable life story. She conceived her second daughter naturally, at 44, after a range of holistic and lifestyle changes. Liberty talks with honesty and humour about the highs and lows of her life, and how determination and pragmatism saw her through. We explore the small adjustments that could make a big difference to conception success. These include a tailored approach to diet and exercise, digital detoxing and an awareness of pollutants in the home. We discuss Liberty's new book, 360 Fertility, a compendium of ideas for optimising male and female fertility. Liberty's interview is warm and inspiring, full of personal and professional wisdom.


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


360 Fertility, by Liberty Mills, is published by Headline Home.


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Embryo Glue, Anyone? The Truth About IVF Add-On Treatments Embryo Glue, Anyone? The Truth About IVF Add-On Treatments Thu, 06 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT 21:29 690b1c4ab27ff20ceb0226c4 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/embryo-glue-anyone-the-truth-about-ivf-add-on-treatments 690b1c4ab27ff20ceb0226c4 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c embryo-glue-anyone-the-truth-about-ivf-add-on-treatments Are IVF extras worth it? full 2 7 What exactly are fertility add-ons? And are they safe, effective and worth the money? We speak to fertility specialist, Dr. Tomáš Bagócsi, from Reprofit, which has clinics in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. From embryo glue to PGT-A genetic testing, assisted hatching to time-lapse cameras, Dr. Tomáš summarises the risks and potential benefits of ten of the most popular add-on treatments. We reflect on the cautious approach taken by the HFEA (the regulator of UK fertility clinics), challenging its wariness. Skilled doctors and clinics, Dr. Tomáš argues, can be trusted to recommend add-ons responsibly. Larger trials may be needed, but this doesn’t mean add-ons should be disregarded. An honest and informative interview with a fertility doctor at the top of his game.                                                   


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> What exactly are fertility add-ons? And are they safe, effective and worth the money? We speak to fertility specialist, Dr. Tomáš Bagócsi, from Reprofit, which has clinics in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. From embryo glue to PGT-A genetic testing, assisted hatching to time-lapse cameras, Dr. Tomáš summarises the risks and potential benefits of ten of the most popular add-on treatments. We reflect on the cautious approach taken by the HFEA (the regulator of UK fertility clinics), challenging its wariness. Skilled doctors and clinics, Dr. Tomáš argues, can be trusted to recommend add-ons responsibly. Larger trials may be needed, but this doesn’t mean add-ons should be disregarded. An honest and informative interview with a fertility doctor at the top of his game.                                                   


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Herbal Medicine & Me: How Plants Grew My Career & My Family]]> Thu, 30 Oct 2025 06:00:00 GMT 20:29 68fe4d471e3d261ce07fa601 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/herbal-medicine-me-how-plants-grew-my-career-my-family 68fe4d471e3d261ce07fa601 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c herbal-medicine-me-how-plants-grew-my-career-my-family The Herbal Route To Fertility full 2 6 Can herbs optimise your fertility? We speak to Jodie Foreman, a medical herbalist and reflexologist​ with a keen interest in pregnancy and conception issues. Plants have been used in medicine for centuries. Many countries, including China, embrace holistic approaches to health alongside ​man-made drugs. Jodie talks about the importance of tailored treatments, with an emphasis on carefully considered herbal assistance. She spent ​ten years herself trying to conceive – and Jodie’s empathy for those with fertility issues is clear. For her, as well as ​her patients, a ​delicate balance of herbs, emotional support, conventional medicine and lifestyle adjustments can work ​together. ​And when herbal remedies ​are used to improve general health, optimal fertility can follow.

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Can herbs optimise your fertility? We speak to Jodie Foreman, a medical herbalist and reflexologist​ with a keen interest in pregnancy and conception issues. Plants have been used in medicine for centuries. Many countries, including China, embrace holistic approaches to health alongside ​man-made drugs. Jodie talks about the importance of tailored treatments, with an emphasis on carefully considered herbal assistance. She spent ​ten years herself trying to conceive – and Jodie’s empathy for those with fertility issues is clear. For her, as well as ​her patients, a ​delicate balance of herbs, emotional support, conventional medicine and lifestyle adjustments can work ​together. ​And when herbal remedies ​are used to improve general health, optimal fertility can follow.

