Fertility Finesse Show

Behind the Hatch: An Inside Look at IVF with Mandy LeslieDiscover 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.In this episode:The journey of egg retrieval and fertilization explainedHow embryos are monitored using time-lapse technology and AIThe importance of lab environment – air quality, perfume restrictions, and meticulous proceduresDetails on pre-implantation genetic testing and mosaic embryosSuccess rates by age and the impact of single vs. double embryo transferInsights into egg freezing, storage challenges, and fertility preservation for cancer patientsThe evolving landscape of family configurations, including solo and same-sex parenthoodMandy’s advice for managing stress, communication, and myths about IVFTimestamps:00:00 - Welcome to Fertility Finesse: Inside the IVF lab00:29 - Mandy Leslie’s background and experience in embryology02:08 - What brings Mandy from Australia to Ireland and her cultural insights05:39 - Egg retrieval and what happens behind the scenes in the lab06:25 - Preparation of sperm samples and fertilization methods (IVF vs. ICSI)07:52 - How fertilization is checked via pronuclei and embryo development stages08:49 - Monitoring embryos from day 3 to blastocyst on day 509:46 - Features of a successful blastocyst (expansion, inner cell mass, trifecta germ)12:12 - Use of time-lapse photography and AI in embryo assessment14:22 - The high-tech, 24/7 monitored IVF lab environment15:23 - The critical role of sperm quality and its influence17:03 - Lab environment factors: air quality, avoidance of perfume, and contamination prevention18:26 - The non-disturbing, continuous culture systems (embryoscope)19:09 - Embryo security: double witnessing and electronic monitoring systems22:34 - The emotional and scientific privilege of working with new life23:38 - The new era of family building: genetic testing, solo parents, and LGBTQ+ families25:05 - Understanding pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) and mosaic embryos27:57 - Egg freezing: realities versus marketing promises29:55 - How vitrification (liquid glass) protects eggs during freezing and thawing31:14 - Storage challenges, consent, and handling surplus embryos35:18 - Success rates by age, particularly for women over 35, and realistic expectations40:46 - The impact of aging on fertility and the importance of egg quality42:35 - Sperm’s capacity to adapt and correct issues; the importance of young eggs43:14 - Common myths and light-hearted advice on fertility superstition45:07 - Practical tips for starting IVF journey — take it one step at a time46:03 - The value of communication and support systems in fertility success46:50 - Wrapping up: Mandy’s message of hope, the advances in success rates, and the importance of empowerment

Endometriosis is far more than “bad periods” and in this powerful conversation, we unpack what that really means for pain, fertility, and everyday life with endo.I’m joined by Kathleen King who is a medical scientist, long‑time endometriosis advocate, acupuncturist, and host of Ireland’s dedicated endometriosis and adenomyosis podcast, DEARG (Delivering Endometriosis and Adenomyosis Resources and Guidance). Kathleen brings years of lived experience and advocacy, alongside her scientific background, to cut through the myths and confusion that still surround this complex disease.We talk about what endometriosis actually is (and isn’t), why it’s so often missed or minimised, and how that delay can shape both physical health and fertility options. Kathleen shares the patterns she sees again and again in Irish healthcare – from “normalised” severe period pain to the years‑long wait for diagnosis – and what needs to change for people with endo to be believed, investigated, and treated earlier.What we coverWhat endometriosis and adenomyosis actually are, and why the “just bad periods” narrative is so damaging.Classic red flags: severe period pain, bowel and bladder symptoms, fatigue, pain with sex, and fertility struggles – and when to push for proper investigation.Why diagnosis can still take years, including medical misogyny, patchy training, and system delays.How endometriosis can impact fertility, IVF outcomes, and decision‑making around treatment, pregnancy, and timing.Current treatment options – surgery, hormones, pain management, and complementary supports – and how to navigate choices in an Irish context.Advocacy in the consultation room: what to say, questions to ask, and how to be taken seriously.The emotional and psychological toll of living with an invisible, often dismissed condition, and practical ways to protect your mental health while trying to conceive.This is a validating listen whether you have a diagnosis, suspect endo, or support someone who lives with it.About my guestKathleen King is an independent endometriosis and adenomyosis advocate, acupuncturist, and medical scientist, and has been a leading voice in Irish endometriosis advocacy for many years. She is the founder and host of DEARG – Delivering Endometriosis and Adenomyosis Resources and Guidance – a podcast and platform dedicated to sharing evidence‑based information, resources, and real stories from those living with endo and adeno.Connect and resourcesListen to DEARG: Delivering Endometriosis and Adenomyosis Resources and Guidance wherever you get your podcasts.Follow Kathleen’s ongoing advocacy and educational work via DEARG and Irish endometriosis support organisations.If you’re living with suspected or confirmed endometriosis and want mind‑body support for fertility, you can learn more about Fertility Finesse and my 1:1 work via the links in the show description.

