Becky & Ben's Fertility Spotlight

What role does the breast really play in fertility? We speak to author and surgeon, Dr. Gabriel Weston, about this remarkable organ. We assess its sexual and maternal function, and how the two seem inextricably linked in history and culture. In fertility treatment, the breast is often ignored. But it’s an active participant in the reproductive system, conception and pregnancy. Referencing her acclaimed book about the human body, Alive, Gabriel assesses the breast in the context of western art, asking the question: what are we really seeing? We also discuss the remarkable biology behind breastfeeding, and the reality of breast cancer. The image of the breast has captivated humans for centuries. Away from all the noise, we reflect on its quiet role, in the female mindset, as companion and friend.                    Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comInstagram: @fertilityspotlightDr. Gabriel Weston on Instagram: @gabrielwestonalive Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

Can music make fertility treatment less stressful? Or more successful? We meet one of the world’s leading music therapists, Dr. Alison Short, associate professor at Western Sydney University. Music can humanise and de-stress, making it a compelling tool for managing anxiety and promoting wellbeing. We discuss how and when music can be used during the fertility process, and the role of music therapy in addressing issues in more depth. Our music choices are unique, says Alison, but she talks about the kind of music that may work best. She shares her research findings on music and fertility treatment, reflecting on the music tracks that comforted us during our own fertility struggles. Music is uniquely powerful. IVF patients could benefit from this. Close your eyes – and listen.                   Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comInstagram: @fertilityspotlightAlison Short: https://researchers.westernsydney.edu.au/en/persons/alison-short/Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment  Extract from Dum Transisset Sabbatum, by John Taverner, performed by The Choir of The Queen’s College, Oxford, conducted by Owen Rees. Label: Signum Classics. Used with permission. Extract from Dido’s Lament, from Dido and Aeneas, by Henry Purcell, performed by Armonico Consort, conducted by Christopher Monks. Soprano: Rachael Lloyd. Label: Signum Classics. Used with permission. Extract from La Fille Aux Cheveux De Lin, by Claude Debussy, performed by Anna Tysbuleva (piano). Label: Signum Classics. Used with permission. Extract from Messiah, by George Friderich Handel (arr. Mozart), performed by The Huddersfield Choral Society, The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Sir. Charles Mackerras. Label: Signum Classics. Used with permission.

What really happens in the lab at a fertility clinic? We speak to Suzanne Cawood, one of the UK’s top consultant-embryologists. They work behind the scenes but, as Suzanne explains, embryologists play a crucial role in the IVF process. We talk about the passion and dedication required, and the multi-faceted nature of the job. We go in-depth on the technology, including the embryoscope, genetic testing, egg and embryo vitrification, AI and robotics. The embryologist’s workday is a busy mix of human and technical interactions, requiring stamina, sensitivity and a steady hand. Suzanne speaks enthusiastically about the privilege of working at the forefront of human life – and the unique set of skills every embryologist possesses.                                         Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comInstagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

What’s really involved when you freeze your eggs? We speak to Heather, who decided to freeze hers aged 35. Social egg freezing is the fastest growing fertility procedure in the UK. But, as Heather explains, it comes with its own set of mental and physical challenges. We discuss the duality of feeling both lonely and proud, the medical treatment itself, and the supportive role of her friends and family. Her eggs are treasures, Heather says, and this candid interview reveals her positive and thoughtful approach to the whole process. This extends to the future, as she considers her options for motherhood with or without a partner. Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comInstagram: @fertilityspotlightHeather Long: https://www.heatherlongcoaching.com/Producer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

Many women try own-egg IVF in their early 40s. But do the success stats make this a fruitless quest? We speak to Dr. Pavel Otevřel, head doctor at the renowned Reprofit clinic in Brno, Czech Republic. Age and ovarian reserve play their part, he argues, but things get challenging at 44. At that age, donor eggs and embryos hold the power. We discuss the benefits of genetic testing, mild stimulation cycles and how tactical freezing of eggs and embryos can help certain IVF patients. Treatment decisions by older women can be psychological, not simply medical. A good clinic presents options with care and respect. From there, patients can make informed choices – and brave ones.  Official podcast website: https://fertility-spotlight.comInstagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

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.comInstagram: @fertilityspotlightThe Y Xologist: https://theyxologist.co.uk/Instagram: @theyxologistProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment 

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.comNeXYs Fertility: https://www.nexysfertility.com/Instagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment

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.comInstagram: @fertilityspotlightProducer: David Roper, Heavy Entertainment