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Your Womb: Dr. Gabriel Weston Considers Its Power & Beauty]]> Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 21:53 68f73a4d40b81f7a89ed0e4f false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/your-womb-dr-gabriel-weston-considers-its-power-beauty 68f73a4d40b81f7a89ed0e4f 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c your-womb-dr-gabriel-weston-considers-its-power-beauty Celebrating The Uterus full 2 5 Is the womb the finest human organ? And what role does it really play in female identity? In this fascinating episode, we speak to Dr. Gabriel Weston – surgeon, broadcaster, author and mother. She argues that the womb is far more than an anatomical wonder. The stories and humanity behind it transcend its biological function. We discuss its form, its place in our collective imagination, and the patriarchy’s astonishing attempts to subvert its power. As Dr. Gabriel writes in her latest book, Alive, the womb represents something profound and provocative within the human journey. ‘Love is the inescapable accompaniment to giving birth to a child,’ she says in the interview. That’s just one of the emotions underpinning this remarkable organ.    

                                        

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Alive: An Alternative Anatomy, by Dr. Gabriel Weston. Instagram: @gabrielwestonalive 


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Is the womb the finest human organ? And what role does it really play in female identity? In this fascinating episode, we speak to Dr. Gabriel Weston – surgeon, broadcaster, author and mother. She argues that the womb is far more than an anatomical wonder. The stories and humanity behind it transcend its biological function. We discuss its form, its place in our collective imagination, and the patriarchy’s astonishing attempts to subvert its power. As Dr. Gabriel writes in her latest book, Alive, the womb represents something profound and provocative within the human journey. ‘Love is the inescapable accompaniment to giving birth to a child,’ she says in the interview. That’s just one of the emotions underpinning this remarkable organ.    

                                        

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Alive: An Alternative Anatomy, by Dr. Gabriel Weston. Instagram: @gabrielwestonalive 


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[I'm 13. Here’s What I Think About Being Donor Conceived.]]> Thu, 16 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 23:15 68ef4f1a58893bb6e31c813a false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/im-13-heres-what-i-think-about-being-donor-conceived 68ef4f1a58893bb6e31c813a 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c im-13-heres-what-i-think-about-being-donor-conceived A Donor-Egg Child’s Perspective full 2 4 A landmark episode today, featuring 13-year-old Eve – a donor-egg child with a story to tell. Accompanied by her mother, Eve speaks with calmness and clarity about the way she came into the world. The present, not the past, is what drives her. She questions the donor-conceived label; how she was created is far less important to her than her family, friends and current interests. We discuss the emotional side of treatment from both the parent and child perspective, with some surprising revelations. A fascinating interview, enhanced with wisdom and thoughtfulness from Eve and her lovely mum.


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> A landmark episode today, featuring 13-year-old Eve – a donor-egg child with a story to tell. Accompanied by her mother, Eve speaks with calmness and clarity about the way she came into the world. The present, not the past, is what drives her. She questions the donor-conceived label; how she was created is far less important to her than her family, friends and current interests. We discuss the emotional side of treatment from both the parent and child perspective, with some surprising revelations. A fascinating interview, enhanced with wisdom and thoughtfulness from Eve and her lovely mum.


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Sarah’s Solo Story: Navigating Infertility At 44 Sarah’s Solo Story: Navigating Infertility At 44 Thu, 09 Oct 2025 11:00:00 GMT 24:46 68e78edff513ad2b81850afd false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/sarahs-solo-story-navigating-infertility-at-44 68e78edff513ad2b81850afd 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c sarahs-solo-story-navigating-infertility-at-44 A Solo IVF Journey full 2 3 What’s it really like having IVF as a single woman in your 40s? Meet Sarah, now in her fourth year trying to conceive as a solo patient. She talks with honesty and intelligence about her fertility treatments and challenging journey. We discuss her choice of sperm donor, her support network, her contribution to Davina’s McCall’s new book, and the surprising gaps in care and information she received. Sarah speaks movingly about her approach, and the strength and motivation that guide her. This is a story about determination and deep thought. Her sense of ownership, of herself and her future, is palpable.