How Your Fertility Pharmacist at WorkI am delighted to be joined by the wonderful Sarah Cunniffe, an experienced fertility pharmacy technician who truly understands what it means to care for people doing IVF and fertility treatment.This is the conversation I wish everyone had before collecting their first fertility medication pack.Sarah brings warmth, clarity, reassurance, and deep practical wisdom to a part of treatment that is so often overwhelming, rushed, or brushed aside.We talk about why having an experienced fertility pharmacist in your corner matters more than people realise, and how the right support at this stage can reduce anxiety, prevent or rectify mistakes, and help you feel steadier and more confident throughout your cycle.We explore what really happens at the pharmacy counter when you collect your meds, the questions people are often afraid to ask, and the things Sarah wishes every patient knew.From timings, storage, injections, side effects, and those “is this normal?” moments, Sarah explains how pharmacists can be a calm, informed anchor during a very intense phase of treatment.This episode is also about care. About being seen.About the relief that comes from dealing with someone who understands fertility treatment inside out, and who treats you like a person, not a prescription.If you are preparing for IVF, already mid-cycle, or supporting someone through treatment, this episode will leave you feeling informed, reassured, and far less alone.Please share it with someone who needs to hear it.✨ In this episode we cover:How fertility pharmacists and technicians support IVF and fertility treatment in real, practical waysWhy experience and specialism matter so much with fertility medicationsCommon medication worries and how to handle them calmlyWhat to do if you feel unsure, overwhelmed, or something doesn’t feel rightHow good pharmacy support can ease anxiety and improve your overall treatment experienceI loved this conversation, and I know you will too.Be sure to download it so we can have more great guests on!🎧 Listen now on Acast, Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Men can get broody too. And when fatherhood doesn’t happen, the grief can be devastating, silent, and unseen.Dr. Robin A. Hadley, one of the world’s leading voices on involuntary male childlessness, breaks the silence in his warm and deeply moving way.His powerful bookHow Is a Man Supposed to Be a Man? Male Childlessness – A Life Disrupted (Berghahn, 2021)is a book I devoured in one sitting! It articulates a grief that so many men carry quietly, often without language, permission, or space.I knew instantly I had to talk with him, and I knew he had to be on this podcast...This conversation is honest, and compassionate.There's smiles, laughter, wisdom and tears.Rob shares his personal journey, the findings from his groundbreaking research, and the emotional realities men face when biology, circumstance, or fate disrupts their path to fatherhood.We explore masculinity, jealousy, silence, shame, tenderness, and why vulnerability in men is not weakness, but survival.This episode is for men who feel unseen.And for partners, clinicians, friends, and families who care..Check out his website for more:  https://www.robinhadley.co.uk/ .In this episode, we explore:• Why involuntary childlessness is a hidden grief for so many men• The quiet pressure men feel to “be strong” and stay silent• Jealousy, isolation, and the emotional landmines of social life• How masculinity and fertility have become tightly intertwined• The absence of men’s stories in fertility narratives and healthcare• Why emotional wellbeing is still overlooked in male fertility support• How planning, meaning, and kindness can help men live fully alongside grief• Practical strategies for navigating holidays, family gatherings, and painful milestonesKey takeaways:• Grief does not require permission to be real• Men need language and space for fertility-related loss• Vulnerability strengthens individuals and societies• Kindness, especially self-kindness, is not optional• Open conversations change cultureEpisode chapters:00:00 Introduction to involuntary childlessness01:48 Rob’s personal journey08:38 The emotional toll of male childlessness13:25 Grief, jealousy, and comparison19:34 Societal expectations of fatherhood25:18 Why vulnerability in men matters30:35 Gaps in healthcare and cultural awareness34:08 Meaning, connection, and identity beyond fatherhood39:09 Navigating holidays and social pressure41:05 A powerful call to action

