{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/67c22c6e862c4bbfeaaf0e2c/698f6ee18dc5f2047ac67266?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"Behind the Hatch: An Inside Look at IVF with Mandy Leslie","thumbnail_width":200,"thumbnail_height":200,"thumbnail_url":"https://open-images.acast.com/shows/67c22c6e862c4bbfeaaf0e2c/1771007664881-c08cf854-2108-45a2-8571-ef33c6154a5c.jpeg?height=200","description":"<h1>Behind the Hatch: An Inside Look at IVF with Mandy Leslie</h1><p>Discover the fascinating world of embryology and IVF from a leading expert. Mandy Leslie shares her insights on lab procedures, embryo development, the role of sperm, advances in technology, and practical advice for those navigating fertility treatment.</p><ul><li>In this episode:The journey of egg retrieval and fertilization explained</li><li>How embryos are monitored using time-lapse technology and AI</li><li>The importance of lab environment – air quality, perfume restrictions, and meticulous procedures</li><li>Details on pre-implantation genetic testing and mosaic embryos</li><li>Success rates by age and the impact of single vs. double embryo transfer</li><li>Insights into egg freezing, storage challenges, and fertility preservation for cancer patients</li><li>The evolving landscape of family configurations, including solo and same-sex parenthood</li><li>Mandy’s advice for managing stress, communication, and myths about IVF</li></ul><p>Timestamps:</p><p>00:00 - Welcome to Fertility Finesse: Inside the IVF lab</p><p>00:29 - Mandy Leslie’s background and experience in embryology</p><p>02:08 - What brings Mandy from Australia to Ireland and her cultural insights</p><p>05:39 - Egg retrieval and what happens behind the scenes in the lab</p><p>06:25 - Preparation of sperm samples and fertilization methods (IVF vs. ICSI)</p><p>07:52 - How fertilization is checked via pronuclei and embryo development stages</p><p>08:49 - Monitoring embryos from day 3 to blastocyst on day 5</p><p>09:46 - Features of a successful blastocyst (expansion, inner cell mass, trifecta germ)</p><p>12:12 - Use of time-lapse photography and AI in embryo assessment</p><p>14:22 - The high-tech, 24/7 monitored IVF lab environment</p><p>15:23 - The critical role of sperm quality and its influence</p><p>17:03 - Lab environment factors: air quality, avoidance of perfume, and contamination prevention</p><p>18:26 - The non-disturbing, continuous culture systems (embryoscope)</p><p>19:09 - Embryo security: double witnessing and electronic monitoring systems</p><p>22:34 - The emotional and scientific privilege of working with new life</p><p>23:38 - The new era of family building: genetic testing, solo parents, and LGBTQ+ families</p><p>25:05 - Understanding pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) and mosaic embryos</p><p>27:57 - Egg freezing: realities versus marketing promises</p><p>29:55 - How vitrification (liquid glass) protects eggs during freezing and thawing</p><p>31:14 - Storage challenges, consent, and handling surplus embryos</p><p>35:18 - Success rates by age, particularly for women over 35, and realistic expectations</p><p>40:46 - The impact of aging on fertility and the importance of egg quality</p><p>42:35 - Sperm’s capacity to adapt and correct issues; the importance of young eggs</p><p>43:14 - Common myths and light-hearted advice on fertility superstition</p><p>45:07 - Practical tips for starting IVF journey — take it one step at a time</p><p>46:03 - The value of communication and support systems in fertility success</p><ul><li>46:50 - Wrapping up: Mandy’s message of hope, the advances in success rates, and the importance of empowerment</li></ul><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>","author_name":"Helena Tubridy"}