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> What’s it really like having IVF as a single woman in your 40s? Meet Sarah, now in her fourth year trying to conceive as a solo patient. She talks with honesty and intelligence about her fertility treatments and challenging journey. We discuss her choice of sperm donor, her support network, her contribution to Davina’s McCall’s new book, and the surprising gaps in care and information she received. Sarah speaks movingly about her approach, and the strength and motivation that guide her. This is a story about determination and deep thought. Her sense of ownership, of herself and her future, is palpable.


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Two Mums, Two Miracles: Meet Same-Sex Parents Hannah & Maria]]> Thu, 02 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 20:52 68dc08967be17a7f0109d4e5 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/two-mums-two-miracles-meet-same-sex-parents-hannah-maria 68dc08967be17a7f0109d4e5 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c two-mums-two-miracles-meet-same-sex-parents-hannah-maria Same-Sex IVF Treatment full 2 2 Is IVF treatment open to same-sex female couples? In the UK, yes – and, thankfully, in many other countries. We speak to Hannah and Maria, two gay parents who had IVF – with the help of a sperm donor – over a decade ago. Back then, their decision was pioneering. Today, it’s more mainstream. We discuss their decision to have treatment, how they chose their donor, the support of their families, Maria’s decision to donate her eggs, and integrating their two children into the wider community. Two wonderful mums, who seized the moment on their path to parenthood and never looked back.    

                 

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Is IVF treatment open to same-sex female couples? In the UK, yes – and, thankfully, in many other countries. We speak to Hannah and Maria, two gay parents who had IVF – with the help of a sperm donor – over a decade ago. Back then, their decision was pioneering. Today, it’s more mainstream. We discuss their decision to have treatment, how they chose their donor, the support of their families, Maria’s decision to donate her eggs, and integrating their two children into the wider community. Two wonderful mums, who seized the moment on their path to parenthood and never looked back.    

                 

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Should You Have Donor Eggs? The Big Decision. Should You Have Donor Eggs? The Big Decision. Thu, 25 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 21:56 68d425b6d5de959dc43b1dec false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/should-you-have-donor-eggs-the-big-decision 68d425b6d5de959dc43b1dec 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c should-you-have-donor-eggs-the-big-decision Donor Eggs: What To Think About full 2 1 Are donated eggs right for you? They were for us, but every patient is different. We launch season 2 with a frank discussion about egg donation. The decision to have it takes time – nobody makes it quickly or lightly. The key issues? Developing a positive mindset, tackling prejudice and entrenched views, trying not to overthink donor matching, and integrating a donor-conceived child into your life. We look back at the challenges we faced. Thoughts went deep; emotions ran high. But we kept communicating. Fertility treatment is, after all, one long conversation. 


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Are donated eggs right for you? They were for us, but every patient is different. We launch season 2 with a frank discussion about egg donation. The decision to have it takes time – nobody makes it quickly or lightly. The key issues? Developing a positive mindset, tackling prejudice and entrenched views, trying not to overthink donor matching, and integrating a donor-conceived child into your life. We look back at the challenges we faced. Thoughts went deep; emotions ran high. But we kept communicating. Fertility treatment is, after all, one long conversation. 


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Season 2 Trailer: Navigating The Fertility Rollercoaster Season 2 Trailer: Navigating The Fertility Rollercoaster Mon, 22 Sep 2025 12:00:00 GMT 0:41 68d1349c146cfd1a65681c83 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/navigating-the-fertility-rollercoaster-let-us-help-you 68d1349c146cfd1a65681c83 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c navigating-the-fertility-rollercoaster-let-us-help-you trailer 2 Welcome to season 2 of the podcast – created by patients, for patients. We’re rethinking IVF, giving you the tools and techniques to get you through. Here’s a taster of what’s coming up. More wonderful guests and pragmatic advice – presented with sensitivity and emotional intelligence by Becky and Ben. 