fatherhood, fertility, men's health, emotional well-being, fitness, personal training, community support, mental health, parenting, wellnessSummaryIn this episode of the Fertility Finesse Show, host Helena Tubridy speaks with personal coach Kevin Boyle about the often-overlooked emotional and physical challenges faced by men during the journey of fatherhood and fertility. They discuss Kevin's personal journey towards health and fitness, the importance of understanding one's motivations for fitness, and how men can engage in their health and wellness. The conversation also touches on the significance of community support, the balance between competition and recovery in fitness, and the impact of food choices on emotional well-being. Kevin emphasizes the need for men to shift their identity towards a healthier lifestyle and the importance of being proactive in their health for the sake of their families.TakeawaysMen often feel side lined during fertility struggles.Understanding your 'why' is crucial for motivation.Community support is vital for men's health.Food choices significantly impact emotional well-being.Rest and recovery are essential for overall health.Men need to shift their identity towards fitness.Engaging in physical activities can improve mental health.Healthy habits benefit the entire family.Grief and emotional challenges are not gendered.Building a sustainable fitness routine is key to long-term health.Sound Bites"You have to shift your identity.""Rest and recovery is an activity.""What gets measured gets managed."Chapters00:00Navigating Fatherhood and Fertility Challenges02:03Kevin's Personal Journey to Health and Fitness05:58The Emotional Landscape of Fatherhood09:33Understanding the Importance of Physical Fitness16:26Engaging Men in Health and Wellness Programs19:56Balancing Competition and Recovery in Fitness22:49The Role of Community in Men's Health27:14Food Choices and Emotional Well-being29:24Building Resilience for Parenthood35:00Conclusion and Call to Action

This week on Fertility Finesse, I’m joined by leading dietitian Orla Walsh for a grounded, practical conversation about how food genuinely supports fertility. We break down the eating fundamentals that matter most when you’re trying to conceive, from building balanced meals to understanding how simple nutrition shifts can influence hormones, egg and sperm quality, and overall wellbeing.Orla takes the confusion out of Mediterranean-style eating and explains how to bring those principles into everyday life without overhauling your entire kitchen. We also chat about supplements: what’s worth considering, what’s often unnecessary, and how to tailor choices instead of guessing.If food prep feels overwhelming, Orla shares surprisingly easy ways to create nourishing meals even on busy days. And because nutrition can feel like a minefield, we go through the most common TTC mistakes she sees in clinic — and how to avoid them.Orla Walsh RD, MSc is one of Ireland’s leading dietitians and the founder of Orla Walsh Nutrition, a thriving Dublin-based clinic known for its clear, evidence-driven approach.With a background in physiology, a Master’s in Clinical Nutrition, and extensive experience in sports, hormonal health, gut health, and fertility,Orla specialises in translating complex science into practical, sustainable steps that genuinely work in real life.Her balanced, no-nonsense philosophy helps people cut through confusion, support their hormones, and nourish their bodies without fads or extremes.In this episode, Orla brings her trademark clarity to the world of fertility nutrition,sharing what actually matters, what to let go of, and how food can support your journey whether you’re trying to conceivefor the first time or navigating secondary infertility.

