IVF Real Talk Partnership

Latest Episodes

Episode 6: Fertility Care Wherever You Are: A Regional Care Conversation

In this episode, Regional Nurse Team Leader, Jane talks about fertility care and the unique experiences of regional patients receiving treatment outside major cities. From travel, monitoring, and treatment logistics to emotional support and access to specialist care, we explore how fertility care works for regional patients and what support is available. We also discuss common misconceptions around city versus regional care and how patients can feel confident starting treatment wherever they live.

Episode 5: Finding Your Own Path to Parenthood: Emily & Temica Gielnik’s Donor Conception Journey with Dr Ben Kroon Out Now!

In this episode, Matilda's forward, Emily Gielnik and her wife, Temica Gielnik, sit down with their fertility doctor, Dr Ben Kroon, for an honest conversation about their path to parenthood through IUI, IVF, and donor conception. Together, they speak candidly about the deeply personal decision to choose a known donor, how they both came to feel aligned in that choice, and why creating their family in a way that felt special, intentional, and meaningful was so important to them. This episode is a raw and heartfelt conversation about fertility, partnership, grief, resilience, and finding your own path to parenthood, one that will make so many listeners feel less alone. Click here to learn more about Dr Ben Kroon.

Episode 4: Embryology Explained: Inside the IVF Lab

In this episode, Professor Deirdre Zander-Fox, Chief Scientific Officer talks about all things embryology and what happens behind the scenes in the lab. From fertilisation and embryo development to understanding attrition rates, embryo quality, and why some embryos stop developing, we unpack one of the most anxious parts of the IVF journey. If you're in that nervous waiting period, this episode will give you clarity and reassurance about the science and work happening behind the scenes and what it means for your cycle. To learn more about our labs and state of the art facilities, click here.

Episode 3. The Male Fertility Wake-Up Call Couples Need

When we talk about fertility, it's often framed as a women's issue, even though male factor infertility plays a role in up to half of all cases. To support Men's Health Week, Dr Kishani Kannangara breaks down everything you need to know about male infertility; from testing and sperm health to what every couple should know. Click here to learn more about Dr Kishani Kannangara.

Episode 2. Navigating the IVF Noise with Dr Dhanushi Fernando

This week we're joined by Dr Dhanushi Fernando to talk about navigating the overwhelming world of fertility advice and IVF information. From social media trends and online fertility advice to knowing when to stop researching and trust your specialist, we unpack how to stay informed without feeling completely overwhelmed. Dr Dhanushi talks about comparison, family expectations, and protecting your mental health during the IVF journey.

Episode 1. The Emotional Toll of Infertility

In this episode, Senior Psychologist and Team Leader Claire Byrne discusses the emotional toll of fertility treatment, and how we provide support to patients during this journey. If you'd like to learn more about the psychological support services that Monash IVF can offer you, reach out to your nearest clinic, or click here.

Next Episode: Episode 7

Genetic Testing 101: What It Is, Who It's For, and When to Start with Dr Tamara Hunter

Genetics can feel like one of the most confusing parts of IVF. But having the right information can be empowering, helping you make informed decisions for your future family. In this episode, CREI fertility specialist Dr Tamara Hunter joins Lucy and Yaelle to answer the most common questions about genetic testing in fertility treatment. We unpack who genetic testing is for, the difference between genetic carrier screening and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), how genetic carrier screening can help you understand your chance of having a child with a significant genetic condition, and what happens when results aren't straightforward.

Whether you're just starting IVF, considering genetic carrier screening, or simply curious about how it all works, this episode breaks down a complex topic into an easy-to-understand conversation.