                

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Welcome to season 2 of the podcast – created by patients, for patients. We’re rethinking IVF, giving you the tools and techniques to get you through. Here’s a taster of what’s coming up. More wonderful guests and pragmatic advice – presented with sensitivity and emotional intelligence by Becky and Ben. 

                

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Season 1 Highlights – Our Best Moments Chosen By You Season 1 Highlights – Our Best Moments Chosen By You Thu, 17 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 24:03 6877fc21b93bd5454d8584ac false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/season-1-highlights-our-best-moments-chosen-by-you 6877fc21b93bd5454d8584ac 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c season-1-highlights-our-best-moments-chosen-by-you Top 5 Episodes From Season 1 full 1 12 In this final episode of the first season, we revisit the moments that resonated most with listeners. The thoughtful reflections from Julia, a donor-egg mum, were a big hit. Deeper emotions were explored by Gemma, a positive psychology coach who highlighted our natural abilities to survive infertility. Many were moved by our own story, and we recall the kindness of Sheila, our local taxi driver, when things got tough. Everyone’s favourite ‘tech’ episode featured sonographer Kate, who talked about the importance of warmth and sympathy. And actor Simon Taylor returns to read The Solitary Reaper – a moving poem about loss that hints at better times ahead. To lighten the tone, we end with Ben’s Michael Caine impression, but the less said about that the better. 


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight              


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In this final episode of the first season, we revisit the moments that resonated most with listeners. The thoughtful reflections from Julia, a donor-egg mum, were a big hit. Deeper emotions were explored by Gemma, a positive psychology coach who highlighted our natural abilities to survive infertility. Many were moved by our own story, and we recall the kindness of Sheila, our local taxi driver, when things got tough. Everyone’s favourite ‘tech’ episode featured sonographer Kate, who talked about the importance of warmth and sympathy. And actor Simon Taylor returns to read The Solitary Reaper – a moving poem about loss that hints at better times ahead. To lighten the tone, we end with Ben’s Michael Caine impression, but the less said about that the better. 


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight              


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Space To Breathe: Reframing Infertility Through Literature Space To Breathe: Reframing Infertility Through Literature Thu, 10 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 36:37 686eb876fe0897380e397e64 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/space-to-breathe-reframing-infertility-through-literature 686eb876fe0897380e397e64 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c space-to-breathe-reframing-infertility-through-literature Distant Voices, Inspiring Lives full 1 11 In this episode, we look back in time with feminist scholar Dr. Kate Angell, who guides us through infertility in history and literature. Accompanied by readings from Simon Taylor, Kate presents an alternative framework of love and creativity from key writers, musicians and political thinkers. From Greek goddesses to medieval composers, Romantic poetry to 20th-century novelists, this is a fascinating discussion about female success, sacrifice and solidarity. We hope this 'alternative abundance of life' will inspire women struggling with infertility and childlessness. These voices offer us comfort and strength – real women who lived fulfilling and remarkable lives in the face of convention, tragedy and loss. 


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Extract from O Viridissima Virga by Hildegard of Bingen, performed by Grace Davidson (soprano). From the album Sacred Chants. Label: Signum Classics. Used with permission.            


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In this episode, we look back in time with feminist scholar Dr. Kate Angell, who guides us through infertility in history and literature. Accompanied by readings from Simon Taylor, Kate presents an alternative framework of love and creativity from key writers, musicians and political thinkers. From Greek goddesses to medieval composers, Romantic poetry to 20th-century novelists, this is a fascinating discussion about female success, sacrifice and solidarity. We hope this 'alternative abundance of life' will inspire women struggling with infertility and childlessness. These voices offer us comfort and strength – real women who lived fulfilling and remarkable lives in the face of convention, tragedy and loss. 