Fertility Finesse Show host and fertility, IVF and miscarriage coach Helena Tubridy chats with clinical psychotherapist Stephanie Regan to explore the emotional complexities of fertility challenges and their impact on relationships. Stefanie Regan is a Dublin-based psychotherapist and media relationship expert with decades of experience in mental health, trauma, and workplace wellbeing. A regular on Newstalk and Ireland AM, she’s known for her warm, practical advice that helps people navigate love, loss, and life. Co-host of Tough Love and author of Journey Forward: Trauma and Healing (2023).They discuss how couples navigate stress and grief differently, the importance of communication, and the role of therapy in providing support. The conversation also touches on societal pressures, family dynamics, and the evolving nature of family structures, emphasizing the need for resilience and understanding in the face of adversity.It's all about:Navigating Love Through Fertility ChallengesThe Emotional Landscape of IVF and RelationshipsFertility challenges can strain relationships but also reveal their strength.Couples often experience stress and grief differently during fertility treatments.Communication styles can differ significantly between partners, impacting their connection.Intimacy can be affected by the medical nature of fertility treatments.Therapy can provide essential support and perspective during fertility struggles.Understanding family dynamics is crucial for couples without children.It's important to reflect on the reasons behind the desire for more children.Societal pressures can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy for couples trying to conceive.Setting boundaries is essential for those without children in family dynamics.The landscape of family structures is evolving, requiring new conversations about parentingChapters00:00 Navigating Fertility Challenges Together02:17 Understanding Stress and Grief in Relationships05:00 The Impact of Parenthood on Relationships07:29 Coping Styles and Communication in Couples13:14 Reclaiming Intimacy During Fertility Treatments17:40 The Role of Therapy in Relationship Support27:12 Understanding the Emotional Investment in Fertility29:59 The Importance of Self-Reflection in the Fertility Journey32:15 Navigating Control and Acceptance in Fertility Challenges35:34 Coping with the Pain of Comparison and Loss39:04 The Burden of Responsibility in Childless Adults42:09 Reclaiming Value in Childless Relationships46:09 The Evolving Landscape of Parenting Choices49:37 Resilience and Love Through Fertility Struggles

When a routine doctor visit for heavy periods led to an anaemia diagnosis, Justyna Strzeszynska realised how little objective data exists around menstrual health. There was no reliable way to measure blood volume or categorise clots — and no language to describe what “normal” really meant.Her frustration became the seed for Joii, an award-winning fem-tech app and medical-grade tool that helps users measure their menstrual blood loss, track changes, and recognise their period as the 5th vital sign in both reproductive and general health.In this conversation with Helena Tubridy, Justyna shares:✨ Her journey from personal experience to health-tech entrepreneur✨ Why those with endo, adeno, PCOS and fibroids need better menstrual data✨ How Joii’s discreet scanning technology works — using specially designed pads✨ How user data is shaping new research into the big question: “What is a normal period?”✨ And why empowering women with measurable data changes everythingIf you’ve ever been told your period is “just heavy,” this episode will open your eyes to the power of real insight — and why menstrual health deserves medical precision, not guesswork.💡 Connect with Justyna:🔗 Website: https://www.joiicare.com📱 Instagram: @joiicare📧 For media & partnerships: hello@joiicare.com💬 Connect with Helena for 1:1 fertility coaching, online courses, and guest talks🌐 www.helenatubridy.com📸 Instagram: @helenatubridyfertility🎧 Subscribe to Fertility Finesse for expert-led insights, stories, and mindset tools for your fertility journey.🩷 This episode is supported by pre-Conceive by Pillar Healthcare — premium nutritional support for fertility and reproductive health. Original music by Kane O'Rourke

Tiny Gland, Mighty Impact, with Dr. Shandeep Momi a Dublin-based GP and founder of Functional Thyroid Care, who’s redefining how we understand and optimise thyroid health for fertility AND pregnancy.And what's usually missed...He shares his deeply personal story that shaped his clinical mission: his wife’s long, difficult journey to a Hashimoto’s diagnosis, and the gaps they uncovered in conventional thyroid care. From that experience came his passion to bridge science with a truly integrative, patient-centred approach.We explore why “normal” thyroid blood results don’t always mean optimal reproductive health, how deeper testing can reveal hidden imbalances, and why thyroid function is so crucial for fertility, hormone balance, and energy.Dr Momi breaks down what most people, and many clinics STILL miss, and offers practical insights to help you ask better questions, get better answers, and take charge of your thyroid story.If you’ve ever been told your thyroid is “fine” but you still need answers, this episode is a must-listen.