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Extract from O Viridissima Virga by Hildegard of Bingen, performed by Grace Davidson (soprano). From the album Sacred Chants. Label: Signum Classics. Used with permission.            


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Your Vagina: How Microbiome Can Affect Your Fertility Health Your Vagina: How Microbiome Can Affect Your Fertility Health Thu, 03 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 28:31 6865302e7aba8e54f8e581d8 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/your-vagina-how-microbiome-can-affect-your-fertility-health 6865302e7aba8e54f8e581d8 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c your-vagina-how-microbiome-can-affect-your-fertility-health Vaginal Microbiome: The Lowdown full 1 10 Does your vaginal microbiome help or hinder your reproductive health? We talk to Milena Mastroianni, a leading nutritionist with a keen interest in microbiome and optimising our bodies in the pre-conception period. Holistic therapies for infertility have, until recently, been limited to treatments like yoga, acupuncture and reflexology. But, as Milena explains, supporting the ‘good’ and treating the ‘bad’ in our vaginas is a sensible thing to do. What’s more, microbiome is not limited to the vagina or gut: it’s present in sperm, too. A fascinating discussion on a new and intriguing science – and the research behind it.  


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


https://www.habitude.co.uk/


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Does your vaginal microbiome help or hinder your reproductive health? We talk to Milena Mastroianni, a leading nutritionist with a keen interest in microbiome and optimising our bodies in the pre-conception period. Holistic therapies for infertility have, until recently, been limited to treatments like yoga, acupuncture and reflexology. But, as Milena explains, supporting the ‘good’ and treating the ‘bad’ in our vaginas is a sensible thing to do. What’s more, microbiome is not limited to the vagina or gut: it’s present in sperm, too. A fascinating discussion on a new and intriguing science – and the research behind it.  


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


https://www.habitude.co.uk/


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Embryo Transfer – Practical Tips Before, During And After Embryo Transfer – Practical Tips Before, During And After Thu, 26 Jun 2025 09:30:55 GMT 24:28 685d134d0904b52e46b9869f false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/embryo-transfer-practical-tips-before-during-and-after 685d134d0904b52e46b9869f 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c embryo-transfer-practical-tips-before-during-and-after Improving Embryo Transfer Success full 1 9 Can you optimise your chances of a successful embryo transfer? What can you really do in the run-up to this critical moment - and afterwards? In this episode, we share key tips that may just lead to a successful pregnancy. Your clinic will know some of them, but others are down to you. From embryo quantity to the ERA test, acupuncture to alcohol reduction, we explore ways you can improve the odds of a successful embryo transfer as a fertility patient. One thing's for sure: a proactive approach to your mental and physical health, as we found out, makes a big difference.


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Can you optimise your chances of a successful embryo transfer? What can you really do in the run-up to this critical moment - and afterwards? In this episode, we share key tips that may just lead to a successful pregnancy. Your clinic will know some of them, but others are down to you. From embryo quantity to the ERA test, acupuncture to alcohol reduction, we explore ways you can improve the odds of a successful embryo transfer as a fertility patient. One thing's for sure: a proactive approach to your mental and physical health, as we found out, makes a big difference.


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Fertility Scans – Up Close & Personal With A Top Sonographer]]> Thu, 19 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT 23:43 6852b3b8002f9da49ae8a2dd false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/fertility-scans-up-close-personal-with-a-top-sonographer 6852b3b8002f9da49ae8a2dd 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c fertility-scans-up-close-personal-with-a-top-sonographer Exploring IVF Ultrasound Scans full 1 8 We're talking today about ultrasound scans, and we're joined by leading IVF sonographer Kate Richardson. Every fertility patient has them, but scans are more than routine assessments. The relationship with your sonographer is special: they're often the first and last person you see on your fertility journey. Emotional understanding and technical excellence are crucial. Fertility patients see their wombs, and their embryos, sooner and more often than women who conceive naturally. As Kate points out, the role of sonography in some ways frames and defines the fertility treatment process. The technology helped IVF develop – and every pregnancy is unique. 


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


https://www.thebirthcompany.co.uk/


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> We're talking today about ultrasound scans, and we're joined by leading IVF sonographer Kate Richardson. Every fertility patient has them, but scans are more than routine assessments. The relationship with your sonographer is special: they're often the first and last person you see on your fertility journey. Emotional understanding and technical excellence are crucial. Fertility patients see their wombs, and their embryos, sooner and more often than women who conceive naturally. As Kate points out, the role of sonography in some ways frames and defines the fertility treatment process. The technology helped IVF develop – and every pregnancy is unique. 


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


https://www.thebirthcompany.co.uk/


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[How Embryo Adoption Transformed Our Lives – Meet Mike & Jess]]> Thu, 12 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT 33:28 684848409b8dde68cd1ba5c3 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/embryo-adoption-transformed-our-lives-meet-mike-jess 684848409b8dde68cd1ba5c3 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c embryo-adoption-transformed-our-lives-meet-mike-jess A Donor Embryo Success Story full 1 7 In this episode, we talk to Mike and Jess, a wonderful couple who bravely opted for donor-embryo treatment. After years of trying naturally, unsuccessful IVF cycles, and a devastating ectopic pregnancy, they chose a fertility solution that gave them the highest possible chance of success: embryo adoption. Both talk passionately about that decision and the emotional aspects of using donated eggs and sperm. Embryo adoption was unusual even a decade ago. Today, it's an increasingly popular choice for single women, same-sex and heterosexual couples. The icing on the cake? Listen out for the surprise that made their family even more unique.


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In this episode, we talk to Mike and Jess, a wonderful couple who bravely opted for donor-embryo treatment. After years of trying naturally, unsuccessful IVF cycles, and a devastating ectopic pregnancy, they chose a fertility solution that gave them the highest possible chance of success: embryo adoption. Both talk passionately about that decision and the emotional aspects of using donated eggs and sperm. Embryo adoption was unusual even a decade ago. Today, it's an increasingly popular choice for single women, same-sex and heterosexual couples. The icing on the cake? Listen out for the surprise that made their family even more unique.


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Finding Your Resilience – Keeping Hope Alive During IVF Finding Your Resilience – Keeping Hope Alive During IVF Thu, 05 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT 33:45 6840246a7a7872669a33a570 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/finding-your-resilience-keeping-hope-alive-during-ivf 6840246a7a7872669a33a570 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c finding-your-resilience-keeping-hope-alive-during-ivf The Power Of Positivity full 1 6 How do we really survive infertility? We discuss coping strategies with Gemma Duffy, a positive psychology coach with a keen interest in IVF. Gemma explains how the capacity for resilience, strength and hope runs deeper in our characters than we think. Alongside traditional counselling, positive psychology coaching can help us to draw on these resources. We talk about our own childhoods, and how our contrasting experiences sowed the seeds of resilience for our challenging fertility journey. And we reflect on how humour helped – a powerful and uniting force for both of us. So how can we find that resilience? If we look within ourselves, it’s there for us.

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


https://www.gemmaduffycoaching.com/


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> How do we really survive infertility? We discuss coping strategies with Gemma Duffy, a positive psychology coach with a keen interest in IVF. Gemma explains how the capacity for resilience, strength and hope runs deeper in our characters than we think. Alongside traditional counselling, positive psychology coaching can help us to draw on these resources. We talk about our own childhoods, and how our contrasting experiences sowed the seeds of resilience for our challenging fertility journey. And we reflect on how humour helped – a powerful and uniting force for both of us. So how can we find that resilience? If we look within ourselves, it’s there for us.

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


https://www.gemmaduffycoaching.com/


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[IVF Dads – Love, Loss & Loyalty On The Path To Parenthood]]> Thu, 29 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT 35:23 6836aa837b483718e01de307 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/ivf-dads-love-loss-loyalty-on-the-path-to-parenthood 6836aa837b483718e01de307 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c ivf-dads-love-loss-loyalty-on-the-path-to-parenthood The Male Perspective on IVF full 1 5 How do male partners cope with IVF treatment? Meet John and Tim, two very different characters united by their experience as fertility patients. For John, a cancer diagnosis led to urgent IVF intervention. For Tim, successful treatment was followed by three years of frustrating twists and turns. Both talk honestly about the challenges they and their partners faced and the support they gave and received. What really mattered on their contrasting journeys? For both, managing unpredictable life events meant loyalty to their partners, a sense of shared love and loss, and a realisation that emotions are best out in the open.

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> How do male partners cope with IVF treatment? Meet John and Tim, two very different characters united by their experience as fertility patients. For John, a cancer diagnosis led to urgent IVF intervention. For Tim, successful treatment was followed by three years of frustrating twists and turns. Both talk honestly about the challenges they and their partners faced and the support they gave and received. What really mattered on their contrasting journeys? For both, managing unpredictable life events meant loyalty to their partners, a sense of shared love and loss, and a realisation that emotions are best out in the open.

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[It's A Positive! We Share Our Top Embryo Implantation Tips]]> Thu, 22 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT 19:17 682c5f066511fe0dd5ecd953 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/10-ways-to-help-embryo-implantation-during-ivf-treatment 682c5f066511fe0dd5ecd953 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c 10-ways-to-help-embryo-implantation-during-ivf-treatment Boost Your Pregnancy Chances full 1 4 Can you really improve the odds of embryo implantation? In this episode, we share hints and tips of how you and your clinic can maximise your implantation chances during fertility treatment. We look at diet and nutrition, asking if certain foods really help. We chat about taking time off before and after your treatment, and if it makes any difference. And we discuss the role of add-on treatments – endometrial scratching, steroids, blood thinners and uterine biopsies – in the complicated implantation process. Transferring one or two embryos, medication alternatives, genetic testing – there’s no magic solution. But lifestyle choices can help, and a clinic with a strong understanding of your medical options is key.

  

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Can you really improve the odds of embryo implantation? In this episode, we share hints and tips of how you and your clinic can maximise your implantation chances during fertility treatment. We look at diet and nutrition, asking if certain foods really help. We chat about taking time off before and after your treatment, and if it makes any difference. And we discuss the role of add-on treatments – endometrial scratching, steroids, blood thinners and uterine biopsies – in the complicated implantation process. Transferring one or two embryos, medication alternatives, genetic testing – there’s no magic solution. But lifestyle choices can help, and a clinic with a strong understanding of your medical options is key.

  

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[My Precious Donor Egg Daughter: Mum Julia's Moving Story]]> Thu, 15 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT 28:46 6822e3304d1a0d0ba9addbd3 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/my-precious-donor-egg-daughter-mum-julias-moving-story 6822e3304d1a0d0ba9addbd3 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c my-precious-donor-egg-daughter-mum-julias-moving-story Reflections On Donor Conception full 1 3 We’re joined today by Julia, a donor-egg mum looking back at her long journey to motherhood. After numerous treatments, Julia and her partner Ollie travelled to Spain for donor-egg IVF. Their daughter, Eve, was welcomed into the world nine months later. Julia talks emotionally and humorously about the highs and lows of treatment, the deep bond with her longed-for daughter, and the hurdles and worries she and her partner overcame. From tearful pizzas to bumpy trains, egg sharing to epigenetics, this is a courageous and intelligent story from a mother deeply grateful for the medical advances that came to her aid.

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> We’re joined today by Julia, a donor-egg mum looking back at her long journey to motherhood. After numerous treatments, Julia and her partner Ollie travelled to Spain for donor-egg IVF. Their daughter, Eve, was welcomed into the world nine months later. Julia talks emotionally and humorously about the highs and lows of treatment, the deep bond with her longed-for daughter, and the hurdles and worries she and her partner overcame. From tearful pizzas to bumpy trains, egg sharing to epigenetics, this is a courageous and intelligent story from a mother deeply grateful for the medical advances that came to her aid.

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Check-Ups, Counselling & Cash: Starting A Fertility Journey]]> Thu, 08 May 2025 08:00:00 GMT 20:12 681af5abeb146d8e355d57c5 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/check-ups-counselling-cash-starting-a-fertility-journey 681af5abeb146d8e355d57c5 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c check-ups-counselling-cash-starting-a-fertility-journey Planning Your Fertility Strategy full 1 2 What’s the best way to truly own your fertility journey? In this episode, we talk about planning and preliminaries. Devising a game plan, from the very start, for the timeframe of your road to conception. (We might have succeeded after three years, not five, had we taken a more proactive and pragmatic approach.) Taking control with pre-emptive fertility check-ups, forward-thinking counselling, and initial budgeting, are three key conversations. We explore the choice of clinics, and why local is not always best. And we encourage a positive fertility mindset – the best way to keep grounded as you look to the future.  


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> What’s the best way to truly own your fertility journey? In this episode, we talk about planning and preliminaries. Devising a game plan, from the very start, for the timeframe of your road to conception. (We might have succeeded after three years, not five, had we taken a more proactive and pragmatic approach.) Taking control with pre-emptive fertility check-ups, forward-thinking counselling, and initial budgeting, are three key conversations. We explore the choice of clinics, and why local is not always best. And we encourage a positive fertility mindset – the best way to keep grounded as you look to the future.  


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Our IVF Life: Family, Friends & The Kindness of Strangers ]]> Thu, 01 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT 27:09 680f8bd166b1312ee798ff8f false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/our-ivf-life-family-friends-the-kindness-of-strangers 680f8bd166b1312ee798ff8f 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c our-ivf-life-family-friends-the-kindness-of-strangers Who Gives The Best Fertility Support? full 1 1 Our opening episode asks the question: do family and friends really give you the support you need? We talk frankly and honestly about our long and difficult fertility journey, and what kept us going on the road to parenthood. You may be surprised. Dustin Hoffman and Mo Farah played their part, as did Sheila, the loveliest taxi driver in the Midlands. And who could forget Paul and Anthea, our wonderful neighbours? We ponder on some sensitive and tactful things to say to IVF patients – and what not to say! Most loved ones went the extra mile for us. For that, we remain incredibly grateful.

  

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Our opening episode asks the question: do family and friends really give you the support you need? We talk frankly and honestly about our long and difficult fertility journey, and what kept us going on the road to parenthood. You may be surprised. Dustin Hoffman and Mo Farah played their part, as did Sheila, the loveliest taxi driver in the Midlands. And who could forget Paul and Anthea, our wonderful neighbours? We ponder on some sensitive and tactful things to say to IVF patients – and what not to say! Most loved ones went the extra mile for us. For that, we remain incredibly grateful.

  

Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> On Your Fertility Journey? We’re Here For You. On Your Fertility Journey? We’re Here For You. Fri, 18 Apr 2025 06:17:57 GMT 1:17 6801ee946aefdc1cfce799e1 false https://shows.acast.com/becky-bens-fertility-spotlight/episodes/on-your-fertility-journey-were-here-for-you-welcome 6801ee946aefdc1cfce799e1 67ebbb86d4b40d7b303ba14c on-your-fertility-journey-were-here-for-you-welcome A Taster Of What We’re About trailer 1 We’re on a mission to demystify fertility treatment. Here’s a preview of what’s in-store. Great guests, genuine conversation, emotional support and the information you really need.


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> We’re on a mission to demystify fertility treatment. Here’s a preview of what’s in-store. Great guests, genuine conversation, emotional support and the information you really need.


Check out the podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.com


Facebook: @fertilityspotlight


Instagram: @fertilityspotlight


Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]>